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One Week Uruguay Travel Itinerary

This one week Uruguay travel itinerary balances cultural heritage, beach relaxation, and historic charm, taking you from Montevideo's vibrant capital to Punta del Este's glamorous shores and the timeless beauty of Colonia del Sacramento.

Currency

Uruguayan Peso (UYU); 1 USD ≈ 40 UYU.

Local Language

Spanish. English proficiency is moderate, mainly in tourist areas.

Visa Requirements

UK, USA, Canada, EU, Australia & NZ citizens can enter visa-free for up to 90 days.

Expense Level

$$ (mid-range).

Plug Type

Type C, F, L (220V, 50Hz).

Safety

Generally safe; exercise caution in urban areas after dark.

Vaccination

No mandatory vaccinations; consider Hepatitis A and Typhoid.

Payment

Credit/debit cards widely accepted; carry cash for small establishments.

Nightlife

Vibrant in Montevideo and Punta del Este, especially during the summer.

Best Months to Visit

November to March for summer weather and festivals.

Climate

Mild coastal climate; pack light layers and beachwear.

Water Safety

Tap water is safe to drink.

Tipping

Tipping 10% is customary in restaurants.

Cultural Etiquette

Greet with a kiss on the cheek; locals value punctuality.

Emergency Numbers

911 (general emergencies).

Time Zone

UTC-3.

Montevideo Itinerary

Overview

This one week Uruguay travel itinerary begins in Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay. It is a charming blend of colonial history and modern culture. With a laid-back vibe, it offers beautiful coastal promenades, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks.

One Week Uruguay Travel Itinerary
The Skyline of Montevideo

How long to stay in Montevideo

2-3 days.

How to get from Carrasco International Airport to Montevideo

Take a taxi (30-40 minutes) to the city center.

Best hotels to stay in Montevideo

  • Circus Hostel & Hotel Montevideo (Budget option with great reviews, central location) Booking link.
  • Alma Histórica Boutique Hotel (Elegant boutique hotel in the old town) Booking link.
Alma Histórica Boutique Hotel
Alma Histórica Boutique Hotel

What to do in Montevideo

  • Walk along the Rambla (free).
  • Visit Mercado del Puerto for local food and crafts (meals $10-$20).
  • Explore the Ciudad Vieja (Old Town) and Plaza Independencia (free).
  • Tour the National Museum of Visual Arts (~$5).
  • Relax at Pocitos Beach (free).
What to do in Montevideo
Plaza Independencia.

Where to eat in Montevideo

  • La Pulpería ($$, Google Reviews 4.8) – Traditional parrilla.
  • Cafe Brasilero ($$, Google Reviews 4.7) – Classic café, popular for coffee and pastries.
  • La Cocina de Pedro ($$$, Google Reviews 4.6) – Contemporary Uruguayan cuisine.
Where to eat in Montevideo
Chipirones rellenos at Café Brasilero

Modes of transport in Montevideo

Efficient public buses (need STM card), taxis, and Uber available.

Montevideo digital nomad rating

4.5/5. Reliable Wi-Fi and plenty of coworking spaces like Sinergia Cowork. Nomadlist Montevideo.

Punta del Este Itinerary

Overview

Punta del Este is Uruguay’s glamorous beach resort town, famous for its golden sands, luxury lifestyle, and iconic landmarks like La Mano sculpture.

Punta del Este Itinerary
A view of the Punta del Este city trapped by beaches

How long to stay in Punta del Este

2-3 days.

How to get from Montevideo to Punta del Este

Take a COT or COPSA bus from Tres Cruces Terminal (2 hours, ~$12).

Best hotels to stay in Punta del Este

  • The Trip Hostel (Social and budget-friendly, near nightlife spots) Booking link.
  • AWA Boutique Hotel (Stylish, mid-range boutique hotel) Booking link.
Best hotels to stay in Punta del Este
The Trip Hostel

What to do in Punta del Este

  • Relax at Playa Brava and see La Mano (free).
  • Walk through the upscale Puerto de Punta del Este marina (free).
  • Tour Casa Pueblo, an artist’s masterpiece ($10).
  • Enjoy watersports at Playa Mansa (varies, $20-$50).
  • Stroll the charming streets of La Barra (free).
Punta del Este's iconic hand sculpture
Punta del Este’s iconic hand sculpture

Where to eat in Punta del Este

  • El Palenque ($$, Google Reviews 4.5) – Parrilla by the port.
  • L’Auberge ($$$, Google Reviews 4.7) – Famous waffles and afternoon tea.
  • Chivitería Marcos ($, Google Reviews 4.6) – Affordable local sandwiches.
L'Auberge
L’Auberge

Modes of transport in Punta del Este

Local buses and taxis; car rentals are popular for nearby explorations.

Punta del Este digital nomad rating

3.5/5. Decent internet but quieter in the off-season. Nomadlist Punta del Este.

Colonia del Sacramento Itinerary

Overview

Colonia del Sacramento is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and romantic ambiance.

Calle San Pedro
Calle San Pedro, a typical street in the historic district

How long to stay in Colonia del Sacramento

1-2 days.

How to get from Punta del Este to Colonia del Sacramento

Take a bus to Montevideo (2 hours, ~$12), then a direct bus to Colonia (2.5 hours, ~$15).

Best hotels to stay in Colonia del Sacramento

  • Viajero Colonia Hostel (Charming hostel with courtyard) Booking link.
  • Posada del Angel (Budget-friendly colonial inn) Booking link.
  • Charco Hotel (Boutique hotel with river views) Booking link.
Viajero Hostel Colonia
Chilling vibes at the rooftop pool of Viajero Hostel Colonia

What to do in Colonia del Sacramento

  • Explore the Barrio Histórico (free).
  • Climb the Lighthouse for panoramic views (~$3).
  • Visit the Museo Portugués (~$3).
  • Walk along the Río de la Plata promenade (free).
  • Take a sunset ferry ride (~$10-$15).
The lighthouse in Colonia del Sacramento
The lighthouse in Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay

Where to eat in Colonia del Sacramento

  • Don Joaquín ($, Google Reviews 4.6) – Great empanadas.
  • Pulpería Los Faroles ($$, Google Reviews 4.5) – Traditional Uruguayan dishes.
  • Charco Bistro ($$$, Google Reviews 4.8) – Fine dining by the water.
Where to eat in Colonia del Sacramento
A mouthwatering dish served at Charco Bistró

Modes of transport in Colonia del Sacramento

Mostly walkable; bike rentals available for ~$10/day.

Colonia del Sacramento digital nomad rating

4/5. Tranquil environment and decent connectivity.

Extend your trip

Have more time? Why not extend your travels by combining this trip with the two week Argentina travel itinerary by taking the Buquebus ferry from Colonia del Sacramento to Buenos Aires, a scenic one-hour journey across the Río de la Plata.

What do you think?

Have tips to share, questions to ask, or your own travel stories? Leave a comment below and help shape the perfect itinerary!

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