Uruguay is small in size but rich in stories. Once a battleground between Spanish and Portuguese empires, it grew into a peaceful nation known for its colonial towns, long Atlantic coastline, and strong cultural identity. Its capital, Montevideo, blends neoclassical architecture with coastal charm, while the countryside stretches out into rolling plains dotted with estancias and grazing cattle. Music, mate tea, and gaucho traditions still shape daily life here.

Travelers come for the calm, stay for the warmth, and leave with memories of sunlit plazas, golden beaches, and conversations that start with a smile and a shared drink.

In this guide, we’ll take you through the top places to visit, local dishes to try, and the best way to stay connected with JetSet eSIM.

Why Travel to Uruguay?

Traveling to Uruguay feels refreshingly easy—and that’s part of its charm. It’s one of the safest countries in South America, with a calm atmosphere that welcomes both solo travelers and families. You won’t need to worry much here: people are friendly, streets are walkable, and things just work.

What makes Uruguay truly special, though, is its culture. From the beat of candombe drums in Montevideo to the daily ritual of sharing mate in a town square, tradition is woven into everyday life. You’ll taste it in the asado, hear it in the music, and see it in the way neighbors greet each other.

And then there’s the land itself. Think wide beaches with soft waves, sun-drenched vineyards in the interior, and protected natural reserves where you might not see another person for hours. Best of all? Getting around is simple. The country is compact and well-connected, making it easy to go from historic cities to sleepy fishing villages without stress.

Must-See Places in Uruguay

Montevideo – The Capital of Contrasts

Montevideo blends colonial architecture with a cosmopolitan vibe. Explore Ciudad Vieja’s cobbled streets, walk the scenic Rambla, and try local specialties at the Mercado del Puerto.

The city’s name is thought to come from early Portuguese explorers who recorded “Monte vide eu”—“I saw a mountain”—upon spotting the nearby Cerro de Montevideo. Today, it’s a capital that balances calm and culture with effortless charm.

Punta del Este – Glamour by the Sea

Famous for its beach resorts, nightlife, and the iconic “La Mano” sculpture, Punta del Este attracts sunseekers, surfers, and celebrities alike.

Colonia del Sacramento – A Step Back in Time

This charming UNESCO-listed town enchants with its preserved colonial streets, pastel buildings, and riverside sunsets steeped in history.

José Ignacio – Chic Coastal Retreat

A former fishing village turned stylish hideaway, José Ignacio offers barefoot luxury, gourmet restaurants, and wide, windswept beaches.

Cabo Polonio – Off-the-Grid Adventure

Reachable only by special 4x4 trucks, this remote national park rewards visitors with sand dunes, sea lion colonies, and starry skies—no electricity, no stress.

Local Cuisine: What to Eat in Uruguay

Asado – The Heart of Uruguayan BBQ

A national ritual. Cuts of beef slow-grilled over wood fire, often served with chimichurri and enjoyed with friends on weekends.

Empanadas – Savory Pastries

Golden dough filled with seasoned beef, chicken, or cheese. Perfect as a snack or quick lunch from a local bakery.

Torta Frita – Rainy Day Favorite

This simple fried flatbread, often eaten with mate on rainy days, is soft inside and crispy outside. Locals sprinkle it with sugar or dip it in jam.

Martin Fierro – Sweet and Savory Combo

A traditional dessert of cheese and quince paste, named after the iconic gaucho literary hero. The contrast of flavors makes it unforgettable.

Postre Chajá – A National Dessert

Invented in the city of Paysandú, this airy dessert layers meringue, sponge cake, whipped cream, and peaches. It’s light, sweet, and uniquely Uruguayan.

Essential Travel Tips for Uruguay

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (Dec–Mar): Warm, sunny, perfect for beaches and festivals.
• Spring (Sep–Nov): Mild weather and fewer crowds—great for city walks and wine tours.

Money & Payments

• Currency: The Uruguayan Peso (UYU) is the official currency. Some places accept U.S. dollars, but pesos are standard.
• Credit Cards: Widely accepted. Tourists can receive VAT refunds for certain card payments, especially at restaurants.
• Cash: Handy for small purchases, kiosks, and rural areas. ATMs are common in cities.
• Tipping: Optional but appreciated—typically 5–10% in restaurants.

Getting Around

• Buses: Reliable intercity and local buses cover much of the country affordably.
• Car Rentals: Best for exploring smaller beach towns or the countryside.
• Ride-Sharing: Uber operates in Montevideo and is a convenient, safe option.

Staying Safe

• General Safety: Uruguay is one of the safest countries in Latin America. Just use common sense in crowded or unfamiliar places.
• Transportation: Stick to registered taxis or ride-share apps.
• Health: Tap water is safe, and pharmacies are easily accessible in urban areas.

Staying Connected in Uruguay

Wi-Fi in Uruguay is generally decent in hotels, cafés, and restaurants in bigger cities like Montevideo and Punta del Este. But in smaller towns—and especially remote spots like Cabo Polonio or rural estancias—it’s either very slow or unavailable. Public networks, while convenient, aren’t always secure and can leave your data exposed.

Buying a local SIM is an option, but it’s not always convenient. SIMs are typically sold at mobile operator branches or kiosks, which aren’t always easy to find right away—especially at the airport. You might face a queue, and while some staff speak English, it’s not guaranteed. Some providers may require passport registration, others may not—but in any case, it’s a process when all you want is to start exploring.

JetSet eSIM makes it simple.

Activate your Uruguay JetSet eSIM before departure and land with instant mobile data—no searching for stores, no paperwork, no language barrier, and no roaming fees. It works right away on your phone, with high-speed coverage in cities, towns, and along the coast.

Need more data later? Just order another eSIM online in seconds, anytime.

Stay connected across Uruguay—from the lively streets of Montevideo to the untouched dunes of Cabo Polonio—with JetSet eSIM.