Bucket List: Top 12 Best things to see and do in Montevideo, Uruguay

Montevideo is the capital and largest city in Uruguay, famous to tourists for its relaxing city vibes. It is also one of the safest capitals to visit in Latin America, featuring many parks and historical buildings. So if you are looking for the best things to do in Montevideo, Uruguay, there are loads of choices, such as lounging at Rambla or trying out the local cuisine at Mercado del Puerto.

To add up to your to-do list, here are the top 10 best things to do in Montevideo, Uruguay.

Plaza Independencia

Topping on this list is the most important plaza of Montevideo, the Plaza Independencia. It features a great view of the urbanized town and has the Artigas Mausoleum dedicated to José Gervasio Artigas, an Uruguayan hero. The plaza should be the first stop for any tourists where several historical buildings rest.

Rambla Montevideo

For cycling and afternoon walks, the Rambla of Montevideo is the perfect spot to enjoy the town’s coastline. The avenue is the longest continuous sidewalk across the globe, measuring 22.2 meters long, starting from Río de la Plata down to Montevideo’s coast. On the southern part of the bay, there are various activities to enjoy, such as fishing, sunbathing, and skateboarding.

Mercado del Puerto

Situated along the coastline of Montevideo, the Mercado del Puerto is a massive 19th-century old port market that used to sell meat and produce goods. The old market is now a social hub where local restaurants and bars gather and a food heaven for meat and barbecue lovers.

Teatro Solís

Known as the most notable and historical theater in Uruguay, the Teatro Solís opened in 1856. The theater was designed by Carlo Zucchi, an Italian architect, and located beside Plaza Independencia. It features a 150-seating capacity and holds opera, ballet, concerts, and plays.

Juan Manuel Blanes Museum

Also known as Juan Manuel Blanes Municipal Museum of the Arts, situated in Prado, offers free entry. It is a recommended place for art enthusiasts exhibiting old and new generation Uruguan artworks. The museum also has a massive park with ancient trees and a Japanese Garden.

Pocitos

A must-visit for beach lovers, the Pocitos is a high-end beach neighborhood in Montevideo. It is also the most visited destination for tourists spending their summer in Uruguay. There are loads of activities in Pocitos, such as visiting historical buildings or drinking the traditional tea Yerba Maté.

Fortaleza Del Cerro

Constructed in 1802, the Fortaleza del Cerro is considered the last Spanish fort built in Uruguay and is now a famous tourist attraction. The fortress used to serve as Montevideo’s defense and has been serving as a military museum since 1916. Today the museum exhibits the town’s deep history and offers a great view of Montevideo.

Prado Park

Established in 1873, Prado Park is the perfect place for family gatherings and spending time with the kids. The park is also the largest public park in Montevideo, measuring 106 hectares. Some of the park features include Botanical Gardens, Presidential Residence, and a rose garden.

Feria de Tristán Narvaja

If you are visiting Montevideo on weekends, don’t miss the chance to experience Montevideo’s flea market at Feria de Tristán Narvaja. The traditional street market is held every Sunday from morning until the afternoon and is a must-visit for tourists looking for unique find souvenirs. Some of the goods sold on the market include books, antiques, and local foods.

Contemporary Art Space

Another recommended place to enjoy art and history, the Contemporary Art Space, is an interesting museum in Montevideo housed on a century-old structure. The museum is located at a 102-year old fortress known as the Miguelete prison and now exhibits artworks on each cell for different artists.

References

• Bocco, (2019), 12 Top-Rated Things to Do in Montevideo, Planetware
• Reininger, (2017), The Top 10 Things To See And Do In Montevideo, Uruguay, Culture Trip

Our Top Hotel Picks for Montevideo

• Hotel Sofitel Montevideo Casino Carrasco and Spa – This French-inspired casino hotel is located in an elevated area overlooking the waterfront. The property is a 2-minute walk from the beach and around 3 kilometers from Plaza Virgilio Park.
• Hyatt Centric Montevideo – Set in the upscale Pocitos neighborhood, this polished hotel is across from the riverfront of Río de la Plata and a 9-minute walk from Los Pocitos beach.

Searching for the best hotels, resorts, tour packages, and affordable flights in Montevideo and nearby cities? Check out our list of cheap Montevideo hotels and resorts via Agoda and Booking.

Montevideo Travel and Tour Packages

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