Things To Do
in Mercedes
Mercedes is a tranquil river town in Uruguay’s Soriano Department, perched on the banks of the Río Negro. The city blends a relaxed provincial charm with a few colonial-era landmarks and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. It serves as a gateway to the surrounding farmland, estancias, and nearby natural sights.
With a compact historic center and riverfront promenades, Mercedes offers a laid-back base for exploring western Uruguay.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Montevideo and check into your hotel. Spend the morning at the Ciudad Vieja, exploring the historic streets and colorful buildings. Don't forget to stop by Mercado del Puerto for a traditional Uruguayan breakfast.
In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of the iconic Estadio Centenario, where the first-ever FIFA World Cup was held. Discover the rich history of Uruguayan football and visit the museum to see memorabilia from famous players. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the Rambla to appreciate stunning views of the coastline.
As evening falls, indulge in a fine dining experience at one of Montevideo's renowned parrillas. Try the famous asado with local wines and experience the vibrant nightlife in the Mercado del Puerto. End your day with live music or a cultural event happening in the area.
Catch a ferry to Colonia del Sacramento, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its charming colonial architecture. Upon arrival, wander through the cobblestone streets and visit the historic lighthouse for panoramic views of the city. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the museums that tell the story of this picturesque town.
In the afternoon, bike along the scenic waterfront or take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful parks and gardens. Visit the Portón de Campo, an ancient gate that symbolizes the town's rich history as a strategic location. Take time to relax at a café, tasting the local pastries while soaking in the atmosphere.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant overlooking the river. Experience traditional Uruguayan dishes such as empanadas or seafood, complemented by local wines. Afterward, take a peaceful walk along the riverbank, admiring the light reflecting off the water and the quiet charm of Colonia.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🚊One-way local transportation | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨1-night in a mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
| 🛒Grocery meal for 1 person | $12-25 |
| 💊Basic doctor’s visit | $20-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Riverside scenery and outdoor activities
- Accessible day trips to rural Uruguay
- Limited nightlife beyond the city center
- Fewer English-speaking services in rural areas
- Public transport options can be infrequent outside town
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hi, how are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Mercedes
Visit one of these nice places.
A central square with a historic vibe, ideal for portrait shots and capturing daily life around cafés and shops.
Golden hour along the river provides wide skies, water reflections, and relaxed silhouettes of locals fishing or walking.
Old-town lanes, colorful facades, and a sense of the city’s evolution; great for architectural photography.
Facade shots and market life; combine architectural detail with candid market scenes.
Food in Mercedes
Mercedes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Iconic Uruguayan sandwich with pounded steak, eggs, ham, cheese, and vegetables on a crusty roll; best enjoyed at a parrilla or café.
Must-Try!
Traditional barbecue featuring beef cuts grilled over charcoal; commonly served with chimichurri, salads, and bread.
Breaded and fried meat cutlet, often served with potatoes or a simple salad; widely available in local eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and ready-made snacks; a great place to observe daily life and taste seasonal bites.
Casual grills and snack stalls along the riverfront serving quick bites and fried favorites with river views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a nod or handshake; polite conversations are valued. Use respectful forms of address and avoid overly loud behavior in public.
Spanish is the primary language; learning a few basic phrases is helpful. Be patient with language barriers in smaller shops.
Small tips for good service are appreciated but not obligatory; express thanks and engage in friendly conversation.
Safety
Tipping in Mercedes
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of around 10% is common if service is not included. Small tips for café staff or hotel porters are appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash (UYU) and cards are widely accepted in towns; ATMs are common. Carry a mix of cash for smaller vendors and street stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with occasional thunderstorms; carry water, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Mild temperatures with colorful foliage; pleasant for city walks and countryside excursions.
Cool to chilly with possible cold fronts; days are shorter, so plan indoor museum visits or riverfront strolls during milder spells.
Fresh air and blooming landscapes; expect variable weather and some rain, ideal for hiking and photography.
Mercedes at Night
Hiking in Mercedes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate trails weaving through estancias and open landscapes, suitable for day hikes.
Scenic, flat pathways along the river offering wide views and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Mercedes by plane.
Montevideo’s main international gateway, about 350–400 km from Mercedes; frequent connections to regional hubs.
International flights to select destinations; alternative entry point for travelers heading to the eastern coast and beyond.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Working families and professionals in the city center with a mix of services and shops.
Agricultural workers and residents from surrounding countryside who travel into town for markets and services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local teams and fields are common across the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mercedes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can rely on vegetable-based sides, salads, pastas, and market-fresh produce. When eating out, ask for grilled vegetables, beans, or cheese-based plates, and look for options labeled as vegetarian on menus.