Taking a Buenos Aires to Uruguay Day Trip in 2024

Out of all the things to do in Argentina’s capital, taking a Buenos Aires to Uruguay day trip, especially to Colonia del Sacramento is one I could never recommend enough!

Buenos Aires is a great city, but like most big cities it’s hectic and crowded. The hustle and bustle can be overwhelming.

Personally, I needed an escape, and only one hour away is the perfect escape from city life. This is Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay – A UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Want to know more? Here’s everything you should know about taking a Buenos Aires to Colonia day trip.

Buenos Aires to Uruguay Day Trip: Introduction

Colonia del Sacramento is a city in the southwest of Uruguay, and the reason for the contrast to Buenos Aires is the old town and cobbled streets. It has a laid-back vibe and buildings from the Portuguese era.

You can get there in just under an hour on the ferry from Buenos Aires to Montevideo, and it’s not too expensive to do so. But remember, you’ll need to pass immigration and security, so arrive with plenty of time before departure.

How to Get to Colonia from Buenos Aires?

The best way to travel from Buenos Aires to Colonia del Sacramento is by joining a guided tour, which includes the ferry round trip ticket.

When you take a guided tour, you’re not only with a local guide who knows everything about the one-hour ferry ride and area, but you’ll also get to learn stories about Colonia, which is always a plus.

Is it Worth Taking a Day Trip to Colonia?

Absolutely! A day trip to Colonia del Sacramento is a must-do for anyone visiting Buenos Aires.

This UNESCO Heritage designated town is a living museum of Spanish and Portuguese colonial history, with its cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, and picturesque waterfront.

Is Colonia del Sacramento Safe?

Yes, Colonia del Sacramento is one of the safest places I’ve been in South America.

Its quaint town and relaxed pace of life contribute to a feeling of security that is palpable from the moment you step onto its historic district.

How Long to Stay Colonia del Sacramento?

Taking a day trip to Colonia del Sacramento is good enough to capture the essence of this historic town and see the key spots.

You’ll get to see the lighthouse, the Portón de Campo, and the cobbled streets of the Barrio Histórico.

The compact size of the town allows for an immersive experience without the need for extended stays.

Things to Do on a Buenos Aires to Uruguay Day Trip

The first step is of course to take the Uruguay ferry from Buenos Aires. Once you’re there, you’ll find the Old Town and most of the attractions within walking distance. But the first thing you’ll notice… Peace and calm! It really is a contrast to Buenos Aires.

So, there are a few things to do in Colonia del Sacramento I recommend, and one particular way to get around!

Here are my things to do Colonia de Sacramento, the best places to visit near Buenos Aires.

Rent a golf buggy

Yes! My eyes lit up when I saw this. OK you could hire a bike and get fit, but I didn’t have much time and you’ll love the idea when you visit Uruguay from Buenos Aires.

It’s not too expensive if there’s a group of you, but I can’t remember exactly how much and I didn’t really care. It gave me a chance to have some fun and see far more of Colonia than I would have any other way.

The Lighthouse

The Faro de Colonia del Sacramento is iconic to Colonia, and it overlooks the ruins of the San Francisco Convent. It’s pretty impressive, and was built in 1857.

I didn’t have time to go to the top but I wish I had as the views look pretty spectacular.

Walk Along the Beach

After a week in Buenos Aires, it was great to see the beaches! The further you get away from the city centre the more secluded they get, and you can find your own little peaceful spot to relax, enjoy a book or take some photos.

Can you think of a better way to enjoy your day trip to Uruguay from Buenos Aires?

Get Lost in the Old Town – Barrio Historico

The Old Town has a number of places to visit, but I enjoyed simply getting lost in the side streets, walking passed old ruins and Portuguese-style buildings.

Round all narrow cobblestone streets, you’ll find hidden cafes, local restaurants and souvenir shops.

Eat Chivito

The local cuisine is very similar to Argentinean food, with many famous dishes being the same. However, I was recommended Chivito, a steak and cheese sandwich that many visit on their day trip from Buenos Aires to Uruguay.

And they know how to cook their steak here, perfect when washed down with a Uruguayan beer!

Watch the Sunset

Plaza Mayor is stunning at any time of day, but at dusk, it becomes really incredible. If you’re on a day trip Buenos Aires to Uruguay, it might be a bit tight to catch the ferry back in time, but for me, the risk was worth it – I made it, just in time!

The sunset here was absolutely breathtaking, and honestly, the photos say it all.

Plaza de Tores

You’ll need some transport to reach it, but just a short drive (or cycle) up the coast will bring you to the Plaza de Toros. It’s an impressive piece of architecture, but fortunately, it’s no longer in use, as I’m not a fan of bullfighting.

While you’re in the area, you’ll also come across two more museums worth exploring and a fantastic ocean lookout point, offering stunning views of the coastline.

Markets, Museums and Galleries

I’ve grouped these together as a Buenos Aires day trip to Uruguay, there simply isn’t enough time to take everything in. There’s a handcraft market a short walk from the port (below), if you like that kind of thing, and many museums and art gallery’s, often free to enter.

Have a Drink at the Port

The port of Muelle de Porto de Yates is another perfect spot to unwind—are you picking up on the theme here? It’s one of the reasons I fell in love with Colonia and why I would do this Buenos Aires Uruguay day trip again.

It’s the ideal place to relax and gear up before heading back to the hustle and bustle of Buenos Aires. Watching the locals fish and seeing the boats return to the harbour was a simple pleasure that added to the charm.

People often ask me if it’s worth staying overnight. I’d say yes, for most people. It’s very quiet in the evenings, making it ideal for a romantic dinner or some peaceful alone time. So, have I convinced you yet?

I hope so, because if you’re visiting Buenos Aires, then at the very least, a Uruguay day trip from Buenos Aires is an absolute must.

Where to Stay in Buenos Aires

If you plan on visiting Uruguay from Buenos Aires and want to come back to a cosy place for the night, these are some great places to stay in Buenos Aires for a fabulous trip.

Luxury: Hilton Buenos Aires

Nestled in the upscale Puerto Madero district, Hilton Buenos Aires offers luxurious accommodations featuring city and river views.

This elegant hotel is well-equipped with spa facilities, a fitness centre, a rooftop pool, and a striking glass atrium lobby.

You can enjoy spacious rooms with classic décor and modern amenities, exclusive Executive Lounge access, and diverse dining options including international cuisine at El Faro Restaurant.

Mid-Range: Up Congreso Hotel

Conveniently located in Buenos Aires, Up Congreso Hotel provides 3-star accommodations close to cultural landmarks like Palacio Barolo and Tortoni Cafe.

This hotel is within easy reach of the city’s centre and offers essential services such as a 24-hour front desk, airport transportation, concierge service, and complimentary WiFi.

Rooms are equipped with modern amenities, including air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and some feature terraces, ensuring a comfortable stay for guests.

Budget: Hotel Regis

Situated in the heart of Downtown Buenos Aires, HOTEL REGIS offers guests a convenient location close to the Colon Theater, Palacio Barolo, and other major attractions.

This 2-star hotel features comfortable air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, safety deposit boxes, and complimentary WiFi.

Its proximity to the city centre and major points of interest, along with essential services like a 24-hour front desk and concierge service, makes it an ideal choice for budget-conscious travellers.

Getting to Buenos Aires

KLM flies to Buenos Aires, using Amsterdam as a hub, along with many other destinations in South and Central America, meaning you can fly in to one city and out of another, making your own way between them.

I flew to Buenos Aires as part of the KLM Music Guide campaign. My flights to Buenos Aires were complementary, but return flights from the UK start at £589, including taxes.

All of the content, opinions and photography are my own, and I have not been paid for this article. Please take time to visit KLM’s website to support me on more adventures like this one!

Conclusion: Ferry Buenos Aires Colonia

In conclusion, the ferry service between Buenos Aires and Colonia offers a unique and efficient way to travel between Argentina and Uruguay. And that’s the best way to take a day trip Uruguay from Buenos Aires.

The ferry trip not only serves as a bridge between the bustling city life of Buenos Aires and the historic charm of Colonia del Sacramento but also as an opportunity to experience the beauty of the river and the convenience of cross-border travel.

Thank you for reading until the end and I hope this guide about the day trips from Buenos Aires to Uruguay was helpful to plan your upcoming itinerary!

Support Intrepid Escape by adding this article on Pinterest to read later and share with your friends. Have you been to Colonia del Sacramento? How did you find it? Am I missing anything amazing on my list? I’d love to hear about it in the comments below. Thanks for reading and happy travels!