Things To Do
in Uruguay
Uruguay is a compact country on the southeast Atlantic coast known for its welcoming hospitality and coastal beauty. It blends colonial charm with modern, progressive culture and a strong gaucho heritage. Montevideo's waterfront rambla, historic Ciudad Vieja, and vibrant food scene define urban life, while Colonia del Sacramento offers a UNESCO-listed historic quarter.
The country is renowned for beef, wine, safe streets, and a high quality of life that makes travel easy and enjoyable.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Montevideo, the capital city of Uruguay, where you will check into your hotel and settle in. Take a leisurely stroll along La Rambla, the scenic waterfront promenade that stretches for miles. Enjoy a hearty Uruguayan breakfast at a local café, featuring medialunas and café con leche.
Visit the historic Ciudad Vieja, where you can explore the vibrant street art and colonial architecture. Stop by the Mercado del Puerto for lunch and indulge in some of the best parrilla (grilled meat) in the country. Spend your afternoon visiting the Museo Nacional de Artes Visuales, home to works by renowned Uruguayan artists.
Savor dinner at a traditional Uruguayan restaurant, enjoying local specialties such as asado and dulce de leche desserts. After dinner, experience the nightlife in Ciudad Vieja with live music or a tango show. End your night with a nightcap at a local bar, soaking in the laid-back atmosphere.
Take a scenic ferry ride from Montevideo to Colonia del Sacramento, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Upon arrival, rent a bicycle to explore the charming cobblestone streets and colorful colonial buildings. Stop by the historical lighthouse for panoramic views of the river and city.
Visit the Museo Português and learn about the city's rich history and Portuguese influence. Enjoy lunch at a riverside café, sampling local seafood and regional wines. Spend some time relaxing at the Plaza Mayor, people-watching and soaking in the quaint atmosphere.
As the sun sets, take a romantic walk along the waterfront, watching boats drift by. Find a cozy restaurant for dinner, where you can enjoy traditional dishes accompanied by a glass of Uruguayan wine. After dinner, stroll through the quiet streets, enjoying the peaceful ambiance of this charming town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🍷Glass of wine or beer | $5-12 |
| 🚌Local transit ticket | $1-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $60-130 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly people and a safe travel environment
- Strong beef, wine, and bread traditions with good value for money
- Compact size makes it easy to explore in a short timeframe
- Coastal winds can be strong; some beaches chilly outside summer
- Rural services can be slower; English less common outside cities
- Getting to less-touristy spots may require driving or longer trips
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quisiera una mesa para dos" - I'd like a table for two
- "¡Salud!" - Cheers
Places to Visit in Uruguay
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic sunlit sculpture and atelier with sea views, best at golden hour.
Colorful façades, plazas, and waterfront views along the harbor.
Famous sculpture emerging from the sand with dramatic coastline.
Cobblestone streets and centuries of architecture with the river behind.
Compact island with palm trees and beaches great for seaside portraits.
Food in Uruguay
Uruguay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A loaded steak sandwich with ham, cheese, egg, and vegetables, best sampled at a parrilla or cafe.
Must-Try!
A classic barbecue of beef cuts slow grilled on an open flame, often enjoyed with chimichurri and salads.
Breaded meat cutlet topped with cheese and tomato sauce, commonly served with fries.
A hearty stew with beef, vegetables, and sometimes pasta or rice.
Sweet milk jam spread and pastry treats like pastelitos and alfajores.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market in Montevideo known for grilled meats and seafood stalls.
Community market offering fresh produce, bakery items, and regional foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Handshake is common in formal settings; close acquaintances may exchange a light kiss on the cheek.
Shared mate is a social gesture; wait for others to finish and offer a turn.
Arrivals are generally relaxed; plan for flexible schedules in social settings.
Safety
Tipping in Uruguay
Ensure a smooth experience
A tip of 5–10% is common if service is not included; round up for good service.
Cash (UYU) and credit/debit cards are widely accepted; ATMs abundant; USD accepted in many tourist places.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with sea breezes; beach crowds along the Costa de Oro and Punta del Este; evenings comfortable but humid.
Mild days with cooler nights; good for city walking and wine tasting in Canelones.
Cool and windy along the coast; temperatures often 8–15°C; fewer crowds but pleasant cultural scenes indoors.
Rising temperatures, blooming landscapes, and pleasant coastal walks; occasional showers.
Uruguay at Night
Hiking in Uruguay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and coastal trails with panoramic views; accessible by car.
Coastal forest, wetlands, and beach trails with wildlife.
Remote dunes and lighthouse access; best reached by 4x4 or boat trip.
Airports
How to reach Uruguay by plane.
Montevideo's main international airport, about 18 km from the city center; well-connected by road and bus.
Punta del Este's international airport serving the East Coast with regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Largest demographic, with strong Spanish and Italian roots and cultural influence.
Contribute to music, cuisine, and cultural festivals.
Cultural presence acknowledged in museums and regional crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The national passion with clubs across the country; strong local leagues.
Growing popularity with clubs and national team participation in South American events.
Widely played in schools and clubs with local leagues.
Coastal towns offer surf spots and rental shops during season.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most menus offer salads, pastas, and vegetable sides; ask for grilled vegetables or cheese alternatives; many places can accommodate with pasta or veggie options.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Uruguay.