Colonia del Sacramento
Colonia del Sacramento is one of the most important tourist areas in Uruguay.
Just an hour ferry ride from Buenos Aires, and two hours driving from Montevideo, visitors to Colonia del Sacramento love this picturesque town which transports visitors to another time in history… if only for a day.
Although Colonia del Sacramento, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracts thousands of people from around the world, you will find the town continues to feel small and relaxed – it is a place to wander the cobblestone streets and lose track of time as you admire the picturesque colonial facades and enchanting Calle de los Suspiros (Street of Sighs), peruse the shops laden with local artisan crafts (beautiful pottery, quality wool clothing, and more), visit a couple of museums, walk along the pier and shoreline of the Rio de la Plata, and dine at one of the outdoor cafes.
Walking through the cobblestone streets of Colonia’s historic quarter is like stepping back in time. Colonia’s historic center is a melting pot of architectural styles in which typically Portuguese and Spanish styles of colonial housing and city planning co-exist.
The gateway to the historic quarter is a drawbridge called Puerta de la Ciudadela, leading into what used to be a fortress.
Other important landmarks include the main plaza, Calle de los Suspiros, and the iconic lighthouse where visitors can climb up a winding, narrow staircase to the very top for an amazing view of the coastline and the cities landscape.
The Real de San Carlos bullring, located outside the historic quarter, has an intriguing story – built in 1910 at a huge investment, the bullring only hosted eight bull fights before they were banned in 1912. The beautiful structure was abandoned for over a century until it was renovated and has only recently opened for visitors in December 2021.
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We have a deep respect for local people, communities and cultures. In addition to must-see sites, we can also recommend unique and boutique sites that allow you to experience the true heart and soul of the culture.
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