Country guides
South & Central America
Things to do in Uruguay
Rich in culture and natural beauty, Uruguay is a dream South American destination for adventurers and pleasure-seekers alike. Those who want a robust holiday can rough it with gauchos (cowboys) at the country's estancias (ranch-houses), waking to simple local breakfasts before riding green plains under a gorgeous golden sun. Culture lovers who'd prefer a less arduous stay in Uruguay should head for Montevideo's Ciudad Vieja (Old Town), or the nearby Colonia del Sacramento, where they can relish the country's historical architecture.
The coastal resort town of Punta del Este is a must for anyone seeking luxury, sun-filled action at one of South America's most exclusive beachside getaways. By contrast, the laidback Punta del Diablo is home to Uruguay's backpacker beach scene and offers visitors a more budget-friendly slice of paradise. Foodies should note that Uruguay's beef ranks among the best in the world.
Mercado del Puerto (Port Market)
Set under a vast, cast-iron structure reminiscent of old European railway stations, Montevideo's Mercado del Puerto (Port Market) is a lively affair. A hive of trading activity sin…
Mercado del Puerto (Port Market)
Set under a vast, cast-iron structure reminiscent of old European railway stations, Montevideo's Mercado del Puerto (Port Market) is a lively affair. A hive of trading activity since 1868, the area no longer operates as a market, instead housing some of the finest seafood eateries in the city and perhaps the best steakhouses in South America. Visitors should try the traditional drink called medio y medio (champagne mixed with white wine) with their meals, and linger to watch the city's talented buskers and entertainers.
National History Museum
The Museo Historico Nacional is a treat for visiting history buffs. Located in the Old City, it's made up of old houses where prominent historical figures once lived, and its colle…
National History Museum
The Museo Historico Nacional is a treat for visiting history buffs. Located in the Old City, it's made up of old houses where prominent historical figures once lived, and its collection traces the history of Uruguay from before European colonisation to the mid-20th century. Exhibits include books, documents, furniture, photographs and works of art. The houses that make up the museum are Casa de Antonio Montero, Casa de Juan Antonio Lavalleja, House of Manuel Ximénez and Gomez, House of Joseph Garibaldi, Casa de Juan Francisco Giró, House fifth of Luis Alberto de Herrera and the fifth house of José Batlle y Ordóñez.
Website www.museohistorico.gub.uy/
Colonia del Sacramento
The historic town of Colonia del Sacramento is a must-see for anyone visiting Uruguay. Situated on the River Plate, this celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Site is the oldest settlem…
Colonia del Sacramento
The historic town of Colonia del Sacramento is a must-see for anyone visiting Uruguay. Situated on the River Plate, this celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Site is the oldest settlement in the country and welcomes many ferry visitors from Buenos Aires on the other side of the river. The quaint town was founded in 1680 and is home to cobbled streets and brightly coloured houses, vibrant bars, excellent restaurants, and a wonderful array of art and craft shops. Colonia is about a two-hour drive from Montevideo.
Ciudad Vieja
Montevideo's old city is a vibrant, fascinating district of grand historic buildings and cobbled streets. Weekends see dancers and musicians gather for impromptu performances, and …
Ciudad Vieja
Montevideo's old city is a vibrant, fascinating district of grand historic buildings and cobbled streets. Weekends see dancers and musicians gather for impromptu performances, and artists have turned many of the decaying, ground-floor apartments into studios and galleries, where visitors can purchase works from some of Uruguay's finest. The area's iron gates and street lamps are very photogenic. Travellers are sure to find a wonderful juxtaposition of old and new, making Ciudad Vieja the purest embodiment of Montevideo's evolution.
Estadio Centenario
Built between 1929 and 1930, the Estadio Centenario commemorates the centenary of Uruguay's first constitution, and hosted the first-ever FIFA World Cup final, in which Uruguay bea…
Estadio Centenario
Built between 1929 and 1930, the Estadio Centenario commemorates the centenary of Uruguay's first constitution, and hosted the first-ever FIFA World Cup final, in which Uruguay beat Argentina by four goals to two. Listed by FIFA as one of the world's Classic Stadiums, the Estadio Centenario has become a bucket-list item for many football fans. Thousands of tourists visit every year, either to attend a match or to enjoy the fascinating Museo del Fútbol (Football Museum) housed within the stadium itself.
Website www.stadiumguide.com/centenario/