Two Weeks in Montevideo: Uruguay's Coastal Capital
From Historic Plazas to Riverside Promenades
Trip Overview
This comprehensive two-week itinerary immerses you in Montevideo's unique blend of colonial architecture, vibrant cultural life, and laid-back coastal charm. You'll explore the historic Ciudad Vieja with its museums and plazas, stroll through expansive parks along the Río de la Plata, discover the city's rich carnival traditions, and experience the authentic Uruguayan lifestyle. The pace allows for deep exploration without rushing, with time to enjoy long lunches, sunset walks along the Rambla, and spontaneous discoveries in neighborhood markets. You'll visit hilltop fortresses, world-class art museums, and peaceful green spaces while savoring the local café culture and traditional parrilla cuisine. This itinerary balances major attractions with residential neighborhoods, giving you a genuine feel for daily life in South America's most underrated capital.
Pace
Relaxed
Daily Budget
$60-90 per day
Best Seasons
March-May (autumn) and September-November (spring) offer mild weather; December-February is summer with beach season
Ideal For
First-time visitors to Uruguay, Culture and history enthusiasts, Art lovers, Relaxed travelers, Solo travelers, Couples seeking a slower pace
Day-by-Day Itinerary
1
Arrival & Historic Heart
Ciudad Vieja (Old City)
Settle into Montevideo's historic quarter and take your first stroll through colonial streets and grand plazas.
Morning
Arrival and Ciudad Vieja orientation walk
After arriving at Carrasco International Airport, take a taxi or bus to your accommodation in Ciudad Vieja. Once settled, begin exploring the cobblestone streets of the historic quarter. Wander past colonial buildings with wrought-iron balconies, peek into antique shops, and get your bearings in this compact, walkable neighborhood that served as Montevideo's original settlement.
Lunch
A traditional parrilla restaurant in Ciudad Vieja serving asado and chivito
Afternoon
Constitution Plaza and surrounding historic sites
Visit Constitution Plaza, the heart of Montevideo's civic life, surrounded by the Cabildo (colonial town hall) and Metropolitan Cathedral. Admire the neoclassical architecture and watch locals gathering in this central meeting point. The plaza offers excellent people-watching and photo opportunities of some of the city's most important 18th and 19th-century buildings.
Evening
Sunset walk and dinner
Walk to the waterfront along the Rambla for sunset views over the Río de la Plata, then enjoy dinner at a casual restaurant in Ciudad Vieja featuring Uruguayan wines
Where to Stay Tonight
Ciudad Vieja (Mid-range hotel in a restored colonial building)
Central location perfect for exploring on foot, with restaurants and nightlife nearby
Exchange money at a casa de cambio in Ciudad Vieja rather than the airport for better rates
Day 1 Budget: $70-95
2
Museums & Colonial Elegance
Ciudad Vieja
Dive deeper into Montevideo's cultural heritage with museum visits and elegant palace architecture.
Morning
Palacio Taranco
Explore this stunning 1910 French-style palace that now houses the Museum of Decorative Arts. Marvel at the ornate Belle Époque interiors, including marble staircases, elaborate ceiling frescoes, crystal chandeliers, and period furniture. The palace itself is as impressive as its collection, showcasing how Uruguay's wealthy families lived during the early 20th century. The gardens offer a peaceful respite.
Lunch
A café near the port area serving chivitos and milanesas
Afternoon
Museo de las Migraciones and waterfront exploration
Visit the Museum of Migrations to understand how European immigration shaped Uruguay's identity and culture. The exhibits tell personal stories of Italian, Spanish, and other immigrants who arrived through Montevideo's port. Afterward, walk along the historic waterfront, observing the port activity and admiring views across the bay. The area retains its working-port character with fishing boats and cargo vessels.
Evening
Mercado del Puerto and live music
Experience the iconic Mercado del Puerto, a 19th-century iron market hall filled with parrilla restaurants. Enjoy grilled meats while musicians play traditional tango and milonga. The atmosphere is lively and authentic, especially on weekends
Where to Stay Tonight
Ciudad Vieja (Same accommodation)
Continuing to explore the historic quarter
Visit Mercado del Puerto for lunch on weekdays when it's less crowded but still atmospheric
Day 2 Budget: $65-85
3
Government & Carnival Culture
Ciudad Vieja
Explore Uruguay's political history and discover the vibrant traditions of carnival, the country's most important cultural celebration.
Morning
Palacio Estevez | Museo de la Casa de Gobierno
Tour the former presidential palace on Plaza Independencia, now a museum showcasing Uruguay's political history and governmental traditions. The building's neoclassical architecture is impressive, and exhibits include presidential offices, ceremonial rooms, and artifacts from Uruguay's democratic journey. The guided tours provide insight into the country's progressive political culture and key historical moments.
Tours are typically offered at specific times; arrive early to join a group
Lunch
A corner café serving tortas fritas and coffee
Afternoon
Museo del Carnaval
Immerse yourself in Uruguay's carnival traditions at this colorful museum dedicated to the world's longest carnival celebration. Learn about candombe drumming, murga theater groups, and elaborate costumes through exhibits, videos, and interactive displays. The museum explains how African, European, and indigenous influences merged to create Uruguay's unique carnival culture, which takes place every February and March.
Evening
Exploring Destino Sarandi
Stroll down Destino Sarandi, a pedestrian street in Ciudad Vieja lined with shops, galleries, and cafés. Enjoy dinner at a bistro-style restaurant with outdoor seating and watch street performers
Where to Stay Tonight
Ciudad Vieja (Same accommodation)
Final night in the historic quarter before exploring other neighborhoods
If visiting during carnival season (February-March), book accommodations well in advance as the city fills with visitors
Day 3 Budget: $60-80
4
Hilltop Fortress & Harbor Views
Cerro neighborhood
Journey to Montevideo's historic hilltop fortress for panoramic views and explore this working-class neighborhood with authentic character.
Morning
Fortaleza del Cerro
Take a bus to the Cerro neighborhood and climb to the 18th-century fortress that once defended Montevideo's harbor. The star-shaped fort, built by the Spanish in 1809, now houses a military museum with weapons, uniforms, and historical exhibits. The real highlight is the 360-degree view from the hilltop: the entire city sprawls below, the Río de la Plata stretches to the horizon, and you can see the port and beaches.
Lunch
A neighborhood restaurant in Cerro serving homestyle Uruguayan cooking
Afternoon
Cerro neighborhood exploration and return via waterfront
Walk through the Cerro neighborhood, one of Montevideo's oldest working-class areas with colorful houses and a strong community feel. Visit the lighthouse near the fortress, then take the bus back along the coastal road, enjoying views of the industrial port, fishing boats, and the city skyline. Stop at Fishermen's Walk to observe local anglers and enjoy the maritime atmosphere.
Evening
Dinner in Punta Carretas
Head to the upscale Punta Carretas neighborhood for dinner at a contemporary restaurant featuring fresh seafood and international cuisine. The area has a sophisticated, residential feel
Where to Stay Tonight
Punta Carretas or Pocitos (Mid-range hotel in a beachfront neighborhood)
Shifting to the coastal residential areas for beach access and local neighborhood life
Bring layers when visiting the Cerro fortress; the hilltop can be windy even on warm days
Day 4 Budget: $70-90
5
Beach Life & Rambla Strolls
Pocitos and Punta Carretas
Experience Montevideo's beach culture and the famous Rambla promenade where locals exercise, socialize, and enjoy mate.
Morning
Pocitos Beach and Rambla walk
Start your day like a true Montevideo resident with a walk along the Rambla, the 22-kilometer waterfront promenade. In Pocitos, watch locals jogging, cycling, and drinking mate while sitting on the seawall. The beach has calm waters suitable for swimming during summer months. Observe the social ritual of mate-drinking, where friends gather in circles sharing the traditional herbal tea from a shared gourd.
Lunch
A beachfront café with outdoor seating serving fresh salads and sandwiches
Afternoon
Parque Jose Enrique Rodó
Visit this beloved urban park named after Uruguay's famous writer. The expansive green space features a lake with paddle boats, rose gardens, an outdoor amphitheater, and the National Museum of Visual Arts. Families gather for picnics, children play in the playgrounds, and joggers circle the paths. The park embodies Montevideo's relaxed outdoor lifestyle and provides a peaceful escape from urban streets.
Evening
Sunset at Montevideo sign and dinner
Visit the iconic Montevideo sign near Pocitos Beach for sunset photos, then enjoy dinner at a neighborhood parrilla in Punta Carretas
Where to Stay Tonight
Punta Carretas or Pocitos (Same accommodation)
Continuing to explore the beachfront neighborhoods
The Rambla is busiest during late afternoon and early evening when locals finish work; this is the best time for people-watching
Day 5 Budget: $65-85
6
Art & Amusement
Parque Rodó area
Explore Uruguay's premier art museum and enjoy the nostalgic charm of a vintage amusement park.
Morning
National Museum Of Visual Arts
Spend the morning at Uruguay's most important art museum, housed in a striking building within Parque Rodó. The collection spans Uruguayan art from colonial times to contemporary works, including paintings by Juan Manuel Blanes, Pedro Figari, and Joaquín Torres García. International pieces complement the national collection. The museum provides essential context for understanding Uruguay's artistic traditions and cultural identity through visual arts.
Lunch
A casual eatery near the park serving empanadas and pizza
Afternoon
Juegos del Parque Rodó and RODO PARK CASTLE
Experience the vintage charm of this small amusement park that has entertained Montevideo families since 1943. The classic rides, including a carousel and Ferris wheel, evoke nostalgic atmosphere rather than modern thrills. Visit the whimsical RODO PARK CASTLE, a fairy-tale structure that serves as a landmark within the park. The area is particularly lively on weekends when families gather for cotton candy and simple pleasures.
Evening
Fountain of the Padlocks and dinner
Visit the romantic Fountain of the Padlocks where couples attach locks as symbols of their love. Enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant in the Cordón neighborhood, known for its bohemian atmosphere
Where to Stay Tonight
Punta Carretas or Pocitos (Same accommodation)
Central to both beach and park attractions
The amusement park is most atmospheric in the late afternoon when lights begin to glow and families arrive
Day 6 Budget: $60-80
7
Parks & Palaces of Prado
Prado neighborhood
Discover Montevideo's grandest park and the museum dedicated to Uruguay's most famous historical painter.
Morning
Prado Park
Explore Montevideo's largest and most elegant park, established in the late 19th century. The 106-hectare green space features magnificent rose gardens with over 850 varieties, tree-lined avenues, monuments, and the beautiful Lago del Prado where ducks and swans glide. The park showcases European-style landscape design with romantic grottos, fountains, and sculptures. Locals come for morning exercise, picnics, and peaceful contemplation in this urban oasis.
Lunch
A traditional restaurant near Prado Park serving Uruguayan home cooking
Afternoon
Museo Juan Manuel Blanes
Visit the museum dedicated to Uruguay's most celebrated 19th-century painter, housed in a beautiful villa within Prado Park. Juan Manuel Blanes documented Uruguayan history and gaucho life through his romantic realist paintings. The collection includes his most famous works depicting historical battles, rural scenes, and portraits of national heroes. The villa's Japanese garden and surrounding grounds are equally impressive.
Evening
Exploring Prado neighborhood
Walk through the elegant Prado residential neighborhood admiring early 20th-century mansions and Art Nouveau architecture. Enjoy dinner at a neighborhood restaurant serving traditional cuisine
Where to Stay Tonight
Punta Carretas or Pocitos (Same accommodation)
Returning to your base after exploring the northern neighborhoods
Visit Prado Park's rose garden between November and March when roses are in full bloom
Day 7 Budget: $55-75
8
Midpoint Relaxation & Markets
Pocitos and Punta Carretas
Take a slower pace at the midpoint of your trip with beach time, market browsing, and neighborhood exploration.
Morning
Leisurely beach morning
Enjoy a relaxed morning at Pocitos Beach. Rent a beach chair, take a swim if weather permits, or simply walk the sand collecting shells and watching surfers. Purchase a mate gourd from a beachfront vendor if you haven't already, and observe the social ritual as locals pass the shared drink in circles. The beach scene is unhurried and friendly, embodying Montevideo's laid-back coastal culture.
Lunch
A beachside restaurant specializing in fresh fish and seafood
Afternoon
Punta Carretas neighborhood and shopping center
Explore the upscale Punta Carretas neighborhood, walking past beautiful early 20th-century homes and tree-lined streets. Visit the Punta Carretas Shopping Center, built inside a former prison, which offers an interesting architectural contrast. Browse local boutiques, artisan shops, and the Sunday feria (street market) if your timing aligns. The neighborhood has a sophisticated, residential character distinct from tourist areas.
Evening
Sunset and casual dining
Watch the sunset from the Rambla with a mate in hand, then enjoy a casual dinner at a neighborhood pizzeria or pasta restaurant reflecting Uruguay's Italian heritage
Where to Stay Tonight
Punta Carretas or Pocitos (Same accommodation)
Enjoying the comfortable beachfront base
Sunday mornings feature neighborhood ferias (street markets) throughout Montevideo where you can find fresh produce, artisan goods, and local food
Day 8 Budget: $60-80
9
Central Squares & Urban Life
Centro and Cordón
Experience Montevideo's bustling central districts where business, culture, and daily urban life intersect.
Morning
Juan Pedro Fabini Square and surrounding area
Visit this central square, also known as Plaza del Entrevero, featuring an impressive sculptural monument depicting gauchos and indigenous people in dynamic combat. The bronze sculpture is one of Montevideo's most photographed monuments. The square sits at the edge of Ciudad Vieja where the old town meets the modern city center. Explore the surrounding streets filled with shops, cafés, and the energy of downtown Montevideo.
Lunch
A downtown café popular with office workers serving set lunch menus
Afternoon
Exploring Centro and Cordón neighborhoods
Walk through the Centro district, observing the mix of Art Deco buildings, modern offices, and street vendors. Continue to the bohemian Cordón neighborhood, known for its cultural venues, independent bookstores, and artistic atmosphere. Visit small galleries, browse secondhand bookshops, and discover neighborhood cafés where students and artists gather. These working neighborhoods show contemporary Montevideo beyond tourist sites.
Evening
Teatro Solís area and dinner
Walk past the Teatro Solís, Uruguay's oldest and most prestigious theater with stunning neoclassical architecture. Even if not attending a performance, admire the exterior. Enjoy dinner at an elegant restaurant nearby
Where to Stay Tonight
Punta Carretas or Pocitos (Same accommodation)
Returning to your beachfront base
Downtown streets are lively during business hours but quiet at night; plan central activities for daytime
Day 9 Budget: $55-75
10
Hidden Gems & Local Haunts
Parque Rodó and Palermo
Discover lesser-known spots and experience Montevideo's authentic neighborhood culture.
Morning
Kibón Hill and La Macarena
Visit Kibón Hill, a small elevated area offering pleasant views and a peaceful atmosphere away from major tourist circuits. Explore the surrounding residential streets and discover La Macarena, a local landmark area. These lesser-visited spots provide insight into everyday Montevideo life, where neighbors chat on corners and children play in small plazas. The authentic neighborhood character offers a different perspective from monumental attractions.
Lunch
A neighborhood bodegón serving traditional Uruguayan dishes at communal tables
Afternoon
Palermo neighborhood exploration
Explore Palermo, a residential neighborhood with tree-lined streets, local markets, and authentic barrio atmosphere. Visit small plazas where elderly residents play cards and mothers push strollers. Browse neighborhood shops selling everyday goods rather than tourist souvenirs. Stop at a traditional confitería (café-bakery) for coffee and pastries. This unpolished, genuine area shows how most montevideanos actually live.
Evening
Local parilla experience
Dine at a neighborhood parrilla frequented by locals rather than tourists, enjoying excellent grilled meats at lower prices. Ask your server for wine recommendations from small Uruguayan producers
Where to Stay Tonight
Punta Carretas or Pocitos (Same accommodation)
Continuing from your established base
Learn basic Spanish phrases; in residential neighborhoods, English is less commonly spoken than in tourist areas
Day 10 Budget: $50-70
11
Revisiting Favorites & New Discoveries
Your choice
Use this flexible day to revisit attractions you loved, explore areas you missed, or simply relax.
Morning
Return to favorite spot or explore missed neighborhood
With eleven days of exploration behind you, spend this morning revisiting a favorite museum, park, or neighborhood. Perhaps return to Parque Rodó for a more leisurely visit, explore streets in Ciudad Vieja you missed, or discover a new neighborhood like Tres Cruces or Villa Dolores. Alternatively, simply enjoy a slow morning at a café, writing postcards and reflecting on your experiences.
Lunch
Try a cuisine you haven't experienced yet, perhaps at a contemporary fusion restaurant
Afternoon
Shopping for souvenirs and local products
Visit artisan markets, leather goods shops, and specialty stores to purchase souvenirs. Look for Uruguayan wool products, mate gourds and bombillas, dulce de leche, local wines, and handicrafts. The Sunday feria at Tristán Narvaja (if timing works) offers antiques and collectibles. Support local artisans by purchasing handmade items rather than mass-produced tourist goods.
Evening
Special dinner
Enjoy a memorable dinner at one of Montevideo's acclaimed restaurants, perhaps trying innovative Uruguayan cuisine that reinterprets traditional dishes with modern techniques
Where to Stay Tonight
Punta Carretas or Pocitos (Same accommodation)
Final nights in your comfortable base
Uruguayan leather goods are excellent quality and more affordable than in Europe or North America
Day 11 Budget: $75-100
12
Coastal Exploration
Eastern beaches and Carrasco
Venture along the coast to explore upscale neighborhoods and beaches beyond the city center.
Morning
Rambla walk toward Carrasco
Take a bus or taxi east along the coast to the elegant Carrasco neighborhood. Walk the Rambla through this upscale area, passing beautiful beaches, the historic Casino Carrasco building (now a hotel), and impressive mansions. The neighborhood has a refined, resort-like atmosphere. The beaches are wider and less crowded than Pocitos, with golden sand and calm waters. Observe the architectural contrast between different eras.
Lunch
An upscale beachfront restaurant in Carrasco serving international cuisine
Afternoon
Beach time and coastal walk
Spend the afternoon relaxing on Carrasco Beach or walking the coastal path. The eastern beaches offer a different atmosphere from central Pocitos—more spacious, quieter, and favored by Montevideo's wealthy residents. Watch windsurfers and kitesurfers taking advantage of the Atlantic breezes. The Rambla continues uninterrupted, making for excellent walking or cycling with ocean views throughout.
Evening
Return to Pocitos for final evenings
Head back to your neighborhood for a relaxed dinner at a favorite spot you've discovered during your stay. Reflect on your two weeks exploring Uruguay's capital
Where to Stay Tonight
Punta Carretas or Pocitos (Same accommodation)
Final nights before departure
The 121 bus route runs along the entire Rambla, offering an inexpensive scenic tour of the coastline
Day 12 Budget: $70-95
13
Final Experiences & Relaxation
Pocitos and surrounding areas
Savor your last full day with favorite activities, final photos, and soaking in Montevideo's atmosphere.
Morning
Final Rambla walk and Montevideo sign photos
Take a final morning walk along the Rambla, perhaps timing it to catch the sunrise over the Río de la Plata. Visit the Montevideo sign for last photos, reflecting on how your understanding of the city has deepened over two weeks. Watch the morning joggers, cyclists, and mate-drinkers engaged in their daily rituals. Purchase any final items from beachfront vendors selling mate accessories, jewelry, or local crafts.
Lunch
Return to your favorite restaurant for a final taste of a beloved dish
Afternoon
Leisurely park time or final museum visit
Spend your final afternoon in Parque Jose Enrique Rodó or another favorite green space, reading, people-watching, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Alternatively, revisit a museum that particularly resonated with you for a deeper second look. Pack your souvenirs carefully and prepare for departure while leaving time to simply be present in the city you've come to know.
Evening
Farewell dinner
Enjoy a special farewell dinner at a parrilla or restaurant with Rambla views. Toast your Montevideo adventure with a glass of Tannat, Uruguay's signature wine. Consider dining early to allow time for a final sunset walk
Where to Stay Tonight
Punta Carretas or Pocitos (Same accommodation)
Final night before departure
Pack your mate gourd in checked luggage, not carry-on, as the bombilla (metal straw) may be confiscated at security
Day 13 Budget: $70-90
14
Departure Day
Pocitos to Airport
Final morning in Montevideo before departing with memories of Uruguay's charming coastal capital.
Morning
Leisurely breakfast and final neighborhood walk
Enjoy a final breakfast at a neighborhood café, savoring Uruguayan coffee and medialunas (croissants). Take a last walk through your neighborhood, saying mental goodbyes to streets that have become familiar. If time permits before your flight, make one final stop at the beach or a favorite plaza. Reflect on how Montevideo's unhurried pace and genuine character have provided a different South American experience.
Lunch
Light meal at airport or grab empanadas to go
Afternoon
Airport transfer and departure
Take a taxi or bus to Carrasco International Airport, allowing extra time for check-in. The airport is modern and manageable. Browse duty-free shops for last-minute Uruguayan products like dulce de leche or wine. As you depart, you'll carry memories of a city that revealed itself slowly—its elegant architecture, expansive parks, genuine neighborhoods, and the simple pleasure of watching the Río de la Plata at sunset.
Book airport transfer the night before or have your accommodation arrange it
Evening
Departure
Depart Montevideo with a deeper appreciation for Uruguay's understated charm and quality of life
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (Departure day)
End of journey
Arrive at the airport 3 hours before international flights; security can be thorough despite the airport's small size
Day 14 Budget: $50-70
Practical Information
Getting Around
Montevideo is highly walkable, especially Ciudad Vieja, Centro, and beachfront neighborhoods. The city has an extensive bus system with routes covering all areas; purchase a rechargeable STM card at kiosks. Taxis are affordable and safe; use radio taxis or apps like Uber. The Rambla coastal promenade offers 22 kilometers of walking and cycling paths. Buses run frequently during the day but less so at night. For coastal exploration, the 121 bus follows the entire Rambla. Most attractions are accessible by public transport within 30-45 minutes.
Book Ahead
Most attractions don't require advance booking. Consider booking accommodation 2-3 weeks ahead, especially during summer (December-February) and carnival season (February-March). If interested in attending a performance at Teatro Solís, book tickets online in advance. Restaurant reservations are generally unnecessary except at high-end establishments on weekends.
Packing Essentials
Comfortable walking shoes for extensive pavement walking, layers for variable weather, sunscreen and hat for beach days, light rain jacket, casual smart attire for upscale restaurants, beach wear and towel, reusable water bottle, Spanish phrasebook or translation app, power adapter (Type C and F outlets), and consider purchasing a mate gourd locally as a functional souvenir
Total Budget
$840-1,260 for 14 days (excluding international flights and accommodation)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay in hostels in Ciudad Vieja or Pocitos ($15-25/night), eat at neighborhood bodegones and markets rather than restaurants, use buses exclusively instead of taxis, pack picnic lunches for park days, take advantage of free museum days (many offer free entry on certain days), buy groceries for some meals, and focus on free attractions like parks, plazas, and Rambla walks. Daily budget can reduce to $35-50.
Luxury Upgrade
Stay at boutique hotels in Carrasco or upscale Punta Carretas properties with Río de la Plata views, hire a private guide for customized city tours, dine at Montevideo's finest restaurants featuring innovative Uruguayan cuisine, arrange private wine tastings with Uruguayan sommeliers, book spa treatments at luxury hotels, take private transfers instead of buses, and consider day trips to Punta del Este or Colonia del Sacramento by private car. Daily budget increases to $200-300.
Family-Friendly
Focus on parks with playgrounds like Parque Rodó and Prado Park, spend more time at beaches with calm waters suitable for children, visit the vintage amusement park rides at Juegos del Parque Rodó, rent paddle boats at park lakes, choose accommodations with family rooms near beaches, eat at casual restaurants with outdoor seating, break up museum visits with gelato stops, and maintain a flexible schedule allowing for rest time and spontaneous play.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Montevideo