Tucked in between Brazil and Argentina, tiny Uruguay is often missed out or forgotten about. The common misconception is that there aren’t many places to visit in Uruguay. However, all those who travel to Uruguay will fall in love with the country. With Spanish and African influences, this is one of South America’s most intoxicating countries. Check out our Top 8 Things To Do In Uruguay.
[booking_product_helper shortname=”uruguay”]
Teatro Solís, Montevideo
1
Located in the Old Town of Montevideo, a few blocks from downtown and a few meters from the coastline. Teatro Solís is the most important theatre in Uruguay, and the second-biggest theatre in South America. And this is only the tip of the iceberg of things to do in Montevideo.
La Rambla, Montevideo
2
La Rambla refers to the coastal road and promenade that runs the full length of Montevideo’s coastline. It is about 22 km (13.5 miles) long. Be sure to walk past Pocitos, one of the most popular beaches in the city.
Mercado del Puerto, Montevideo
3
Inside this ornate building that once was a train station, market stalls have been converted into parrillas and seafood. “El Mercado del Puerto” is 142 years old. Uruguay has overtaken Argentina as the world’s largest consumer of beef per capita. One of the best places to try steak is Montevideo’s atmospheric market – Mercado del Puerto.
Plaza Independencia, Montevideo
4
Located on the border between the Old City and the Center, Plaza Independencia is Montevideo’s most important plaza and one of the icons of the capital. Its creation dates back to the 19th century, when it was decided to demolish the walls that surrounded the old city Montevideo. From Plaza Independencia you can reach the Teatro Solís, Palacio Salvo,and the last remains of the town gate and the city walls.
Punta del Este
5
Punta del Este, Uruguay, often referred to as the St. Tropez of Latin America or the Miami Beach of Uruguay. It is a top summertime playground for Uruguayans, Brazilians and Argentines. During the December–February high season, the coastal city’s population jumps from 7,000 to 170,000. This vacation hotspot offers a relaxed lifestyle, plenty of beaches, golf courses, five-star restaurants, and wild nightlife.
Colonia del Sacramento
6
Located one-hour ferry ride away from Buenos Aires, Colonia del Sacramento is Uruguay’s oldest city and the only Portuguese influenced town. It was declared as UNESCO World Historic Heritage site in 1995. With its colorful historical houses, cafés and cobblestone streets, this beautiful city will remind you what life was like years ago.
Punta del Diablo
7
Ride the waves and wander the endless sandy beaches at the low-key atlantic resort of Punta del Diablo, a small beach town that has only hundreds of people living there.
Cabo Polonio
8
Cabo Polonio is a beautiful small fishing village a few hours East of Punta del Este
Just So You Know…
- Uruguay has the longest national anthem in the world.
- Uruguay is the first South American country to legalize same-sex civil unions at the National level.
- Uruguay is the smallest country in the world in terms of population to win a FIFA World Cup in the 1930s. it was at Estadio Centenario, so watching a football match there is a must.
- Every February, Uruguay host the longest Carnaval of South America, lasting a full 40 days.
- Uruguay has a flock of some 10 million sheep and wool is a major export.
- Try the traditional drink of Uruguay – Yerba Maté.
Get Some Culture:
- Museum of Fine Arts – Juan Manuel Blanes – Displays Uruguayan art ranging from the nation’s founding to the present day.
- Museum of Pre-Columbian and Indigenous – The collection consists of 700 pieces, see pottery and textiles from the natives of Uruguay and other Latin American regions.
- Casapueblo – An art museum in a seaside house owned by artist Carlos Paez Vilaro.
Grab A Bite:
- Café Brasilero – With thonet chairs, hard pine floors, old photographs and excellent cappuccinos and cakes.