Uruguay 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Uruguay Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Montevideo & Explore the Ciudad Vieja

  • Morning: Fly into Carrasco International Airport (MVD) in Montevideo. Upon arrival, take a taxi or Uber from the airport to your hotel/accommodation in the city center.
  • Afternoon: Wander through the historic Ciudad Vieja (Old City), exploring its charming cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and bustling Plaza Independencia.

Things to know:

  • Taxi/Uber: Easily accessible from Carrasco International Airport. Expect to pay around 25 USD for a ride to the city.
  • Historical Sites: Visit the Teatro Solís, Palacio Salvo, and the Puerta de la Ciudadela (historical fortress) while in the Ciudad Vieja.
  • Accommodation: Stay in the heart of Montevideo’s historical district, near Plaza Independencia.

Day 2: Historic Charm & Cultural Immersion

  • Morning: Immerse yourself in history with a visit to the Museo Histórico Nacional (Museum of National History) in Montevideo.
  • Afternoon: Stroll along the Rambla, enjoy the beach views, and soak up the sun at Playa Pocitos or Playa Ramírez.

Things to know:

  • Transportation: Montevideo has an efficient public transport system including buses and taxis.
  • For a more authentic experience, consider taking a “colectivo” (shared taxi) which is a cheap and fun way to get around the city.

Day 3: Colonial History & Modern Art

  • Morning: Explore the cobblestone streets and historic buildings of the Ciudad Vieja, including the Palacio de la Intendencia and the Mercado del Puerto for a taste of local flavors.
  • Transportation: Walking is ideal for exploring the charming streets of Montevideo’s old town.

Things to know:

  • Uruguay uses a combination of pesos (UYU) and US dollars. Many places accept both currencies, but it’s always best to confirm beforehand.
  • Enjoy the vibrant street art scene in Montevideo. Explore the colourful murals around the city or take a dedicated tour for a deeper understanding.

Day 4: Colonial Charm & Wine Tasting

  • Day trip to Colonia del Sacramento, a picturesque UNESCO World Heritage site with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and stunning river views.
  • Visit the historic old town (Ciudad Vieja) for a glimpse into Uruguay’s colonial past.
  • Indulge in a wine tasting experience at a local winery like Bodega Bouza or Bodega Narbona.

Things to know:

  • Colonia del Sacramento is a charming colonial city with cobblestone streets and colorful buildings.

Day 5: Punta del Este & Beaches

  • Visit the beautiful beaches of Punta del Este, a popular coastal resort town.
  • Explore the trendy shops and restaurants along Avenida San Martín, the main street.
  • Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and entertainment options in the city.

Things to know:

  • Punta del Este is known for its luxurious beaches and beach clubs.

Day 6: Montevideo’s Cultural Gems

  • Experience the cultural charm of Montevideo:
    • Explore the Ciudad Vieja - visit the Mercado del Puerto, Plaza Independencia, and the historic buildings on the cobblestone streets.
    • Catch a glimpse of the past at the Teatro Solís. This historic theater offers tours and performances showcasing its rich history.

Things to know:

  • Consider booking a guided tour to learn about the historical and cultural significance of these locations.**

Day 7: Departure Day

  • Reflect on your experiences in Uruguay:
    • Enjoy one last stroll along the Rambla, taking in the fresh sea air.
    • Visit the Mercado de Artesanías (Craft Market) for unique souvenirs.
  • Say farewell to the charming city of Montevideo, and enjoy a delicious Farewell lunch at a “parrilla” (grill) restaurant before heading to the airport.

Things to know:

  • Enjoy the local cuisine in the “Ciudad Vieja”. You’ll find traditional dishes like “asado” (barbecue), “chivito” (a steak sandwich), and “mate” (a shared drink from a gourd) are popular and readily available.

Visa Requirements:

  • Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, and most of Europe, can enter Uruguay visa-free for tourism purposes. However, it’s crucial to check the specific visa requirements for your nationality. Most nationalities can stay for 90 days without a visa.

Things to do in Montevideo:

  • Visit the Ciudad Vieja (Old Town) - A charming historical district with cobblestone streets and colonial architecture.
  • Explore the Mercado del Puerto, a bustling marketplace with fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies.
  • Enjoy the beaches! Punta del Este is known for its beautiful beaches and coastal views.

Things to know about Uruguay:

  • Visit the historic Ciudad Vieja: Explore the charming streets and plazas of Montevideo’s old town.

  • Check visa requirements for your country before traveling.

  • Enjoy a traditional “asado” (barbecue). This is a must-do experience in Uruguay, known for its delicious grilled meats.

  • Visit the Palacio de la Intendencia and explore its historical significance and stunning architecture.

  • Explore the vibrant nightlife and entertainment options in Punta del Este.

Other things to consider:

  • Currency: While traveling, carry both pesos (UYU) and US dollars.

  • Transportation: Public transportation is readily available and affordable in Montevideo. Consider using the “bus” or “taxi” for transportation around the city.

  • Food: Indulge in a traditional Uruguayan barbecue, known as “asado”. You’ll find plenty of restaurants serving this delicious feast.

  • Language: Spanish is the official language, but English is also widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

  • Safety: Uruguay is considered one of the safest countries in South America. However, it’s always wise to take precautions against petty theft, just as you would in any other major city.

  • Money Exchange: Exchange your currency at a bank or reputable exchange bureau for the best rates.

Accommodation:

  • Consider booking a hotel or guesthouse in the historic Ciudad Vieja, where you’ll be close to many of the country’s attractions.

  • Enjoy the variety of hostels and Airbnbs available in different price ranges.

Safety Tips:

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash with you.

  • Keep your valuables secure, either in a hotel safe or hidden away on your person.

  • Use caution when using ATMs, opt for ones in well-lit, secure areas.

Things to do:

  • Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and restaurants of Punta del Este.

  • Visit the Mercado de los Artesanos (Artisan Market) in Colonia del Carmen.

  • Keep your belongings close to you at all times, especially in crowded places.

Things to know about money:

  • Uruguay uses the peso (UYU) as its currency.

  • Stay informed of local scams and be vigilant.

  • Be sure to have a variety of payment options for your convenience, such as cash, credit cards, or even traveler’s checks.

  • Consider using a combination of public transportation and taxis for getting around.

Things to remember:

  • Carry a photocopy of your passport with you at all times.

  • Keep your money and valuables in a safe place, like a hotel safe or a hidden money belt.

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially when withdrawing money from ATMs.

  • Don’t flash large amounts of cash

  • Taxis: are a good option for longer distances or late-night travel, but be sure to use reputable taxi companies and agree on a price beforehand.

  • Driving: Driving is generally safe in Uruguay, but be aware that roads can be narrow and winding.

  • Driving: If you’re planning to explore beyond the city center, consider renting a car or taking a bus to travel around.

Things to do:

  • Carry small denominations of money for everyday purchases.

  • Be prepared to pay in cash, as smaller vendors may not accept cards.

  • Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and entertainment offerings, which are particularly renowned in Montevideo.

Understanding Currency in Uruguay:

  • The peso (UYU) is the official currency.
  • You’ll need to have access to local currency, especially when traveling outside of major cities like Montevideo.**

Uruguay’s visa process:

  • “Punta del Este” is a common misconception and not relevant to your travel plans. It’s crucial to be aware that “beware of scams” - always double-check the legitimacy of vendors and exchange services.
  • Currency: While it’s true that Uruguay uses the peso as its currency, it’s advisable to have a mix of local currency and US dollars for flexibility.