Known for its football talent, Uruguay is a memorable experience for the traveler. According to countryaah, Uruguay, one of the small states in South America, charms with its postcard-like beach landscapes as well as its charming cities, where the lively hustle and bustle is combined with simultaneous unhurriedness.
Uruguay is a western country in South America
Uruguay rose to the European world map winged by expeditions five hundred years ago. The country, first ruled by Spain and later by Portugal, became independent almost two hundred years ago.
At the beginning of the 20th century, Uruguay underwent major reforms when the country’s system of government was influenced by Central Europe. Known as “Switzerland of America,” Uruguay is considered one of the first welfare states in the world to include social security, women’s suffrage, and free education as part of everyday life.
Military coups and unstable times colored the mid-20th century. Since the 1980s, however, conditions have been stabilizing and civilian rule has ruled the country.
Short for UY by abbreviationfinder, Uruguay is one of the most westernized countries in South America, where working and political conditions are among the most rugged and stable on the continent. As a result, Uruguay has become a significant travel destination in the eyes of even mainstream travelers.
The mind rests on the shores of Uruguay
In Uruguay, on the Atlantic Ocean, you can spend an unforgettable holiday. On the more than 600-kilometer coastline, you will find a few real gems worth a visit on a Uruguay trip.
Punta del Este is the right destination if the joy of life, taste experiences and jetset circles are close to the heart. In the evenings, the main street of Punta del Este hatches a show venue for both locals and tourists. The street is lined with fine restaurants, modern hotels and the most famous brand stores.
Those looking for a more idyllic beach holiday should head to Punta del Diablo, which, despite its growing popularity, has retained its old fishing village charm. With its popularity, Punta del Diablo has lost some of its untouched identity, but in return received youth and energy that have made the atmosphere more vibrant.
In La Paloma, the tourist finds a wide variety of beaches, almost every one of which is very popular in summer. Especially windier beaches attract surfers in the direction of La Paloma. Many open-air concerts on the beach also attract people.
In addition to the above, Uruguay has numerous lesser-known beaches that do not fade in quality and beauty to the more famous ones. There is also an alternative from the rich selection for those who avoid the crowds and seek their own peace.
Montevideo and many smaller ones
Many people from Uruguay know mainly Montevideo. Indeed, with a population of 1.5 million, the capital is by far the largest population center in the country, chosen as the best place to live in South America.
The lively atmosphere of the city is also favorable for tourists. The rich cultural offer and the unique and diverse architecture warmly welcome the visitor – as long as you first get used to the stagnant air of summer Montevideo and the creative chaos of working cars.
Urban Uruguay’s way of life can also be seen in other cities in the country. Among the country’s smaller settlements, there are a few places worth visiting, although there’s no need to look for a big city feel like Montevideo.
With less than 50,000 inhabitants, Mercedes is a city split by the Negro River. In addition to jogging and water sports on the river, the city center offers many cozy small restaurants.
Salto, on the other hand, is mostly just a waypoint on the way to the border with Argentina. However, it is worth spending a few days in the city and at least exploring the hot springs nearby.
Climate in Uruguay
Uruguay is a popular travel destination especially during the summer, when its beach resorts are in their best splendor. On the south side of the equator, however, summer is timed to the contrary. The hottest month of Uruguay’s summer is therefore usually February.
In summer, the average temperatures are above twenty degrees, making them ideal readings, especially for a beach holiday. In winter, mercury does not drop to the frost side, but at temperatures below ten degrees, sun worship no longer naturalizes.
FLIGHTS, ACCOMMODATION AND MOVEMENT IN URUGUAY
Long flight to Uruguay
The journey to South America is long and takes a long time. It is pointless to dream of direct flights.
In most cases, especially in the cheapest options, two stops are needed to fold the trip. Travel time often exceeds a day, which is especially worthwhile to prepare for mentally. However, the time spent on the plane and in the airports is definitely worth a holiday in Uruguay.
Flight prices vary somewhat, but as a rule of thumb, flights should be booked as early as possible. Intercontinental flights tend to tilt as the closer the Departure looms. In general, air travel costs more than a thousand euros.
Another possible option is to fly to Argentina, from where the trip to Uruguay can be folded by bus or ferry.
Accommodation in Uruguay
In the most popular travel destinations in Uruguay, in practice Montevideo, as well as in the above-mentioned beach resorts, the accommodation offer is relatively good and quite affordable.
In Montevideo you will find both high-quality hotels and hostel-type, more ornate options. In beach locations, the selection is often more limited, focusing on small inns close to the beach.
In high season, bookings should be made well in advance, as smaller overnight stays fill up quickly.
Getting around Uruguay
In small Uruguay, it’s pretty easy to get around. Due to the short distances, the bus is the most popular transport game. Traveling by bus is even pleasant due to the numerous bus stations, well-maintained roads and low fares. Alternatively, you can rent a car.
When moving in cities, a taxi is the most convenient means of transportation. The general price level is really cheap, and taxi fares cannot even be compared to the costs charged by Finnish piers. However, if you want to save cents, you can hop on a local bus. That’s when it’s worth preparing for a fairly tight atmosphere.
TRAVEL DESTINATIONS IN URUGUAY
In Montevideo, the metropolis
In Montevideo, the tourist can enjoy both a well-maintained beach and the metropolitan life of one and a half million inhabitants. The capital of Uruguay is marked by a lively bustle and it feels like its inhabitants are always on the move. On the other hand, it is precisely the unhurriedness of the people that catches the eye – almost everyone has time to enjoy a glass even with an unknown traveler.
The old town is the most beautiful of Montevideo. From here, the tourist will find many spectacular sights: the Cabildo Cathedral, the Solís Theater and the nearly 200-year-old fortress. On the other hand, the suburbs of the rich, Carasco and Pocitos, charm charming with their riotous beauty.
Montevideo is also a transport hub in Uruguay, with good connections to virtually every corner of the country. Similarly, the Argentine capital, Buenos Aires, is just a few hours away on the other side of Rio de la Plata.
Punta del Este is the pearl of Uruguay
Located in southeastern Uruguay, Punta del Este is one of the country’s most popular beach resorts, lacking glamor and postcard-like scenery.
In summer, the beach holidaymaker is pampered. In the heat, the summer months, the constant temperature and constant sunshine combined with the white sandy beach and warm sea water provide a very favorable setting.
Those who enjoy the beach can choose either La Mansa or La Brava beach according to their taste. The former is more sheltered and calmer at sea, while the latter is known for the larger waves and The Hand on the Sand sculpture.
The city of Punta del Este is a must-see for those staying nearby. La Gorlero Street is met by fashion creations that walk on a constant stream, for which modern buildings and numerous designer shops create a natural environment.
Historic Colonia del Sacramento
Colonia del Sacramento is the oldest city in Uruguay, located in the southwestern part of the country. The city attracts tourists with its historical sights, taste experiences and beautiful scenery.
The historic district of Colonia del Sacramento in particular has made this city of just over 20,000 inhabitants famous. In the UNESCO-listed Old Town, Spanish, Portuguese and post-colonial architecture live in perfect harmony.
In addition to the narrow, historic streets, Colonia del Sacramento is well worth a visit for its churches, museums and the already closed bullring. At dusk, the tourist enjoys the city’s atmospheric restaurants and homely bars.
THE BEST OF URUGUAY
The best travel destinations in Uruguay
- Colonia del Sacramento
- Punta del Este
- Montevideo
- Punta del Diablo
- La Paloma