Things To Do
in Florida

Florida, Uruguay is a welcoming provincial city in the heart of the country. It blends colonial charm with a lively market culture. The historic center features plazas, churches, and paseo streets that invite strolling.

Surrounded by pampas and nearby rivers, it offers authentic Uruguayan experiences and easy day trips.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Florida
morning
:

Arrive in Florida and check into your hotel to unwind after your travels. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic city center, admiring the beautiful colonial architecture. Stop at a local café for some traditional Uruguayan pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

Visit the local Cultural Center to learn about the history and art of the region. Explore the picturesque parks and gardens nearby, soaking in the vibrant flora that thrives in this area. Enjoy lunch at a charming restaurant that serves fresh, locally-sourced dishes.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to the main square where locals gather to socialize. Experience the lively atmosphere, perhaps catching a street performance or local musicians. Dine at a steakhouse and savor the iconic Uruguayan barbecue, paired with a nice red wine.

day 2
Exploring the Local History
morning
:

Visit the Museum of Florida, where you can delve into the rich past of the town and its significance in Uruguayan history. Engage with interactive exhibits and artifacts that bring the stories of the region to life. Take notes on intriguing facts for deeper exploration later.

afternoon
:

Afterward, take a guided walking tour of local historic sites, including the town’s cathedral and important government buildings. The guide will share fascinating stories about the people who shaped Florida's history. Have lunch at a nearby café that offers a selection of healthy options to rejuvenate.

evening
:

Head back to your hotel to rest before venturing out for the evening. Enjoy a local wine tasting event, where you'll have the chance to sample some of Uruguay's finest wines. Conclude your day with a relaxing walk through the lit-up streets of the town, enjoying the cool evening breeze.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee or tea$2-4
🚌One-way local transit$1-2
🥛Milk (1 liter) or dairy store item$0.80-1.50
🛏️Mid-range hotel (per night)$60-100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Warm, welcoming people and a relaxed pace of life
  • Strong culinary traditions and approachable prices
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Some services and amenities may be quieter outside peak season
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Una cerveza, por favor" - A beer, please
  • "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please

Places to Visit in Florida

Visit one of these nice places.

Catedral Basílica de Florida

A grand neoclassical cathedral that provides striking architectural lines and a strong focal point for daytime and evening photography.

Historic Center Streets

Cobblestone lanes and pastel façades create charming backdrops for street photography, especially during golden hour.

Plaza Constitución (Sunset View)

Open square with trees and monuments, ideal for portraits and atmospheric city-light photos at dusk.

Culinary Guide

Food in Florida

Uruguayan cuisine centers on meat, simple country-style dishes, and strong coffee or mate. In Florida you’ll find traditional parrilla spots, bakeries, and casual cafés offering hearty, straightforward fare.

Florida Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Chivito

Uruguay’s iconic steak sandwich with beef, mozzarella, ham, egg, and mayonnaise; widely available at parrillas and cafés.

Must-Try!

Asado

Grilled beef and other meats, typically shared at long tables during gatherings.

Milanesa

Breaded meat cutlet, usually served with lemon and fries.

Empanadas

Savory pastries filled with beef, chicken, or cheese; a staple in markets and bakeries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Central de Florida

A bustling local market with fresh produce, meat, bakery stalls, and ready-to-eat foods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Florida experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Rain is more common in the spring and autumn, with drier stretches in winter. Overall, the city enjoys plenty of sunny days, making outdoor exploration pleasant most of the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common in formal settings; friends may greet with a kiss on the cheek. Polite, friendly small talk is appreciated.

Punctuality

Be reasonably punctual for scheduled meetings; informal social events are more flexible.

Dining etiquette

Ask for the bill when ready; tipping is appreciated but not obligatory in casual eateries.

Safety Guide

Safety

Typically safe for travelers, with standard urban precautions. Keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded markets and on public transport, and use licensed taxis or ride-sharing where available. Late-night walking in well-lit, populated areas is advisable.

Tipping in Florida

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping in Uruguay is appreciated but not mandatory. If service is not included, a tip of 5-10% is common; in places where servicio is included, a smaller tip is optional.

Payment Methods

Cash (UYU) is widely accepted along with bank cards (Visa/MMC). Many places also accept debit cards and some mobile payments; ATMs are common in town centers.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid days with sudden afternoon storms possible. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shade in the plazas.

Autumn

Mild and comfortable for wandering around the city and markets; pleasant sightseeing conditions.

Winter

Cool but rarely very cold; light jackets are usually enough for daytime exploration.

Spring

Moderate temperatures with Periodic rain; great for outdoor markets, parks, and photography.

Nightlife Guide

Florida at Night

Florida’s nightlife is relaxed and community-centered, with casual bars, cafés offering live music, and plazas that stay lively in the evenings. Expect evenings to begin with a casual drink, followed by tapas or light meals, and sociable conversations; late-night partying is less prevalent than in bigger cities, but there are friendly spots to enjoy a mellow night out.

Hiking in Florida

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rural hiking around Florida

Short day hikes and nature walks in the surrounding pampas and small hills, suitable for most fitness levels.

Airports

How to reach Florida by plane.

Carrasco International Airport (MVD)

Main international gateway near Montevideo; reachable by highway in about 2-3 hours depending on traffic.

Punta del Este International Airport (PDP)

Smaller international airport serving regional and seasonal flights; farther from Florida but convenient for coast connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

The city center is walkable, with compact historic streets and plazas. Sidewalks are generally good, though some older areas may have uneven surfaces; a pleasant area for strolls and markets. Public transit covers the outskirts, making short trips easy by bus or taxi.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Predominantly Uruguayan with a mix of European and regional immigrant backgrounds; a culture of warmth and hospitality.

Tourists and visitors

A steady flow of travelers drawn to the city’s markets, history, and proximity to rural and coastal escapes.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The dominant sport in Uruguay; expect local fans and community games across the region.

Rugby

Growing following with community clubs and local matches.

Basketball

Common in schools and community centers; recreational courts are often available.

Transportation

Traffic

Urban traffic is usually manageable in the city center with a modest level of congestion during peak hours. Public transport is reliable but slower during heavy traffic. Taxis and ride-sharing are convenient for longer or late-night trips; be mindful of weekend events that can affect travel times.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Florida.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most dishes are meat-forward, but you can find vegetarian options like pastas, salads, grilled vegetables, and cheese-based plates; ask for egg or cheese additions where needed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Uruguay provides solid healthcare, with public and private options. In Florida, you’ll find local clinics and pharmacies; for more specialized care or emergencies, regional hospitals in larger nearby cities are accessible by road. Travel insurance is recommended for visitors.

Discover Uruguay

Read more in our Uruguay 2025 Travel Guide.

Uruguay Travel Guide