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Montevideo, Uruguay’s laid-back capital, often flies under travelers’ radar in search of South American adventures. But this coastal gem offers a unique combination of rich history, warm hospitality, and a relaxed pace that’s hard to match.
This post covers Montevideo, when to visit, getting around, where to stay, safety, and attractions. We’ll also delve into considerations for those seeking to remain long-term, like living costs and healthcare.
Overview
Montevideo effortlessly mixes old-world charm with modern flair. This contrast is most evident in the Ciudad Vieja (Old Town). Wandering through its narrow, cobblestone streets lined with colonial buildings, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Just a short walk away, the bustling Mercado del Puerto invites you to taste Uruguay’s famous asado, blending tradition with the contemporary rhythm of local life.
The waterfront shapes Montevideo. The Rambla, a 13-mile stretch of promenade, wraps around the city, offering panoramic views of the Río de la Plata and lush parks perfect for strolls or sunset watching. The beaches that dot the coastline may not have the same fame as Brazil’s, but they have a serene beauty. Pocitos Beach, with its golden sands and laid-back vibe, attracts locals and expats alike.
The city has a thriving arts scene, where museums, theaters, and street performances abound. Teatro Solís, one of the oldest theaters in Latin America, is a must-visit for any culture enthusiast. From tango shows to contemporary art exhibits, Montevideo showcases diverse artistic expression that keeps visitors engaged year-round.
Uruguay’s capital also offers a relaxed quality of life that’s hard to find in many of South America’s bustling cities. The slower pace, friendly locals, and abundance of green spaces make it a city where you can easily take a break from the hustle of travel.
Suppose you’re looking for a destination that balances a capital city’s excitement with a coastal town’s peacefulness. In that case, Montevideo might be the perfect spot for your next adventure. It’s a place where you can experience a little bit of everything—from history to beach life—without ever feeling overwhelmed.
Montevideo
- Department: Montevideo
- Population: 1,300,000
- Official language(s): Spanish
- Currency: Uruguayan peso ($U, UYU)
- Climate: Cfa (humid subtropical)
- Safe to visit: Yes
- Cost of living: Moderate
When to Visit
The best times to visit Montevideo are spring (October to December) and fall (March to May). During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, ideal for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions and enjoying the beaches along the Rambla.
Spring brings blooming parks and gardens, while fall offers cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed experience. Summers (December to February) can be hot and humid, though still enjoyable for beachgoers, while winters (June to August) are cooler and tend to be rainier.
Getting Around
Aeropuerto Internacional de Carrasco (MVD) is Montevideo’s main airport. The LATAM Group, Avianca, COPA, and Aerolineas Argentinas support international flights into Uruguay. Domestic airlines are limited.
Rental car options include Avis, Hertz, Alamo, and Europcar. Consider getting an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) to drive in Uruguay. It translates your home license, making it understandable to local authorities. That can be helpful in Uruguay, where English is not widely spoken.
Montevideo’s main bus terminal is at Bv. Gral. Artigas 1825. To take local buses, you may need a transit pass.
Uber, Viatik, and taxis are available in Montevideo.
Where to Stay
The best neighborhoods in Montevideo include Pocitos, known for its beachfront and lively atmosphere, and Ciudad Vieja, the historic heart with colonial architecture and vibrant cultural spots. For a quieter, upscale experience, Carrasco offers luxurious hotels and tree-lined streets near the beach.
Montevideo offers various accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to affordable hotels.
Airbnb is available in Montevideo. For long-term stays, you can book one to three months through the platform and then deal with the host privately. Many homeowners and travelers prefer private arrangements to avoid Airbnb’s high fees. You can also search Vrbo for vacation rentals and private homes.
Things to Do
The top things to do in Montevideo include:
Ciudad Vieja: Wander through Montevideo’s historic old town with its colonial architecture, vibrant art scene, and charming streets.
Mercado del Puerto: Savor Uruguayan cuisine, especially the famous asado, at this bustling market filled with local flavors.
Rambla of Montevideo: Walk or bike along the scenic 13-mile waterfront promenade that has stunning views in every direction.
Teatro Solís: Visit Uruguay’s oldest and most iconic theater, hosting world-class performances and guided tours.
Plaza Independencia: Explore Montevideo’s central square, home to historical landmarks like the Solís Theater and the mausoleum of national hero José Artigas.
Parque Rodó: Relax in this lush urban park, which features lakes, gardens, and an amusement park. It’s perfect for a laid-back afternoon.
Pocitos Beach: This popular city beach along the Rambla offers sun, sand, and a more local experience.
Palacio Salvo: Admire the architecture of this iconic building, which once held the title of the tallest in South America.
Museo Nacional de Artes Visuales: Discover Uruguay’s artistic heritage with collections from national artists like Juan Manuel Blanes.
Feria de Tristán Narvaja: Visit this famous Sunday market for antiques, books, food, and an authentic Montevideo experience.
Discover more things to do, attractions, and tours in Montevideo and surrounding areas.
Shopping and Gyms
The best shopping malls in Montevideo are Tres Cruces, Montevideo Shopping Center, Punta Carretas Shopping, Nuevocentro, and Portones.
Montevideo’s best gyms include MegaStrong, One, and City Fitness.
The best supermarkets in Montevideo are Devoto, Disco, and Frog.
Safety and Crime
Montevideo is safe to visit. It’s considered one of the safest capitals in South America, but like any city, it has areas where caution is advised.
Petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur in tourist areas like Ciudad Vieja and crowded markets. Some neighborhoods, such as Cerro or Casavalle, have higher crime rates and are less recommended for tourists.
Consult your government’s travel advisories for more details.
Cost of Living
Montevideo’s living costs are moderate, with accommodation, food, and transportation slightly below the prices of other major cities. Uruguay is one of the more expensive LATAM countries in which to live.
Dallas, Texas, is a good representation of the average cost of living in the U.S.; it is neither extremely expensive like New York or San Francisco nor particularly cheap like Mississippi or Arkansas.
Montevideo’s living costs are roughly 43% lower than Dallas’s.
- Rent prices in Montevideo are 72% lower than in Dallas, TX.
- Restaurant prices in Montevideo are 31% lower than in Dallas, TX.
- Groceries prices in Montevideo are 30% lower than in Dallas, TX.
Healthcare
Uruguay’s healthcare system includes public and private hospitals (sanatorios). Public hospitals suffer from supply shortages, overcrowding, and long wait times. Private hospitals charge a premium and provide better care, equipment, and services.
The best hospitals and medical centers in Montevideo include British Hospital, Sanatorio Americano, and Medicare. Pharmacies include independents and chains, like Farmashop and Farmacia San Roque.
Health insurance providers are available nationally and locally. They operate in Spanish, so you might consider getting insurance from a company that operates globally, like SafetyWing and WorldTrips. That will make policy and claim management much easier should a medical concern or incident arise.
Explore Montevideo’s other quality-of-life factors.
Mobile and Internet
Movistar, Claro, and Antel lead Uruguay’s mobile, T.V., and internet sectors.
If planning a short visit to Uruguay, consider buying an eSim to save on roaming fees. Nomad and Jetpac offer the best rates and plans.
Banking and Money
Uruguay’s top banks include BBVA, Santander, Bandes, and Itaú. ATMs are widely available in cities.
Many travelers and digital nomads use Wise’s travel money card to save on transfers, currency exchange, and ATM withdrawal fees.
Foreign credit and debit cards are widely accepted. However, some merchants only accept cash.
Some merchants and individuals accept cryptos for transactions. An account with a reputable crypto company like Binance or Bybit may be helpful.
Read: How to Open a Foreign Bank Account.
Taxes
Uruguay has a territorial tax system, meaning residents are taxed only on income and capital gains generated within Uruguay. Personal income tax rates vary between 0% and 36%, depending on the type and amount of income.
Foreign-sourced income is generally exempt from taxation, although there are exceptions for certain types of foreign income, like interest and dividends, which may be subject to a flat tax rate of 12%. Uruguay is considered tax-friendly for expats due to these exemptions.
Real Estate
Visit InfoCasas, REMAX Uruguay, and Century21 Uruguay for Uruguayan real estate and rentals.
Nearby Cities
- Las Piedras
- Canelones
- Minas
- Maldonado
- San Carlos
Updated: October 17, 2024