Guide to Montevideo
Montevideo virtual tour
Montevideo boasts several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. The Old Town is a tourist paradise, home to the city's main attractions. The New Town is a modern business district characterized by glass high-rise buildings. The Northeastern neighborhoods are resort areas featuring beautiful beaches and waterfronts. Each neighborhood has its original style, making it well worth a visit.
If you visit Montevideo in February, you'll have the opportunity to experience the vibrant African Carnival, attracting guests from around the world. This event commemorates the city's history as a major slave market and features parades, music and dance groups, and an atmosphere of celebration in the streets. It's advisable to book your hotel room well in advance during this period, as the city sees a significant influx of tourists.
Food enthusiasts should not miss the Mercado del Puerto, located in the port area. During lunchtime, the market is filled with irresistible aromas of grilled meat, sausages, vegetables, and seafood. You can enjoy a hearty lunch here for approximately 300 UYU (10 USD) per person. On Saturdays, the market comes alive with street dancers and musicians, so it's best to arrive early, as many places close around 5:00 PM.
Photos of Montevideo
Tours to Montevideo
When embarking on a spontaneous trip to Montevideo, you'll have the chance to not only explore the way of life in a new country but also immerse yourself in the beauty and uniqueness of the entire South American continent. The capital of Uruguay sets itself apart from other megacities, with each neighborhood possessing its distinctive style, and its architectural landmarks representing a blend of several styles and eras.
Montevideo offers something for everyone, regardless of your lifestyle. Among its architectural treasures, you'll find the National Library, the University, and the Parliament building standing out. Those seeking budget-friendly options can revel in the greenery of its parks, lending Montevideo a garden city ambiance.
The city's beaches are a notable highlight. If you're looking for an economical way to enjoy Montevideo, simply purchase a plane ticket and spend your entire vacation along the coast.
The peak of the high season falls between November and March when prices tend to soar. However, even during winter, temperatures rarely dip below 10°C. So, if you happen upon a great deal, you can reduce the tour cost by shortening your stay.
Interesting places in Montevideo
The primary attractions are centered in the historical district of the city. Most itineraries begin at Independence Square, where you'll find a cluster of architectural monuments. For those seeking creativity, explore the Ciudad Vieja district in the Old Town, where local dancers and singers perform, and artists create canvases on the streets. If you're visiting Montevideo with children, consider a trip to the Lecocq Nature Reserve and Botanical Gardens.
Flight ticket prices
The most convenient way to get from Europe to Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay, is with transfers via Madrid, Frankfurt, or London. Airlines such as Iberia, Air France, Lufthansa, LATAM, and Avianca operate flights. Departures are available from Warsaw, Paris, Budapest, Prague, Chisinau, Naples, and other cities. One or two-stop flight options are plentiful, especially if booked in advance.
Airfare prices from Europe to Montevideo start at around €650–700 round trip. From Warsaw, tickets start at €670, from Berlin — €690, from Bucharest — €720, and from London — around €740. The best deals can usually be found during the shoulder seasons — in spring and autumn.
The best hotels in Montevideo
There are quite a lot of youth hostels in the city with very democratic prices - from 12 USD per night in a shared room. A private room costs from 45 USD.
A single room in a 4* hotel costs from 50 USD, and in 5* hotels - from 120 USD per night. Best hotels in Montevideo according to travelers' reviews: Radisson Montevideo Victoria Plaza, Regency Carrasco-Suites & Boutique Hotel, Belmont House.
An apartment in Montevideo for one traveler will cost from 50 USD per night.
Travel budget
Uruguay is a financially accessible country for most travelers, but airfare adds significantly to the cost of travel. If you are not tied to specific dates of your trip, look at different options - you may be able to save money.
Prices for food, public transportation and excursions will pleasantly surprise you.
| The budget for a trip to Montevideo | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight | from 1200 USD | Accomodation | from 12 USD per day |
| Average check in a restaurant | 300 UYU (about 10 USD) | Transportation fare | 3 UYU (about 1 USD) |
| Excursion | from 25 USD | ||
| Total: about 1500 USD for four days | |||
Airport
Carrasco International Airport is the largest airport in Uruguay. It is located five kilometers from Montevideo, in the city of Paso Carrasco. Due to its unusual architecture, it is often included in various lists of the most beautiful airports in the world.
Transfer to Montevideo from the airport
The most convenient way to get into the city is by cab (a company called Taxis Airport operates). Fare to the center of Montevideo costs 1300 UYU (about 45 USD). The car fleet is represented by new Mercedes cars. There are also buses of several companies.
Transportation
A ticket costs about 3 UYU (1 USD), the price depends on the type of bus (regular or express). City cabs are considered public transportation - the driver can pick up more customers along the way. This does not apply to the Remises category (such a cab costs more).
Car rental in Montevideo
There are rental outlets at the airport. The cost starts from 52 USD (Chevrolet Spark). There are more expensive cars, for example, a Hyundai Accent costs 107 USD for one day. You can rent a car if you're over 23 and have at least 2 years of driving experience.
Security in Montevideo
Pickpocketing is common. Be vigilant in crowded places and on excursions. The most common items stolen are small items such as cell phones, cameras, players and the like. Carry as little cash as possible; cards are accepted almost everywhere.