Walking tour around Colonia del Sacramento Old Town

Colonia del Sacramento , Uruguay

Walking tour around Colonia del Sacramento Old Town

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(150 reviews)

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the Old Town of Colonia del Sacramento with an official guide who will tell you the history and curiosities of each place, in addition to recommending the best restaurants and activities in the city and the area. We will walk through the Field Gate, "La Calle de los Suspiros", the lighthouse, the yacht harbor and the church, among others.
The walking tour lasts approximately 1:30 hours and is done in small groups. It starts at "La Fuente Portuguesa", next to the church "Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento", and follows a circular route through the Old Town, ending at the starting point.
Colonia del Sacramento is a picturesque and welcoming city, a must-see when visiting Uruguay or Buenos Aires. It can be seen in just one day, but it is recommended to spend a night to enjoy one of the best sunsets in Uruguay and walk through the Old town under the warm light of the typical lanterns from Colonia.
Hope to see you soon!

Available options

Barrio histórico en español

Walking tour in English

What's included

Personalized recommendations for your trip

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Lighouse of the year 1857

Famous portuguese street with original portuguese houses.

Main entrance to the Old Town through the wall.

Oldest church of Uruguay.

What's not included

Private transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

77 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

73 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet us at the "Fuente Portuguesa", in the square next to the church "Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento".

About Colonia del Sacramento

Colonia del Sacramento is a charming historic town in Uruguay, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into the country's rich history and culture, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and leisure travelers alike.

Top Attractions

Historic Quarter

The Historic Quarter is the heart of Colonia del Sacramento, featuring colonial-era buildings, cobblestone streets, and a charming atmosphere. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into the town's rich history.

Historical 2-3 hours Free to explore

Lighthouse of Colonia

The Lighthouse of Colonia offers panoramic views of the town and the Río de la Plata. It's a great spot for photography and learning about the town's maritime history.

Historical 30-45 minutes Moderate (entry fee applies)

Basilica del Santísimo Sacramento

This beautiful basilica is a significant religious landmark in Colonia del Sacramento. Its architecture and historical importance make it a must-visit for those interested in religious and colonial history.

Religious 30-45 minutes Free (donations welcome)

Plaza de Toros

Plaza de Toros is one of the oldest bullrings in South America. It's a fascinating historical site that offers insight into the town's past and the sport of bullfighting.

Historical 30-45 minutes Free (donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Chivito

A classic Uruguayan sandwich made with beef, ham, cheese, and various toppings.

Dinner Contains meat and dairy

Asado

A traditional Uruguayan barbecue featuring a variety of meats cooked over an open fire.

Dinner Contains meat

Milanesa

A breaded and fried meat cutlet, often served with mashed potatoes or salad.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and gluten

Popular Activities

Horseback riding Kayaking Beach visits Spa treatments Historical tours Art gallery visits Fishing Boat tours

Best Time to Visit

October to April (summer and spring)

This is the best time to visit Colonia del Sacramento for warm weather and outdoor activities. The town is lively with festivals and events.

20°C to 32°C 68°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: Portuguese, English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Uruguayan Peso (UYU)

Time Zone

GMT-3 (Uruguay Time, UYT)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Colonia del Sacramento is generally safe for travelers, but common sense and precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services

Getting there

By air

Carrasco International Airport • 180 km from Colonia del Sacramento

By bus

Terminal Colonia

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are available but not extensive. Walking is often more convenient.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Quarter Barrio Histórico

Day trips

Montevideo

180 km • Half day to full day

Montevideo is the capital of Uruguay and offers a mix of modern and historic attractions, including museums, parks, and vibrant neighborhoods.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

40 km (by ferry) • Full day to overnight

Buenos Aires is the capital of Argentina and a major cultural hub with a rich history, vibrant nightlife, and diverse neighborhoods.

Festivals

Semana Criolla • October

Pro tips

Visit the Historic Quarter early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography
Try local specialties like chivito, asado, and milanesa for an authentic culinary experience
Explore the town on foot or by bike to fully appreciate its charming streets and architecture
Take a ferry to Buenos Aires for a unique and memorable day trip
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interaction with locals and show respect for the local language and culture