With charming cobblestone streets, unique architecture, great dining options, and beautiful landscapes, Colonia del Sacramento is one of Uruguay’s most incredible cities, making it a must-visit destination.
Colonized by both Spaniards and Portuguese, Colonia del Sacramento reflects the architecture and culture of both nations, rendering it a distinctive destination teeming with narratives.
Top 11 things to see and do in Colonia del Sacramento
The main attractions of Colonia del Sacramento are in the old town, but the city also offers some interesting excursions in its surroundings. Check out our tips for the best things to do in Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay:
1. Walking through the old town
The Old Town of Colonia del Sacramento is where the city’s main tourist attractions, restaurants, and bars are concentrated. Therefore, this is the starting point for exploring the destination.
The old town is the oldest and most charming part of Colonia. Here, you’ll find beautiful streets, buildings with unique architecture, and important landmarks significant to the city’s history.
In the old town lies the Basílica del Santíssimo Sacramento (Basilica of the Holy Sacrament), considered the oldest church in Uruguay, along with other must-see attractions worth visiting.
2. Visiting Calle de los Suspiros
Located in the old town, Calle de los Suspiros is one of the most beautiful and photogenic streets in Colonia del Sacramento. The cobblestone street, also one of the oldest in the city, is filled with legends, stories, and ancient buildings reflecting Portuguese and Spanish architecture, transforming into unique constructions.
3. Visiting Portón de Campo
Located in the old town, Portón de Campo is a monument of great historical significance to Colonia del Sacramento. The monument was inaugurated in 1745 and served as the main entrance to the city during Portuguese rule.
The gateway, accompanied by a stone wall and a bridge forming the Bastión de San Miguel (Bastion of San Miguel), is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Colonia. Therefore, depending on the day, it can be challenging to get a photo alone at the gateway.
4. Climbing the Colonia del Sacramento Lighthouse
Built in 1857 amidst the ruins of the Convento de San Francisco Javier (Convent of San Francisco Javier), the Colonia del Sacramento Lighthouse offers a privileged view of the city and the Río de la Plata.
Today, it is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the destination, as the scenery formed by the ruins of the convent, which was destroyed by fire, integrates with the lighthouse, making it a postcard of the city.
Depending on the day, you may encounter a line to climb to the top of the attraction, as the number of people allowed to ascend simultaneously is small. There is a small fee of 50 Uruguayan pesos (USD 1.30) to climb to the top of the lighthouse.
5. Visiting a museum in Colonia
Colonia del Sacramento has over 6 museums that depict the history and culture of the city through their exhibitions. So, if you want to learn a bit more about the origin, history, and the influence of the Spanish and Portuguese in Colonia, it’s interesting to visit at least one museum. The main museums to explore are the Vivienda Portuguesa (Portuguese House Museum), the Espacio DR. B. Rebufo (Municipal Museum), the Espacio del Azulejo (Tile Museum), the Espacio Indígena (Indigenous Museum), the Archivo Histórico Regional (Regional Museum), and the Espacio Español Spanish Museum).
6. Trying Uruguayan parrilla (Uruguayan barbecue)
Enjoy your visit to Colonia del Sacramento by trying Uruguayan barbecue, a very typical dish of the country featuring various meats, served with white rice and salad. To accompany your barbecue, we suggest a Uruguayan wine or a sangria/clericó (traditional beverages made from wine and fruit), which are popular and delicious beverages in the city, perfect for enjoying on warmer days.
7. Tasting Uruguayan cuisine
In addition to the Uruguayan barbecue, be sure to try other typical Uruguayan foods such as the chivito, a very popular sandwich made with beef (in steak form), fried egg, bacon, cheese, salad, and sauce.
The empanada (savory pastries with various fillings), sangria/clericó, and Uruguayan wine are also very interesting gastronomic options to try on your trip. Check out the best restaurants in Colonia del Sacramento for tips on the most typical dishes from each establishment.
8. Watching the sunset in Colonia del Sacramento
The sunset in Colonia del Sacramento is simply perfect. So, if the day is sunny during your trip, be sure to enjoy this spectacle as the sun sets over the Río de La Plata, illuminating the ruins and monuments of the small town with its golden hues. We recommend two good places to watch the sunset at the destination: Bastión de San Pedro and Bastión de San Miguel.
9. Visiting a winery
Did you know that on your trip to Colonia del Sacramento, you can take a tour of a winery? If you plan to stay more than a day at the destination, enjoy the incredible wineries on the outskirts of the city. In Carmelo, about an hour from Colonia, you will find beautiful wineries accessible on your own, but it is recommended to have a car or by book a winery experience.
10. Taking a day trip to Carmelo
How about taking advantage of your trip to Colonia del Sacramento and exploring another charming destination in Uruguay? Carmelo is a small town located about 1 hour by car from Colonia. It’s not as frequented by tourists, but it’s a delightful destination with beautiful wineries, lakes, and stunning landscapes. For those visiting the city with more convenience, we suggest renting a car in Uruguay, but it’s also possible to explore the destination by bus or by booking a day trip in Carmelo.
11. Biking in Colonia del Sacramento
One of the best things to do in Colonia del Sacramento is bike, as it allows you to explore more of the destination with ease. You can rent a bike or book a bike tour, but some hotels also offer complimentary bikes for their guests.
Extra tip: The Plaza de Toros is located a bit away from the Historic Quarter, but it’s worth a visit. Inaugurated in 1910, it operated for only two years, being closed due to the prohibition of bullfighting in Uruguay. The attraction underwent restoration and refurbishment between 2019 and 2021, becoming a cultural arena that hosts a variety of shows and performances. The venue also offers guided tours, which should be booked online or on-site (if available).
How to get to Colonia del Sacramento?
Situated in the southwestern region of Uruguay, Colonia del Sacramento lies along the banks of the Río de la Plata, accessible by bus, car, or ferry. The city is quite small and does not have an airport, but access by land or water is quite straightforward, both from Uruguayan cities and from Buenos Aires.
Colonia del Sacramento is about a 2-hour drive or bus ride from Montevideo, Uruguay, and 1 hour from Buenos Aires, Argentina. In the latter case, the journey is made by boat across the Río de la Plata. Additionally, the preferred route for tourists is to go from Buenos Aires to Colonia del Sacramento.
The best way to get to Colonia del Sacramento will depend on your starting point, personal preference, and travel style. Check out our guide on how to get to Colonia del Sacramento from Buenos Aires, Montevideo, and Punta del Este, including all transportation options and prices.
Where to stay in Colonia del Sacramento?
Colonia del Sacramento is a small city, but it offers great accommodation options. If you don’t have a car, we recommend staying in a hotel in the old town to be close to the main attractions, such as Portón de Campo and Calle de los Suspiros.
The Old Town of Colonia del Sacramento is the focal point for most of its attractions, as well as its primary bars, cafes, and restaurants. Therefore, by staying in the center, you’ll be close to everything and can practically explore all the city’s attractions on foot.
- Dazzler by Wyndham Colonia: a modern and pet-friendly hotel located in front of the Río de la Plata.
- Charco Hotel: a charming boutique hotel with luxurious amenities as well as elegant and minimalist decor.
- Sheraton Colonia Golf & Spa Resort: a modern hotel with a spa, gym, restaurant, bar, golf course, outdoor pool, and jacuzzi.
To see more lodging options, check out the hotels in Colonia del Sacramento, but if you plan to travel in the winter, don’t miss our tips on hotels in Colonia del Sacramento with heated pool.
When to go to Colonia del Sacramento?
The seasons are well-defined in Uruguay. Therefore, any time of the year is good to visit Colonia del Sacramento, as the weather conditions do not greatly affect the city’s attractions. We’ve outlined the main characteristics of each season for you to choose the one that suits you best.
- Colonia del Sacramento in winter: for those who love the cold, winter is perfect for visiting the destination. Being a coastal city, the incidence of winds makes the climate colder,
- Colonia del Sacramento in winter: for those who love the cold, winter is perfect for visiting the destination. Being a coastal city, the incidence of winds makes the climate colder, creating a negative thermal sensation. Winter in Uruguay is from June to September, with July being the coldest month. It’s low season in Uruguay during the winter, so Colonia del Sacramento is quieter and prices are lower.
- a negative thermal sensation. Winter in Uruguay is from June to September, with July being the coldest month. It’s low season in Uruguay during the winter, so Colonia del Sacramento is quieter and prices are lower.
- Colonia del Sacramento in the spring: with mild temperatures and blooming streets, Colonia looks incredibly beautiful in the spring. Spring, which runs from September to December, is perfect for those wishing to find the city streets filled with flowers and that cheerful atmosphere.
- Colonia del Sacramento in summer: summer is a high season in Uruguay, being the time when Colonia is busiest and prices are highest. Temperatures in summer are also quite high, especially during the day, when they usually range between 20 °C (68 ºF) and 30 °C (86 ºF).
- Colonia del Sacramento in autumn: another season where the city transforms into a beautiful scenery as the brownish leaves are falling. Temperatures in autumn, which run from March to June, are also very pleasant for enjoying an incredible trip.
How to get around in Colonia del Sacramento?
Most of the attractions and tourist spots in Colonia del Sacramento are located in the old town, so you can explore a large part of the destination on foot. However, the city has some very interesting means of transportation for getting around and visiting attractions that are further away, including the old town.
- Public transportation: this is a recommended means of transportation for those who are going to explore the outskirts of Colonia del Sacramento. It’s not necessary for exploring the old town.
- Taxi: when using a taxi, you must be very careful not to fall for a scam. They often don’t use the meter, so you should agree on the fare at the beginning; otherwise, they may charge a high amount at the end.
- Bicycle rental: biking is a very interesting means of transportation in Colonia del Sacramento, and you’ll find several places in the destination that rent them. In addition to renting one on your own, you can also book a bike tour to explore the destination, starting at USD 59.
- Golf cart rental: another interesting option for getting around in Colonia del Sacramento is the golf cart, with rentals starting at USD 70. In fact, this is a very popular means of transportation among tourists.
- Car rental: it’s a good option for those traveling in a group and planning to explore the surroundings of Colonia del Sacramento. It’s not necessary for exploring the city.
If you’re going on a day trip to Colonia del Sacramento, you don’t need to worry about your transportation.
How many days to stay in Colonia del Sacramento?
Colonia del Sacramento is a city where you can visit its main attractions (the old town) in just one day, but it also has some attractions in the surrounding areas, which are recommended for those staying longer in the destination.
If you don’t have the availability to stay for more than a day, it’s definitely worth doing a day trip to Colonia del Sacramento or staying just one night. But if you have the flexibility, I recommend staying for at least 3 days to explore everything at a leisurely pace and to do other excursions, such as visiting Carmelo and a winery.
For those seeking a tranquil and charming getaway where they can unwind and savor the local cuisine and scenery without adhering to a strict schedule, Colonia offers the perfect escape. You can extend your stay as long as you like, as Colonia is truly a beautiful and inviting destination for relaxation.
Where to eat in Colonia del Sacramento?
Colonia del Sacramento has excellent restaurants where you can enjoy the best of Uruguayan cuisine. Additionally, you can taste the most typical Uruguayan dishes in the destination, such as parrilla, alfajor, empanada, sangria/clericó, and a traditional chivito. Check out some incredible restaurants in Colonia.
- La Bodeguita: located in the old town, the restaurant has a view of the Río de La Plata and offers a diverse menu.
- Bohemia Bistro: an ideal restaurant for those who love Italian cuisine, located in the old town.
- Charco Bistro: the restaurant at Charco Hotel has a view of the Río de la Plata and sophisticated settings and dishes, making it one of the best in the destination.
- La Locanda: a very interesting restaurant and bar to enjoy the evening in Colonia del Sacramento, as it features live music and a pleasant atmosphere.
Check out our tips for the best restaurants in Colonia del Sacramento, featuring a comprehensive selection of amazing establishments and the typical dishes of each place.
Where to drink in Colonia del Sacramento?
Colonia del Sacramento isn’t a very bustling destination for nightlife, but the city has great bars in addition to the incredible restaurants mentioned above. For those who enjoy something livelier, the city has some wonderful bars (I can’t promise a party atmosphere, but you can have a beer, some wine, or cocktails and have a lot of fun).
Colonia del Sacramento Travel Costs
- Accommodation Prices: in Colonia, there are plenty of lodging options, including wonderful hotels with views of the Río de la Plata. A bed in a dormitory shared by 6-8 people typically costs around USD 30 per night, whereas a room in a basic hotel averages around USD 80. If you choose a luxury accommodation, the daily rate can start at USD 180.
- Transportation: most of Colonia’s attractions are located in the old town, making it possible to explore them on foot. Moreover, the Port of Colonia is very close to the old town. However, a good transportation option to discover the destination is renting a bicycle or a golf cart (starting at USD 70).
- Food: for those who enjoy diving into the local cuisine, set aside a good budget for food. And from our experience in the city, you’ll spend practically the same amount on a snack as on a dish in a restaurant. In restaurants, you’ll find dishes ranging from USD 6 to USD 20. In bars, drinks range from USD 6 to USD 12, and beer is USD 3.
- Tours: in Colonia, there are various tours for you to take, with most of them focusing on exploring the old town. The free tour is a good option for those looking to save money, but to explore the surroundings of Colonia, we recommend that you purchase a tour or rent a car.
Colonia del Sacramento travel guide: Suggested Budget
| Accommodation | Transportation | Food | Attractions | Average Daily Cost | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget-friendly | USD 30 | – | USD 30 | – | USD 60 |
| Mid-Range | USD 80 | – | USD 60 | USD 10 | USD 154 |
| Luxury | USD 180 | – | USD 120 | USD 80 | USD 380 |
For the budget traveler, we suggest a budget of at least USD 60 per day. In this budget, we are considering that you will stay in a hostel in a shared room and explore the old town on foot or with the free tour, without spending on transportation or tours.
For a regular trip, the budget we propose for your daily expenses is USD 154. In it, you can stay in hotels with basic services and breakfast. Restaurants are good options, as they offer dishes at great prices during lunchtime. For transportation, we didn’t separate any amount, as you can easily walk around the old town of Colonia on foot.
In the luxury budget of USD 380, we consider staying in a hotel with good services and location, dining at fine restaurants, and visiting bars to enjoy your afternoons and evenings with good drinks. For transportation, you can rent a car, bicycle, or golf cart, but we do not indicate a specific amount for this purpose. And for the tour, it’s interesting to visit a winery, which costs USD 70.
Colonia del Sacramento travel guide: Know before you go
- The official currency of Uruguay is the Uruguayan peso, but many businesses in Colonia del Sacramento also accept the US dollar, Euro, and Argentine peso. I recommend exchanging currency and using the local currency if you’re staying for more than a day, as the city has currency exchange offices with very fair prices and ATM.
- The voltage in Uruguay is 220 volts. So, pay attention to the devices you’ll be bringing. Additionally, the plug standard has three thick and aligned pins. So, check if you’ll need an adapter.
- The streets in the old town are paved with irregular stones. So, wearing comfortable shoes is essential for a smoother walk and to prevent accidents, like twisting your foot.
- Consider getting travel insurance for Uruguay, as it’s mandatory and can help you avoid those travel mishaps no one wants, such as flight cancellations.
What to pack for Colonia del Sacramento
Uruguay is a country with well-defined seasons, so you should pack according to the season you’ll be traveling in.
When traveling to Colonia del Sacramento, don’t forget to subscribe to a VPN (Virtual Private Network). It’s essential for our trips, as it secures connections on Wi-Fi networks and allows access to any website or app from other countries. We’ve encountered issues accessing bank apps while abroad, and the VPN enabled quick and secure access.
Colonia del Sacramento travel guide: Is it safe to travel to Uruguay?
Most destinations in Uruguay are safe to travel to, including Colonia del Sacramento, which is a very peaceful and historic city to visit. In our trips to Colonia, we didn’t encounter any situations that would raise concerns about our safety.
Check out our tips for traveling safely in Colonia del Sacramento:
- Never walk back to your accommodation late at night, especially when the area is not busy and you have to walk a long distance.
- Make copies of all your documents, and always keep them in a secure place.
- Always send your travel itinerary to a family member. Although Uruguay is a safe country, it’s always important for people to know what you’re doing.
- Upon arriving at your accommodations, check if the place is safe. If you don’t feel safe, change your accommodation. When we have doubts about the safety of accommodation, we book only one night. This way, we can leave the accommodation without much loss.
- If you encounter an emergency and need assistance, dial 911.
Want more information about the destination? Then, check out all the articles we’ve written about traveling to Colonia del Sacramento, and keep planning your trip:
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