Uruguay

Been here?

Uruguay is easy to explore from Montevideo, with day trips to nearby towns like Colonia del Sacramento. Punta del Este offers a different vibe as a beach resort.

Currency: UYU

Uruguay currency guide — today's rate & payment tips

Visa and entry rules change often. Check your government's travel advisory or the local embassy before you go.

Average temperature by month

Based on Montevideo · 5-year average

23° Jan

23° Feb

22° Mar

18° Apr

14° May

12° Jun

11° Jul

12° Aug

13° Sep

16° Oct

19° Nov

21° Dec

Choose a city

Map and place data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Montevideo

Montevideo is the capital of Uruguay and home to the country's largest trading port. With a population of over one million, it's Uruguay's largest city and serves as the main gateway for travelers.

43 sights 9 guides Carrasco International Airport (MVD)

Colonia del Sacramento

Colonia del Sacramento is a small town in southwestern Uruguay, home to a historic church, a lighthouse, and a handful of cozy museums. It's also a pleasant spot for a quiet escape to nearby islands.

7 sights 9 guides Carrasco General Cesáreo L. Berisso International Airport

Salto

Salto is the capital of Uruguay's Salto Department in the west of the country and its second-largest city after the capital, Montevideo. It borders Argentina and is also known as the hometown of football star Luis Suárez.

11 sights 9 guides Carrasco General Cesáreo L. Berisso International Airport

Punta del Este

Punta del Este is a resort town on the Atlantic coast of Maldonado Department in southeastern Uruguay. It is well known for drawing large numbers of tourists to its beautiful beaches.

10 sights 9 guides Carrasco International Airport (MVD)

Top sights in Uruguay

Temples & religious sites

Metropolitan Basilica Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and San Felipe and Santiago

This is the cathedral of the Archdiocese of Montevideo, facing the city hall across Constitución Square. It's located in the old town of Ciudad Vieja, making it easy to explore on foot.

Temples & religious sites

Roman Catholic Diocese of Salto

The seat of the Roman Catholic diocese in Salto, Uruguay, centered around Salto Cathedral. Since its founding in 1897, it has served as the religious center of the surrounding region.

Views & landmarks

Palacio Salvo

This distinctive 27-story building stands in front of Plaza Independencia in Montevideo. When completed in 1928, it was known as the tallest reinforced concrete building in the world.

Parks & gardens

Plaza Independencia

A square in the heart of Montevideo, Uruguay. It's a pleasant place for a relaxed stroll to take in the city's atmosphere.

Culture & venues

Solis Theatre

A theatre in the old town of Montevideo, Uruguay, next to Plaza Independencia. Opened in 1856, it is regarded as Uruguay's finest theatre.

Museums & galleries

National Museum of Visual Arts

An art museum opened in 1911, located within Parque Rodó in Montevideo. It's a great spot to enjoy Uruguayan art alongside a walk through the park.

Views & landmarks

Telecommunications Tower

This 157-meter, 35-story telecommunications tower stands in Montevideo. Visible from many points around the city, it's a landmark that symbolizes Montevideo.

Nature

Gorriti Island

This small island lies just off the coast of Punta del Este, Uruguay. Its proximity to shore makes it easy to visit for a quick look around.