Located on the southeast coast of South America, Uruguay is South America’s second smallest country (after Suriname) – but despite that, there are hundreds of places that could make the list of best places to visit in Uruguay before you die. A potted history would contain input from Spain and Portugal, as well as Argentina and Brazil, and consequently Uruguay has a complex but fascinating cultural and architectural history. As well as being a melting pot of cultures, it is also a natural beauty with plenty of beaches and forests to keep you in perpetual awe. So from skyscrapers to rainforests, Uruguay has plenty to make you want to book your tickets and fly out there immediately! (And if you’ve already booked your tickets, make sure to visit some of the places on this list!)
Ksenia Ragozina/Shutterstock.com
No matter what area of Uruguay you choose to visit, there is something for everyone in this gem of South America. From watersports on the beach to shopping in the capital, Uruguay should be on everyone’s must-visit list. If you haven’t booked your tickets yet, then this top 8 rundown should have you running to your travel agent, and if you have, this list should give you some idea of all that Uruguay has to offer.
With a stable political atmosphere, a high quality of living, and a peaceful demeanour, Uruguay is easily one of the safest countries in the world to live at peace. But if you’re just visiting, which we’re sure you’d love to if you’re not already, how can you know which places shine above the rest? In a country of such peace and beauty, how do you choose where to go? Hopefully this list will help you choose, or at least give you some ideas of the best places to visit in Uruguay before you die. However, before you travel it is always wise to check local news and weather reports to make sure there are no potential upsets which could affect your trip.
8. Colonia del Sacramento
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this picturesque town lives on a peninsula in the south of Uruguay. From cobbled streets to beautiful churches, this town has a surprising amount of beautiful places to offer given its size.
Lspencer/Shutterstock.com
7. Pocitos
A district of the capital, Montevideo, the area is known for its fabulous beach Playa Pocitos and the boulevard, Rambla, which runs along its length. There are many excellent restaurants and boutiques along the Rambla, and the beach is nothing but golden sand and clear waters.
Gustavo Frazao/Shutterstock.com
6. Palacio Salvo
While you’re in Montevideo, the Palacio Salvo is a building well worth a visit. Whilst the inside is used mainly for office space, the outside is a beautiful example of the architectural prowess of the 1920s. It was the tallest building in South America for decades!
Spectral-Design/Shutterstock.com
5. Isla de Lobos
Five miles from the Uruguayan coast, the Isla de Lobos is the definition of an island paradise. It is the home of Uruguay’s first automated lighthouse, incidentally the tallest lighthouse in the world, and the whole island is a nature reserve – it has the largest population of seals worldwide.
4. Laguna del Sauce
Meaning ‘Lagoon of the Willow’, the Laguna del Sauce is the ultimate destination for non-powered water-sports in Uruguay. It is a site of natural beauty, set inside rolling hills, and is a definite destination to visit if you’re in the southeast of Uruguay.
3. Mana de Punta del Este
Brava Beach, Punta del Este, is home to a wonder-inspiring sculpture by the Chilean artist Mario Irarrázabal. Completed in just six days, this hand rising from the sand is meant to warn potential swimmers against the rough waters of Parada 1.
Ksenia Ragozina/Shutterstock.com
2. Punta Colorada
A small peninsula in the Maldonado District, the resort has some of the best beaches in Uruguay. Surrounded by crystal waters, the Mansa and Brava beaches are beautiful for both water-sports and swimming.
Ksenia Ragozina/Shutterstock.com
And, the best place to visit in Uruguay before you die is: Montevideo
Both the capital city and largest city in Uruguay, Montevideo hosted all the games of the first FIFA World Cup. But there’s not just history there for sports fans; the beautiful Cathedral and host of museums will have you busy for hours. It has a beautiful skyline and buzzing night-life, perfect for all tastes.
Norberto Mario Lauria/Shutterstock.com
Uruguay really does have it all, no matter what you’re looking for. We hope this list of the best places to visit in Uruguay before you die has inspired your wanderlust and has got you raring to book tickets to the home of South American fun, sun, and sea.
