Planning a trip to Uruguay and wondering which places you should visit? Uruguay might be the second-smallest country in South America, but it’s packed with attractions. You’ll find bustling cities, historical towns recognized by UNESCO, beautiful untouched beaches, plush resorts, delicious food, and great wine. This small yet charming country has so much to offer that you’re likely to fall in love with it. But where should you start? Here’s a list of some of the best places to visit in Uruguay.
Montevideo is a must-see. As the capital and largest city, it stands out with one of the largest economies in South America and is known for its high quality of life. It’s a fabulous destination for architecture enthusiasts, featuring Neoclassical, Colonial, and Postmodern buildings. While in Montevideo, don’t miss the historic neighborhood, Ciudad Vieja, with its grand old landmarks, cultural museums, and key buildings. The main square, Plaza Independencia, and the bustling Mercado del Puerto market are also located here. Interestingly, Montevideo is often called “the other city of tango,” so if you’re keen to learn this elegant dance, you’re in the right place.
Next, make your way to Colonia del Sacramento, one of Uruguay’s oldest cities, situated across from Buenos Aires. Colonia is renowned for its historic quarter, Barrio Histórico, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist draw. This area is rich with well-preserved architecture featuring Portuguese, Spanish, and post-colonial influences.
Then there’s Punta del Este, a luxurious beach resort town often referred to as the “Monaco of South America.” Despite its reputation as a playground for the wealthy, budget travelers can also enjoy this destination. It boasts numerous beautiful beaches with Playa Brava being the most famous, partly due to its iconic sculpture, La Mano (The Hand). Another must-see is Casa-Pueblo, a resort museum with unique Mediterranean-style architecture. Visit Isla de Lobos for its large sea lion colony or take a day trip to the upscale beach resort of José Ignacio, known for attracting affluent tourists and locals.
Punta del Diablo offers a quieter alternative with pristine beaches and a more laid-back atmosphere. Just an hour from Punta del Este, it features several stunning beaches like Playa de los Pescadores, known for its seafood and traditional fishing boats, Playa de la Viuda, a serene spot a few kilometers from town, and Playa Grande, a long stretch of sand. Also, don’t miss the nearby Santa Teresa National Park, home to sandy beaches and the historic Fort of Santa Teresa.
For an off-the-grid experience, head to Cabo Polonio. This small, remote village at the tip of a peninsula lacks electricity and running water, relying on wind power and generators. Accessible only by foot or 4×4 vehicle, it’s well worth the trip for its striking sand dunes and large sea lion colony.
Lastly, while Argentina might be the giant in South American wine production, Uruguay’s wines are not to be missed. Most vineyards are around Montevideo, and taking a wine tour is an excellent way to learn about the winemaking process and taste some fantastic local wines.
Experience the charm and uniqueness of Uruguay by visiting these incredible destinations.