Uruguay 5 Day Itinerary

Uruguay 5-Day Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Montevideo (Arrival and Exploration)

  • Arrive at Carrasco International Airport (MVD) and transfer to your accommodation in the historic district, Ciudad Vieja.
  • Visit Plaza Independencia, Palacio Salvo, and the Rosemary Square (Puerta de la Ciudad Vieja).
  • Stroll along Rambla Republica del Peru with its beautiful beaches and beachfront promenade.
  • Enjoy a traditional Uruguayan meal at a local restaurant, which often includes chivito or parrilla.

Things to Know:

  • The official language is Spanish, but many locals also speak English or Portuguese.
  • Uruguay uses the Uruguayan Peso (UYU) as its currency.
  • Tap water is safe to drink in Montevideo and most of Uruguay.

Day 2: Montevideo (Museums and Markets)

  • Visit the Museum of Fine Arts (Museo de Arte Moderno Juan Manuel Blanes), the Museum of Visual Arts (Museo de Artes Visuals Españolas) and the Museum of National History (Museo Historico Nacional).
  • Explore the Mercado del Puerto, a historic market filled with local food stalls and restaurants. Try a chorizo sandwich!
  • In the evening, visit Punta Carretas Shopping Mall for some shopping or head to Solis Theater for a show.

Day 3: Colonia del Sacramento (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

  • Travel by bus or ferry to Colonia del Sacramento (approximately 2 hours).
  • Visit the old town, which features colonial architecture and narrow cobblestone streets.
  • Explore the lighthouse, the Church of San Francisco, and the ruins of the Portuguese Fortaleza del Carmen.
  • Cross the border to Brazil at the end of the day for a taste of two countries in one trip!

Day 4: Rocha (Beaches and Lagoons)

  • Travel by bus or car to Rocha, approximately 3 hours from Colonia.
  • Spend the day relaxing on the beautiful beaches of La Paloma or Manantiales.
  • Visit the Salto Grande dam and bird sanctuary if you’re interested in wildlife and nature.

Day 5: Punta del Diablo (Surfing and Beach Life)

  • Travel to Punta del Diablo, approximately 1 hour from Rocha.
  • Enjoy a day of surfing, swimming, or simply relaxing on the beach.
  • Explore the charming village with its colorful houses and local artisans.
  • In the evening, have dinner at one of the seafood restaurants near the beach.

Visa Requirements:

  • Citizens of many countries do not require a visa to visit Uruguay for up to 90 days. Check your country’s specific requirements before traveling.

Transportation:

  • Buses are the most common mode of transportation within Uruguay and can be easily arranged through bus companies like Copesa or Busquebus.
  • Car rental is also an option, but driving in Uruguay requires a valid international driver’s license.