Mercedes

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Mercedes's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival in Montevideo
morning
:

Arrive in Montevideo and check into your hotel. Spend the morning at the Ciudad Vieja, exploring the historic streets and colorful buildings. Don't forget to stop by Mercado del Puerto for a traditional Uruguayan breakfast.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of the iconic Estadio Centenario, where the first-ever FIFA World Cup was held. Discover the rich history of Uruguayan football and visit the museum to see memorabilia from famous players. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the Rambla to appreciate stunning views of the coastline.

evening
:

As evening falls, indulge in a fine dining experience at one of Montevideo's renowned parrillas. Try the famous asado with local wines and experience the vibrant nightlife in the Mercado del Puerto. End your day with live music or a cultural event happening in the area.

day 2
Explore Colonia del Sacramento
morning
:

Catch a ferry to Colonia del Sacramento, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its charming colonial architecture. Upon arrival, wander through the cobblestone streets and visit the historic lighthouse for panoramic views of the city. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the museums that tell the story of this picturesque town.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, bike along the scenic waterfront or take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful parks and gardens. Visit the Portón de Campo, an ancient gate that symbolizes the town's rich history as a strategic location. Take time to relax at a café, tasting the local pastries while soaking in the atmosphere.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant overlooking the river. Experience traditional Uruguayan dishes such as empanadas or seafood, complemented by local wines. Afterward, take a peaceful walk along the riverbank, admiring the light reflecting off the water and the quiet charm of Colonia.

day 3
Wine Tasting in the Countryside
morning
:

Embark on a day trip to the heart of Uruguay's wine country in the Canelones region. Start your morning with visits to local vineyards, where you can learn about the winemaking process and the unique grape varieties grown here. Participate in tastings of excellent Tannat wines and savor the flavors of the region.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic lunch at one of the vineyards, featuring fresh, local ingredients that pair beautifully with the wines. After your meal, continue your exploration by visiting another vineyard to indulge in more tastings and possibly a tour of the production area. Appreciate the stunning views of rolling hills and expansive vineyards.

evening
:

Return to Montevideo in the evening and enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local bistro. Share stories of the day's adventures with fellow travelers over great food and wine. Conclude your day by exploring the local bars for a taste of Montevideo’s craft cocktail scene.

day 4
Beach Day at Punta del Este
morning
:

Head to Punta del Este, one of Uruguay's most famous beach resorts known for its glamorous lifestyle. Spend your morning lounging on the stunning beaches, like Playa Brava, where the iconic hand sculpture stands. Take a dip in the ocean or simply relax with a good book in the sun.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, enjoy beachside dining at a casual restaurant, sampling seafood and traditional Uruguayan dishes. You could also explore the local shops and boutiques, where you can find unique souvenirs or designer goods. Don't forget to take a scenic drive along the coastline to see the beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, return to the beach to witness a breathtaking sunset over the ocean. Enjoy dinner at a chic restaurant in Punta del Este, known for its vibrant nightlife. Experience the energetic atmosphere by visiting nearby bars or clubs, enjoying live music and dancing the night away.

day 5
Cultural Day in Montevideo
morning
:

Dedicate your morning to immersing yourself in the local culture at the Museo Nacional de Artes Visuales, home to an impressive collection of Uruguayan art. Explore the exhibits and perhaps participate in an art workshop if available. Stroll through Parque Rodó, where you'll find local markets selling crafts and food.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at the Teatro Solís, one of the most prestigious theaters in South America, with a guided tour of its grand interior. Afterwards, visit the nearby Mercado de la Abundancia to sample street food and interact with local vendors. Take your time discovering unique shops in the area, filled with artisan crafts and local products.

evening
:

In the evening, enjoy a cozy dinner at a typical Uruguayan restaurant, savoring traditional dishes. After your meal, plan to catch a live tango show, experiencing the passionate dance that defines much of Uruguay’s culture. End your day with a nightcap at a bar featuring local Uruguayan spirits.

day 6
Adventure in the Sierras
morning
:

Travel to the Sierras de Rocha for a day of outdoor adventure. Start your morning with hiking through pristine natural landscapes, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the wildlife. Make sure to capture the stunning views from the lookout points along the trails.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit Valle del Lunarejo for more hiking or partake in activities like bird watching or horseback riding. Enjoy a picnic lunch in nature, surrounded by the beauty of the hills. Alternatively, consider a guided adventure like rock climbing or kayaking for an adrenaline rush.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to Montevideo to freshen up before dinner. Treat yourself to a gourmet meal, reflecting on the day's adventures with a glass of wine. Consider exploring local artisan markets for unique crafts to take home as memories of your journey.

day 7
Relaxing Day at Thermal Springs
morning
:

Take a day trip to the thermal springs at Termas del Daymán. Arrive in the morning to enjoy the soothing hot springs renowned for their therapeutic properties. Spend some leisure time pampering yourself with spa treatments or simply relaxing in the warm waters.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, take advantage of the facilities offered at the thermal baths, including massage services or wellness classes. Enjoy a healthy lunch at one of the on-site cafes featuring locally sourced products. Don’t forget to explore the surrounding natural areas for a scenic walk.

evening
:

As evening approaches, return to Montevideo and enjoy a leisurely dinner at a restaurant specializing in healthy dishes. Reflect on your day of relaxation and wellness, knowing you have been rejuvenated by the thermal springs. Wind down your trip with a stroll along the coastline under the stars.

day 8
Last Day and Departure
morning
:

Spend your last morning in Montevideo doing any remaining last-minute shopping at the artisanal market in Punta Carretas. Seek out unique souvenirs or local products to take home as a memento of your journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café to savor classic Uruguayan dishes one more time.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Botanical Garden of Montevideo to soak in the serene natural beauty. Reflect on your trip while enjoying a quiet walk among exotic plants and flowers. Prepare for your departure by ensuring you have all your travel necessities in check.

evening
:

As your time in Uruguay comes to a close, make your way back to your hotel to collect your luggage. Head to the airport for your onward journey, taking with you unforgettable memories of the diverse experiences throughout Uruguay. Departure flights and fond farewells mark the end of a perfect getaway.

Discover Mercedes

Read more in our Mercedes 2025 Travel Guide.

Mercedes Travel Guide