The Ultimate Montevideo Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Montevideo, Uruguay? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

The capital and largest city of Uruguay, with a population of approximately 1.3 million people.
Founded in the 18th century, Montevideo serves as the country’s primary port and has a rich cultural heritage influenced by Spanish and Italian immigrants.
Montevideo is known for its vibrant cultural scene, historic architecture, and beautiful coastline.
Nickname: The Capital of the Sun

Currency: Uruguayan Peso (UYU).
Spoken Languages: Spanish and Portuguese; English is commonly understood in tourist areas.
Best time to visit: From October to April for warm weather, sea activities, and festivals. Expect summer heat and occasional rain, so pack accordingly.
Arriving via airport: Carrasco International Airport (MVD) is located about 20 km from the city center.
– The airport shuttle service costs around UYU 400-500
– Taxis charge approximately €45 (UYU 1890).
– The public bus to the city center costs only €1.60 (UYU 68). Buses run frequently every hour between 4 AM and midnight (1 hour journey). The bus stop is located directly in front of the terminal.

Ciudad Vieja is the historical heart of Montevideo, with proximity to markets, galleries, and nightlife.
Pocitos offers beachside accommodations, lively bars, and restaurant options with a more relaxed vibe.
Barrio Sur and Palermo are known for their artsy atmosphere and a diverse range of lodgings, along with cultural events and local eateries.
The Uruguayan tourist police patrol several neighborhoods where most hotels are located, including El Centro, La Ciudad Vieja, El Cordón, El Parque Rodó, Pocitos, and Punta Carretas.

Public transportation includes buses (ómnibus), which are the most common way to get around. Tickets cost UYU 40-50 and can be purchased aboard the bus.
– Buses generally run from around 05:00 until 23:00, with fares paid in cash per journey.
Montevideo buses are cheap and frequent, but they are often crowded during peak periods. Additionally, bus stops are not well signposted throughout the city.
The city also has a bike-sharing program known as “Montevideo Bike,” which is an affordable and environmentally friendly way to navigate the city.
Taxis are widely available. Base fare is €1.55 (UYU 65), with a rate per kilometer of €1.55 (UYU 65), and a waiting charge per hour of €9.50 (UYU 395).
Rideshare services like Uber are also available – a convenient alternative to taxis.

The legal drinking age is 18, and nightlife typically kicks off late (1 AM), with bars and clubs staying open until the early morning hours.
Ciudad Vieja and Punta Carretas are hotspots for bars, offering a mix of traditional and modern venues.
For a unique experience, visit La Trastienda, a venue that hosts live music performances and cultural events.
Notable bars to explore:
– Bar Fun Fun (traditional Uruguayan atmosphere – a cabaret that serves wine, beer, and cocktails to go with their live shows)
– Club del Circulo (tango performances)
– Sin Nombre (craft cocktails)
For clubbing, check out Sala del Museo for electronic music or Amsterdam for a vibrant nightlife experience.

Palacio Salvo is an iconic building that symbolizes Montevideo’s architecture and is located at the Plaza Independencia.
Mercado del Puerto is a lively market where you can sample delicious Uruguayan grilled meats and local products.
The National Museum of Visual Arts showcases an impressive collection of Uruguayan art, including works by Joaquín Torres García.
Museo de la Memoria offers important insights into Uruguay’s 12-year civic-military dictatorship (1973-85) and honors the 200 Uruguayans who were “disappeared” during this period.
Museum of Decorative Arts, housed in the French-style Palacio Taranco, offers an impressive collection of European art and furniture that would appeal to art enthusiasts.
Football (soccer) fan? Head to Centenary Stadium in Parque Batlle to experience the passion of South American soccer.
– The Museum of Football displays interesting memorabilia.

Stroll along La Rambla, a coastal promenade that stretches for over 22 km (longest continuous sidewalk in the world), offering beautiful views of the Río de la Plata. You’ll pass notable landmarks such as a skate park, the moving Holocaust Memorial, and the intriguing Pittamiglio Castle.
Explore the historic streets of Ciudad Vieja, stopping by the Solis Theatre and the picturesque Port Market.
Visit Parque Rodó, a large park known for its lake, sculptures, and weekend artisan market.
Discover the vibrant murals and street art in Barrio Sur, an area historically significant to Montevideo’s African-Uruguayan culture.

Tipping: around 10% is customary in restaurants; rounding up the bill is also appreciated.
Traditional Uruguayan cuisine includes asado (barbecue), chivito (a sandwich of steak, cheese, and more), and dulce de leche treats.
Look for local produce and handcrafted goods at the Feria de Tristán Narvaja, an eclectic street market held on Sundays.
For a hidden gem, visit Café Brasilero, one of the oldest cafés in Montevideo, which offers an atmospheric place to unwind.

Uruguay is famous for its mate tea culture. Don’t miss trying mate with locals and observing the communal ritual.
– Tip: locals carry their maté kits (including the yerba, mate cup, bombilla straw, and thermo hot-water bottle) and enjoy this ritual while strolling along the waterfront at sunset.
Dangerous areas: Petty crime, muggings, and armed robbery are more common on 18 de Julio Avenue, La Ciudad Vieja (the Old City), Plaza Independencia, and Puerto de Montevideo (the port area). Note: some of these areas are also top tourist destinations.
For solo travelers, especially women, it’s advisable to exercise heightened caution in the following areas: 40 Semanas, Barrio Borro, Bella Italia, Casabó, Casavalle, Hipódromo, La Teja, Malvín Norte, Marconi, Tres Ombúes, Villa del Cerro, and Villa Española.
During the summer tourist season (December to March), criminals often relocate to popular tourist destinations like Punta del Este, Rocha, and Colonia del Sacramento.
Watch out for petty theft in crowded areas and markets; keep a close eye on your belongings.

Recommended trip duration: 1-2 days