Uruguay Tours & Trips

What our customers ask about Uruguay Tours & Trips

• What are the must-visit destinations in Uruguay for first-time visitors?

  First-time visitors to Uruguay should focus on three key destinations. The UNESCO site of Colonia del Sacramento offers well-preserved cobblestone streets and Portuguese colonial buildings. Montevideo the capital city features the expansive Plaza Independencia and the lively Mercado del Puerto food market. The beach resort of Punta del Este is known for its "Hand in the Sand" sculpture and the white-washed Casapueblo museum. Many visitors base themselves at central locations like Hotel Own Montevideo in the Pocitos area and take day trips to local wineries in Carmelo to sample Uruguay's Tannat wines. A recent TourRadar traveler shared "The walking tour of Colonia's historic quarter was fascinating transporting us back to the time of conquest and colonization."

• How many days should I spend in Uruguay to see the main highlights?

  A 4-5 day itinerary covers Uruguay's essential sights at a comfortable pace. Popular tours such as the "5-Days of Culture and Wine in Colonia and Montevideo" divide time between the capital's historic landmarks two days in Colonia del Sacramento and winery visits in Carmelo. Additional day trips often include stops in Punta del Este and Jose Ignacio. Hotels like Own Montevideo or properties within Colonia's old town provide strategic bases for exploration. According to a TourRadar guest "Five days gave us the perfect amount of time to experience both the cultural sites and wine regions at a comfortable pace."

• What type of accommodation can I expect in Uruguay?

  Accommodations in Uruguay range from historic boutique properties to contemporary urban hotels. Montevideo's Pocitos neighborhood houses upscale options like Hotel Own Montevideo while Colonia del Sacramento features intimate lodgings such as Posada Don Antonio within the UNESCO Heritage zone. Beachfront resorts and design-focused hotels line Punta del Este's coast. Most organized tours select 4-star properties that include breakfast and central locations. A TourRadar traveler commented "The hotels were perfectly located for exploring the historic centers and offered excellent service and comfort."

• What is the food scene like in Uruguay?

  Uruguay's culinary identity centers on its grass-fed beef traditional asados (barbecues) and regional specialties. The historic Mercado del Puerto in Montevideo houses numerous parrilla (grill) restaurants while the Mercado Agrícola showcases local produce. Tours regularly visit traditional eateries near Plaza Independencia and throughout the Old City. The country's wine culture particularly Tannat varieties can be explored through family-run wineries in Carmelo and Montevideo's outskirts where tastings often include local lunch pairings. One TourRadar guest noted "The combination of wine tasting at boutique wineries and traditional Uruguayan cuisine made for an unforgettable culinary experience."

• What are the most scenic drives in Uruguay?

  The coastal Ruta 10 from Punta del Este to Jose Ignacio and onward to La Paloma offers constant Atlantic Ocean views and access to secluded beaches. Inland the Montevideo to Minas route passes through Lavalleja's vineyard-covered hills. Following the Rio de la Plata from Colonia to Carmelo reveals riverside landmarks and historic sites. Nature enthusiasts often venture to Valle del Lunarejo near Tacuarembó to see its dramatic gorges and waterfalls.

• What are the must-visit historical sites in Uruguay?

  Uruguay's historical heritage is best represented in Colonia del Sacramento a UNESCO site known for its Portuguese colonial architecture weathered cobblestone streets and historic lighthouse. Montevideo's Plaza Independencia houses the Art Deco Palacio Salvo the classical Solis Theater and José Artigas's mausoleum. The 19th-century Mercado del Puerto serves as both architectural landmark and culinary destination. Visitors staying at Hotel Costanero Mvd find themselves within walking distance of these sites. A TourRadar participant remarked "The guide was fabulous as is every Uruguayan I have met!"