Undiscovered Uruguay: Art & Architecture
Where pristine beaches and natural wonders meet fascinating museums and urban culture
Vacationing in Uruguay means bright blue ocean views, strolls down colonial cobblestone streets, wine tastings, and famous art museums. If you're a lover of art, food, wine, architecture, and all things culture, you've found your ideal vacation! Stay in bustling Montevideo, charming Colonia del Sacramento, and the paradise of Punta del Este, and get ready to experience the best of Uruguay, from its natural wonders to its artsy urban feel.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Montevideo (MVD)
- All airport and inter-city transfers
- 3 nights in Montevideo at the Own Hotel Montevideo or similar
- Montevideo city tour including indoor visit of the Congress Building, with lunch
- Visits to the Torres Garcia Museum and the Museum of Decorative Arts Taranco Palace
- Visit to Piripolis and Casapueblo (en-route from Montevideo to Punta del Este)
- 2 nights in Punta del Este at the Atlantico Boutique Hotel, or similar
- Panoramic City Tour of Punta del Este, with Ralli Museum and Pablo Atchugarry Foundation (4 hours)
- Visit to Salvo Palace & the Solis Theater (2.5 hours)
- 1 night in Montevideo at the Own Hotel Montevideo, or similar
- 1 night in Colonia del Sacramento at the Hotel Posada Don Antonio, or similar
- Colonia del Sacramento City Tour, with lunch
- Visit to Juanico Winery, with wine tasting and lunch
- 1 night in Montevideo at the Own Hotel Montevideo, or similar
- Breakfast Daily
Great Ways to Explore
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Treat yourself to some tasty Uruguayan favorites: Asado, Chivito, Pascualina, Milenesa, and many others.
- Enjoy tours of Uruguay's most famous art museums!
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Snack, sip, and swirl during your included visit to a beautiful winery.
-
Travel back in time during your stay in the Colonia del Sacramento - a UNESCO World Heritage site!
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Take advantage of your included city tours - what better way to get to know Uruguay's main hubs?
Discover one of South America's best kept secrets - Uruguay! Boasting bright blue coastlines, untouched beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cities, Uruguay is packed with culture, art, architecture, and natural beauty around every corner. Embark on this unique journey, on which you'll visit famous museums, buildings, wineries, and more. Snap tons of incredible pictures, see your favorite masterpieces up-close, and sip the day away at a gorgeous winery! Art, beaches, food, and wine - what could be better?
Your vacation will start in magnificent Montevideo, Uruguay's bustling capital, which boasts a perfect balance of historical buildings and innovative modern architecture. Take a walk along Rambla, the city's waterfront promenade, and immerse yourself in the richness of this fantastic cultural hub.
Next stop? Picturesque Punta del Este , a glittery resort area known for its miles of postcard-worthy beaches and vibrant nightlife. There, you'll visit fascinating museums, explore historic palaces and theaters, and of course, relax on the beach.
Last, but certainly not least, is Colonia del Sacramento. Upon arrival in this charming UNESCO-recognized town, you'll feel like you've completely traveled back in time! Admire the colorful, colonial style, influenced by both Portuguese and Spanish settlers. Stroll along old, cobblestone pathways, take pictures on a tour of the town's iconic sights, and enjoy the ride out to a beautiful winery in nearby Juanico.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Montevideo (MVD)
- All airport and inter-city transfers
- 3 nights in Montevideo at the Own Hotel Montevideo or similar
- Montevideo city tour including indoor visit of the Congress Building, with lunch
- Visits to the Torres Garcia Museum and the Museum of Decorative Arts Taranco Palace
- Visit to Piripolis and Casapueblo (en-route from Montevideo to Punta del Este)
- 2 nights in Punta del Este at the Atlantico Boutique Hotel, or similar
- Panoramic City Tour of Punta del Este, with Ralli Museum and Pablo Atchugarry Foundation (4 hours)
- Visit to Salvo Palace & the Solis Theater (2.5 hours)
- 1 night in Montevideo at the Own Hotel Montevideo, or similar
- 1 night in Colonia del Sacramento at the Hotel Posada Don Antonio, or similar
- Colonia del Sacramento City Tour, with lunch
- Visit to Juanico Winery, with wine tasting and lunch
- 1 night in Montevideo at the Own Hotel Montevideo, or similar
- Breakfast Daily
-
Treat yourself to some tasty Uruguayan favorites: Asado, Chivito, Pascualina, Milenesa, and many others.
- Enjoy tours of Uruguay's most famous art museums!
-
Snack, sip, and swirl during your included visit to a beautiful winery.
-
Travel back in time during your stay in the Colonia del Sacramento - a UNESCO World Heritage site!
-
Take advantage of your included city tours - what better way to get to know Uruguay's main hubs?
Discover one of South America's best kept secrets - Uruguay! Boasting bright blue coastlines, untouched beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cities, Uruguay is packed with culture, art, architecture, and natural beauty around every corner. Embark on this unique journey, on which you'll visit famous museums, buildings, wineries, and more. Snap tons of incredible pictures, see your favorite masterpieces up-close, and sip the day away at a gorgeous winery! Art, beaches, food, and wine - what could be better?
Your vacation will start in magnificent Montevideo, Uruguay's bustling capital, which boasts a perfect balance of historical buildings and innovative modern architecture. Take a walk along Rambla, the city's waterfront promenade, and immerse yourself in the richness of this fantastic cultural hub.
Next stop? Picturesque Punta del Este , a glittery resort area known for its miles of postcard-worthy beaches and vibrant nightlife. There, you'll visit fascinating museums, explore historic palaces and theaters, and of course, relax on the beach.
Last, but certainly not least, is Colonia del Sacramento. Upon arrival in this charming UNESCO-recognized town, you'll feel like you've completely traveled back in time! Admire the colorful, colonial style, influenced by both Portuguese and Spanish settlers. Stroll along old, cobblestone pathways, take pictures on a tour of the town's iconic sights, and enjoy the ride out to a beautiful winery in nearby Juanico.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
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Day 1. Welcome to Montevideo!
Arrive in magical Montevideo, Uruguay's beautiful capital that boasts a unique blend of gorgeous coastal views, art deco architecture, colonial homes, and contemporary modernity. Become immediately immersed in this port city's rich culture and vibrant spirit. Upon arrival, enjoy a convenient transfer to your first accommodation and check-in.
Once you're all settled, begin exploring the city! You might want to head to Rambla, Montevideo's waterfront promenade, and watch a beyond-gorgeous sunset. Treat yourself to your first Uruguayan dinner and unwind with a well-deserved cocktail.
Transfer from Montevideo airport (MVD) to Montevideo hotel
Check-in - Hotel Own Montevideo
This beautiful hotel is set upon a pretty tree-lined street overlooking the scenic Club de Golf del Uruguay. An outdoor rooftop pool with incredible city views is available for guests seasonally, while the on-site delicious French restaurant is open year-round and features a beautiful terrace. Other features of the hotel include a 24-hour front desk and bike rentals.
Guest rooms at the hotel are comfortably decorated with a flat-screen TV, iPod docking station, minibar, and more. Complimentary Wi-Fi and air-conditioning are also available.
Hotel Own Montevideo is well-located just about a 5 minutes' walk to the bus stop, La Plata River, and Oceanside Boulevard. Both Cagancha Square and Independence Square are within 2.5 miles as well. There are many beaches nearby, while the closest airport is Carrasco International Airport about 10 minutes away. A wonderful location, amenities, and hospitality make Hotel Own Montevideo a great choice for a hotel in Uruguay.
Day 2. Montevideo
Refuel with a delicious breakfast, then grab your camera and get ready for a day of fun! Embark on a 6-hour tour of Montevideo, including an indoor visit to Uruguay's famous Congress Building! See central markets, gorgeous parks and beaches, soccer stadiums, and much more.Â
Montevideo City Tour Including Indoor Visit of the Congress Building with Lunch
Get ready to explore the magnificent city of Montevideo! First stop - the historic center. Walk through the old part of the city and visit Consitution Square, the Cathedral, and the Colonial Town Hall. From there, you'll walk to the Solis Theatre, where Carlos Gardel used to tango! Then, head to Independence Square, where you'll see the monument dedicated to national hero Jose Gervasio Artigas.
You'll then continue on to the Uruguayan Congress Building! This massive building is the pride of Uruguay. Admire the beauty of this amazing building, constructed between 1908 and 1925, with local marble consisting of 52 colors and 12 types of wood! Look around inside, then continue on to the recently opened Mercade Agricola Montevideo. This renovated Central Farmers Market is the first retail mall specializing in the sale of non-perishable food and fresh local produce!
Pass the Obelisk and continue on to Batlle & Ordonez Park. Visit the Centenario Soccer Stadium, where the very first World Cup final was played in 1930 - yes, won by Uruguay! Become immersed in soccer culture during this cool leg of the tour.
Drive to Pocitos Beach, where you will stroll along the beach promenade, then wander around Ramirez Beach and Parque Rodo. Act like a local and try some mate and bizcochos on the rambla!
Your last stop will be the famous Mercado del Puerto, the port market of Montevideo, where you'll enjoy a typical Uruguayan lunch. Sip on a glass of the famous "medio-medio," a mix of white wine and sparkling wine - cheers to an awesome vacation in Uruguay!
Day 3. Montevideo
Become immersed in Uruguayan art today! Enjoy visits to the Torres Garcia Museum and the Museum of Decoartive Arts Taranco Palace. See famous works of art and stunning paintings and sculptures up-close!
Visits to the Torres Garcia Museum and the Museum of Decorative Arts Taranco Palace
Visit the Torres Garcia Museum, housing the works of one of Uruguay's best-known artists! Joaquin Torres Garcia was a Uruguayan plastic artist and art theorist, also known as the founder of Constructive Universalism. During your visit, you'll even receive a small gift from the artist.
After that, you'll continue to the breathtaking Palacio Taranco, located in the heart of Montevideo at the Plaza Zabala. Notice French style architecture, interesting collections of classical art, fascinating archaeology, and a collection of textiles. This building hosts the Museum of Decorate Arts of Montevideo, containing paintings, sculptures, textiles, ornaments, and European furniture.
Day 4. Montevideo - Punta del Este
After breakfast, you'll be on your merry way to Punta del Este! En-route, enjoy visits to the breathtaking coastal city of Piriapolis and the interesting Museum Casa Pueblo.Â
Once you've taken tons of photos and seen fascinating art and architecture, arrive in Punta del Este and check-in to your next accommodation. This area is filled with pristine beaches, upscale restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, so waste no time - get out and explore!
Transfer from Montevideo hotel to Punta del Este hotel
Check-in - Atlantico Boutique Hotel
Feel the beach vibe while staying at the Atlantico Boutique Hotel, which is just a 10-minute walk from the beach and has a comfortable nautical atmosphere. The lighthouse is just a block away, the Punta del Este's harbor is 650 feet away, and chic shops and cosy cafes are three blocks away.
Guests can enjoy the garden overlooking the pool, indulge in a buffet breakfast served up at the bar, and rent bikes to take around town. Rooms provide free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a minibar, cable TV, and a private bathroom. The area is excellently suited for coastal and beach walks, and is only 12 miles away from the Laguna del Sauce International Airport.
Visit to Piriapolis and Casapuebleo (en-route from Montevideo to Punta del Este)
Enjoy a visit to picture-perfect Piriapolis, a coastal city located 19 miles from Punta del Este. This charming city, built during the time of the "belle epoque," has the look and feel of Europe's Côte de Azur. It was even the first swimming resort in Uruguay!
Check out the Argentino Hotel, which was built in 1930 and represents the spirit of that lively, unique era. During that time, the Argentino was considered the most luxurious hotel in South America! Step into the lobby and travel back in time. Notice elegant furniture, art nouveau decor, and more. Your next stop will be at Portezuelo and Punta Ballena... take about sweeping coastal views! Snap some unreal photos, then visit the Museum Casa Pueblo, home and atelier of the famous Uruguayan artist Carlos Paez Vilaro.
This dazzling white complex boasts unique Spanish-Moroccan architecture, and is situated on a rocky cliff overlooking the bright blue ocean. Inside the building, follow the narrow steps up to a maze of rooms scattered on different levels, filled with the artist's work!
Day 5. Punta del Este
Not only will you enjoy a scenic city tour of Punta del Este today, you'll also visit two of the area's most beloved art museums! Feast your eyes on famous works at the Ralli Museum and the Pablo Atchugarry Foundation. Walk through statue-laden gardens, see pieces by famous artists (did someone say Salvador Dali?), and feel your eyes widen at the buildings' impressive architecture!
Spend the evening relaxing on one of Punta del Este's sparkling beaches.
Panoramic City Tour of Punta del Este, with Ralli Museum and Pablo Atchugarry Foundation (4 hours)
Art fans, rejoice! Today, you'll have the opportunity to visit two of the area's most renowned museums, Ralli and Pablo Atchugarry Foundation! Before you arrive, enjoy a scenic drive through Punta del Este's most fashionable and trendy neighborhoods. Pass through the residential areas of Cantegril, San Rafael, Parque, and La Barra de Maldonado, known for its unique and undulated bridges.
Make your first stop at Ralli Museum of Contemporary Art, with its fine collection of paintings and sculptures by famous Latin American artists - including several pieces by Salvador Dali! Nest, visit the Pablo Atchugarry Foundation, a magnificent indoor and outdoor space that harmoniously blends art and nature. Gawk at large sculptures that line lush garden-like grounds - a truly relaxing, and fascinating, experience! Spend the remainder of the afternoon enjoying views of Punta del Este's awe-inspiring natural wonders.
Day 6. Punta del Este - Montevideo
Head back to good ole' Montevideo today! Upon arrival in the vibrant city, you'll enjoy visits to the breathtaking Salvo Palace and the impressive Solis Theater. Immerse yourself in culture and the arts at these iconic buildings!
Spend the rest of the evening discovering a new favorite restaurant in the Centro or El Prado neighborhood. Treat yourself to a delicious meal, then experience some vibrant nightlife!
Transfer from Punta del Este hotel to Montevideo hotel
Check-in - Hotel Own Montevideo
This beautiful hotel is set upon a pretty tree-lined street overlooking the scenic Club de Golf del Uruguay. An outdoor rooftop pool with incredible city views is available for guests seasonally, while the on-site delicious French restaurant is open year-round and features a beautiful terrace. Other features of the hotel include a 24-hour front desk and bike rentals.
Guest rooms at the hotel are comfortably decorated with a flat-screen TV, iPod docking station, minibar, and more. Complimentary Wi-Fi and air-conditioning are also available.
Hotel Own Montevideo is well-located just about a 5 minutes' walk to the bus stop, La Plata River, and Oceanside Boulevard. Both Cagancha Square and Independence Square are within 2.5 miles as well. There are many beaches nearby, while the closest airport is Carrasco International Airport about 10 minutes away. A wonderful location, amenities, and hospitality make Hotel Own Montevideo a great choice for a hotel in Uruguay.
Visit to Salvo Palace & The Solis Theater (2.5 hours)
Visit spectacular Salvo Palace, an iconic building located in the heart of Montevideo's Independence Square. This palace was originally built as a luxury hotel, but that project unfortunately failed. Today, it's home to mainly apartments and offices! Experience stunning views of Montevideo from the cupola, and listen to thrilling stories about the palace from your guide!
Just a few steps from the Salvo Palace, find the beautiful Solis Theater, built by Italian architect Carlo Zucchi. It opened way back in 1856 and currently stands as a centerpiece for cultural life and the arts in Montevideo, offering ballets, operas, concerts, and plays.
Day 7. Montevideo - Colonia del Sacramento
Recharge with a yummy breakfast, then journey off to charming Colonia del Sacramento! This quaint village-like city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is laden with history, colonial architecture, and Portuguese and Spanish influence. Enjoy a tour of the area, included lunch, and some free time on your own!
In the afternoon, settle into your next accommodation, and then spend the evening exploring.Â
Transfer from Montevideo hotel to Colonia hotel
Check-in - Hotel Posada Don Antonio
Enjoy the tranquility that comes from the colonial-style Posada Don Antonio Hotel. A red-tiled Spanish gallery overlooks the pool, which is surrounded by greenery. Wi-Fi is available in common areas, and the beach is just a 10-minute walk away. Guests can enjoy a full breakfast buffet, and take a guided tour through the historic Spanish district in Spanish, which is available every Saturday, without charge.
Rooms offer air conditioning, cable TV, and private bathrooms. With views over the terrace or pool, the hotel is just a 5-minute walk from the town's main square, and only a 10-minute walk from the Yatching Club. G Antonio Posada is also accessible by a 45-minute ferry ride.
Colonia del Sacramento city tour, with lunch
Stroll along the picturesque cobblestone streets of Uruguay's oldest city! Colonia del Sacramento, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its natural beauty and iconic monuments. Visit the famous "Calle de los Suspiros" (Street of Sighs), often used as scenery for historical films! This charming little town is right on the shore of the Rio de la Plata, and boasts both Portuguese and Spanish influence. After an in-depth tour of this picture-perfect area, you'll be treated to a delicious lunch - and some leisure time for souvenir shopping.
Day 8. Colonia del Sacramento - Montevideo
Mosey on to Montevideo, once again! Today, you'll feel extra spirited as you tour one of Uruguay's leading wineries! Enjoy a tour of the vineyards and cellar, sip and swirl during a tasting, then indulge in a delicious lunch.
Spend the rest of the evening enjoying your last night in Uruguay. In the late afternoon, treat yourself to a decadent last night dinner, then head to the beach for a picture-perfect sunset.Â
Transfer from Colonia hotel to Montevideo hotel
Check-in - Hotel Own Montevideo
This beautiful hotel is set upon a pretty tree-lined street overlooking the scenic Club de Golf del Uruguay. An outdoor rooftop pool with incredible city views is available for guests seasonally, while the on-site delicious French restaurant is open year-round and features a beautiful terrace. Other features of the hotel include a 24-hour front desk and bike rentals.
Guest rooms at the hotel are comfortably decorated with a flat-screen TV, iPod docking station, minibar, and more. Complimentary Wi-Fi and air-conditioning are also available.
Hotel Own Montevideo is well-located just about a 5 minutes' walk to the bus stop, La Plata River, and Oceanside Boulevard. Both Cagancha Square and Independence Square are within 2.5 miles as well. There are many beaches nearby, while the closest airport is Carrasco International Airport about 10 minutes away. A wonderful location, amenities, and hospitality make Hotel Own Montevideo a great choice for a hotel in Uruguay.
Visit to Juanico Winery, with wine tasting and lunch
Say "cheers" to an unforgettable visit to the Juanico winery, one of the leading wineries in Uruguay! This 1000 acre property has a capacity to process 1 million gallons of wine! The lush soil and miro-climate of Juanico Region has transformed this area into a renowned viticulture site. Today, the best classic varieties are grown using an intelligent canopy management system based on organic agriculture principles. Be on the lookout for the flagship Uruguayan variety, Tannat, a full-bodied red wine that has carved a niche for Uruguayan wines.
Upon arrival, enjoy a tour of the vineyards and the company's facilities, which are equipped with state-of-the-art processing machinery. Move on to the wine cellar, built in 1840! Sit back and relax with a plate of tasty meats, cheeses, and breads - it's wine tasting time! Sip some of the winery's top wines while you learn about them from oenologists. Last but not least, indulge in a delicious lunch - a perfect end to a perfect tour!
Day 9. Depart Uruguay
Squeeze all your souvenirs into your luggage and enjoy a comfortable transfer to the airport. Spend your flight home relaxing and dreaming about your next adventure.Â
Transfer from Montevideo hotel to Montevideo airport (MVD)
Fly home!
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Advertised vacation package prices are per person based on two people traveling together, unless otherwise noted. Advertised package rates are based on select departures as noted on the booking calendar above, were available via the Great Value Vacations website and may not represent current prices.
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