Montevideo, Uruguay
The perfect 7 days itinerary
Montevideo, the capital city of Uruguay, is a vibrant, eclectic place with a rich cultural life. Stretching nearly 20km from east to west, the city wears many faces, from its industrial port to the exclusive residential suburb of Carrasco near the airport. In the historic downtown business district, art deco and neoclassical buildings jostle for space alongside grimy, worn-out skyscrapers that appear airlifted from Havana or Ceaușescu's Romania, while across town the shopping malls and modern high-rises of beach communities like Punta Carretas and Pocitos bear more resemblance to Miami or Copacabana.
What to do in Montevideo?
This 7 days itinerary is the perfect guide to the best things to see in Montevideo. It includes day-by-day activities, travel tips, and the top places to visit.
Day 1: Discover the Old City
Morning
Start your day with a visit to Ciudad Vieja, the old town of Montevideo. Explore the Plaza Independencia, the main square of the city, and visit the Solis Theatre, one of the oldest in South America.
Afternoon
Visit the Mercado del Puerto, a bustling market filled with restaurants, shops, and street performers. Try the traditional 'asado', a type of barbecue, and 'chivito', a steak sandwich.
Evening
Stroll along the Rambla, a long seaside avenue, and enjoy the sunset over the Rio de la Plata.
Day 2: Explore the Art and Culture
Morning
Visit the National Museum of Visual Arts, home to a vast collection of Uruguayan art. Then, head to the Rodo Park, a beautiful green space with a lake, a castle, and an amusement park.
Afternoon
Explore the Pocitos neighborhood, known for its beach, high-rise apartments, and shopping centers. Visit the Punta Carretas Shopping, a mall located in a former prison.
Evening
Enjoy a traditional 'milonga', a social event for tango dancing, at one of the local dance halls.
Day 3: A Day of Leisure and Shopping
Morning
Visit the Feria de Tristan Narvaja, a Sunday market where you can find everything from antiques and books to pets and plants. Then, take a walk along the Montevideo boardwalk, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Afternoon
Head to the Carrasco neighborhood, known for its luxurious houses and the Sofitel Casino Carrasco. Visit the Carrasco Beach, one of the most beautiful in the city.
Evening
Dine at one of the upscale restaurants in the Buceo Harbor, a modern marina with a variety of dining options.
Day 4: Experience the Local Cuisine
Morning
Visit the Mercado Agricola Montevideo (MAM), a large indoor market with a variety of food stalls and shops. Try the 'mate', a traditional South American drink, and the 'pastel de carne', a meat pie.
Afternoon
Take a cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional Uruguayan dishes. Visit the Tres Cruces neighborhood and explore its shops and restaurants.
Evening
Enjoy a wine tasting at one of the local wineries and learn about the Tannat grape, Uruguay's national grape.
Day 5: Explore the Outdoors
Morning
Visit the Botanical Garden, home to a variety of plant species from around the world. Then, head to the Prado, a large park with beautiful gardens, monuments, and museums.
Afternoon
Take a bike tour of the city and explore its different neighborhoods. Visit the Palacio Legislativo, the seat of the Uruguayan government.
Evening
Enjoy a picnic in the Parque Batlle, a large park with sports facilities and monuments.
Day 6: Discover the Local Music Scene
Morning
Visit the Museo del Carnaval, dedicated to the history of the Uruguayan carnival. Then, explore the Barrio Sur, known for its Afro-Uruguayan culture and music.
Afternoon
Take a 'candombe' drumming class, a traditional Afro-Uruguayan music style. Visit the Palermo neighborhood and explore its music shops and record stores.
Evening
Attend a live music performance at one of the local bars or music halls.
Day 7: Relax and Unwind
Morning
Visit the Parque Rodó, a large park with a lake, a castle, and an amusement park. Take a boat ride on the lake or simply relax in the beautiful surroundings.
Afternoon
Visit the Punta Carretas Lighthouse, a historic lighthouse with panoramic views of the city. Take a walk along the Rambla and enjoy the sea breeze.
Evening
Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the city's top restaurants and reflect on your wonderful week in Montevideo.
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3 days