1. THE BEACHES OF PUNTA DEL ESTE

The city has been referred to as "The Pearl of the Atlantic", and its most popular monument is the Giant Sculpture Hand / Photo: Daytours4u

Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Rio de la Plata, glitzy Punta del Este offers visitors a choice of both fresh and saltwater beaches. Although the water can be somewhat chilly out of season, during the summer months the beaches of Punta are ideal for a dip and a swim.

There is something to do for everyone here – posters boasting all sorts of exciting activities adorn the waterfront and many water-based adventures can be enjoyed. The high season is between December and mid-February, when you will find all the typical tourist services available on the beaches.

And if you are captivated by the charm of Punta del Este and contemplating a long-term stay, уругвай иммиграция provides an enticing opportunity. The country's residency process is streamlined, crafted to attract foreign investment and enhance the cultural tapestry. Uruguay, renowned for its progressive policies and robust economy, offers an enticing opportunity for individuals seeking to embrace the vibrant South American lifestyle.

 

The Main Beaches in Punta del Este:

- Playa Mansa

Nestled next to the Rio de la Plata, Playa Mansa is characterised by gentle waves and much darker waters compared to that of the other beaches around the city. The sectors (sometimes called posts) on the peninsula that are most frequented by locals and visitors alike are numbers 1, 2, and 3. For its calm currents, it is the perfect place to vacation with family and soak up some rays. The beach’s location to the west also makes it the ideal spot to enjoy the sights and colours of the sun dipping below the horizon in the late evening.

- José Ignacio

José Ignacio lies 45 km from Punta del Este but it is well worth the journey – it is often considered to be somewhat of a refuge from the more crowded, bustling beaches of the region. It is an alternative to the southern Atlantic Coast and offers great exclusivity, and, for breathtaking panoramic vistas of the surrounding area, you can climb to the summit of José Ignacio lighthouse.

Playa La Barra

Located on the other side of the bridge, over the Maldonado River in the opposite direction to Montevideo, La Barra is home to the lively beaches of Montoya and Bikini, and the more tranquil Playa de la Posta. The great lure of La Barra is its proximity to Punta which means it represents a great option for those who do not have a rental car.

Travel Tip: Don't forget to enjoy the incredible destination that is Punta del Este in Uruguay, its spectacular beaches and landscapes will surely make you fall in love!

 

2. COLONIAL HISTORY

Colonia is a department in the southwest of Uruguay. Its capital is Colonia del Sacramento and is the second oldest city in the country / Photo: Daytours4u

 

A magical destination, a journey through time, a neighbourhood steeped in history – the historical quarter of Colonia del Sacramento is one of the most enchanting places in all of Uruguay. Proudly holding the title of the oldest town in the country, this quaint little backwater boasts wonderfully preserved cobblestoned streets, fascinating colonial landmarks, and a gorgeous coastline overlooking the Rio de la Plata.

Colonia is incredibly easy to reach – a short two hour bus ride from Montevideo, or, if you are staying in Buenos Aires, you can find ferry services (Buquebus and Colonia Express) that can take you to see this beautiful corner of Uruguay in one day.

 

The Main Attractions:

- Calle de los Suspiros

Visitors in the central part of town may inadvertently find themselves strolling down the pedestrian passageway of Calle de los Suspiros (The Street of Sighs). The rustic stone houses that adorn the street are awash with wonderful colours that all adds to the charm. It is a place full of myths, legends, and secrets of centuries past.

- Plaza de Armas

The historical centre of Colonia has a great number of monuments and museums that you can visit. Founded together with the city, Plaza de Armas rests in the heart of the historical neighbourhood, and having a wander through it should certainly be on your itinerary.

- El Faro

Standing tall on the corner of Colonia’s Plaza Mayor is the town’s most prominent landmark, El Faro (The Lighthouse). Constructed in 1857, towering above the ruins of the 17th century Convento de San Francisco (San Francisco Convent), the lighthouse offers great views via a short spiraling staircase.

Travel Tip: Take advantage of your visit to Uruguay and live a great experience with our Tours in the wonderful city of Colonia. You won't regret it!

3. MONTEVIDEO OLD TOWN

The Legislative Palace in Aguada, north of the city center, is currently the seat of the Uruguayan Parliament / Photo: Daytours4u

 

The Old City of Montevideo, just like its historical centre, is testimony to the country’s colonial past. Here you will find some of the most beautiful architectural landmarks in Uruguay and it is also the place to enjoy the city’s nightlife scene that vibrates to the sound of local music in the countless discos, bars, and clubs.

 

The Main Attractions:

- Plaza Independencia and Puerta de la Ciudadela

Plaza Independencia, or Independence Square, is the perfect place to start your tour of the Old Town. The emblematic monument of José Gervasio Artigas, the national hero of Uruguay, is perched in the centre of the square surrounded by buildings of great historical significance, namely Palacio Estévez, Palacio Salvo and Teatro Solis. This emblematic square also still houses the old entrance to the city: the Citadel Gate.

- Peatonal Sarandí

Upon strolling through the Citadel Gate, you will be greeted by a corridor of bookstores, shops, restaurants, and old buildings that border the walkway known as Peatonal Sarandí that leads to Plaza Matriz: the oldest square in the city. Here, the Municipal Historical Archive Museum can be found next to the iconic Metropolitan Cathedral.

- Mercado del Puerto and Museo del Carnaval

Considered a mandatory stop for those who want to fully embrace Uruguayan cuisine, Mercado del Puerto (Port Market) is undoubtedly the best place in the city to sample authentic fruits and vegetables. Numerous restaurants offer a wide variety of food, but the standout dish is the parrillada (barbecued meat). Behind the market is the Museo del Carnaval (Carnival Museum) where you can uncover the history and traditions of the local pre-lenten celebrations.

Travel Tip: Explore the wonderful city of Montevideo with our famous Classic City Tour and discover each of the tourist and cultural attractions it has to offer!

4. CABO POLONIO

Cabo Polonio has no roads to take you and is about 7 km from the main road / Photo: Daytours4u

 

Not for nothing is Cabo Polonio perceived as the natural refuge of Uruguay. Indeed, this tiny, secluded fishing village, home to little more than 100 inhabitants, does not have the luxury of electricity or gas. It is located in the region of Rocha, and thus becomes the ideal place to escape the urban chaos, enjoy the sound of silence, and become immersed in the beautiful natural landscapes.

Cabo Polonio is noise pollution free, and although it has seen some changes over the years due to the development of tourism, it remains an area of great beauty. It is a magical place that seems stuck in time, where the sea is palpable, breathtaking landscapes are visible from every window, and the moon acts as a natural lighthouse that illuminates evening strolls along the sand. Visit Cabo Polonio on a day tour from Punta del Este.

 

5. ACUÍFERO GUARAN

It is considered the third largest freshwater reserve in the world / Photo: Daytours4u

 

The Acuífero Guaraní is one of the largest water reserves in the world and extends across Uruguay, Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay; however, it is in Uruguay where you can find the best tourist services if you’re looking to relax and unwind in the midst of nature.

 

The Main Attractions:

- Termales del Daymán

10 minutes from the city of Salto (route 3, km 487), travellers can find hot springs that sizzle to the temperature of 44°C. To help you make the most of your vacation, Daymán Municipal Park has a number of swimming pools and hot tubs. The thermal spa resort also offers a selection of aesthetic and health treatments, while the water parks of Aquamanía and Agua Clara have a quiet family atmosphere that is great for children.

- Termales del Arapey

This is the most traditional resort in Uruguay, and it is also situated in the city of Salto, close to Paysandú on route 3, kilometer 552. It is the most well-known amongst tourists for the high quality of its services – proof of this exclusivity is in its luxurious spas and accommodation complexes.

- Termales de Guaviyú

At 60 km from the capital of Paysandú, at kilometre 441,500 on route 3, you will find the hot springs of Guaviyú. Its swimming pools are equipped to accommodate different age groups and the area is surrounded by beautiful, large green spaces where you can enjoy such outdoor activities as fishing and boating.

6. WINE CIRCUITS

Most of the vineyards and wineries are located in the hills north of the capital Montevideo / Photo: Daytours4u

 

There are approximately 270 wineries spread throughout Uruguay, and because of their high-class wines, many of them have won awards at major international events. Canaletas is one of the regions with the largest production, with many vineyards to visit and sumptuous wines to be sampled.

Within the wine circuit, there is the Uruguayan Wine Tourism Association: Los Caminos del Vino. This association aims to provide experimental and sensory tours for its visitors and includes the following wineries: Alto de la Ballena, Bouza Bodega Boutique, Bodega Marichal, Bodega De Lucca, Viñedos de Santa Rosa, Bodegas Carrau, Bodegas Castillo Viejo, and Antigua Bodega Stagnari, among others. The charm of the vineyards in Uruguay lies in the fact that even the largest producers have preserved their family traditions over the years, maintaining a love of the grape and passing this feeling on from generation to generation.

Bodegas to Visit in Uruguay:

- Bodega Alto de la Ballena

This is the only winery located in Punta del Este, in the Sierra de la Ballena. Connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike can enjoy the selection of young wines while gazing at wonderful vistas on the panoramic terrace.

- Antigua Bodega Stagnari

Lying on the outskirts of La Paz – a small city in the Canelones Department – this emblematic establishment retains its original building from 1928 and is home to a tasting room and shop where you can purchase the wines you fancy.

- Bodega Carrau

In addition to savouring a glass or two of exquisite wines, in the Carrau wineries you can also try delicious authentic food and enjoy the beauty of their open green landscapes.

Travel Tip: Enjoy the best Wine Experience in Montevideo, accompany him with the spectacular Visit to Bodega Pizzorno from Montevideo and take a complete adventure with you!

 

7. GOLD COAST

One of its attractions is the nightlife, it has an important gastronomic pole, a casino, discos and bars for young people / Photo:  Daytours4u

 

Running east from Montevideo, the Atlantic coastal regions become awash with golden white beaches of extraordinary beauty. This is the Uruguayan Riviera – the Gold Coast; a traditional destination for families who want to enjoy a peaceful and relaxing holiday.

There are more than 20 stretches of sand that are the very definition of idyllic. You can discover deserted beaches replete with dunes, natural pools, and strong waves. Some are more urbanised than others, some come without the great luxuries, but they all have the basic necessities that any tourist will need.

 

Main Beaches on the Gold Coast:

- Salinas

Throughout the year, Salinas offers a wide variety of tourist services. It is a seaside resort of great tradition that has beautiful views and an iconic arch at the entrance to welcome its visitors (KM 38).

- Atlántida

This is the touristic capital of Caneloes, a place where you can find different beaches to suit the preferences of every traveller. You can discover calm, quiet beaches, or wild beaches with great waves for surfing. There are also shops, restaurants, casinos, and lovely historical sites.

- Costa Azul

In the heart of the Gold Coast, travellers can explore the Blue Coast; a small region with abundant vegetation and a family atmosphere that allows for total tranquility. It has a small entertainment centre and a nightclub.

 

8. ESTADIO CENTENARIO

 It is the stadium with the largest capacity in Uruguay and one of the 15 largest in America / Photo: Daytours4u

 

The football culture in Uruguay is considered one of the most important in South America, not only because it was this country that hosted the first World Cup in 1930, but also because the Uruguayan national side has been crowned world champions twice. From those moments in the mid twentieth-century, Uruguay has been seen as a country with a unique passion for the sport.

Centenario Stadium is the largest and most important stadium by far in the country. It was built in 1929 to celebrate 100 years of Uruguayan independence, and, a year later, it served as the backdrop for the first ever World Cup final, where Uruguay defeated Argentina. Today, such local teams as Peñarol and Nacional are playing their football at this venue.

Inside the stadium, visitors can enjoy a visit to the Football Museum – declared by FIFA as the only historical monument of World Football. The collection on display is comprised of various items relating to the beautiful game, such as furniture, cups, medals, trophies, films, posters, flags, t-shirts, boots, and publications. The museum is owned by the Uruguay Football Association and is a great tour option for lovers of the most popular sport in the world.

 

9. CANDOMBE

Candombe is a musical genre of African origin very popular during Carnival in Uruguay / Photo: Daytours4u

 

The Carnival in Uruguay is the longest in the world; a raucous 40-day celebration in early February comprised of untold festivities on the streets. It is known as a “festival of outdoor theatre.” The Llamadas parades are held in Montevideo and they are the official competitions held between rival carnival groups who compete with each other to the rhythm of Candombe.

Candombe is a musical genre of African origin, very popular during Carnival, characterised by three types of drums: tambor piano, tambor chico and repique de tambor. Another element that symbolises the Uruguayan Carnival is the murgas – groups of musicians that appear on the street full of euphoria, making theatrical representations. Each murga features around 15 artists all dressed up in typical carnival attire.

If you are not going to spend this time of year in Montevideo, we recommend that you go to Tacuarambo in the centre of the city. Their collection includes disguises, drums, photographs, and objects from previous carnivals. To get involved in this extravagant festival,

 

10. TACUAREMBÓ

Tacuarembó has a temperate climate with average temperatures of 17°C. During the month of March is the rainy season in the region / Photo: Daytours4u

 

In the central north of Uruguay lies the department of Tacuarembó, also known as the “heart of the country”. The capital of the same name is the birthplace of one of the great emblems of Uruguayan culture: Gardel and the Gaucho. In this city, you will come into direct contact with the quaint rural traditions of this small South American nation while enjoying the history and great attractions of the city.

 

The Main Attractions:

- Balneario Iporá:

Just 7 km from the centre of Tacuarembó is the complex of Iporá, which offers accommodation and services for tourists during any time of the year, especially in the high season.

- El Lago de la Juventud:

El Lago de la Juventud (The Lake of Youth) is the main attraction in this region with 17 hectares of land dedicated to swimming, fishing, camping, football, basketball, volleyball, and a whole lot more.

- Museo Carlos Gardel:

Travel to Valle Eden, 21 km from Tacuarembó where you will learn the true story of tango legend, Carlos Gardel, in the museum that bears his name. After much controversy about his nationality (Argentina or Uruguayan), the Carlos Gardel Museum has documents that prove his place of birth, and a great collection of vintage photographs in each of the rooms.

- Laguna de las Lavanderas:

The name of this park comes from the legend that tells of women who came from all corners of Tacuarembó with stacked clothes and spent hours washing them by the lake. It is the ideal place for nature lovers and you can stay in the camping areas which are well-equipped with bathrooms, benches, tables, and barbecue grills.

 

Enjoy Uruguay and a whole Catalogue of Destinations that we have prepared for you in Daytours4u.

By:  Daytours Contents Team.