Montevideo

Day Trips

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

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Uruguayan pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through Plaza Independencia, where you'll find the iconic Solis Theatre and the statue of Artigas. Immerse yourself in the rich history as you wander through the cobblestone streets of Ciudad Vieja.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museo Torres García, where you can explore the works of one of Uruguay's most famous artists. Enjoy lunch at a nearby parrilla, savoring the flavors of an authentic Uruguayan barbecue. Post-lunch, take a moment to relax at Mercado del Puerto, where you can shop for local crafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a waterfront bar along the Rambla for stunning views of the Montevideo coastline. Indulge in some tapas and a glass of Tannat wine while listening to live music. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk along the Rambla, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

day 2
Cultural Immersion at Museums
morning
:

Kick off your morning at the Museo Nacional de Artes Visuales, home to an impressive collection of Uruguayan art. Spend time admiring works by artists like Joaquín Torres García and Pedro Figari. Afterward, take a peaceful walk through Parque Rodó, enjoying the gardens and lake.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Museo del Carnaval to learn about the colorful history of Montevideo's famous carnival. Enjoy a light lunch at one of the park's kiosks, sampling local snacks like chivito or empanadas. Afterwards, visit the Museo de la Historia del Arte, where you can explore exhibits from various art movements.

evening
:

Experience the local culture by attending a performance at Teatro Solís, one of the oldest theaters in South America. Enjoy dinner at a traditional Uruguayan restaurant nearby, savoring local dishes like asado. End your night with a stroll through the lively streets of the Old City, enjoying the local nightlife.

day 3
Relaxing at the Beaches
morning
:

Spend your morning soaking up the sun at Playa de los Pocitos, a popular beach known for its lively atmosphere. Grab breakfast at a beachside café, enjoying fresh fruit and smoothies. Take a refreshing swim in the Rio de la Plata to start your day off right.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a beachfront restaurant, rent a bike and ride along the scenic Rambla, stopping at various viewpoints. Explore the nearby Parque de las Esculturas, an open-air museum featuring impressive sculptures. Relax under the sun or indulge in water sports like paddleboarding or windsurfing.

evening
:

As dusk approaches, find a beach bar to unwind with a cocktail while watching the sunset over the river. Enjoy a casual dinner at a nearby seafood restaurant, trying dishes like fried fish and calamari. End your evening with a stroll along the beach, listening to the sound of waves crashing on the shore.

day 4
Discovering Montevideo's Markets
morning
:

Start your day at the Feria de Tristán Narvaja, a bustling flea market filled with antiques, crafts, and local delicacies. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere while browsing through unique finds, from vintage items to handmade jewelry. Stop for a traditional breakfast of dulce de leche and tortas fritas at a nearby stall.

afternoon
:

Afterward, head to Mercado del Puerto for lunch, where you can experience the lively ambiance and indulge in delicious grilled meats. Spend the afternoon sampling local cheeses and wines at the market's gourmet shops. Don’t forget to try a few local desserts, such as alfajores or torta de 3 leches.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Uruguayan dinner in the market, surrounded by the sounds of laughter and music. Look for a stall offering live music to enhance your dining experience. Cap off your evening by exploring the nearby streets, filled with vibrant street art and lively bars.

day 5
Nature and Wildlife Exploration
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Jardín Botánico, a peaceful oasis with diverse flora from around the world. Enjoy a leisurely walk among the gardens, taking in the beauty of the landscape while enjoying the morning light. Grab a coffee from a nearby café as you soak in the tranquility.

afternoon
:

Head to Parque Nacional Quebrada de los Cuervos, where you can hike through stunning landscapes filled with native wildlife. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature, surrounded by breathtaking views. Discover the unique rock formations and the diverse bird species that call the park home.

evening
:

Return to Montevideo and freshen up before heading out for dinner at a local restaurant specializing in Uruguayan cuisine. Try the famous chivito or a hearty stew, paired with a glass of local wine. End your day with a leisurely walk along the coastline, reflecting on the day's adventures.

day 6
Excursion to Colonia del Sacramento
morning
:

Take an early morning ferry to Colonia del Sacramento, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its historic charm. Upon arrival, enjoy breakfast at a local café, sampling pastries while taking in the colonial architecture. Start exploring the cobbled streets and colorful buildings that tell the story of the town's past.

afternoon
:

Visit the light house and the historic plaza, taking plenty of photos along the way. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a waterfront restaurant, where you can taste fresh seafood and local wines. Spend the afternoon exploring the museums and art galleries that showcase Colonia's artistic heritage.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a beach bar to unwind with a cocktail while watching the sunset over the river. Enjoy a casual dinner at a nearby seafood restaurant, trying dishes like fried fish and calamari. End your evening with a stroll along the beach, listening to the sound of waves crashing on the shore.

day 7
A Taste of Montevideo's Culinary Scene
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Mercado del Puerto to enjoy breakfast at one of the local stalls. Savor traditional Uruguayan foods like tortas fritas or an empanada while enjoying the lively market atmosphere. Spend some time exploring the various food vendors offering fresh produce and local specialties.

afternoon
:

Join a cooking class in the afternoon to learn how to prepare classic Uruguayan dishes, such as asado or milanesa. Enjoy the hands-on experience and get tips from local chefs on the best cooking techniques. Afterward, sit down to savor the fruits of your labor with your fellow participants.

evening
:

Dine at a renowned local restaurant known for its innovative takes on traditional cuisine. Enjoy a multi-course meal paired with Uruguay's finest wines, immersing yourself in the culinary delights of the region. Conclude your evening with a dessert of dulce de leche flan, a sweet ending to a flavorful day.

day 8
Exploring Local Neighborhoods
morning
:

Begin your day in the neighborhood of Pocitos, known for its beautiful beach and upscale vibe. Enjoy breakfast at a trendy café, soaking in the local atmosphere and watching the world go by. Take a leisurely walk along the shore, enjoying the sights and sounds of the beach.

afternoon
:

Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Ciudad Vieja, where you'll find a mix of modern and historical architecture. Stop for lunch at a popular local eatery, trying traditional dishes. Visit the local art galleries and shops, discovering unique pieces from local artists.

evening
:

As the day winds down, head to the vibrant barrio of Palermo for dinner at a hip restaurant or bar. Enjoy the trendy atmosphere while sampling craft cocktails and innovative dishes. End your night at a local music venue, experiencing the lively Uruguayan music scene.

Discover Montevideo

Read more in our Montevideo 2025 Travel Guide.

Montevideo Travel Guide