Things to Do in Uruguay

Separating Montevideo’s Old Town and downtown areas, this popular plaza is thought to be the city’s most important one, especially since historic structures such as the Solis Theatre (the country’s oldest theater), Estevez Palace and Executive Tower (the president's workplaces) reside here. One very interesting site to see is the 56-foot statue of Jose Gervasio Artigas, a soldier who fought for equality and democracy and later became Uruguay’s national hero. Underground are Artigas’ remains, which are guarded 24 hours a day.

A trip to Plaza Independencia will allow you to visit Artigas' mausoleum and learn about his life, with interesting facts printed on the surrounding walls. The mausoleum is located in the center of the square, under the monument, and is open Mondays from noon to 6 p.m. and Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Often overlooked by visitors to South America, the Uruguayan capital is an interesting mix of old and new. It may not have the glitz of Buenos Aires or Rio de Janeiro, but Montevideo offers a variety of plazas, beaches, historical monuments and shopping opportunities.

How to Get to Montevideo
The cruise ship port, Puerto de Montevideo, is located on the southern edge of the city, about a mile from the center of Montevideo. Taking a taxi is the best way to get to the center if your ship doesn’t offer a shuttle (many do). There are also leather stores for passengers that offer complimentary shuttles to their shops.

One Day in Montevideo
If you arrive on a weekend, start at the Mercado de Puerto, a street fair within walking distance of the port where you can sample a variety of traditional Uruguayan dishes. It is also open in the afternoon, so you might stop by as you return to your ship after a day of exploring.

Otherwise, kick off your visit in Plaza Independencia, Montevideo’s busy, modern square in the center of the city. The plaza stands on the site of an old citadel; keep an eye out for a stone that marks the division between the old and new parts of Montevideo. Also note the monument of Jose Gervasio Artigas, who led the battle for Uruguay’s independence from Spain, and the Palacio Salvo, which was once the tallest building in South America. From Plaza Independencia, check out the shops and cafes along Avenida 18 de Julio before stopping at the Museo del Gaucho y del la Moneda to peruse exhibits of cowboy clothing, artifacts and historical currency.

Next up is the Old City of Montevideo, also known as the “Ciudad Viejo.” Start your exploration at the Plaza Constitucion, where you can find a flea market on the weekends. Visit El Cabildo, the old town hall and former jailhouse that now serves as a museum showcasing historic maps, photos and artwork. Don’t miss Sarandi Street, a pedestrian mall with an array of outdoor sculptures.

If you’d like to get out of the city, think about joining an excursion to a local winery to learn about Uruguayan wine production and sample a few varieties. Or, head to an “estancia” to enjoy Uruguayan folk dancing and singing, participate in typical farm chores and sample a traditional Uruguayan meal.

Port Information
The official language in Uruguay is Spanish, but those who work in the tourism industry are likely to understand English. The currency is the Uruguayan peso, although US dollars may be accepted. ATM's are ready available. You can find an internet café right at the port, as well as throughout the city.

Because Punta del Este is known as the “Monaco of South America,” it would only make sense to visit the city’s famous Punta del Este Yacht Club. While a bit pricey, the restaurant here will really make you feel like you’re living the high life. Mix the classy ambiance and delicious food with a glass of pinot, a bit of jazz music and a multi-colored sunset, and you’ll truly be experiencing the best Punta del Este has to offer. The balcony offers great ocean views, and you can watch the many yachts and sailboats as they dock and set sail. The staff at the yacht club are very welcoming to visiting sailors, and several regattas, including the Rolex Cup, are hosted here throughout the year.

Constructed in 1928, Palacio Salvo is a historical landmark building done in a predominantly Italian Gothic-style, with classic and neo-romanticism influences as well. It was built by Italian immigrant Mario Palanti, and is located at the intersection of Plaza Independencia and 18 de Julio Avenue.

For decades, it was the tallest building in South America, and still remains an iconic symbol of the city, even being depicted on many postcards. Today, it is not only considered a "must-see" attraction; it's also a fully-furnished apartment that visitors and locals can rent out for short to medium lengths of time.

For a sweeping view of the city, visitors can take an elevator ride to the top of the palace, free of charge. Afterwards, stop at Cafe Salvo on the ground level for an invigorating cappuccino.

Punta del Este is a sophisticated and fashionable beach resort reminiscent of the French Riviera. Impressive mansions line the coast and wealthy tourists come from all over South America to enjoy the beaches and nightlife.

How to Get to Punta del Este
Once your cruise ship docks, you will be taken ashore by tenders. The city center is about 10 blocks from the pier. Taxis may be hard to come by, so you may need to be prepared to walk into town if your ship doesn't offer transportation.

One Day in Punta del Este
Without a doubt, the main attraction in Punta del Este are the outstanding beaches. Mansa Beach, Brava Beach and Gorriti Island are some of the most popular and many visitors simply spend their time in Punta del Este enjoying the surf and sun. Brava Beach is ideal for surfing, while Gorriti Island is great for windsurfing and diving. Bikini Beach is the place to go if you're trying to spot a celebrity or two.

If you are looking for cultural attractions, start by visiting the Casa Pueblo, a museum-residence just outside of town that somewhat resembles a giant sculpture. Then head back into town to visit your pick of the Museo del Mar (Marine Museum), the Uriburu Museum of Contemporary Art, the Museum Ralli, which also showcases contemporary Latin American art, or Maam, a museum featuring the private art and archaeology collection of Uruguayan artist Paez-Vilaro. You might also stop at the Candelaria Church, the most important Catholic church in the city.

Regardless of how you spend the earlier part of your day, don't forget to do a little shopping before you leave. The main shopping area centers around Avenida Gorlero, with shops specializing in leather goods and jewelry. If you are looking for art, pay a visit to the Plaza Artigas, where you will find a variety of arts and crafts, or head to La Barra to check out its galleries.

Port Information
The local currency is the Uruguayan peso. Credit cards are widely accepted, but ATM's may reject foreign cards. Spanish is the official language, but you may find a few English speakers within the city.

The oldest town in Uruguay, this southwestern city on the Rio de la Plata – just a short ferry ride away from Buenos Aires in Argentina -- is famed for its historic quarter, where the jumbled, sprawling streets and mix of architecture represents two centuries’ worth of Spanish, Portuguese and Uruguayan history.  

Its strategic location made it a source of longtime struggle between the Portuguese and Spanish, who both sought to control trade of Peruvian silver and Brazilian produce; between 1680 and 1828, Colonia was conquered multiple times by each country’s naval forces. The Portuguese ultimately won control of the town, but it would be only six years before the outbreak of the Brazilian-Argentine Cisplatine War, when battles fought within the historic quarter resulted in widespread damage to the city’s defenses and finest buildings.

By the time reconstruction efforts began, the Uruguayan base of power had shifted to its capital, Montevideo. Historic preservation efforts in Colonia began in earnest in 1924 and continued for the next several decades, and today, a steady stream of ferry-bound tourists from Buenos Aires come to see its well-tended Portuguese basilica, Spanish-Uruguyan history museum and bullring, 17th-century convent ruins and more.

Viewing this building, you’ll be confused about what exactly you’re looking at. Originally built as a train station in another location, the facade ended up in Montevideo as a market, instead. Located in Montevideo’s Old Town, the plaza outside is filled with outdoor-seating restaurants and craft stalls, while inside you’ll find even more eateries and shops. Musicians will entertain you as you sample fresh seafood and flavorful “asado”, a traditional way of grilling meats on open fire, common in many South American countries.

Along with being a great place to shop for souvenirs and antiques and eat copious amounts of red meat, the market holds 130 years of Uruguay’s history. Mercado del Puerto was completed on July 19, 1885, and still supplies a comfortable, homey place for people of all social classes and backgrounds. Moreover, the old world architecture will transport you back to a time when foods coming from inland areas and illegal imports were sold there. Saturdays are a fun time to go, when the atmosphere takes on an overly festive tone.