Travellers visit Uruguay to rough it with cowboys, explore culturally rich cities, and unwind on the continent's most exclusive beaches. They're rarely disappointed with the attractions on offer.Visitors can sample the gaucho(cowboy) lifestyle at the country's estancias(ranch-houses), and ride green plains in time-honoured fashion. On the cultural side, Montevideo's old town, Ciudad Vieja, offers a taste of Uruguay's historical architecture. Travellers who relish this sort of experience and want more should venture to Colonia del Sacramento, where they'll enjoy a generous helping of old-world charm. Located just outside Montevideo, the city is an excellent day-trip option.Visitors should also try the country's beef, which is among the world's best. The coastal resort town of Punta del Este is a must for anyone seeking luxury, sun-filled action. By contrast, Punta del Diablo is home to Uruguay's backpacker beach scene.
Montevideo's ancient city is a vibrant, fascinating district of old buildings and cobbled streets. Weekends see dancers and musicians gather for impromptu performances, while artists have turned many of the decaying, ground-floor apartments into studios and galleries. The old iron gates and street lamps are very photogenic.All told, visitors will find a wonderful juxtaposition of old and new, making Ciudad Vieja the purest embodiment of Montevideo's evolution.
The historic town of Colonia del Sacramento is a must-see. Situated on the River Plate, it is the country's oldest settlement and a celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many visitors ferry across from Buenos Aires, which sits almost opposite the city.Founded in 1680, the quaint town is home to cobbled streets, brightly coloured houses, vibrant bars and excellent restaurants. Gift shoppers will enjoy its art and craft shops.Regarding access, Colonia is about two hours from Montevideo by road. Local operators offer day trips.
Built between 1929 and 1930, the Estadio Centenario commemorates the centenary of Uruguay's first constitution. It also hosted the first-ever FIFA World Cup final, in which Uruguay beat Argentina by four goals to two.Listed by FIFA as one of the world's Classic Stadiums, the Estadio Centenario has become a bucket-list item for many football fans. Indeed, thousands of tourists visit every year, either to attend a match, or to enjoy the fascinating Museo del Fútbol (Football Museum) housed within the stadium itself.Visitors should do everything they can to attend an Atlético Peñarol home fixture. Football, as the saying goes, is a way of life in Uruguay, and watching a game with 90,000 passionate locals is an amazing cultural experience.
Address : 11400 Montevideo, Montevideo Department
Website : estadiocentenario.com.uy
Set under a vast, wrought-iron structure reminiscent of old European railway stations, Montevideo's port market is a lively affair. Historically, it has been a hive of trading activity since 1868. Today, it houses some of the city's finest steakhouses and seafood eateries.It's a great place for people-watching, exploring the labyrinthine alleys crammed with stalls, watching buskers and entertainers, and generally taking in the city's atmosphere.
For those interested in Montevideo's past, the Museo Historico Nacional is a good place to begin. Located in the Old City, it's made up of old houses where national heroes once dwelt.The museum's collection traces the history of Uruguay from before its colonisation by Europeans up to the mid-20th century. History buffs will find it interesting.
Address : Rincon (corner) 437, Montevideo
Website : www.museohistorico.gub.uy/
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