Top Things to do in Colonia Department
Top Hotels in Colonia Department
Countries
10 Budget-friendly Things to do in Colonia Department That You Shouldn't Miss
Discover the best top things to do in Colonia Department, Uruguay including Bodega Boutique El Legado, Barrio Historico, Puerta de la Ciudadela, Faro de Colonia del Sacramento, Rio de la Plata, Bodega Familia Irurtia, Museo de Madera - Escultor Jose Castro, Galeria de los Suspiros, La Calle de los Suspiros, Paseo de San Gabriel.
Restaurants in Colonia Department
1. Bodega Boutique El Legado
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 410 reviews
Reviewed By kitschen_diva - Toronto, Canada
There aren’t enough superlatives to express the wonderful experience we enjoyed at El Legado. Located in Carmelo, the grounds are very well maintained and surrounded by pastoral views. The tour of the vineyard was most informative . Winery owner Bernardo took time to demonstrate each process from training vines to barrel selection. The winery was initially started by his father and you can see clearly what a labour of love it is for Bernardo and his family. Inside, Federico explained the wines (Syrah, Tannat & Blend) The charcuterie paired very nicely with the wines. I could go on about how great the experience was for us, but what I’ll do instead is encourage you to visit this little place of heaven. Hands down this was the best memory making moment of our road trip to Colonia.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Faro de Colonia del Sacramento
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4,937 reviews
Ascend to the top of this still-operating 1857 lighthouse for a lovely view of the city.
Reviewed By midwaytoheaven - Midway, United States
You can't miss visiting this historic lighthouse when visiting Colonia del Sacramento. It is located closer to the ocean part of the fort complex. Yes, you can hike up to the top of the lighthouse and take in the views from a mid-platform and then at the very top. BOTTOM LINE: If you are up to the challenge, in good shape and don't mind tight walkways, then you'll get rewarded with some great views around the del Sacramento historical sight. The price is cheap at just $30 Uruguayan Pesos or about $1 USD! What a deal! The former barracks at the base are just un-restored ruins today but worth a quick look. Loved seeing this historic lighthouse. Well worth seeing. MY RATING: 10/10
5. Rio de la Plata
6. Bodega Familia Irurtia
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 165 reviews
Bodega Familia Irurtia is a familiar winery you can visit every day very near Carmelo. Uruguay is knew in the world of wine for the Tannat variety, a very tannic and full body red wine, you can taste in our cava. Come for wine and a great moment of conviviality. Please contact us to reserve your guided tour and tasting.
Reviewed By LFalonso - Antigua, Guatemala
Fabulous day trip from Colonia, Uruguay. Carolina was a awesome guide and was very informative. The vineyards were beautiful and the tasting was superb. 3 bottles and snacks for 25.00 USD each
7. Museo de Madera - Escultor Jose Castro
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 28 reviews
Our Museum will take you on a journey of infinite sensations, art can be breathed among so much carved work, come to spend a different time
Reviewed By JohnHGloucestershire
Mr José Castro’s life’s work is exhibited in the museum at the rear of his hardware shop. He’s 80 years old and for about 60 years has been carving the most inventive artwork. It is so intricate and every piece tells a story, often with a surprise in store. He only speaks Spanish but luckily his nephew was there to do some translation. It’s extraordinary.
8. 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.
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.
10. Paseo de San Gabriel
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 332 reviews
Reviewed By joserafaell89 - Bogota, Colombia
When in Colonia, this spot is a nice place to watch the sunset, enjoy the views of the river, feel the life of the city and even look at the tall buildings of Buenos Aires (Argentina) far in the horizont. Always plenty of people pasing by, fishing, sun bathing, taking a bath in the river or just enjoying the peace and nice atmosphere.
