Montevideo is the vibrant capital of Uruguay, where colonial charm meets modern energy. Located on the sparkling shores of Río de la Plata, Montevideo is a dynamic metropolis that offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. The capital is home to nearly half of all Uruguayans. Of the population of 3.3 million inhabitants, 1.3 million are in Montevideo. It's a city highly appreciated by those who visit. It's also considered one of the safest South American cities. Visit Montevideo to immerse yourself in this culture rhythmed by the captivating sounds of candombe, a traditional music.

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1- Visit the city of Colonia del Sacramento

Category: Cultural

Description: About two hours' drive from Montevideo hides a gem worth visiting. The city of Colonia del Sacramento is a true jewel of Uruguay. It's a city founded by Portuguese colonists that returned to Uruguayan hands when they gained independence in 1828. The historic center of the city is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. First, you'll make stops in the surroundings of Colonia del Sacramento to visit Granja Arenas, a collector's museum where you can taste local jams, marmalades, local cheeses and more. Once you arrive in Colonia del Sacramento, your guide will take you to visit the different places of this charming city, including the arenas, the Plata river, the lighthouse... You won't miss anything of this remarkable city and you'll learn the rich history of this place during your visit.

2- Discover the Uruguayan vineyards

Category: Gastronomic

Description: You may not know this, but Uruguay is a wine producer. Uruguayan wine is not as renowned as that of Argentina or Chile, which together represent nearly 80% of South American wine, but Uruguayan wines are nevertheless good. Your guide can pick you up directly at your hotel to take you east of Montevideo, where the vineyards are located. The cellar owners will tour you through their domain, explaining all the different processes for making this wine. At the end of the visit to the two vineyards, you'll have a tasting of three wines, accompanied by cheese, charcuterie or empanadas (a small puff pastry turnover mainly filled with meat).

3- Attend a traditional show

Category: Gastronomic / Cultural

Description: Here's a great local activity that will immerse you in Uruguayan traditions. The shows take place Monday to Saturday starting at 8 PM. On the program, about thirty artists will perform on stage with a mix of several traditional dances and music like tango, milonga or candombe. To appreciate this evening even more, dinner will be offered, with an appetizer, main course, dessert and a drink (wine, non-alcoholic beverages or mineral water).

4- Discover Montevideo by bike

Category: Cultural / Sports

Description: If you want to visit Montevideo without a guide and especially at your own pace, you can rent bikes for the day. The rental staff will be happy to guide you on certain places to visit. You can enjoy the 22 kilometers of coastline for a peaceful ride along the waterfront. Make stops wherever you want, have a snack, then set off again to discover the capital of Uruguay and its colorful streets.

5- Participate in Montevideo's carnival

Category: Unique / Cultural

Description: If you want to immerse yourself 100% in the local culture, then attend Montevideo's carnival. This celebration takes place for more than a month, from mid-January to late February, making this carnival the longest in the world. During these weeks of festivities, local culture is highlighted. Several musical styles like Murga or candombe bring the streets of Montevideo to life. Over these 40 days of celebration, several parades where comparsas, street artist groups from Latin American festivals, parade through the streets to the rhythm of traditional music. This is a unique event specific to Uruguay that's worth seeing if you have the opportunity.

6- Discover the football museum

Category: Cultural

Description: Attention football fans! When visiting Uruguay, you'll notice a particular atmosphere related to football. This popular sport is perceived as a true religion. This is where the first World Cup took place in 1930! And the cherry on top, guess who won it? Uruguay, of course! This museum is a must-see in Montevideo. It brings together an impressive collection of photos, jerseys belonging to the greatest players (notably that of Brazilian Pelé), trophies and other objects, like paintings, related to football.