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Uruguay

Uruguay Highlights

Uruguay, a small country in South America, is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and gauchos tradition. Montevideo, the capital, offers landmarks like the historic Ciudad Vieja, the iconic Palacio Salvo, and the vibrant Mercado del Puerto. Beyond the capital, explore the chic beach resort town of Punta del Este, the charming historic town of Colonia del Sacramento, or the unique landscapes of the Quebrada de los Cuervos. Don`t miss the famous Carnaval de Montevideo, the unique vineyards producing Tannat wine, or the rugged beauty of the Rocha`s coast. Uruguayan cuisine, known for dishes like asado, chivito, and a variety of mate tea, is hearty and flavorful. Whether you`re exploring a historic district, enjoying a beach sunset, or immersing in the gaucho culture, Uruguay offers a peaceful and captivating travel experience.

Top 10 Attractions

Cabo Polonio

Cabo Polonio is a remote seaside village on Uruguay`s eastern coast, known for its beautiful beaches, towering sand dunes, and abundant wildlife. The village, which has no roads or electricity, offers a unique off-the-grid experience. The iconic Cabo... more

Cabo Polonio is a remote seaside village on Uruguay`s eastern coast, known for its beautiful beaches, towering sand dunes, and abundant wildlife. The village, which has no roads or electricity, offers a unique off-the-grid experience. The iconic Cabo Polonio Lighthouse offers stunning views of the coastline, the Atlantic Ocean, and the nearby islands, home to the country`s largest colony of sea lions. The village is also surrounded by the Cabo Polonio National Park, which protects a diverse ecosystem of sand dunes, wetlands, and native forest. Whether you want to surf, hike, wildlife watch, or simply relax and disconnect from the outside world, Cabo Polonio offers an unspoiled natural paradise.

Casapueblo

Casapueblo, located near the fashionable resort of Punta del Este, is a remarkable sight. This sprawling, whitewashed complex, perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, was the home and workshop of the late Uruguayan artist Carlos Páez Vilar... more

Casapueblo, located near the fashionable resort of Punta del Este, is a remarkable sight. This sprawling, whitewashed complex, perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, was the home and workshop of the late Uruguayan artist Carlos Páez Vilaró. Casapueblo is designed in a unique style, with no straight lines but only curves that mimic the forms of nature. Today, it houses a museum showcasing the artist`s work, a hotel, and an art gallery. Visitors can explore the artist`s studio, adorned with his paintings and sculptures, and learn about his life and inspirations. The building`s terraces offer stunning views of the sea, particularly at sunset, a daily event celebrated with poetry and music. Casapueblo is a beautiful testament to Páez Vilaró`s creative genius and his love for Uruguay.

Colonia del Sacramento

Colonia del Sacramento is a charming town on Uruguay`s southwestern coast, known for its well-preserved historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Founded by the Portuguese in the 17th century, the town has a distinct old-world charm with its co... more

Colonia del Sacramento is a charming town on Uruguay`s southwestern coast, known for its well-preserved historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Founded by the Portuguese in the 17th century, the town has a distinct old-world charm with its cobblestone streets, colonial houses, and quaint plazas. Highlights include the lighthouse, from which you can enjoy panoramic views, the Portón de Campo, the remnants of the city gate, and the Basilica del Santisimo Sacramento. The town also boasts a number of museums, such as the Portuguese Museum and the Tile Museum, which provide insight into its rich history. Colonia del Sacramento is not only a feast for the history buff but also offers excellent dining options, beautiful riverside beaches, and a relaxing atmosphere.

Estadio Centenario

The Estadio Centenario in Montevideo is a football stadium of great historical significance. Opened in 1930 to host the first FIFA World Cup, the stadium is considered the home of Uruguayan football and a symbol of Uruguay`s proud football heritage.... more

The Estadio Centenario in Montevideo is a football stadium of great historical significance. Opened in 1930 to host the first FIFA World Cup, the stadium is considered the home of Uruguayan football and a symbol of Uruguay`s proud football heritage. The stadium`s architecture is notable for its iconic tower, the Torre del Homenaje, which offers a panoramic view of the city. Inside the stadium is the Football Museum, which tells the story of Uruguay`s football history and its two World Cup victories. Whether you`re a football fan or not, a visit to Estadio Centenario offers a fascinating insight into Uruguay`s sporting culture and history.

Fortaleza del Cerro

The Fortaleza del Cerro, also known as the Fortaleza General Artigas, is a historic military fort located on the highest hill in Montevideo. Built in the 19th century to defend the city, the fortress offers a glimpse into Uruguay`s past. The fort, wi... more

The Fortaleza del Cerro, also known as the Fortaleza General Artigas, is a historic military fort located on the highest hill in Montevideo. Built in the 19th century to defend the city, the fortress offers a glimpse into Uruguay`s past. The fort, with its thick stone walls and old cannons, houses a military museum displaying a collection of weapons, uniforms, and other military artifacts. The highlight of a visit to the Fortaleza del Cerro is the stunning view from the top of the hill, overlooking the city, the bay, and the surrounding countryside. The fortress is not only a place of historical interest but also a great spot for panoramic photography.

Jacinto

Jacinto is a stylish restaurant located in the historic Ciudad Vieja district of Montevideo. Helmed by renowned chef Lucia Soria, who trained with Argentina`s famed chef Francis Mallmann, Jacinto offers a contemporary take on Uruguayan cuisine, with... more

Jacinto is a stylish restaurant located in the historic Ciudad Vieja district of Montevideo. Helmed by renowned chef Lucia Soria, who trained with Argentina`s famed chef Francis Mallmann, Jacinto offers a contemporary take on Uruguayan cuisine, with a focus on fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant, set in a beautifully restored old building, has a relaxed and cozy ambiance. The menu changes daily based on what`s in season, but you can expect dishes like grilled octopus, homemade pasta, and slow-cooked lamb. For dessert, don`t miss the flan with dulce de leche, a local favorite. Jacinto also serves a variety of Uruguayan wines to pair with your meal. Dining at Jacinto offers not just a meal but a delightful gastronomic experience that showcases the richness of Uruguayan cuisine.

Mercado del Puerto

The Mercado del Puerto, located in Montevideo`s old town, is a lively market known for its parrillas (grill restaurants), where you can enjoy the country`s famous beef cooked in traditional style right in front of you. Besides the mouth-watering food... more

The Mercado del Puerto, located in Montevideo`s old town, is a lively market known for its parrillas (grill restaurants), where you can enjoy the country`s famous beef cooked in traditional style right in front of you. Besides the mouth-watering food, the market offers a variety of shops selling local arts and crafts, making it a great place to buy souvenirs. The Mercado del Puerto is housed in a stunning 19th-century wrought-iron structure, which adds to the market`s charming atmosphere. On weekends, the market often hosts live performances of candombe, tango, and murga, making it a hub of Uruguayan culture. Whether you`re a food lover or a culture enthusiast, the Mercado del Puerto is a must-visit destination in Uruguay.

Museo Andes 1972

The Museo Andes 1972 in Montevideo is dedicated to the memory of the survivors of the 1972 Andes flight disaster, when a plane carrying a Uruguayan rugby team crashed in the Andes Mountains. The museum tells the incredible story of survival and resil... more

The Museo Andes 1972 in Montevideo is dedicated to the memory of the survivors of the 1972 Andes flight disaster, when a plane carrying a Uruguayan rugby team crashed in the Andes Mountains. The museum tells the incredible story of survival and resilience through a collection of artifacts from the crash site, personal belongings of the passengers, and audiovisual materials. Visitors can learn about the hardships the survivors faced, their collective decision-making, and the physical and emotional strength that allowed them to endure until their rescue after 72 days. The museum also hosts talks by some of the survivors, offering a firsthand account of the ordeal. A visit to the Museo Andes 1972 is a moving and inspiring experience that pays tribute to the human spirit`s ability to overcome adversity.

Museo del Carnaval

The Museo del Carnaval in Montevideo celebrates the vibrant history and traditions of the Uruguayan Carnival, the longest carnival in the world. The museum showcases a colorful array of carnival costumes, masks, and floats, as well as photos and vide... more

The Museo del Carnaval in Montevideo celebrates the vibrant history and traditions of the Uruguayan Carnival, the longest carnival in the world. The museum showcases a colorful array of carnival costumes, masks, and floats, as well as photos and videos of past carnivals. Interactive displays and live performances provide a taste of the carnival`s music and dance styles, such as candombe, a drum-based rhythm with African roots, and murga, a form of musical theater. The museum also highlights the carnival`s role in Uruguayan culture and society, including its African and indigenous influences and its function as a form of social and political commentary. A visit to the Museo del Carnaval offers a fun and engaging way to understand this vital aspect of Uruguayan identity.

Museo Nacional de Artes Visuales

The Museo Nacional de Artes Visuales, located in Montevideo`s Parque Rodó neighborhood, is one of the most important art museums in Uruguay. It houses a vast collection of works by Uruguayan artists, covering a range of styles from the 19th century t... more

The Museo Nacional de Artes Visuales, located in Montevideo`s Parque Rodó neighborhood, is one of the most important art museums in Uruguay. It houses a vast collection of works by Uruguayan artists, covering a range of styles from the 19th century to the present. The museum`s collection includes paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, and photographs. It features works by prominent Uruguayan artists such as Juan Manuel Blanes, Pedro Figari, and Joaquín Torres García. The museum is set in a beautiful modernist building surrounded by a tranquil park. Besides its permanent collection, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events, making it a dynamic center for the visual arts in Uruguay. Whether you`re an art lover or just curious about Uruguayan culture, a visit to the Museo Nacional de Artes Visuales offers a rewarding experience.

Museo Torres Garcia

The Museo Torres Garcia in Montevideo is dedicated to the work of Joaquin Torres Garcia, one of Uruguay`s most celebrated artists. Garcia was known for his unique style that fused elements of European modernism with pre-Columbian indigenous art. The... more

The Museo Torres Garcia in Montevideo is dedicated to the work of Joaquin Torres Garcia, one of Uruguay`s most celebrated artists. Garcia was known for his unique style that fused elements of European modernism with pre-Columbian indigenous art. The museum, housed in a beautifully restored historic building, displays a comprehensive collection of his paintings, sculptures, toys, and writings. Visitors can explore the evolution of Garcia`s work and gain insight into his philosophy of `Universal Constructivism.` The museum also hosts temporary exhibits and workshops, making it a vibrant center for contemporary art and culture. Whether you`re an art enthusiast or not, a visit to the Museo Torres Garcia offers a fascinating look at the artistic heritage of Uruguay.

Parque Rodo

Parque Rodo is a large park in Montevideo that offers a green oasis in the city. Named after the famous Uruguayan writer Jose Enrique Rodo, the park is a perfect place for leisurely walks, picnics, or simply relaxing amidst nature. The park features... more

Parque Rodo is a large park in Montevideo that offers a green oasis in the city. Named after the famous Uruguayan writer Jose Enrique Rodo, the park is a perfect place for leisurely walks, picnics, or simply relaxing amidst nature. The park features beautiful gardens, a large lake where you can rent paddle boats, and several monuments and sculptures. It also has a variety of recreational facilities, including sports fields, a skate park, and an amusement park with rides for children. On the edge of the park is the Playa de los Ingleses, a lovely beach overlooking the Rio de la Plata. The park also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including the famous Carnival parade. Whether you`re a nature lover, a sports enthusiast, or a family with kids, Parque Rodo has something for everyone.

Parrillada La Corte

Parrillada La Corte in Montevideo is a classic Uruguayan restaurant specializing in parrillada, the traditional Uruguayan barbecue. The restaurant serves a variety of high-quality meats, including beef, pork, and lamb, all cooked on a wood-fired gril... more

Parrillada La Corte in Montevideo is a classic Uruguayan restaurant specializing in parrillada, the traditional Uruguayan barbecue. The restaurant serves a variety of high-quality meats, including beef, pork, and lamb, all cooked on a wood-fired grill in the middle of the restaurant. The meat is usually accompanied by simple sides like salads, potatoes, and the Uruguayan classic, chimichurri sauce. The rustic decor and the friendly service add to the restaurant`s warm and welcoming ambiance. For a truly Uruguayan dining experience, make sure to pair your meal with a glass of Tannat, Uruguay`s signature red wine. Visiting Parrillada La Corte is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Playa Pocitos

Playa Pocitos is one of the most popular beaches in Montevideo. Located in the upscale Pocitos neighborhood, the beach is known for its wide sandy shore, calm waters, and the iconic `Montevideo` sign, a favorite spot for photos. The beach is lined wi... more

Playa Pocitos is one of the most popular beaches in Montevideo. Located in the upscale Pocitos neighborhood, the beach is known for its wide sandy shore, calm waters, and the iconic `Montevideo` sign, a favorite spot for photos. The beach is lined with a promenade, ideal for walking or cycling, and surrounded by high-rise apartments, restaurants, and shops. During the summer, Playa Pocitos is a hub of activity, with locals and tourists flocking to sunbathe, swim, play beach volleyball, or simply enjoy the seaside ambiance. The beach also offers stunning views of the sunset over the Rio de la Plata. Whether you want to relax on the sand, take a dip in the water, or enjoy the vibrant surroundings, Playa Pocitos offers a quintessential Montevideo beach experience.

Plaza Independencia

Plaza Independencia is the most significant square in Montevideo, Uruguay`s capital. The square is a meeting point of the old and new parts of the city, with the historic Ciudad Vieja on one side and the modern business district on the other. The pla... more

Plaza Independencia is the most significant square in Montevideo, Uruguay`s capital. The square is a meeting point of the old and new parts of the city, with the historic Ciudad Vieja on one side and the modern business district on the other. The plaza is home to several important landmarks, including the Solis Theatre, the Estevez Palace, and the Palacio Salvo, one of the city`s most iconic buildings. The centerpiece of the square is a large statue of General Artigas, a national hero who played a key role in Uruguay`s fight for independence. Beneath the monument is the Artigas Mausoleum, where his remains are kept. Plaza Independencia is a must-visit for its historical significance and the diversity of architectural styles it showcases.

Punta del Diablo

Punta del Diablo is a charming fishing village turned beach resort on Uruguay`s eastern coast. The town is known for its picturesque beaches, such as Playa de los Pescadores, Playa del Rivero, and Playa Grande, each offering a unique atmosphere. The... more

Punta del Diablo is a charming fishing village turned beach resort on Uruguay`s eastern coast. The town is known for its picturesque beaches, such as Playa de los Pescadores, Playa del Rivero, and Playa Grande, each offering a unique atmosphere. The laid-back vibe of Punta del Diablo, with its rustic wooden cabins, sand streets, and local craft markets, is a refreshing change from the glitzy resorts further south. The area is also a nature lover`s paradise, with the Santa Teresa National Park nearby, home to diverse wildlife and a beautiful botanical garden. Whether you want to surf, fish, hike, or simply relax and enjoy the natural beauty, Punta del Diablo offers an authentic Uruguayan coastal experience.

Rambla of Montevideo

The Rambla of Montevideo is a beautiful seaside promenade stretching over 20 kilometers along the coastline of Uruguay`s capital. It is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors for walking, jogging, cycling, or simply enjoying the stunning views... more

The Rambla of Montevideo is a beautiful seaside promenade stretching over 20 kilometers along the coastline of Uruguay`s capital. It is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors for walking, jogging, cycling, or simply enjoying the stunning views of the Rio de la Plata. Along the Rambla, you`ll find several beaches, parks, and restaurants, as well as some of Montevideo`s most prominent landmarks, such as the iconic `Montevideo` sign and the `Monumento a la Carreta,` a tribute to the country`s gaucho heritage. Don`t miss the opportunity to relax on the Rambla at sunset, when the sky`s colors reflected in the water create a truly mesmerizing spectacle.

Salto del Penitente

Salto del Penitente is a beautiful natural area located in the Lavalleja Department of Uruguay. The main attraction is a stunning waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff into a crystal-clear pool. Named after a legend of a penitent bandit who jumped o... more

Salto del Penitente is a beautiful natural area located in the Lavalleja Department of Uruguay. The main attraction is a stunning waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff into a crystal-clear pool. Named after a legend of a penitent bandit who jumped off the cliff to avoid capture, the waterfall is a sight to behold. The area around the waterfall offers various activities, such as hiking, horseback riding, and rock climbing. There`s also a cable car offering a fantastic view of the surrounding countryside. Nearby, you`ll find the Gruta del Penitente, a cave adorned with ancient indigenous art. With its beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities, Salto del Penitente offers a perfect getaway for nature lovers.

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