Are you wondering what the best places are to visit in Uruguay?
Uruguay is a small country located in South America that tourists often overlook. It has a lot to offer though.
From the beautiful beaches of Punta del Este to the charming village of Colonia del Sacramento, there is something for everyone in Uruguay.
If you are looking for a more off-the-beaten-path destination in South America, you want to visit Uruguay!
In this article I’ll share with you the top places to visit in Uruguay and what each place has to offer.
The Best Places to Visit in Uruguay
1. Punta Del Este
Punta del Este is Uruguay’s most popular tourist destination.
This beach town is home to beautiful beaches, luxury hotels, and trendy restaurants. It’s often nicknamed the Saint-Tropez of South America.
Punta del Este is known for its good nightlife and is a popular destination for surfers as well.
If you are looking for a lively beach destination in Uruguay, Punta del Este is the place for you!
And, if you go to Punta del Este, do visit the famous giant ‘Fingers of Punta Del Este’!
Where to Stay in Punta Del Este
High-end option: The Grand Hotel
Mid-range option: Atlantico Boutique Hotel
Budget option: RocaMar Hostel Boutique
2. Colonia Del Sacramento
Colonia del Sacramento is a historic city founded by Portuguese settlers in 1680.
The city has many buildings from this period and is known as one of the best-preserved colonial cities in South America. In fact, its historic quarter is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It’s also home to some fantastic restaurants serving good local cuisine.
Discover some of the museums, theater, art and handicrafts while you are exploring this top place to visit in Uruguay.
Where to Stay in Colonia Del Sacramento
High-end option: Charco Hotel
Mid-range option: Costa Colonia Riverside Boutique Hotel
Budget option: Posada Mela
3. Cabo Polonio
Cabo Polonio is a small, remote town located on the coast of Uruguay. Most of the houses have no electricity or running water and in the evenings the town is dressed in candles and street lamps.
The town is surrounded by dunes, lagoons, and beaches, making it a great place for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
There is no road going into Cabo Polonia, which adds to the uniqueness of this destination. There are three ways to visit Cabo Polonio and its beautiful beaches: walking the almost 6 kilometers of sand dunes, taking a Jeep or special truck, or on horseback.
What began as a small fishing village has slowly grown into a tourist destination offering handicrafts and tourist activities. But, because it’s not as easy to get to as nearby Valizas and Aguas Dulces, it retains more of a quiet, off-grid vibe.
Where to Stay in Cabo Polonia
Mid-range option: La Cañada Cabo Polonia
Budget option: Viejo Lobo
4. Montevideo
Montevideo is the capital of Uruguay and a bustling city full of culture and history.
The city has a great mix of old-world charm and modern amenities, and there is something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to check out the Mercado del Puerto, a vibrant market full of local color and flavor.
If you’ve visited other Latin American capital cities you might be surprised by how laid-back Montevideo is. Instead of traffic jams and potholes you’ll find well-paved roads and relatively quiet streets.
It’s also not a massive city, making it easy to explore in just a few days.
Book a walking tour through the old city, or a bike tour to see even more of Montevideo.
Montevideo definitely is one of the best places to visit in Uruguay.
Where to Stay in Montevideo
High-end option: Alma Histórica Boutique Hotel
Mid-range option: FAUNA Montevideo
Budget option: MedioMundo Hostel
5. Salto
Salto is Uruguay’s second-largest city. It’s built on the banks of the Uruguay River and borders Argentina.
The city dates back to 1756 and offers several national historic landmarks including the Larrañaga Theater and the traditional 18 de Julio market.
In the center of the city, Calle Uruguay is a lively shopping street lined with cafes. On weekends in the evenings this is a popular hangout for locals to socialize and drink mate.
But, the most popular reason to visit Salto is to go to Termas del Daymán, just southeast of the city. Termas del Daymán has natural hot springs and outdoor pools and spas.
North of the city you’ll find Lake Salto Grande and the Salto Grande Dam. There are natural observation circuits here, white sandy beaches, forested parks, and a water park.
Where to Stay Around Salto
High-end option: Altos del Arapey Golf & Spa (far from the city but a beautiful hotel)
Mid-range option: Hotel La Posta del Dayman
Budget option: Apart Hotel Géminis
6. La Paloma
La Paloma is a beautiful beach town located in the Rocha Department of Uruguay.
The city has long sandy beaches and is a popular summer destination for both South Americans and Europeans.
Surfing, swimming, sunbathing, whale watching, and bird watching are popular activities here.
La Paloma is also home to some fantastic seafood restaurants with fresh fish daily, plus you’ll often find free concerts to enjoy.
Where to Stay in La Paloma
High-end option: UY Pro Sur Hotel
Mid-range option: Sotavento Apart Hotel
Budget option: Las Cabañas de Ana
7. Punta Del Diablo
Punta del Diablo is a small fishing village located in the Rocha Department of Uruguay.
The town has a laid-back vibe and beautiful beaches, making it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation on their vacation.
In summer (December to February), the town is a popular destination for tourists and backpackers looking to surf or enjoy the beaches.
Outside of the summer season, the town is very quiet and a good place to visit if you want to get away from it all.
If you want a break from the beaches, go to Santa Teresa National Park. Located just north of the town, this national park boasts an 18th-century fort and nice trails.
Where to Stay in Punta Del Diablo
High-end option: Mar Adentro Apart Hotel & Suites
Mid-range option: Posada Las Maravillas
Budget option: Coral Apartment
8. Carmelo
Carmelo is a small town located on the Rio de la Palta, the river that forms the border between Argentina and Uruguay.
The town offers some nice riverside beaches and is surrounded by vineyards.
Carmelo has long been a favorite of the Argentinian elite and is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a luxury trip or perhaps a romantic getaway. That being said, there are plenty of inexpensive places to stay around Carmelo as well.
Visit one of the boutique wineries to enjoy the high-quality local wine and soak up the scenery.
Go horseback riding to enjoy the countryside or spend the day fishing, kayaking, or playing golf.
Where to Stay in Carmelo
High-end option: El Legado Wine Lodge
Mid-range option: Mykonos Carmelo
Budget option: La Tortuga Casas de Campo
9. Tacuarembó
Tacuarembó is a city in northwestern Uruguay known for its gaucho culture.
The city is surrounded by wide open plains, rolling hills, and picturesque villages, making it a great destination for those who love nature and animals.
The best time to visit Tacuarembó is during the Fiesta de la Patria Gaucha. This big annual event celebrates regional countryside life and customs.
The event takes place on the second weekend of March, on Lavanderas Lake. It remains a very traditional event, with most attendees being somehow connected to the gaucho culture of Northern Uruguay.
Where to Stay in Tacuarembó
Mid-range option: Cabañas El Calabres
10. Piriapolis
Piriapolis is a resort town with a very Mediterranean feel, located on the south coast of Uruguay.
The city has beautiful beaches with crystal clear water and is a popular destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
If you are traveling with your family, this is a good place to go.
Pirapolis has a beautiful promenade and it’s a great city to explore by bicycle. Do take the chairlift up San Antonio Hill for a stunning view of the area.
Where to Stay in Piriapolis
High-end option: Skyblue Apart Hotel Punta Colorada
Mid-range option: Hotel Colón
Budget option: Luna Azul
11. Durazno
Durazno is the most central city in Uruguay, located on the banks of the Yi River.
It’s a nice small city with shops, restaurants and historic buildings. There is a good museum, Casa de Rivera, focusing on Uruguayan archaeology, Gaucho art, and local history.
The city is famous for its beaches on the Yí River, its cheerful citizens, and its popular festivals including the Folklore Festival and the ‘Meeting of the Gauchos’.
Where to Stay in Durazno
Mid-range option: Hotel Santa Cristina
12. Paysandú
Paysandú is a city located on the banks of the Uruguay River and is known for its beautiful architecture and great riverfront.
Entire families gather on the city shores to enjoy the sandy beaches, practice some sports, swim, or just enjoy the stunning sunsets on the Uruguay River.
Paysandú is a great destination for anyone who loves fishing, sailing, and other watersports. But the city also has a rich culture and history, which you can explore at the city’s many museums and historical landmarks.
One of the biggest annual events in Uruguay is the Beer Week which is celebrated in Paysandú in April and attracts people from all over the world.
One of the main attractions outside of the city are the Guaviyú and Almirón hot spring resorts.
Paysandú has a typical dessert called “chajá” which you’ll have to try! You can find it in most restaurants around the city.
Where to Stay in Paysandú
High-end option: Hotel La Castellana
Mid-range option: Gran Hotel Paysandú
Budget option: Apartamento Centrico
13. Chuy
Chuy is one of the more unique places to visit in Uruguay because of its location.
The main street of Chuy forms the border between Uruguay and Brazil.
One half of the town is called Chuy and is located in Uruguay, the other half is spelled Chui and is located in Brazil.
And yes, that also means that in half of the town the official language is Spanish and they pay in pesos while in the other half of town the official language is Portuguese and they use reais.
The border is open, so you can visit both Chuy and Chui.
Both sides of the town are known as a tax-free shopping destination popular among bargain hunters. A majority of the shops are run by Turkish, Armenian, and Arab immigrants, giving the town a very multicultural vibe.
Located just west of Chuy you can find the Fuerte de San Miguel, a military fortification built by the Portuguese in 1737.
Where to Stay in Chuy
Mid-range option: Paz y Armonía Private House
Budget option: Descanso al Paso Chuy
Conclusion – Places to Visit in Uruguay
Uruguay is a beautiful country that has so much to offer its visitors.
It’s not as well known as neighboring Argentina or Brazil, but that might make it all the more interesting to discover this country for yourself!
Plus, traveling around Uruguay is easy. The buses are efficient and cheap, connecting all the major towns.
I hope this list of places to visit in Uruguay has given you a better idea of what this country has to offer and where you’d like to go.
Also Read:
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- What to Look for in Travel Insurance
- Things to Do During a Layover
- How to Plan a Perfect Solo Trip
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