Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay

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A day trip to Colonia del Sacramento offers families a different view of the area's history and it provides a break from the bustle of Buenos Aires and the sun-drenched Uruguayan beaches. Founded by the Portuguese in 1680, Colonia lies on the eastern shore of the Rio de la Plata. The town's historic quarter, declared a World Heritage Site in 1995, is a fusion of Portuguese, Spanish and post-colonial architecture and is home to small shops as well as charming hotels and restaurants.

Getting there

Both Buquebus and Ferrylineas offer daily ferry service from Buenos Aires in Argentina to Colonia. The boat trip from the port in the barrio of Puerto Madero to Colonia is roughly 1 hour.

Buquebus
Ferrylineas

Getting around

The best way to tour the city is on foot. Catch a taxi or hire a car if you're heading to the beach or elsewhere outside the town.

Guía Colonia
car rental companies
city maps

When to travel

While Colonia is enjoyable year round, spring, summer and fall (March - May) offer the best weather. Winter (June-August) can be cold and rainy.

Weather Underground