Montevideo in 48 hours

Montevideo is easy to explore on foot and by bus, and the Río de la Plata is never more than a few blocks away. Two days are enough for the essentials: the old town, downtown and the coast.

Day 1: Ciudad Vieja and downtown

Start in the Ciudad Vieja (old town): Plaza Matriz and the Cathedral, then the Sarandí pedestrian street. At noon, the Mercado del Puerto is the classic stop for a grill lunch.

In the afternoon, Plaza Independencia brings together several icons: the Citadel Gate, the Palacio Salvo (opened in 1928, it was once the tallest building in South America) and the Teatro Solís, opened in 1856 and renovated early this century. Walk along Avenida 18 de Julio and, if it is open, go up to the City Hall lookout for a view over the city.

Day 2: the rambla and the neighbourhoods

The rambla runs along the whole coast and is the city's great promenade: on foot, by bike or with a mate in hand. Pocitos and Punta Carretas are good stretches to explore, and the sunset over the river is the best way to end the day.

For something greener, the Prado neighbourhood has the Botanical Garden, parks and museums.

Tips

• Check guided tour times (Teatro Solís, Palacio Salvo) and lookout hours before you go.
• The rambla is windy: bring a jacket even on sunny days.

Plan your trip

• Travel agencies and tours in Montevideo
• Car rental in Montevideo