Uruguay

Travel Guide
Salvo Palace featuring a sunset, a city and street scenes
South America’s hidden gem has a historic capital and colonial towns, sprawling countryside, exclusive beach resorts and bohemian surf spots.

With centuries-old colonial towns, picturesque beaches, a lively cultural scene, diverse wildlife and rolling countryside, Uruguay is a small country with plenty to offer. Colonized by the Portuguese and Spanish, the country possesses a distinct European heritage while remaining proud of its South American roots.

Getting around Uruguay is made easy by a large intercity bus network, which covers most of the places that you’ll want to visit, though renting a car and taking road trips is also an option in this compact country.

Start in the capital, Montevideo, a city built on the shores of the Rio de la Plata (River Plate). Admire the grand 18th- and 19th-century colonial architecture of the Ciudad Vieja (Old Town). Stroll along the waterfront promenade, lined with public parks and exclusive neighborhoods. Be part of one of the world’s longest carnival celebrations beginning in late January and ending in early March. Tour the bodegas of the nearby Canelones wine region.

Travel along the west coast to Uruguay’s oldest settlement, Colonia del Sacramento. Explore museums set in pastel-colored houses and wander cobblestone streets, which have changed little since the 1700s. Take time out in the tranquil riverside town of Carmelo then head north to Tacuarembo to experience gaucho (cowboy) culture at its finest.

Make a move for Uruguay’s many miles of beaches in the hot summertime. Punta del Este offers watersports and nightlife, while celebrities frequent Jose Ignacio. In the Rocha province you’ll find La Paloma and Punta del Diablo, beach towns favored by bohemians, backpackers and surfers.

For wildlife and nature lovers, there is plenty to see. Ride on horseback through the Quebrada de los Cuervos (Gorge of the Crows). Spot rare and native birds at natural reserves such as the Santa Teresa National Park. Visit the Atlantic coast from July through October for the chance to spot migrating southern right whales.

Uruguay is known as being one of the safest South American countries and its warm-temperate climate makes it pleasant to visit at any time of the year.

Popular cities in Uruguay

Salvo Palace featuring a sunset, a city and street scenes
Montevideo
Known for Historical, Excursions and Cafes
The capital and largest city of Uruguay combines history and architecture with theaters and live music, beaches and waterfront walks.

Reasons to visit

  • Salvo Palace
  • Centenario Stadium
  • Port Market
Bikini Beach which includes a beach
Punta del Este
Known for Beaches, Ports and Surfing
Beaches, watersports, island tours, nightlife and celebrity-spotting make this one of the most exclusive coastal resorts in South America.

Reasons to visit

  • Brava Beach
  • Mansa Beach
  • Punta del Este Lighthouse
Colonia del Sacramento featuring a sunset and general coastal views
Colonia del Sacramento
Known for Historical, Culture and Museums
Cobblestone streets, colorful houses, museums and beaches make this one of the most popular towns on Uruguay’s west coast.

Reasons to visit

  • Ferrando Beach
  • Street of Sighs
  • Colonia del Sacramento Plaza Major
Cape Santa Maria Lighthouse showing a lighthouse
La Paloma
Known for Surfing, Small town and Casinos
On Uruguay’s east coast is La Paloma, a relaxed beach town famous for its surf spots, whale watching and free summer concerts.

Reasons to visit

  • Old Train Station
  • Cape Santa Maria Lighthouse
Piriapolis Beach showing street scenes and a coastal town as well as an individual male
Piriapolis
Known for Nature, Natural parks and Adventure
Eclectic architecture, watersports, a family-friendly beach and excursions to one of Uruguay’s tallest peaks await at this traditional coastal town.

Reasons to visit

  • Piriapolis Beach
  • Castle Piria

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