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Full Day Private Tour of Montevideo: Explore City's Main Attractions and Hidden Gems

5.0

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Montevideo

Experience the best of Montevideo on a full-day private tour. Discover the city's main attractions and hidden gems, ensuring you make the most of your visit. Book now!

Duration: 9 hours

Cancellation: 1 day learn more

Highlights

Plaza Matriz - Our tour begins here. Since 1726, it served as the Plaza Mayor of the Fortress City of San Felipe and Santiago de Montevideo. This square has always been the civic and social hub of the city, starting with the construction of the Iglesia Matriz and later the Cabildo (colonial government seat). Over time, it saw the addition of large shops, social buildings, and hotels. We will walk the pedestrian circuit here to reach our next destination.
Plaza Independencia - Following the demolition of the colonial city’s fortifications and the affirmation of independence, the walled city transformed into an open city. Plaza Independencia connects the Old City with the New City and marks the beginning of the main avenue, 18 de Julio. Surrounding it are notable buildings like the Solís Theater, Salvo Palace, Puerta de la Citadel, Estévez Palace, and the Executive Tower of the national government. The monument to the hero José Gervasio Artigas stands at the center, with stairs leading to the mausoleum where his remains rest.
Plaza Zabala - Originating from the demolition of the colonial Governor’s House in the late 19th century, this plaza was created to provide green urban spaces. It features unique urban characteristics, such as being a block turned relative to the classic colonial city grid. It is the only square in Montevideo that retains its gate, though not the original, and has traffic circulating clockwise. Designed in a “Belle Epoque” spirit by French landscaper André in 1889, it includes an undulating walkway, large grass beds, flower beds, and various tree species. Gothic-style elements like lanterns, a drinking fountain, and an octagonal gate add to its charm.
Mercado del Puerto - This old warehouse, inaugurated in 1868, is now a National Historic Monument. It houses a variety of restaurants specializing in “parrilla” or “Uruguayan barbecue.” The surrounding pedestrian streets feature artisans and artists selling their products. Opposite the market is the Customs building, approximately 100 years old.
Escollera Sarandí - We will start our walk along the Montevidean coast here. Adjacent to the port, this breakwater extends the pedestrian walkway of the same name. It offers a privileged view of the Old City and the port and is a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. If we’re lucky, we might see a ship or cruise ship entering the port up close. We’ll pause for a few minutes to enjoy the view. This coastal tour includes several proposed stops, but as this is a private and personalized tour, you can choose to skip or add stops as you wish.
Templo Ingles de Montevideo - We will stop at Plaza España, opposite the Rambla Sur. This square contains one of the few remnants of the old wall that surrounded the fortified city. Across from the square is the Cubo del Sur, an emblematic site preserving the colonial wall. This area, once used for military defense of the Spanish colony, is also a place of cultural memory for enslaved Africans, where dances, tangos, and candombes were performed as acts of resistance. The English Temple, built in 1844 at the request of the US, Swedish, and British consuls, was rebuilt in 1934.
Edificio Mercosur - We will pause for a few minutes in the plaza surrounding the Skating Rink to enjoy the view of the end of the South Rambla. In front of us is the Mercosur Building, formerly the well-known Parque Hotel, a significant center of Montevidean social life with memorable parties and performances by famous orchestras. From here, we have a panoramic view of Playa Ramírez, Parque Rodó, Las Canteras, and Paseo de los Pescadores, our next stop.
Fishermen‘s Walk - This area features piers and fishing clubs, offering an attractive view of the Rambla Sur and an excellent spot for photos. Here, you can learn about life in these hidden corners. The Canteras del Parque Rodó and the Teatro de Verano, the main stage of the Uruguayan Carnival, are also located here.
Faro de Punta Carretas - Originally called Punta Brava Lighthouse, it is situated at the southernmost point of Montevideo and Uruguay. Since 1948, it emits a red flash every ten seconds to distinguish itself from other lighthouses and buoys. Standing at 21 meters tall with a luminous range of 15 miles, it remains a reference point for fishing boats heading to the English Bank, the Diving Port, or the Santa Lucía River entrance. The coast offers a panoramic view.
Trouville - The Montevideo coast features several beaches and rocky points. We can stop at some of them to breathe the sea air, take photos, and learn about the history and characteristics of each neighborhood. Pointe de Trouville officially separates the Punta Carretas neighborhood from Pocitos and is a neighborhood meeting point with a skating rink, gym equipment, and other attractions. Nearby are the Pittamiglio Castle, Gomesoro Square, and the beginning of 21 de Setiembre Avenue, offering beautiful views over Pocitos Beach and the boulevard.
Parque Rodo - This extensive park, located in front of Playa Ramírez, is one of the largest green spaces in the city, covering 43 hectares. It features a large lake where you can take a pedal boat ride. The neighborhood also includes quarries, the Summer Theater, the Museum of Visual Arts, architecturally interesting buildings, numerous monuments, and an open-air photo gallery. The castle, inaugurated in 1903, is said to be a replica of a French medieval castle, though this is unconfirmed.
Parque de Villa Biarritz - Situated between the neighborhoods of Punta Carretas and Pocitos, this park, declared a National Historic Monument, serves as a city lung with its own spirit and life. The first settlers were from Basque France, giving the park its name. In the early 20th century, it was a prominent spa area for the Montevidean aristocracy. Today, it is a beautiful urban corner with a traditional fair held twice a week, offering everything from fruits and vegetables to clothing and handmade items.
Plaza Tomas Gomensoro - This interesting plaza on two levels is located next to the coast in Trouville, between the Punta Carretas and Pocitos neighborhoods. The neighborhood was delineated in 1897, and the plaza underwent various modifications until its current form was completed in 1920. It is a charming neighborhood corner to spend a few minutes.
Pocitos - Known for the “Punta de Kibon” and the “Cartel de Montevideo,” this is a classic tourist stop. It has always been a popular spot for iconic city photos, and since the sign’s inauguration in January 2014, it has become even more famous. The sign was renovated in May 2018, becoming a popular meeting point for groups from high schools and various institutions. We will make a brief stop at the “Puertito del Buceo” for panoramic views and stories of the area.
Playa del buceo - We will pause for a few minutes at the tip next to Buceo Beach, where the Oceanographic Museum, built in 1925 in a Morico style, is located. This area was once a spa visited by the population concentrated in the Old City and its surroundings.
Plaza Virgilio - After passing through the beaches of Buceo and the three that make up Malvin, we arrive at Playa de los Ingleses and Punta Gorda, where Plaza de la Armada or Plaza Virgilio is located. More like a park than a square, it boasts unique landscape qualities.
Molino de Pérez - This stone construction, built between 1780 and 1790, is located in what was once the furthest point from the city within Montevideo’s natural limits.
Carrasco - Originally conceived as a Garden Neighborhood, it is now Montevideo’s most important residential area, home to many ambassadors’ residences. Facing the beach is the Hotel Casino Carrasco, built in 1921, marking the beginning of the area’s development.
World Trade Center Montevideo - Like other WTCs worldwide, this complex is business-oriented, comprising five towers surrounding a square, alongside Montevideo Shopping, the country’s first shopping center.
Estadio Centenario - Located in Parque Batlle, this stadium was inaugurated on July 18, 1930, for the first Soccer World Cup, won by Uruguay. It has a capacity of over 60,000 spectators, making it the largest stadium in Uruguay and one of the 15 largest in America. In 1983, FIFA declared it a “Historical Monument of World Soccer.” We will view the stadium from the outside and walk through the park, which includes the Athletics Track and the Monumento de la Carreta.
Obelisco a los Constituyentes - Marking the boundary between Batlle Park and the Center of Montevideo, this obelisk, created by sculptor José Luis Zorrilla de San Martín, stands 40 meters tall and is made of bronze and granite. Inaugurated in 1938, it honors the patriots of the General Constituent and Legislative Assembly of the State, which sanctioned Uruguay’s first Constitution in 1830.
Avenida 18 de Julio - Along this main city avenue, you can see the University of the Republic, National Library, Plaza de los 33, IMM, Cagancha or Freedom Square, and Entrevero Square.
Mirador Panoramico de Montevideo - The headquarters of Montevideo’s government, this building began construction in 1935 and was completed in 1944, with further modifications in the 70s. It houses the Museum of Art History at its base and the Municipal Viewpoint at the top. Admission is free, and if time permits, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and various tour points.
Palacio Legislativo - The Legislative Palace is the seat of Uruguay’s Legislative Branch, housing the General Assembly, which includes the House of Representatives and the Chamber of Senators. Built between 1908 and 1925, it was inaugurated on August 25, 1925, to commemorate the centenary of the Declaration of Independence.
Mercado Agricola Montevideo - MAM - The last of Montevideo’s large iron markets, it also features the Mercado de la Abundancia in the city center and the Mercado del Puerto in the Old City. The original building has false towers on its four corners, ending in a needle.
El Prado - The first and largest public park in the city, covering 106 hectares, El Prado developed over time around the Miguelete stream. It features residential buildings from the early 20th century and tree-lined avenues. Points of interest include the Blanes Museum, Japanese Garden, Botanical Garden, Rose Garden, Carmelitas Church, and monuments like Los Últimos Charruas and the Dirigencia. Visiting all these sites will depend on our schedule and natural light, as this is the last area on our tour.
Montevideo - Throughout our tour, we will explore the main streets and delve into different neighborhoods to experience their unique characteristics and daily life. We can stop for photos or visit a fair at any time. This way, you’ll get to know the spirit and daily rhythm of neighborhoods like Parque Rodó, Punta Carretas, Pocitos, Buceo, Malvín, Punta Gorda, Carrasco, Parque Batlle, Prado, and more. This city tour will take the whole day, and we will likely stop for lunch at some point. Depending on your preferences and location, I can recommend a place to eat. I will wait outside while you finish your meal, and then we will continue our tour. Please note that lunch and any other expenses are not included in the tour price.

What's Included

Wifi and internet connection wherever we go, not just in the vehicle
Private transportation
On-board WiFi
This is your Tour, with your times and preferences. If you like to stop, we stop… if you want to continue, we continue.

What's Not Included

Lunch

Additional Information

This excursion is designed as an introductory experience to the city.\nMontevideo boasts an array of attractions for travelers, making it challenging to fully explore in just one day.\nIn this journey, I’ll guide you through the entire city, highlighting its major landmarks, as well as guiding you through quaint neighborhoods, each with their unique flair and features.\n\nShould your stay be limited to a brief visit, rest assured that upon departure, you’ll have a genuine appreciation of Montevideo, having experienced it in a way that few tourists do.\nConversely, if your itinerary allows for a longer stay, this tour will equip you with a sense of which areas you may wish to revisit for a more thorough exploration, allocating additional time as desired.\n\nIndeed, the tour is extensive, and our ability to cover everything hinges on an early start and the duration of our stops at each site.\n\nI am committed to spending the entire day on this tour, without a predetermined conclusion time.

The vehicle to be used is licensed for 7 people, including the driver, and there are security elements for everyone. The ideal number of adults in the group should be 4 of medium build so that they can travel in total comfort. It is also possible to incorporate 2 children or adolescents if they are not large. The clarification is because the 3rd row seat is smaller than the rest.

Location

Plaza Matriz

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings

5.0

(5 Ratings)

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Veronica_s

May 15, 2024

If you have a day only it’s worth it! - The tour was great! If you are short on time this is a great way to see the highlights of the Montevideo. Our tour guide Marcos was great at recommending local places to eat. He was very pleasant to talk to and very informative. A native from Montevideo, his English was great! Highly recommended it!

Review provided by Viator

Najeeb_l

Mar 8, 2024

Excellent tour highly recommended - Excellent very knowledgeable guide and very helpful and informative and friendly highly appreciated and recommended goes out of his way to help you

Review provided by Viator

Nancya_w

Feb 24, 2024

See the best of Montevideo with Marcos - Marcos was our tour guide. His English was good, as well as his desire to show us the best of Montevideo. He did contact me before the tour to discuss time. I was not able to get on Whatsapp right when we got off the ship, so it was a bit hard to find where he was parked. We needed to go out of the port further than we thought to find him in his van. He had given me great directions on Whatsapp on how to find him, but I had not been able to connect to that. Once we got started with the tour he was very courteous and was informative about the history of the city and the country.

Review provided by Viator

Jay_s

Jan 14, 2024

Enjoying A Complete Day Exploring the City of Montevideo - My family and I were able to explore the entire city of Montevideo with our trusted guide at the helm. Lots of fun and lots to see!

Review provided by Viator

Brad_b