As you pass by Basílica de San Francisco de Asís, you'll learn about the hidden time capsule sealed inside the facade's statue of Dante Alighieri, discovered only during a later restoration. Entry to the basilica is free.

You'll pass the ornate doorway of Farmacia La Estrella Homeopatía, the oldest pharmacy in Buenos Aires, dating back to 1834. If it's open, you're welcome to step inside and admire its original walnut shelving and painted ceilings at no charge.

You'll pass by the Basílica Nuestra Señora del Rosario, where cannonball scars from the 1806 British invasion are still visible on the tower, and where flag creator Manuel Belgrano is buried. Entry to the church is free.

You'll pass by the beloved Mafalda statue, a bronze of Argentina's most famous cartoon character seated on a bench on the corner where she "lived" in Quino's comics. It's a free photo spot, though you may need to wait your turn.

Passing by Museo Zanjón de Granados, you'll hear how this restored former conventillo sits atop a buried river that once marked the edge of the city. A separate ticket is required to explore the underground passages inside.

You'll pass Casa Mínima, the narrowest house in Buenos Aires at just 2.5 metres wide, linked to the story of the city's freed Afro-Argentine population. It's part of the El Zanjón complex, so a separate ticket is needed to go inside.

You'll pass El Viejo Almacén, a legendary tango house since the 1960s and once a hospital for English sailors. Entry to the evening tango show is not included in this tour.

You'll pass by the entrance to the historic San Telmo Market, built in 1897 beneath a landmark iron-and-glass dome. Browsing is free, though any food or antiques you buy are at your own cost.

You'll pass San Pedro Gonzáles Telmo Church, begun by Jesuit priests in 1734 and the source of the neighbourhood's name. Entry to the church is free, though the adjoining Penitentiary Museum keeps limited hours.

You'll arrive at Plaza Dorrego, the historic square where locals gathered in 1816 to celebrate Argentina's independence, now surrounded by cafés and antique stalls. The plaza is free to explore.

You'll pass Bar Británico, a classic bodegón whose name was defaced during the 1982 Falklands War, leaving it as simply "Bar Tánico" for years. There's no entry fee, though food and drinks are at your own cost.

Your tour concludes at Museo Histórico Nacional, home to the sword of independence hero José de San Martín. Admission requirements should be checked in advance, as this tour does not include a ticket.