If you’re a first-timer who prefers the fewest transfers, the simplest way to reach San Telmo Market from Ministro Pistarini International Airport (EZE) is usually a direct taxi or ride-hailing trip to the area. It keeps the journey in one continuous movement. As a backup, you can take an airport shuttle or bus into the city and finish with a short taxi or metro ride. Whichever option you choose, the route is straightforward once you break it into one clear step at a time.
A quick orientation before you set off
For public transport, the Subte (metro) is useful once you’re in central Buenos Aires. 9 de Julio Station is a helpful reference point because it connects to multiple lines and can serve as a reset if plans shift. As a main rail anchor, Retiro Station is the city’s large, recognizable terminal—easy to locate on maps and signage.
One gentle reminder: traffic and service patterns can change slightly day to day, especially during peak hours or weather shifts. Build your plan with flexibility in mind rather than expecting exact timing.
From Ministro Pistarini International Airport (EZE)
Option 1: Taxi or ride-hailing (fewest decisions)
This is the most direct route and often the calmest for a first visit.
- Follow airport signage to the official taxi or authorized ride-hailing pickup area.
- Confirm your destination as “San Telmo Market” and show the address on your phone.
- Settle in and let the driver handle the navigation through the city.
- Watch your map casually as you approach the neighborhood.
- Step out once you’re curbside and take a moment to orient before walking.
You’re on the right track when the wide airport roads give way to regular city streets with closer intersections and more frequent turns.
If you see drivers offering rides inside the terminal walkway, choose the clearly marked official pickup line instead.
This option feels easier because you remove transfers entirely and stay with one vehicle until arrival.
Add a small time buffer if you land during commuting hours, as traffic can move more slowly closer to the center.
Option 2: Airport shuttle, then short transfer
If you prefer a structured system with staff assistance:
- Purchase a ticket at the official airport shuttle counter.
- Store larger luggage as directed, keeping valuables with you.
- Ride into the central drop-off terminal.
- From there, take a short taxi or ride-hailing trip to San Telmo Market.
You’re on the right track when the shuttle transitions from highway driving to slower city traffic.
If the shuttle offers multiple drop points, choose the main terminal for the clearest onward options.
This route feels manageable because the longer airport stretch is handled by a scheduled service, leaving only a short final segment.
From Retiro Station
Retiro is large but clearly organized. Keep your plan simple.
Taxi or ride-hailing from Retiro
- Exit toward the main street frontage.
- Join the official taxi queue or request a ride at a visible pickup spot.
- Share “San Telmo Market” as your destination.
- Ride directly to the market area.
You’re on the right track when the vehicle leaves the station surroundings and moves steadily through regular city blocks.
If you see multiple exits, choose the one with an obvious taxi line instead of a quieter side exit.
This feels easier because it avoids underground navigation and keeps your attention above ground.
Subte from Retiro (if you prefer rail)
- Enter the Subte connection inside or near Retiro Station.
- Follow signs toward a line that connects toward central stations.
- Ride to a convenient stop within walking distance of San Telmo Market.
- Exit and complete the final stretch on foot.
You’re on the right track when the platform signage consistently shows the same line letter and direction from entrance to platform.
If you see two directions listed, choose the platform labeled with the end-of-line station that matches your map app.
The metro works well if you’re comfortable reading station boards and prefer predictable stops.
Metro approach using 9 de Julio Station
If you’re already somewhere central or want a clear reset point, start from 9 de Julio Station.
- Enter 9 de Julio Station and confirm the line direction before going down to the platform.
- Ride toward the side of the city that brings you closer to San Telmo Market.
- Exit and follow a simple walking route with minimal turns.
You’re on the right track when your map shows a gradual, direct path without zigzagging through small side streets.
If two route suggestions appear, choose the one with fewer line changes even if it takes slightly longer.
Using this station as a pivot reduces decision fatigue because it’s a known reference point.
Bus option (colectivo)
Buses can work well, particularly in daylight.
- Use a map app to identify a route heading toward the San Telmo Market area.
- Confirm your payment method before boarding.
- Board and move inward slightly to keep the doorway clear.
- Watch your progress and prepare to exit when your stop approaches.
You’re on the right track when your phone map shows the bus continuing along the expected main corridor.
If two buses arrive together, choose the one whose route matches your map rather than relying only on the number displayed.
It feels manageable once you’re seated because the bus follows a steady street-level route without transfers.
The final walk to San Telmo Market
The last few minutes often feel like the city slows down. Streets become narrower, intersections closer together, and you may notice more local foot traffic. You’ll know you’re close when your map’s walking time drops to just a couple of minutes, your street numbers match what you saved, and you see a building façade consistent with the market’s block layout.
Pause and check once before entering to confirm the exact entrance. That small pause removes last-second uncertainty.
If you get lost
- Return to 9 de Julio Station by the simplest method available to you.
- Re-check the exact address for San Telmo Market before choosing your next move.
- Select one clear next step—either one metro ride or one taxi—and reassess after completing it.
FAQ
Q: Is taxi from EZE expensive compared to public transport?
A: It costs more than bus or metro, but it reduces transfers and simplifies arrival, which many first-timers appreciate.
Q: Can I reach San Telmo Market entirely by metro?
A: Yes, with one or two line segments depending on your starting point, followed by a short walk.
Q: Is Retiro Station a good navigation anchor?
A: Yes, it’s one of the city’s clearest transport hubs and easy to locate on maps.
Q: Are buses difficult for visitors?
A: They’re workable, especially if you follow your map carefully, though they involve more street-level attention.
Q: What’s the calmest option after a long flight?
A: A direct taxi or ride-hailing trip from the airport keeps the journey simple and uninterrupted.
Quick checklist
- Save your destination address offline.
- Choose one primary route before leaving the station or airport.
- Keep valuables in a secure pocket.
- Confirm you are using official transport services.
- Pause briefly near arrival to verify the entrance.
Sources checked
(Verification scope used for this article)
- Confirmed airport-to-city backbone options.
- Confirmed main rail hub connectivity.
- Confirmed city public transport network coverage.
- Used map reference for walking layout only.
- Checked destination access notes at a high level.
Aeropuertos Argentina — airport transport services overview — https://www.aeropuertosargentina.com
Emova Subte — network maps and service overview — https://emova.com.ar
Argentina.gob.ar Transporte — public transport system details — https://www.argentina.gob.ar/transporte
Trenes Argentinos Operaciones — rail hub information — https://www.argentina.gob.ar/transporte/trenes-argentinos
Turismo Buenos Aires — transport guidance — https://turismo.buenosaires.gob.ar
OpenStreetMap — general walking layout reference — https://www.openstreetmap.org
Last updated: February 2026
