Day 1-2: Montevideo
Your journey starts in Montevideo, the charming capital of Uruguay. Spend your first day wandering around the Ciudad Vieja (Old Town). Visit the Plaza Independencia, where you’ll find the impressive statue of General Artigas.
For lunch, head to Mercado del Puerto. It’s the perfect spot to try a traditional Uruguayan “asado” (grilled meat). You’ll also find lots of local food stalls where you can sit, eat, and soak in the atmosphere.
On Day 2, visit the Rambla. This waterfront promenade stretches for miles. Walk, bike, or people-watch—it’s where you’ll see Montevideo’s local life in action. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a local street performance or impromptu game of football.
For something a bit off-beat, check out the Museo Nacional de Artes Visuales. It’s home to both contemporary and classical Uruguayan artwork. End your day with some local cuisine at one of the many restaurants in the Pocitos neighborhood.
Day 3-4: Punta del Este
Take a bus (about 2 hours) to Punta del Este, Uruguay’s famous beach destination. On Day 3, relax on the beaches of La Playa Brava or Playa Mansa. Don’t miss La Mano, the giant hand sculpture rising out of the sand.
For dinner, head to La Barra, a trendy area known for its restaurants and nightlife. It’s a great chance to experience the laid-back, party vibe that Punta del Este is famous for.
Day 4 is all about exploration. Check out Casapueblo, a stunning, white-washed building that’s part museum, part hotel, and part art gallery. The sunsets here are out of this world. Afterward, take a boat trip to Isla de Lobos to see South America’s largest sea lion colony.
Day 5-6: José Ignacio
Take a short ride over to José Ignacio, a small fishing village turned chic getaway spot. Day 5 is for pure relaxation. José Ignacio’s beaches are some of the best in Uruguay. Spend the day soaking up the sun or, if visiting during summer, try your hand at kiteboarding.
Visit the José Ignacio Lighthouse for a bit of local history. In the evening, grab dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants. José Ignacio is known for its seafood, so don’t miss out on trying the fresh catch of the day.
Day 6 can be spent exploring the nearby Laguna Garzón, a scenic natural spot that’s perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding. The area is a great place for bird watchers too, as it’s home to various migratory species. Wind down with a slow evening at the beach as you prepare for your next adventure.
Day 7-8: Rocha
From José Ignacio, head to the Rocha region, where landscapes shift from rolling hills to wetlands. On Day 7, explore Cabo Polonio—it’s a bohemian village accessible only by 4×4. There aren’t any roads, and electricity is scarce, giving a whole new meaning to “getting away from it all.” Don’t miss the massive sea lion colonies on the rocks near the lighthouse.
Day 8 is a bit more active. Visit Lagoa de Rocha for some wildlife spotting. The mix of freshwater and saltwater means it’s full of different species, especially birds. You can take a guided tour or rent a boat and explore on your own.
Day 9-10: Punta del Diablo
Hop over to Punta del Diablo, a laid-back fishing village that’s popular with backpackers. Spend Day 9 surfing or learning how to surf at Playa Grande. Even if you’re not interested in surfing, the beach is stunning, and the small wooden huts dotting the shore make for a unique background.
For a more relaxed evening, head to a local “parador” along the beach to enjoy fresh fish and hang out with locals.
On Day 10, take a hike through Santa Teresa National Park. This nature reserve has miles of hiking trails, and its hidden beaches make it a peaceful retreat. Don’t forget to check out the Fort of Santa Teresa, an 18th-century fortress that offers a glimpse into Uruguay’s colonial past.
Day 11: La Paloma
From Punta del Diablo, make your way to La Paloma, a sleepy coastal town that’s perfect for relaxing. Spend the day swimming or sunbathing at the town’s main beach, Playa Bahía Grande.
For a more active option, rent a bike and ride along the coastline, exploring some of the smaller, less-visited beaches. If you’re into watersports, this is a great place for windsurfing or sailing.
Finish the day with a relaxing dinner at a seafood restaurant near the town’s famous lighthouse.
Day 12: Piriápolis
Leave La Paloma and head back toward Montevideo, stopping in Piriápolis. Spend Day 12 riding the cable car up Cerro San Antonio for panoramic views of the town and coastline. This spot is a favorite for both locals and tourists alike.
After coming back down, explore some of the town’s beaches, like Playa Hermosa or Playa Verde. These beaches are much quieter than those in Punta del Este, making them perfect for unwinding.
In the evening, visit Castillo de Piria, a quirky castle built by the town’s eccentric founder, Francisco Piria. It’s surrounded by vineyards and makes for a fun stroll before dinner.
Day 13: Carmelo
Your last big stop is Carmelo, a hidden gem located in the north near the border of Argentina. This riverside town is known for its wineries and slow-paced lifestyle. Day 13 is all about relaxation.
Start with a visit to one of the small, family-run wineries in the area, like Narbona or Bodega Campotinto. Enjoy a wine tasting and learn about Uruguay’s wine-growing tradition.
Afterward, walk along the Río de la Plata or rent a bike and ride around Carmelo’s quiet streets. For dinner, try some homemade pasta at a local “posada” (guesthouse) for a meal to remember.
Day 14: Montevideo (or Colonia del Sacramento)
For your final day, you can either head back to Montevideo or visit Colonia del Sacramento, another UNESCO World Heritage site about two hours away from Carmelo. If you choose Colonia, spend your day walking along its cobblestone streets, checking out the old city gate, and relaxing with a coffee at a riverside café.
If you’re back in Montevideo, spend the day doing any last-minute sightseeing or shopping for souvenirs at the artisan markets. Cap off your trip with a delicious “chivito,” Uruguay’s famous steak sandwich. It’s a perfect closing meal for your Uruguayan adventure.
Wrapping it Up
By now, you’ve explored Uruguay’s beaches, cities, villages, and even its national parks. Your journey balanced iconic tourist spots with more laid-back, off-the-beaten-path adventures. No matter how you chose to split your two weeks, Uruguay’s welcoming people, delicious food, and unforgettable landscapes have surely left their mark. Ready to start packing?
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