Location: Colonia del Sacramento
Top Things to do in Colonia del Sacramento
Top Restaurants in Colonia del Sacramento
Top 10 Free Things to do in Colonia del Sacramento, Colonia Department
The historic quarter of Colonia del Sacramento, founded in 1680, evokes old Lisbon with its Portuguese-influenced architecture and winding streets. The area, located in southwestern Uruguay on the Rio de la Plata, was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995. It's an easy day trip by ferry from Buenos Aires, making the beaches a popular Argentinean escape. Major sights include Iglesia Matriz, the country's oldest church, the Municipal Museum and a 17th-century port jutting into the river.
Restaurants in Colonia del Sacramento
1. El Abrazo
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 36 reviews
"El Abrazo" (The embrace) is a Cultural Shop aimed to spread uruguayan Culture through Music, Literature, Photography and Design. From this little spot we embrace those who make our lives more pleasant and we salute those who enjoy cluture in its different forms!
2. De La Plaza
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 35 reviews
3. Barrio Historico
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 8,578 reviews
This historic section of town takes you back to the 17th and 18th centuries, with an array of interesting museums, an historic lighthouse and Uruguay’s oldest church.
Reviewed By jonahNJ - Pennington, United States
While in Buenos Aires, Argentina, my wife and I took the ferry over to Uruguay and spent a beautiful February 2020 day exploring this gorgeous historical neighborhood. From the lovely cobblestones, to the various historic sites such as the lighthouse and convent ruins, to the cannons, there is much to see during a day trip to Colonia del Sacramento. There is also a lot of fascinating history to learn while exploring Barrio Historico.
4. Puerta de la Ciudadela
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,390 reviews
This drawbridge over a moat was built in 1745 as the only entrance to the city.
Reviewed By CampionePete - Campione d'Italia, Italy
This little historic town, once Portuguese is worth a few hours of exploration and if you can afford it , a $25 lunch at the Florida, a half block away from this gate. The gate & wall are well, just a gate and a wall. But the story behind it is interesting and on a local plaque.
5. Rio de la Plata
6. Playa Fomento
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 15 reviews
7. Galeria de los Suspiros
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 532 reviews
Reviewed By jonahNJ - Pennington, United States
During our journey around Colonia del Sacramento, my wife and I visited this fascinating gallery located on the iconic La Calle de los Suspiros. Outside of the entrance is a sign that reads “Atelier”; this translates to studio or workshop. However, Galeria de Los Suspiros seems to be so much more than that. The historic building is constructed of stone and tile and fits in perfectly on La Calle de los Suspiros. Upon entering, the first space is large and a bit dark. But it is filled with gorgeous artwork of local artists and artisans. The paintings represent different styles in different styles and utilizing different materials—all of the artwork appeared to be on sale with a wide range of prices. As we walked to the back of the building, there were smaller rooms that seemed to be more like museum exhibits. They had vintage pieces that showed rooms as period pieces locked in a past century. Finally, there was a rear yard that had some paintings as well as interesting sculptures made from various metal items. There were also several café tables and chairs which were very inviting. I can imagine that artists sometimes paint outside with a small, appreciative audience. The staff were friendly and inviting with no pressure whatsoever to purchase anything.
8. Almacen La Carlota
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 77 reviews
Reviewed By midwaytoheaven - Midway, United States
BEST SHOP WE FOUND. This is not you normal china made junk stuff. They have loads of handmade artesian goods including artwork, ceramics, tin & copper made goods, clothing and pottery. All were cutely laid-out in the shop. You won't find these items in other souvenir shops. Very Unique. LOVED THIS VERY CUTE SHOP! BOTTOM LINE: Our favorite souvenir artesian shop in Colonia del Sacramento. What a breathe of fresh air after browsing normal souvenir stores. These items found here are the real deal. Pricing was a little higher but the value for one-of-a-kind products were well worth it I thought. Most things we saw, we did not see anywhere else. BOTTOM LINE: 10/10
9. La Calle de los Suspiros
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4,077 reviews
Reviewed By Takuri - Buenos Aires, Argentina
It's the most picturesque street in Colonia. No wonder brides and lovers choose it as the perfect photographic location.
