Montevideo, Uruguay

Montevideo is the capital, largest city and most significant port in Uruguay. Situated on the east bank of the majestic Rio de la Plata, the city contains the majority of Uruguay’s population and is the centre for trade, commerce and popular culture. The city was founded by Spanish settlers at the beginning of the 18th century but has been influenced by immigrants from Italy and Portugal to Germany and Great Britain. Montevideo is brimming with excellent restaurants, bars, shops and nightclubs to keep tourists busy as they navigate the city streets and grow accustom to their warm and charming ambience. This diverse and vibrant city has a rich heritage and culture and due to its relatively small size and efficient public transport links, is easy to get around and see its many sights and attractions. 

Sightseeing in Montevideo

Montevideo is an excellent place to take a walk around the city centre and observe the eclectic sights and sounds. The range of activities that are popular with both locals and tourists include biking and fishing, when they are not visiting the city’s many outstanding attractions.

Ciudad Vieja (Old Town)

The entrance to Montevideo’s old town, or Ciudad Vieja, is marked by the only remaining piece of the six metre thick wall that once surrounded the city, known as the Ornamental Gate. Visitors can follow the calle Sarandi to the centre of the old town at Plaza Matriz. From here they can wander around this quaint and attractive part of the city, observing the historic architecture and calling at the many fascinating museums situated in this section of town. Notable structures include the stunning neo-classical Cathedral and the remarkable Palacio Taranco. Popular museums located within Ciudad Vieja such as the Torres Garcia Art Museum, the Romantic Museum and the Gurvich Museum are also worth visiting, to appreciate the city’s copious culture and intriguing heritage.

Playa Pocitos

Located near to the Rio de la Plata, Playa Pocitos is one of Uruguay’s most popular and upscale beaches, attracting tourists from across South America and the rest of the world. The beach is well known for its regular sports activities including football, volleyball and nautical events.

Plaza Independencia

Plaza Independencia is the city’s most iconic square, separating the Ciudad Vieja, or old town, from downtown Montevideo. The plaza is home to famous buildings including the Solis Theatre as well as Uruguay’s government offices. The centrepiece of the square is an imposing monument known as Artigas Mausoleum.

Shopping in Montevideo

The city centre offers visitors many opportunities to shop. The Montevideo and Punta Carretas Shopping Malls are fantastic places to pick up souvenirs and general amenities, whilst the streets around Plaza Independencia are also home to a range of gift shops and speciality stores.

Eating Out in Montevideo

Montevideo is a city that offers an incredible range of international cuisine at affordable prices. Visitors will find a plethora of restaurants and cafes serving diverse and delicious dishes, guaranteed to suit the tastes of all kinds of travellers. From meats and pasta to cheese and churros, there is something here for everyone to enjoy.