Montevideo Uruguay 5 Day Itinerary

Montevideo, Uruguay: 5-Day Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the City Center

  • Morning: Check-in at your accommodation, start with a hearty breakfast at La Barra de La Abuela.
  • Visit Ciudad Vieja (Old Town): Wander through its cobblestone streets, admire colonial architecture, and visit the Cathedral Matriz. Don’t miss Plaza Independencia and the Artigas Mausoleum.
  • Lunch: Savor traditional Uruguayan cuisine at Pizzería Güiraldes.
  • Afternoon: Head to Carmen Souza Museum to learn about Uruguayan art and culture. Visit Palacio Salvo, one of the tallest buildings in Montevideo, for a panoramic city view.
  • Evening: Enjoy an evening stroll along Rambla Mario Benedetto, take a boat trip at Punta Carretas Lighthouse. Dine at Paris Buenos Aires for Argentinian cuisine.

Day 2: Beaches and Parks

  • Morning: Start your day with breakfast at your accommodation or try El Kantarito in Pocitos beach.
  • Spend the morning at Playas Pocitos or Playas Ramirez, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just enjoying the scenery.
  • Lunch: Head to El Galpon in El Bosque for a casual meal with local flavors.
  • Afternoon: Visit Parque Rodó, Montevideo’s largest park, and Palacio Taranco, a beautiful mansion turned museum.
  • Evening: Dine at SODRe in Barrio Sur, offering contemporary Uruguayan cuisine.

Day 3: Arts and Culture

  • Morning: Have breakfast at your accommodation or try Baker’s Café. Visit the Museo del Gaucho Juan Manuel Blanes, showcasing works by Uruguay’s most famous painter.
  • Afternoon: Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Barrio Sur: Visit Casa Apavira and Museo Ibis. Enjoy lunch at local favorite La Cocina de la Abuela.
  • Evening: Watch a tango show at Confitería Ideal, followed by dinner at Restaurante El Palenque.

Day 4: Day Trip to Colonia del Sacramento

  • Morning: Take a ferry from Carrasco Port (approx. 1h30min) to the historic town of Colonia del Sacramento, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Spend your day exploring its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and the lighthouse. Have lunch at a local restaurant like La Carreta.
  • Return to Montevideo in the evening. Dine at Sherlock in Punta Carretas for British-inspired dishes.

Day 5: Leisure and Departure

  • Morning: Enjoy your last breakfast in Uruguay at your chosen accommodation or café. Spend the morning relaxing, shopping, or visiting any sights you may have missed.
  • Afternoon: Check out from your accommodation, store luggage if necessary, and spend your final hours exploring more of Montevideo or taking a dip at the beach one last time.
  • Evening: Depart from Carrasco International Airport.

Tips:

  • Uruguayan peso (UYU) is the local currency. It’s best to exchange money before arrival, though some places may accept US dollars or credit cards.
  • Tap water in Montevideo is safe to drink.
  • Public transportation is well-developed and affordable, with buses being the most common mode of transport.
  • Uruguayans are friendly and welcoming, so don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations or directions!
  • Enjoy your trip and savor every moment in this charming city!