Montevideo Uruguay 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Old Town Montevideo

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start the day at the iconic Plaza Independencia, a historic square surrounded by colonial-era buildings.
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the nearby Palacio Legislativo, an impressive government palace with beautiful architecture and gardens. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and significance.

Lunch

  • Head to El Mesón, a cozy restaurant in the Old Town serving traditional Uruguayan cuisine, including juicy steak and fresh seafood.
  • Alternatively, try Café Bar El Prócer, a charming café with delicious sandwiches and pastries.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Explore the lively Pocitos neighborhood, known for its trendy shops, cafes, and street art. Get lost in the narrow streets and discover local gems.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Cementerio Británico, a beautiful cemetery that’s home to notable Uruguayan personalities, including writer Juan Carlos Onetti.

Dinner

  • Enjoy dinner at La Huella, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering creative, farm-to-table cuisine. Make sure to reserve ahead of time.
  • Alternatively, try La Estación, a popular spot for traditional Uruguayan dishes and live music.

Nightlife

  • 9:00 PM: Head to the Pocitos neighborhood again, this time for its vibrant nightlife scene. Enjoy cocktails at El Gallo, a stylish bar with a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Alternatively, visit La Barraca, a lively spot for live music and dancing.

Day 2: Modern Montevideo

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Barrio Malvinas, a trendy neighborhood with a mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Check out the popular Plaza Malvinas, a bustling square with a beautiful fountain.
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the Museo Blanes de Arte Moderno, a modern art museum featuring an impressive collection of Uruguayan and international artists.

Lunch

  • Try La Casa del Pescado, a popular spot for fresh seafood and traditional dishes.
  • Alternatively, visit El Charrúa, a cozy restaurant serving creative cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Visit the Parque Batlle, a beautiful urban park with walking trails, gardens, and a lake. Rent a bike or take a leisurely stroll.
  • 3:00 PM: Explore the Mercado de Artesanías y Artistas, a market showcasing local crafts, artwork, and souvenirs.

Dinner

  • Enjoy dinner at Don Pepe, a popular spot for traditional Uruguayan cuisine and live music.
  • Alternatively, try Bistró Lazzarotto, a cozy restaurant serving creative cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.

Accommodation

  • Consider staying in the trendy Pocitos neighborhood, which offers a range of accommodations from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Some popular options include:
    • Hostal La Fuente: A charming hostel with comfortable rooms and a relaxed atmosphere.
    • Hotel Pocitos: A stylish hotel with modern amenities and a great location.

Transportation

  • Montevideo has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and taxis. You can also walk or bike around the city, as it’s relatively compact.
  • Consider purchasing a Tarjeta Urbana, a prepaid card that allows you to travel on buses and trains.

Tips and Essentials

  • Uruguay is generally a safe country, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • Try to learn some basic Spanish phrases to interact with locals and enhance your experience.
  • Don’t forget to try the local cuisine, which includes delicious steak, seafood, and traditional dishes like chivito and fainá.
  • Be prepared for variable weather, as Montevideo can be hot in summer and cool in winter.

Other Attractions

  • Consider visiting the Fortaleza del Cerro, a historic fort with stunning views of the city.
  • Explore the Barrio Sur, a charming neighborhood with a mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants.
  • Visit the Museo de Historia Natural, a museum featuring an impressive collection of natural history specimens.

I hope you enjoy your trip to Montevideo!