Why Visit Antique Shops in San Antonio de Areco?

The antiques here are not just old objects. They represent the soul of the Argentine countryside. You will see plenty of silver work, known as platería criolla. Local artisans have perfected this craft over centuries. Many shops carry pieces made by famous names in the region.

Explore silversmith workshops in San Antonio de Areco while you shop. These workshops often supply the items found in high-end antique stores. You can find ornate belts, spurs, and horse gear. These items are functional pieces of gaucho history. They make for unique home decor or wearable art.

The town itself is a historical monument. You can learn more about its heritage on San Antonio de Areco (Wikipedia). Shopping here is a slow and social experience. Owners often share stories about their items. This personal touch makes every purchase more meaningful.

10 Best Antique Shops in San Antonio de Areco

Here are the top places to find authentic treasures in the city center. Most are located within walking distance of the central plaza.

• Name: Antigüedades El Resuello
  Type: Traditional Antique Shop
  Why go: This shop is famous for its collection of ranching equipment and old gaucho gear.
  Best for: Authentic leather work and vintage stirrups.
  Where: Close to the main plaza.
  Time: 40 minutes.
  Cost: $$-$$$
  Tip: Look for the vintage estancia signs made of wood.
• Name: Museo y Platería Draghi
  Type: Museum and Showroom
  Why go: While it is a museum, their shop offers world-class silver items.
  Best for: High-end silver knives (facones).
  Where: Facing Plaza Ruiz de Arellano.
  Time: 1 hour.
  Cost: $$$
  Tip: Check the hall of fame photos to see famous clients.
• Name: El Rincón de los Recuerdos
  Type: General Antiques
  Why go: It is packed from floor to ceiling with curiosities.
  Best for: Glassware and old Argentine signage.
  Where: Calle Arellano.
  Time: 30 minutes.
  Cost: $$
  Tip: Bring a flashlight to see items tucked in dark corners.
• Name: El Arca de Noé
  Type: Boutique Antiques
  Why go: They specialize in restored furniture and colonial household items.
  Best for: Small decorative pieces and vintage kitchenware.
  Where: Town center.
  Time: 20 minutes.
  Cost: $$
  Tip: They often have beautiful old seltzer bottles in different colors.
• Name: Cosas Nuestras
  Type: Local Crafts and Antiques
  Why go: A great mix of new artisanal products and vintage finds.
  Best for: Hand-woven ponchos and silver jewelry.
  Where: Zapiola street.
  Time: 30 minutes.
  Cost: $$-$$$
  Tip: This is a great place to buy gifts for family.
• Name: Boliche de Bessonart
  Type: Historical Bar and Shop
  Why go: This legendary spot is an experience in itself.
  Best for: Atmosphere and small rural trinkets.
  Where: Corner of Segundo Sombra and Zapiola.
  Time: 1 hour (including a drink).
  Cost: $
  Tip: Visit late in the afternoon for the best lighting.
• Name: Almacén de Ramos Generales
  Type: General Store
  Why go: It feels like stepping into a 19th-century general store.
  Best for: Rustic decor and old farming tools.
  Where: Near the Areco River.
  Time: 30 minutes.
  Cost: $$
  Tip: Walking here from historical plazas in San Antonio de Areco is very scenic.
• Name: La Casa del Gaucho
  Type: Specialty Gear
  Why go: Focuses heavily on the items used by real gauchos.
  Best for: Boleadoras and traditional spurs.
  Where: Main shopping street.
  Time: 25 minutes.
  Cost: $$$
  Tip: The leather smell here is incredible and authentic.
• Name: Lo de Coco
  Type: Eclectic Sales
  Why go: Known for having a highly curated selection of gaucho silver.
  Best for: Silver-handled whips (rebenques).
  Where: Residential area near the center.
  Time: 30 minutes.
  Cost: $$-$$$
  Tip: Call ahead as hours can be irregular.
• Name: El Ombú de Areco Shop
  Type: Estancia-based Antiques
  Why go: They offer items that reflect the history of the estancia itself.
  Best for: Large ranch-style furniture and art.
  Where: Located slightly outside town at the estancia.
  Time: 1 hour.
  Cost: $$$
  Tip: Book a lunch stay at best estancias near San Antonio de Areco to visit the shop.

Practical Tips for Your Shopping Trip

Timing is everything in rural Argentina. Most shops close for a siesta between 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM. Plan your heavy shopping for the late afternoon. This is when the town comes alive. Streets are cooler and shopkeepers are ready to chat.

Cash is still king for many antique dealers. While large boutiques may take cards, smaller shops prefer pesos. You might even get a better price by paying in cash. Always ask "¿Hay descuento por efectivo?" which means is there a cash discount. This is a common practice in Argentina official site shopping culture.

Think about shipping before you buy large items. Many shops can arrange international shipping to the USA or Europe. However, this can be expensive. Smaller items like silver knives can easily fit in your suitcase. Just remember to declare them at customs if required.

Beyond Antiques: Making a Day of It

Shopping for antiques is just one part of the fun. You should also visit traditional pulperías in San Antonio de Areco for a break. These historic bars served as general stores or social hubs. They still retain an antique atmosphere today. You can sip a drink and admire the old shelves.

If you visit in November, check out the gaucho tradition festival guide 2026. The town fills with artisans selling vintage and new goods. It is the best time to see high-quality silver in action. Many parades showcase antique horse gear on the streets.

Check the San Antonio de Areco Turismo site for current events. They often list craft fairs that happen on weekends. These fairs offer a mix of antiques and modern handmade items. It is a great way to support the local community.