Things to do in Uruguay

What to see and do in Uruguay: a shorter list of 25 experiences, not yet checked against sources.

25 things to do in Uruguay

History

Explore Ciudad Vieja in Montevideo

Montevideo

Wander through the historic old town with colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and landmarks like the Puerta de la Ciudadela.

History

Visit Colonia del Sacramento

Colonia del Sacramento

Stroll through this UNESCO-listed historic quarter with Portuguese and Spanish colonial buildings along the Río de la Plata.

Culture

Experience Montevideo Carnival

Montevideo

Attend one of the world's longest carnivals, featuring vibrant parades, murga performances, and candombe drums.

Food

Feast on asado at Mercado del Puerto

Montevideo

Enjoy traditional Uruguayan barbecue in this bustling market hall, where parrillas serve sizzling meats in a lively atmosphere.

City

Walk along La Rambla in Montevideo

Montevideo

Stroll or cycle the scenic waterfront promenade stretching over 20 km, offering views of the Río de la Plata and city skyline.

Nature

See Punta del Este lighthouse

Punta del Este

Climb this iconic lighthouse for panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the upscale resort town of Punta del Este.

Adventure

Hike Quebrada de los Cuervos

Treinta y Tres Department

Trek through this stunning canyon in the Cuchilla Grande range, featuring lush vegetation, rock formations, and a seasonal waterfall.

Culture

Visit Casapueblo

Punta Ballena

Explore this quirky, whitewashed building complex built by artist Carlos Páez Vilaró, resembling a Mediterranean village.

Adventure

Surf in Punta del Diablo

Rocha Department

Catch waves on the rugged beaches of this bohemian surf town, known for its consistent swells and laid-back vibe.

Culture

Drink mate in a Montevideo park

Montevideo

Join locals in sharing mate, a herbal tea, in parks like Parque Rodó, experiencing Uruguay's beloved social ritual.

Culture

Tour Teatro Solís

Montevideo

Take a guided tour of this neoclassical theater, one of the oldest in South America, hosting performances since 1856.

Nature

See Salto del Penitente waterfall

Lavalleja Department

Marvel at this 60-meter waterfall in the Sierras de Minas, accessible via a short hike through native forest.

Nature

Explore Cabo Polonio dunes and sea lions

Rocha Department

Discover this remote coastal village with shifting sand dunes and a colony of sea lions on the rocky islands.

Culture

Attend gaucho festival in Tacuarembó

Tacuarembó

Experience traditional gaucho culture with rodeos, folk music, and horse parades during the annual festival.

Food

Try chivito at a local restaurant

Montevideo

Savor Uruguay's national sandwich, a hearty steak, ham, cheese, and egg concoction, often served with fries.

Culture

Visit Museo Torres García

Montevideo

Admire the art of Joaquín Torres García, a key figure in Uruguayan art, in this dedicated museum in Montevideo.

History

See Independence Plaza and Artigas statue

Montevideo

Visit this historic square dominated by a massive statue of José Gervasio Artigas, Uruguay's national hero.

Food

Wine tasting in Canelones

Canelones Department

Tour vineyards in the Canelones wine region, known for producing Tannat, Uruguay's signature grape.

Nature

Relax on Rocha beaches

Rocha Department

Unwind on pristine beaches like Playa de la Pedrera or Barra del Chuy, with golden sands and clear waters.

History

Visit Fortaleza de Santa Teresa

Rocha Department

Explore this 18th-century fort built by the Portuguese, located in a national park near the Brazilian border.

Nightlife

Experience nightlife in Punta del Este

Punta del Este

Dance the night away at glamorous clubs and bars in this resort town, famous for its vibrant after-dark scene.

Hidden gem

Explore José Ignacio fishing village

Maldonado Department

Wander through this charming village with upscale boutiques, seafood restaurants, and a picturesque lighthouse.

Adventure

Hike Sierra de las Ánimas

Maldonado Department

Trek through this mountain range offering rugged trails, waterfalls, and panoramic views of the countryside.

History

Visit Museo de la Memoria

Montevideo

Learn about Uruguay's recent history and dictatorship at this memorial museum in a former detention center.

Food

Try medialunas at a confitería

Montevideo

Enjoy Uruguayan-style croissants with coffee at a traditional confitería, a staple of local breakfast.

Nearby destinations

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