San Telmo Art and Architecture Walking Tour (Self Guided), Buenos Aires

To visit San Telmo is to witness the faded grandeur and excitement of the history of Buenos Aires. This is the city's oldest neighborhood where colonial buildings line narrow cobblestone streets that are also filled with an eclectic mix of bars and cafés. There is character bursting forth from every square foot. Rhythmic throbs and gorgeous melodies escape from tango parlors and the delicious aromas of roasting meats waft out of restaurant kitchens.

Museums such as Museo Histórico Nacional and the stately buildings provide a glimpse into the area’s rich history. At one time, San Telmo was populated by aristocratic families. However, the neighborhood is not stuck in the past. This hip enclave of bohemian cool is where life is enjoyed and celebrated with great music, great food and great art. If you want to pick up a fascinating piece of art by a local artist, make your way over to the many galleries, stretching from Avenida Belgrano to Avenida Caseros.

Lively during the day, the neighborhood’s pace is ratcheted up by several dizzying knots once the sun goes down. The bars and their live music performances become the hot and happening epicenter of San Telmo’s nightlife scene.