Some areas of the world have become increasingly popular for American expats to reside. The features that make these cities popular for living in also make them excellent for visiting! One such place that is attracting American attention is Montevideo, Uruguay, in South America—making it a top choice to Visit in Montevideo and explore all it has to offer.
This city is the capital of Uruguay, and is known for being rich in culture and vibrant in personality. The city itself is large, spanning nearly 13 miles from east to west, and containing over 60 different neighborhoods. You certainly won’t be able to see everything there is to see within a week, but if you are planning to visit in Montevideo, here are some places to stay and things to do.
Where to Stay When You Visit in Montevideo
Montevideo has a variety of hostels and hotels to appeal to every budget. If you are looking for a clean, sunny hostel that is conveniently located in the downtown area, consider El Viajero. Here, you can choose from one of ten private rooms, or one of ten shared rooms. One of the best parts is the price; shared accommodations start at $11 per night. This includes breakfast, bed linens and access to the patio and bar, where you can mingle with other guests. Be aware that the hostel does not cater to families with children under the age of 18; it’s adults only, and also that the downtown area can get quite loud at night when the nightlife picks up.
Need a little more privacy? For about $45 per night, you can stay in Splendido, located in the heart of the historic district. Your family will enjoy free wi-fi as well as a convenient location. If you want to splurge a bit, a private room with a great ocean or river view can be had at the Cala Di Volpe Boutique starting at $109 per night. Here, you’ll be close to the World Trade Center as well as the Montevideo Shopping Mall. You’ll be able to enjoy a wide range of amenities, as well, including a spa, a fitness facility and a sauna.
What to Do When You Visit in Montevideo
You’ll certainly want to tour the various restaurants in the different areas of Montevideo. If you have a sweet tooth, you will definitely not want to miss Cake’s, a dessert restaurant in the upscale neighborhood of Pocitos. Here, you can try mille-feuille, cookies or chocolate cake, all served with dulce le leche, a caramelized sweet milk pudding. If you need a more substantial meal, visit any of the casual restaurants featuring pizza, steak sandwiches and local favorites. Markets are plentiful, and are a great way to pass a weekend morning or afternoon. Try the Mercado de los Artesanos on Saturdays or the Tristán Narvaja street fair on Sundays.
Finally, Montevideo has a vibrant nightlife. You will want to ask at your hotel for a recommendation if you are headed downtown, as there are some sketchy areas that are not a good place for tourists to hang out. Stick to where the locals congregate, however, and you should be fine.
Before you book your trip to Montevideo, Uruguay, you might consider reaching out to the expat community in the city. Americans living abroad are a great source of information, and they’ll be able to tell you places to avoid, places not to miss, and where you can find English speakers while on your vacation.
Embrace the warmth of its people, the richness of its culture, and the beauty of its landscapes. May your journey to this unique city leave you with cherished memories and a lasting connection to Uruguay’s enchanting spirit. Safe travels!
