29 Famous Landmarks in Uruguay – how many you know?

com/landmarks/oceania-landmarks/landmarks-of-australia/”>landmarks in South America, and so are in Uruguay.

Uruguay, a small nation packed with cultural and natural wonders, boasts of picturesque beaches, charming cities, and remarkable landmarks that leave every traveler in awe.

From the iconic Montevideo sign to the colonial beauty of the Matriz Church, every landmark stands as a testament to the country’s rich history and vibrant spirit.

Each path leads to an unforgettable experience that unveils a world of discovery waiting for eager explorers.

1. Montevideo’s Ciudad Vieja (Old City)

Montevideo’s Ciudad Vieja is the historic district of the Uruguayan capital, dating back to the early 18th century.

What to see or do: – Visit the iconic Plaza Independencia, surrounded by important landmarks such as the Solis Theater and the Presidential Palace.

Don’t miss: The street art scene in Ciudad Vieja. Some of the city’s most impressive murals can be found in this neighborhood.

Insider travel tips: – Be mindful of your belongings and surroundings, as theft is not uncommon in the area.

2. Colonia del Sacramento

A charming colonial town in Uruguay, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What to see or do: Walk through the historic quarter, visit the Faro lighthouse, explore the museums, and check out the local crafts and restaurants.

Don’t miss: The old city gate, the drawbridge, and the colonial architecture at Plaza Mayor. Also, catch a stunning sunset along the riverfront.

Insider travel tip: Rent a bike and explore the town’s outskirts, including the nearby beaches and vineyards. Additionally, try the local delicacy “chivito” – a sandwich with beef, ham, bacon, cheese, lettuce, and tomato.

3. Punta del Este

Punta del Este is a beach town located on the southern tip of Uruguay, known for its luxurious resorts, vibrant nightlife, and scenic beauty.

What to see or do: – Enjoy the sun and sand at the stunning beaches, including Playa Brava and Playa Mansa.

Don’t miss: – Casapueblo, a colorful and quirky architecture museum and art gallery designed by Carlos Páez Vilaró.

Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit Punta del Este is during the summer months (December-February) when the weather is warm and sunny.

4. Plaza Independencia – Montevideo

Plaza Independencia is a historic public square located in the heart of Montevideo, Uruguay. It marks the beginning of 18 de Julio Avenue, one of the city’s main thoroughfares.

What to see or do: Visitors to Plaza Independencia can take in the variety of architectural styles displayed in the surrounding buildings, including the iconic Palacio Salvo and the Art Deco-style Executive Tower.

The square is also home to several statues and monuments, including an equestrian statue of Uruguay’s national hero, Jose Artigas.

Don’t miss: The most popular attraction in Plaza Independencia is the Mausoleum of Jose Artigas, which is located beneath the statue of the national hero.

Visitors can descend a spiral staircase to view Artigas’s remains and pay respects to the revered figure.

Insider travel tips: Head to the top of the Palacio Salvo for a panoramic view of Montevideo and the surrounding bay. Also, keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, as pickpocketing can be a problem in the area.

5. Palacio Salvo

Palacio Salvo is a historic building located in the heart of Montevideo, Uruguay.

It was built in the 1920s by the Italian architect Mario Palanti and stands as a symbol of the city’s rich architectural heritage.

What to see or do: Visit the top floor observatory to enjoy panoramic views of the city and the sea. You can also admire the building’s stunning architecture, both from the outside and inside.

Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the intricate mosaics and sculptures on the exterior of the building, including the iconic statue of the building’s namesake, Dante Alighieri’s guide to heaven and hell.

Insider travel tips: Visiting the observatory during sunset is a must-see experience.

6. Solis Theatre

The Solis Theatre is a historic theatre located in Montevideo, the capital city of Uruguay. It is a renowned cultural landmark and one of the most important theatres in South America.

What to see or do: Visitors to the Solis Theatre can enjoy a variety of performances ranging from opera, ballet, theater, music, and dance. The theatre hosts both local and international artists and productions throughout the year.

Don’t miss: A guided tour of the theatre is a must-do for any visitor, providing an opportunity to learn about the history of the theatre, its architecture, and the incredible acoustics of the main hall, which seats 1,500 people.

Insider travel tips: Check the theatre’s schedule online and book tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

7. Montevideo’s Rambla

Montevideo’s Rambla is a 22 km long promenade along the shoreline of Montevideo, Uruguay.

What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the Rambla and admire the stunning views of the Rio de la Plata.

Stop at one of the many green spaces, beaches, or piers to relax, have a picnic or go fishing. Along the way, you’ll find various spots to rent bikes, kayaks or participate in water sports like surfing or windsurfing.

Don’t miss: One of the most famous and recognizable stops on the Rambla is the iconic Montevideo sign located in Pocitos Beach. Take a picture with the sign and enjoy a refreshing drink at one of the many kiosks nearby.

Other popular stops include the Carrasco Casino or visit the Mercado del Puerto a lively port market where you can experience delicious Uruguayan cuisine.

Insider travel tips: Be sure to visit the Rambla during the sunset hours for breathtaking views of the Rio de la Plata as the sun sets behind the city.

Try to avoid visiting the Rambla during the summer months as it can be overcrowded.

However, during the winter, you can see migratory whales in the distance as some come all the way to the Rambla’s shoreline.

Also, keep in mind that the Rambla’s sea conditions can be unpredictable, so be careful, especially if you’re not an experienced swimmer.

8. Museo del Carnaval – Montevideo

An interactive museum dedicated to the history and culture of Carnival in Uruguay.

What to see or do: Explore the vibrant displays showcasing the music, dance, costumes and traditions of Uruguay’s Carnival. Try on a colorful costume and join the party for a playful photo-op.

Don’t miss: The hall of parades, featuring colorful floats and costumes from past Carnival celebrations, and the “Zambombas,” a traditional percussion instrument.

Insider travel tips: Visit during the off-season to avoid crowds, and take advantage of the guided tours to get a deeper understanding of the significance and history of the Carnival in Uruguay.

9. Cabo Polonio

A small, secluded coastal village in Uruguay, without electricity or running water.

What to see or do:

Don’t miss:

Insider travel tips:

10. Casapueblo

Casapueblo is a picturesque white-washed building and art museum in Punta Ballena, Uruguay, designed by the renowned Uruguayan artist Carlos Páez Vilaró.

What to see or do: Visitors can explore the various galleries featuring the artist’s paintings, sculptures, and ceramics, and admire the stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Don’t miss: Catch the daily ceremony of Rambla de los Artistas, where artists create and display their work on the building’s balconies, while enjoying live music performances.

Insider travel tips: – Go during sunset for the best views of the surrounding beaches and coastline.

11. Palacio Legislativo – Montevideo

The Palacio Legislativo (Legislative Palace) is the seat of the Uruguayan government and is located in Montevideo.

What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace, which includes the impressive plenary chamber, the Hall of Lost Steps, and the ornate library.

The architecture of the building, with its grand domes and intricate details, is also a must-see.

Don’t miss: The Hall of Lost Steps, named for the way the echo distorts footsteps, is a beautiful marble hall that leads to the entrance of the legislative chamber.

The library, with its wrought-iron staircase and impressive collection of books, is also worth a visit.

Insider travel tips: The guided tours are available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, and can be booked in advance online. Photography is allowed inside the palace but only without flash.

The palace is open to visitors from Monday to Friday.

12. National History Museum – Montevideo

The National History Museum in Montevideo is a museum dedicated to the history of Uruguay, from pre-Columbian times to the present day.

What to see or do: The museum’s exhibits include a wide range of artifacts and displays, including pottery, clothing, weapons, and other objects from Uruguay’s indigenous peoples.

Visitors can also learn about Uruguay’s colonial history, including exhibits on the impact of Spanish and Portuguese colonization. The museum also features exhibits on Uruguay’s struggle for independence and its development as a modern nation.

Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the replica of the famous Frigate Maldonado, which was used in the Uruguayan War of Independence.

Another must-see is the collection of vintage cars and motorcycles, which showcases the evolution of transportation in Uruguay.

Insider travel tips: Be sure to allow plenty of time to explore the museum’s extensive collection. Audio guides are available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese to help guide visitors through the exhibits.

The museum is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit for Tuesday to Sunday.

13. Parque Nacional Santa Teresa

Parque Nacional Santa Teresa is a national park located in the department of Rocha, Uruguay.

What to see or do: – Enjoy the beautiful beaches such as Playa Grande and Playa del Barco.

Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to camp and stay overnight in the park to enjoy the stunning sunsets and clear sky full of stars.

Insider travel tips: – Bring mosquito repellent, especially during the summer months.

14. Los Dedos Beach – Punta del Este

A picturesque beach in the popular seaside resort town of Punta del Este, Uruguay.

What to see or do: Los Dedos Beach is famous for its iconic sculpture of five giant fingers emerging from the sand, a popular spot for taking photos.

Visitors can also enjoy swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and watching the local surfers catch some waves.

Don’t miss: The stunning ocean views from the top of the nearby lighthouse, Faro de Punta del Este, and the evening parade of cars along the nearby streets, showing off their impressive rides.

Insider travel tips: The beach can get crowded during peak season, so try to plan your visit early in the day or during the week to avoid the crowds.

Don’t forget sunscreen, as the sun can be very strong in Punta del Este’s summer months. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby if you want to grab a bite or a drink.

15. Museo Nacional de Artes Visuales

Museo Nacional de Artes Visuales is a national art museum in Uruguay that showcases an extensive collection of visual arts.

What to see or do: The museum boasts a remarkable collection of over 6,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, engravings, and ceramics. Visitors can explore the museum’s 28 exhibition rooms, which showcase works by both Uruguayan and international artists.

The permanent collection covers a vast period of art history, from the Middle Ages to the present day. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year, featuring renowned artists from all over the world.

Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the museum’s impressive collection of Uruguayan art, which includes works by renowned artists such as Pedro Figari, Joaquin Torres Garcia, and Rafael Barradas.

Also, don’t miss the museum’s stunning sculpture garden, which features a range of sculptures and installations by contemporary artists.

Insider travel tips: The museum is closed on Mondays, but the rest of the week, it’s open to the public between 1 pm and 6 pm.

Admission is free, making it an excellent option for budget travelers. Visitors can take a guided tour of the museum or explore it on their own.

To fully appreciate this museum’s extensive collection, plan to spend at least a couple of hours exploring.

16. Catedral de Montevideo

The Catedral Metropolitana de Montevideo is the main Catholic church in Montevideo, Uruguay. It was inaugurated in 1804 and serves as the seat of the Archbishop of Montevideo.

What to see or do: Visitors can admire the elegant neoclassical facade and the imposing bell tower. Take a stroll through the interior, which features beautiful stained glass windows, religious artwork, and an ornate altar.

Don’t miss: The Mausoleum of Fructuoso Rivera, Uruguay’s first president, is located inside the cathedral. Its grandeur is awe-inspiring to behold.

Insider travel tips: Remember to dress modestly and respectfully when visiting the cathedral. Avoid shorts and sleeveless tops.

Visit during a weekday to avoid crowds and to take in the serene ambiance.

17. Fortaleza del Cerro – Montevideo

Historic fortress on the top of the Cerro hill overlooking Montevideo.

What to see or do: Take a guided tour of the fortress and learn about the history of Uruguay and the region. Check out the stunning views of the city and the Rio de la Plata from the top.

Don’t miss: The opportunity to take great pictures of the city skyline and the sunset.

Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as there are some hills to climb. Bring sunscreen and water during the summer months.

Check the website for opening hours and admission fees.

18. Punta del Diablo

A small fishing village turned hip surfing town on the Atlantic coast of Uruguay.

What to see or do: Surfing and relaxing on the beautiful, often uncrowded beaches. Take a walk through the town’s colorful streets dotted with street art and artisanal shops.

Visit the nearby Santa Teresa National Park for hiking and wildlife spotting.

Don’t miss: The picturesque Fisherman’s Beach, the lighthouse for breathtaking views, and sunset at the stunning Rivero Beach.

Insider travel tips: Bring cash as many businesses do not accept credit cards. Try the local delicacy of freshly caught fish cooked over an open flame on the beach.

Don’t miss the annual music festival, Festival de la Luna, held in February. Plan to visit during the shoulder season (March-May, September-November) for smaller crowds and lower prices.

19. Museo del Gaucho y la Moneda – Montevideo

A museum dedicated to the gauchos and the history of money in Uruguay.

What to see or do: – Explore the exhibits on the gauchos, their lifestyle, and culture.

Don’t miss: – The gaucho room, which features traditional clothing, weapons, and tools.

Insider travel tips: – The museum offers guided tours in English and Spanish, which are included in the admission price.

20. Río Negro

Río Negro is a department located in the west-central part of Uruguay.

What to see or do: Take a stroll along the beaches of the cities of Fray Bentos and Mercedes, visit the historical Anglo meatpacking factory or go birdwatching in the Rio Uruguay wetlands.

Don’t miss: The Palmar Dam and the village of Nuevo Berlín, and the Isla del Puerto with its beautiful lighthouse.

Insider travel tips: Make sure to try the infamous meat pies at any local bakery and visit the picturesque town of San Javier, located on the banks of the Uruguay River.

Also, be sure to check out the local hot springs at Almirón, known for their healing properties.

21. Teatro Solís

Teatro Solís is a historic theater located in Montevideo, Uruguay. It was inaugurated in 1856 and has since become a cultural landmark in the city.

What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the theater to learn about its history and architecture, including the impressive dome and ornate interior design.

There are also regular performances, including operas, ballets, concerts, and plays.

Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see a performance at Teatro Solís to fully appreciate the grandeur and acoustics of this historic theater.

Insider travel tips: – Check the theater’s schedule in advance to plan your visit around a performance you’d like to see.

22. Rambla de Montevideo

A lively and bustling street in the heart of Montevideo, Uruguay’s capital city.

What to see or do: Enjoy a walk along the tree-lined streets filled with street performers, cafes, shops and restaurants. Take a break at the Plaza Fabini, an iconic public square which features a beautiful fountain and seating areas.

Don’t miss: The Palacio Salvo, a historic building that was once the tallest in South America. Admire its magnificent architecture and climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.

Insider travel tips: Visit Rambla de Montevideo during sunset for a stunning view of the sun setting over the Rio de la Plata. Also, be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes as the street can get crowded with tourists and locals alike.

And don’t forget to taste the local street food, such as chivitos or empanadas, while exploring the area.

23. Museo de Arte Contemporáneo

Museo de Arte Contemporáneo (MAC) is a contemporary art museum located in Montevideo, Uruguay.

What to see or do: At MAC, visitors can view a diverse collection of contemporary art from both local and international artists. The museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions, film screenings, and performances.

Don’t miss: Don’t miss the striking architecture of the museum building, designed by acclaimed Uruguayan architect Rafael Viñoly.

Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.

24. Mercado del Puerto – Montevideo

Mercado del Puerto is a historic market located in the Ciudad Vieja neighborhood of Montevideo, Uruguay.

What to see or do: The market is famous for its abundant variety of grilled meat, seafood, and other traditional Uruguayan foods.

You can stroll around and sample different delicacies from the various food stalls or sit down at one of the restaurants and enjoy a hearty meal.

Don’t miss: The star attraction of Mercado del Puerto is undoubtedly the parrilla stalls, where you can watch skilled grill masters cook up mouth-watering cuts of meat, including beef, pork, and lamb.

Make sure to try the Uruguayan classic, Chivito, a sandwich filled with steak, bacon, cheese, and other toppings.

Insider travel tips: Get here early, as the market can get quite busy and crowded later in the day.

25. Isla de Lobos

Isla de Lobos is a small, uninhabited island located off the coast of Uruguay.

What to see or do: The main attraction of Isla de Lobos is the wildlife. Visitors can observe sea lions, Magellanic penguins, and various bird species in their natural habitats.

There is also a lighthouse, built in 1867, that visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the island and surrounding ocean.

Don’t miss: Be sure to wander along the island’s rocky coastline, where visitors can get up close to the sea lions and watch them bask in the sun or play in the water.

Insider travel tips: – The island is only accessible by boat, and there are several tour companies that offer day trips from Punta del Este, Uruguay.

26. Casco Viejo – Colonia del Sacramento

Casco Viejo is the historic quarter of Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay’s oldest town.

What to see and do:

Don’t miss: A walk along the old city walls that offer beautiful views of the river and the town.

Insider travel tips:

27. Plaza Zabala – Montevideo

Plaza Zabala is a historic square located in the old town of Montevideo, Uruguay.

What to see or do: Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the square, admire the impressive statue of Spanish Basque explorer Bruno Mauricio de Zabala, and enjoy the beautiful greenery of the park.

Don’t miss: One of the main attractions of Plaza Zabala is the old drinking fountain in the center of the square, which dates back to 1867.

It’s a great spot for photos and a unique landmark of the city.

Insider travel tips: While exploring the square and its surroundings, don’t forget to check out the nearby Cabildo and the Metropolitan Cathedral, two emblematic buildings in Montevideo’s old town.

Take some time to relax and people-watch on one of the benches in the park, and if you happen to be in the area during a weekend, stop by the Mercado del Puerto for some delicious local food and drink.

28. Playa Mansa

A serene beach located in Punta del Este, Uruguay, ideal for relaxation and peaceful swimming.

What to see or do: Enjoy a refreshing swim in the calm waters of Playa Mansa or sunbathe on its soft sand. Take a stroll along the shore, play beach volleyball or indulge in a variety of water sports available here.

Don’t miss: The stunning sunsets, especially during the summer season, is a sight not to be missed. Don’t forget to grab a drink and enjoy the view.

Insider travel tips: Pack an umbrella and a beach chair to make your visit more comfortable. The beach can get crowded during the summer months, so arrive early to grab a good spot.

Also, explore the nearby yacht club and enjoy some amazing seafood at one of the restaurants nearby.

29. Estadio Centenario – Montevideo

Estadio Centenario is a historic football stadium located in the Parque Batlle neighborhood of Montevideo, Uruguay.

What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the stadium, which includes access to the changing rooms, press boxes, and the stands where many historic matches have taken place.

You can also catch a football game during the season.

Don’t miss: Make sure to see the Hall of Fame, where you can learn about some of the greatest footballers to have played at the stadium.

A statue of the legendary Uruguayan striker, Esteban Cambiasso is also present.

Insider travel tips: If you’re attending a match, be prepared for a lively and passionate atmosphere. Don’t forget to try Uruguayan classic food choripán, a type of Chorizo sandwich, served at the stadium.

Also, keep an eye on pickpockets in the area.