25 Epic Things To Do In Montevideo Uruguay That Will Surprise You

Are you planning a trip to Uruguay’s capital? No matter what type of visitor you are, you will be delighted by so many wonderful things to do in Montevideo, Uruguay.

Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay, is a special city to visit. It’s on the southeast coast of South America and shares borders with Brazil to the north and Argentina to the south.

Lots of tourists come to Montevideo because of its location. It’s by the Rio de la Plata, which is the widest river in the world. The city is also near lovely beaches with clear water and soft sand.

The city’s geographical features include several hills and green spaces, such as the Parque Rodó and the Prado, which provide breathtaking views of the city and the sea. 

The city is known for its mix of European and Latin American architecture, which reflects its rich cultural heritage. All these unique features make Montevideo a must-visit destination in South America.

Things to Do in Montevideo – Sights

1. Tour the Rambla 

The Rambla is a 13-mile (21-kilometer) promenade that stretches along Montevideo’s shoreline. It is a beautiful area to stroll, ride a bike, or relax and enjoy ocean views. 

Don’t underestimate how long it is, though. We walked among the Rambla all day and still didn’t see everything we wanted. Fortunately, there are many spots to stop as you go. But, I suggest renting a bike to see the whole Rambla.

2. Visit the Montevideo Sign

The Montevideo sign is a renowned tourist attraction along the Rambla walkway, just past Playa de los Pocitos. The signage prominently displays the city’s name, adorned with a beautiful beach and the sea below, creating an excellent backdrop for photo opportunities. 

3. Explore Ciudad Vieja

Ciudad Vieja is the historic and culturally rich old town of Montevideo. This delightful district blends colonial and contemporary architectural styles, serving as the residence of numerous premier city attractions. Visiting the Catedral de Montevideo, exploring the Plaza Matriz, and taking a walking tour of the Plaza Independencia are some activities you can do in Ciudad Vieja.

4. Visit Parque Rodó

Parque Rodó is an immense park in Montevideo that features a lake, a botanical garden, and playgrounds. It is an ideal spot for picnics and strolls. The park also offers a tranquil pond where guests can rent paddleboats, allowing them to appreciate the vibrant scenery and captivating sculptures.

5. Visit the Palacio Salvo

Nestled in the heart of Montevideo, Palacio Salvo is a historic structure erected in 1928, recognized as one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. While visitors can appreciate its distinctive architecture from the exterior, select guided tours provide access to the rooftop, granting breathtaking vistas of the city. 

6. Visit the Legislative Palace 

The Legislative Palace is a stunning building that houses the Uruguayan government and can be visited. Visitors can join guided tours to learn about its interesting history and impressive architecture, known for its stunning neoclassical style.

7. Sarandi Walkway

The Sarandi Walkway has beautiful coast views and the Rio de la Plata. You can walk there, feel the cool sea breeze, and see the gorgeous sunset. It’s a great place to relax and take pictures.

8. Playa de los Pocitos

Playa de los Pocitos is Montevideo’s most beautiful and peaceful beach. It has a large stretch of sand and a lovely boardwalk where locals enjoy activities like running, biking, and walking. It’s near the Rambla República del Perú, a waterfront pathway with breathtaking views of Rio de la Plata.

9. Plaza de la Consitucion

Plaza de la Constitución, also called Plaza Matriz, is the oldest square in Montevideo, found right in the middle of the historic Ciudad Vieja. Important buildings like the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Cabildo, and the Solis Theatre surround the square. It features an ornate cantilever fountain in the center of the tree-filled square. 

Visitors can take a relaxed walk around the square.

10. Montevideo Metropolitan Cathedral

The Montevideo Metropolitan Cathedral, also called Catedral de Montevideo, is a breathtaking Catholic church in the historic Ciudad Vieja. It was built in 1804 and has a beautiful neoclassical front and fancy inside with marble columns and stained glass windows. People can visit to learn about its history and design and to see the graves of some old archbishops and bishops who worked there.

11. Universo Pittamiglio

Universo Pittamiglio, also called Castillo del Alquimista, is a special place in Montevideo. It was made by a unique artist named Humberto Pittamiglio. This strange place mixes different styles of buildings and has lots of mystery and hidden meanings. People who like art, history, and mysterious things will find it interesting. 

You can visit to see the castle’s unusual design, detailed pictures made of small tiles, and secret ways. It’s in the fancy Pocitos neighborhood.

Things to Do in Montevideo – Activities

12. Take a Tango Lesson

Tango is a popular dance in Uruguay, and numerous locations offer lessons. You can also enjoy a Tango performance there, and a private Tango class begins at 49 US dollars. 

13. Attend a Soccer Game

Soccer is a major sport in Uruguay, and attending a game in Estadio Centenario stadium is a must. It is the country’s largest stadium and home to the national soccer team. Tickets start at $15.

14. Explore Mercado del Puerto

The Mercado del Puerto is a historic market filled with restaurants and businesses in Montevideo. It is an excellent spot to sample authentic Uruguayan cuisine. Costs vary from restaurant to restaurant.

15. Attend a Show at Teatro Solis 

The Teatro Solis is a historic theatre still in operation in Montevideo. It is an excellent venue to see a show or go on a tour. 

Things to Do in Montevideo – Drinks and Eateries

16. Chivito 

A popular Uruguayan cuisine, chivito consists of a beef sandwich topped with bacon, ham, cheese, and a fried egg. The top spot for a tasty chivito in Montevideo is El Tinkal. They’re famous for making a genuine version of this famous Uruguayan sandwich.

17. Asado 

Asado stands proudly as a national dish, featuring a delectable medley of assorted meat cuts, cheese, and vegetables, all expertly grilled over a meticulously tended fire. The best places to enjoy asado in Montevideo are El Palenque, Cabaña Veronica, and La Fonda del Puertito.

18. Medialunas 

Medialunas, a beloved pastry in Montevideo, share similarities with croissants but are smaller and sweeter. These delectable treats are commonly eaten during breakfast or as a snack, with options to enjoy plain or accompanied by jam, dulce de leche, or cheese. To taste the finest medialunas in Montevideo, consider visiting La Pasiva, Café Brasilero, and La Farmacia.

19. Mate 

A traditional Uruguayan beverage made from dried yerba mate plants steeped in hot water, mate is a popular beverage typically consumed with friends and family. 

20. Uruguayan Wine 

Uruguay is renowned for producing some of the world’s finest wines, and Montevideo is home to numerous varieties. Tannat is Uruguay’s most widely planted grape type and produces robust red wines. 

21. Empanadas 

Little pastries containing meat, cheese, veggies, or other components, empanadas are a popular Uruguayan snack that may be found at various restaurants and cafes. For a taste of the finest empanadas in Montevideo, you should consider visiting Empanadas La Cibeles, Empanadas de la Pasiva, and Empanadas del Carrito.

22. Milanesa 

A delicacy similar to schnitzel, Milanesa is a thinly breaded cutlet with chicken, pork, beef, or veal as its base. It’s versatile and can be enjoyed plain or topped with tomato sauce, ham, and mozzarella cheese, typically accompanied by French fries. If you’re looking for excellent milanesa in Montevideo, consider visiting renowned establishments such as La Pasiva, El Club de la Milanesa, and La Cocina de Pedro.

23. Panchos 

Panchos are similar to hot dogs but come in a smaller size, served on a bun, and garnished with an array of toppings, including ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, and chimichurri sauce. If you’re eager to savor panchos in Montevideo, be sure to explore top-notch spots like Panchería El Peregrino, Panchos del Parque, and Panchos del Puerto.

24. Tortas Fritas 

Tortas Fritas, a cherished food in Argentina and Uruguay, is readily available throughout Montevideo. These fried cakes, crafted from all-purpose flour and dusted with powdered sugar, are a simple delight. Typically enjoyed alongside tea, yerba mate, coffee, or milk, they make for a beloved treat, particularly on rainy days.

25. Craft Beer 

The craft beer sector in Uruguay is expanding, and you can find a wide variety of beers in Montevideo. Among the most prominent brewers are Davok, Cabesas Bier, and Mastra. 

How to Get to Montevideo, Uruguay

• By Air

The most frequent method of travel to Montevideo is by air. Carrasco International Airport, located around 15.5 mi (25 km) from the city center, is the city’s international airport. The airport offers direct flights from Buenos Aires, São Paulo, and Miami, among other significant cities. Various airlines offer flights to Montevideo, including LATAM, Gol, and American Airlines.

• By Ferry

Taking a ferry to Montevideo is another option. There are regular ferry services between Montevideo and Buenos Aires, Argentina. Depending on the service, the ferry ride takes two to three hours and gives breathtaking river views. The ferry services depart from Buenos Aires port and arrive at Montevideo port.

• By Bus

Montevideo is also accessible by land. Many bus lines link the city to the rest of the nation and neighboring nations. The Tres Cruces Bus Terminal is Montevideo’s primary bus terminal, connecting the city to other important cities in Uruguay, Argentina, and Brazil.

Getting Around in Montevideo, Uruguay

The bus is the most prevalent means of transportation in Montevideo. With over 130 routes, Montevideo’s large bus network connects the city’s numerous neighborhoods and suburbs. 

Buses are economical, efficient, and pleasant, with a single trip costing between $1-$1.30. Many bus passes are available, including a reloadable card with a fare discount.

In Montevideo, taxis are also a common means of transportation. Taxis can be hailed on the street or using a taxi app across the city. In addition, cabs are equipped with meters, which assures a reasonable fare.

Biking is a terrific choice for anyone searching for a more environmentally friendly way to experience Montevideo. Several bike rental shops in Montevideo provide hourly and daily rental rates, with daily costs between 300 UYU and 600 UYU ($8 to $15). Also, the city boasts numerous bike lanes, making cycling a safe and convenient way to explore.

Where to Stay in Montevideo, Uruguay

Budget Options

You could book your place at one of the following for budget options.

The Circus Hostel & Hotel Montevideo offers a tour desk, non-smoking rooms, a shared lounge, free WiFi throughout the property, and a terrace. The place also has entertainment staff and a 24-hour front desk.

The Che Lagarto Montevideo – Hostel has a kitchen and a lounge area with computers that guests can use. They also provide free Wi-Fi. Rooms have private or shared bathrooms and offer a peaceful atmosphere.

Mid-Range Options

For mid-range options, you could check out the following options.

Hotel Palacio has quite a spacious room, with large windows that provide city views. They’re furnished with antique pieces and have parquet floors. Each room includes heating, fans, and private bathrooms.

ibis Montevideo Rambla offers rooms with a bar onsite. This 3-star hotel includes a restaurant and air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each equipped with a private bathroom. Guests can also access private parking on site.

Luxury Options

For luxury options, Montevideo offers several high-end hotels with swimming pools, spas, and gourmet restaurants.

The Hyatt Centric Montevideo offers stylish and contemporary guestrooms at Hyatt Centric Montevideo are equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a safety deposit box, and a work desk. Some rooms offer views of the river and city. Additionally, kitchenette and living room areas are available in select rooms.

Hotel Costanero Montevideo- MGallery provides a place to stay with a restaurant, parking, a pool, and a bar. Guests can use a sauna and rent a car. Also, there’s a 24-hour desk, airport transfers, room service, and free WiFi everywhere.

For more accommodation options, you may click on the map.

Montevideo, Uruguay – What to Pack

Montevideo, Uruguay, experiences a mild and temperate climate, with cool and humid winters from June to September and warm summers from December to March. Summer temperatures can rise as high as 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius), while winter temperatures can drop as low as 43 degrees Fahrenheit (6 degrees Celsius). 

When packing for Montevideo, it is recommended to bring comfortable, casual clothing suitable for walking and exploring the city. Light jackets, sweaters, and scarves are recommended for the cooler months, while lightweight clothing, such as t-shirts and shorts, are suitable for the warmer months. It’s a good idea to wear comfy shoes for walking since the city is best seen on foot.

Aside from clothing, a few other items may be useful to pack. Bringing a universal power adapter is recommended, as electrical outlets in Uruguay use 220 volts and two-pronged, round plugs. A reusable water bottle and a daypack are also useful when exploring the city. 

Sunscreen and sunglasses are also essential during the summer months. Additionally, bringing a small amount of cash is advisable, as some smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.

Important Traveler Tips to Stay Safe In Montevideo, Uruguay

Montevideo, Uruguay, is often considered the safest city in South America. It is a relatively secure destination for travelers, boasting a low crime rate. However, exercising caution and taking safety precautions when traveling to any foreign country is essential to ensure a worry-free and enjoyable experience.

Here are some valuable traveler tips and insights to make the most of your visit to this enchanting South American city.

• Stay cautious of pickpocketing and small theft in busy places. It is also advisable to keep important documents, such as passports and travel insurance, in your hotel while you’re exploring.
• ATMs are widely available in Montevideo, and credit cards are widely accepted. It’s a good idea to inform your bank or credit card company about your travel plans to prevent any problems accessing your money.
• Uruguay has a high standard of healthcare, and the medical facilities in Montevideo are generally of good quality. Still, it’s a good idea to buy travel insurance that includes medical costs and emergency evacuation in case you get sick or injured unexpectedly.
• Travelers should also take necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites and the risk of contracting diseases such as dengue fever and Zika virus. Wearing insect repellent and protective clothing is recommended, particularly during summer.
• Consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing, which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Things to Do in Montevideo, Uruguay

What Is Montevideo Uruguay Known For?

Montevideo has a rich history, architecture, and cultural offerings, including museums, theaters, and live music. It is also known for its beautiful beaches, such as Pocitos and Ramirez, and its traditional mate culture.

Is Montevideo a Walkable City?

Yes, Montevideo is a very walkable city, with many neighborhoods offering charming streets, plazas, and parks to explore on foot. Additionally, the city offers a public bike rental system and a comprehensive bus network for those who prefer other modes of transportation.

What Are the Most Popular Things to Do in Montevideo With Kids?

Some of the most popular things to do in Montevideo with kids include visiting the playgrounds and fountains at Parque Rodó, exploring Ciudad Vieja, and touring the Rambla.

How Long Should I Spend in Montevideo?

The amount of time recommended to spend in Montevideo depends on the traveler’s interests and itinerary. Two to three days is recommended for those interested in exploring the city’s rich cultural offerings and history. Five to seven days may be more appropriate for those interested in exploring the nearby beaches, natural parks, and rural areas.

Conclusion – Things to Do in Montevideo, Uruguay

You may have realized why visiting Montevideo should be on your bucket list by now. The laidback vibe of this underrated capital city will surprise you, and here is a variety of fun and interesting experiences waiting to be discovered.

Part of Montevideo’s charm is how it seems to have existed for long under the radar. Perhaps that’s because of Uruguay’s proximity to more celebrated destinations, particularly being wedged between the two biggest South American countries, Brazil and Argentina. 

Despite that, or maybe because of that, it’s wonderful to witness Montevideo coming into its own as a desirable travel destination. So, get in line and have a taste of what this surprising coastal city has in store for you. 

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