We visited Montevideo in November during our trip to South America before heading to Brazil, and at first I was a little hesitant about it. You don’t often hear about people traveling to Uruguay and I wasn’t sure that there would be much to see or do.
There were a few things that pleasantly surprised me about the city. The people were some of the friendliest we met, and truly made us feel welcome and accommodated as tourists. There were plenty of beautiful neighborhoods to explore and things to do. The restaurant options were excellent, although definitely pricier than I would have expected. It felt remarkably clean and safe.
Uruguay has a very stable economy compared to some of its neighboring countries. This stability has led to a strong currency, which can make certain things like imported goods and services more expensive. However, the overall cost of living is much cheaper than in US and Canada which has contributed to a better quality of life for Uruguayans and is a big reason why it is so safe, clean and probably why people are so friendly.
Montevideo is a relatively tranquil capital city on the coast that lacks the chaos of many other urban hubs. It’s also the largest city in the country with the biggest airport and the most to do so it’s a great launchpoint or transfer city if you are planning a trip through South America. Read on for my list of top things to do in Montevideo:
1. Explore Old City
Founded in 1724, la Ciudad Vieja (Old City) is a testament to Uruguay’s colonial past. You’ll find cobblestone streets, palm trees, flowers, and Spanish colonial buildings, lending it a very European feel. Among the most notable landmarks is the Plaza Independencia, a bustling square where the iconic Palacio Salvo and Solís Theatre stand.
Start your day off with brunch at Sometimes Sunday, a charming cafe in the heart of old town that specializes in breakfast and has a streetside patio. They’re open Wednesday – Sunday and don’t accept reservations.
There are many art galleries, museums, and theaters in the area, showcasing Uruguay’s arts scene. You can delve into the country’s history at the Museo Torres García or immerse yourself in contemporary art at the Museo Nacional de Artes Visuales. For a coffee break, check out La Farmacia, a pharmacy-themed café with a stunning interior,
As the sun sets, the streets of Ciudad Vieja come alive with the sounds of tango music drifting from tango clubs, and the smell of grilled meat wafting from bustling steakhouses.
2. Bike or stroll along La Rambla
La Rambla promenade is the longest continuous sidewalk in the world, stretching along the water for nearly 14 miles.
You will see runners, walkers, cyclists, and rollerbladers here at all times of the day as Uruguayans like to stay active. If you’re up for a bike ride, visitors can rent from Orange Bike in Old Town on Perez Castellano.
A favorite local pastime here is drinking yerba maté, a traditional Indigenous drink made from caffeinated tea leaves. You’ll notice many people with their gourd (the cup for holding yerba-mate), and bombilla (the straw) walking or relaxing along the Rambla. If you’d like to try your own, the kits and maté leaves are available at local grocery stores.
3. Visit the Contemporary Art Space
The Espacio de Arte Contemporáneo (EAC) in Montevideo is a dynamic venue showcasing contemporary art, housed in a former prison.
It hosts temporary exhibitions featuring diverse artistic expressions and offers artist residencies for global creatives. The EAC also actively engages with the local community through outreach programs and collaborative projects. From interactive art installations in public spaces to community-based workshops and cultural events, the EAC seeks to democratize access to art and foster a sense of belonging within the city.
4. Beach Day at Playa Pocitos
The main attraction of Playa Pocitos is its sandy shores and calm waters. It’s a great place to relax in the sun, take a refreshing dip in the water, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach.
For those who are looking for activities, this is also a great beach for water and land sports. It’s known for its beach volleyball courts, where both locals and tourists gather for friendly matches under the sun. Join in on a game or watch the action unfold from the sidelines. Rental shops nearby offer equipment for paddleboarding, kayaking and windsurfing.
Although the beach itself doesn’t have washrooms or facilities, along the promenade adjacent to Playa Pocitos, you’ll find an array of cafés, bars, and restaurants.
5. Explore Carrasco Neighborhood
Carrasco is an upscale residential suburb by the beach with many restaurants, shops and cafes. It was originally developed as a resort area in the 20th Century and its wide tree-lined boulevards, grand mansions, and stately homes reflect the neighborhood’s affluent heritage.
This was my favourite neighborhood because of how beautiful and dense it is. It’s very walkable and has a large concentration of cute cafes and shops within a small area. 1000 Razones Carrasco, Panthai and Pastiche are some of the standout boutiques.
I would highly recommend trying a Chivito sandwich (the National dish of Uruguay) while you’re here. Bar Arocena makes a great one and you can customize it to your liking. Afterwards, stroll over to Madriguera Cafe, which has a beautiful patio shaded by trees to enjoy a beverage and relax for awhile.
If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, Madriguera Helado has delicious small batch ice cream in inventive flavors.
6. Visit Mercado Ferrando
Housed in a beautifully restored historic building that dates back to the early 20th century, Mercado Ferrando is a paradise for food lovers. They offer traditional dishes like chivito and empanadas, as well as international food like Mexican and Italian. We tried some tacos at Tacos de Cordero and they were great!
There are also a variety of stalls selling fresh produce, locally sourced meats, cheeses, and artisanal products. Whether you’re looking for ingredients for a home-cooked meal or unique souvenirs to take home, Mercado Ferrando offers a ton of options.
7. Get in Touch With Your Love for Soccer
The first world cup was held in Montevideo in 1930, so naturally the city is quite the hub for soccer fans. The two most prominent teams currently are Peñarol and Nacional. Soccer season here is between May- December so you can buy tickets to watch a match live at one of the three main stadiums.
If you happen to visit in off-season, you can check out Museo de Fútbol to learn all about Uruguayan soccer. The museum is in the Estadio Centenario, an iconic building where the first world cup was held. They offer guided tours which allow visitors to gain deeper insights into the exhibits and the history of soccer in Uruguay. Many tours include access to areas of the stadium that are not open to the general public, providing a more immersive experience.
8. Take a Day Trip to Punta Del Este
Punta del Este is famous for its stunning beaches and upscale resorts, and fortunately it’s only a 2 hour drive from Montevideo, making it the perfect destination for a day or weekend trip.
You have several transportation options for traveling from Montevideo to Punta del Este. The most convenient and quickest way is by bus, with frequent departures from Tres Cruces bus terminal. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive along Route 9, enjoying scenic views along the way. Some tour companies also offer guided day trips from Montevideo to Punta del Este.
Start your exploration of Punta del Este by visiting its iconic landmarks. Take a stroll along the Rambla General José Artigas, a scenic waterfront promenade with beautiful views of the coast and city skyline. Visit the famous La Mano (The Hand) sculpture, a giant hand emerging from the sand, symbolizing human interaction with nature.
Punta del Este is all about the beach life, so be sure to spend some time soaking up the sun and enjoying the pristine sands. Playa Brava and Playa Mansa two of the most popular beaches.