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Views & landmarks

lighthouse of Colonia

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lighthouse of Colonia

What It Is

Built in 1857, this lighthouse stands directly within the ruins of the 17th-century Convent of San Francisco Javier in the historic quarter. Travellers visit to climb the tower for elevated views over the colonial old town and the river.

Getting There

Located within the historic quarter, the site is an easy 10- to 15-minute walk west from the modern city centre and the ferry terminal.

Time to Allow

Allow roughly 30 to 45 minutes. This provides sufficient time to view the convent ruins at ground level, climb the interior staircase, and take in the surroundings from the top platform.

When to Visit

Late afternoon provides favorable light over the water. The viewing platform is small and gets crowded on weekends and during peak summer periods, which can cause lines at the stairs. Weekday mornings are generally quieter. Avoid climbing during heavy rain or strong winds due to the exposed deck.

Nearby Attractions

The compact layout of the district makes it straightforward to combine with several sights in the area:

  • Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento (0.2km)
  • Origami Museum (0.2km)
  • Isla San Gabriel (3.5km)
  • Faro Isla Farallón (6.2km)

Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

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Stays near lighthouse of Colonia

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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lighthouse of Colonia Nearby stays

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Itineraries including this place

2 nights, 3 days

Colonia del Sacramento 3-Day Itinerary (2 Nights)

A 3-day route through Colonia del Sacramento grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

3 nights, 4 days

Colonia del Sacramento 4-Day Itinerary (3 Nights)

A 4-day route through Colonia del Sacramento grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

Good to visit alongside

Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento, Colonia del Sacramento

Temples & religious sites

Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento, Colonia del Sacramento

This Roman Catholic church is located in Colonia del Sacramento. It's a peaceful stop to step into while wandering through the city.

0.2 km away
Origami Museum

Museums & galleries

Origami Museum

This museum in the old town of Colonia del Sacramento showcases the art of paper folding. Part of Uruguay's national museum network, it's a great pick for travelers seeking something unusual to see.

0.2 km away
Isla San Gabriel

Nature

Isla San Gabriel

This small island floats on the Río de la Plata near Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay. It's a great place to take in the quiet scenery along the river.

3.5 km away
Faro Isla Farallón

Views & landmarks

Faro Isla Farallón

A lighthouse on Farallón Island off the coast of Colonia del Sacramento, built in 1876. It offers a scenic view of the lighthouse set against the island.

6.2 km away
Isla Farallón

Nature

Isla Farallón

Isla Farallón is a small island in the Río de la Plata near Colonia del Sacramento, known for the lighthouse that watches over it. It offers a simple, striking view of a lone structure standing in the water, best admired from a distance.

6.2 km away
Arroyo Riachuelo

Nature

Arroyo Riachuelo

The Arroyo Riachuelo is a small stream near Colonia del Sacramento, with a cozy marina where yachts dock at its confluence with the Río de la Plata. Its tranquil waterside scenery, framed by lush woods, draws visitors out for boating and walks.

11.1 km away