Colonia Day Trip & Optional Private Transfers from Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires and The Pampas , Argentina

Colonia Day Trip & Optional Private Transfers from Buenos Aires

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(45 reviews)

9h - 11h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Escape the hustle and bustle of Buenos Aires and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the historic Uruguayan town of Colonia del Sacramento. On this day trip, take a short boat ride from Buenos Aires across the Rio de la Plata and enjoy a 1 hour sightseeing city tour and walking tour of Colonia. Then, enjoy a delicious lunch in the restaurant of your choice (at your own expense) and spend the afternoon exploring the city of Colonia at your leisure.

Available options

With Transfers

Includes private roundtrip transportation from your Buenos Aires hotel to the port and back<br/>Pickup included

Without Transfers

Pickup not included: Roundtrip transportation from your Buenos Aires hotel to the port and back NOT included

What's included

Private hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected)

Ferry tickets

1-hour guided city tour

Detailed itinerary

Our Day Trip to Colonia from Buenos Aires by Ferry begins at the ferry port (details above) at 7:15am or at your hotel from 6 am if you selected the option.

Embark on our trip to Colonia at 8:15am. The ferry takes about 2 hours to cross to Uruguay.

Head inside the ferry station and get directions of where to go for a 1-hour sightseeing city tour inside the historic neighborhood. Full of old cobblestone streets, rustic buildings and famous landmarks, this historic town has a captivating atmosphere and charm.

Then, walk around the city while absorbing the history of Colonia. Admire the beautiful architecture that gives this city its rustic charm – in fact, both Colonia's old and modern architecture are now protected as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

You will be on your own to have lunch. Head to the restaurant of your choice and enjoy a delicious Uruguayan meal (own expense).

After lunch, enjoy free time to explore the city at your leisure. Walk through the streets, visit the local museums, browse the pottery and jewelry shops, or take a stroll along the coast to admire the town’s remarkable beauty.

At around 15:30 pm we’ll be taken back to the port to board our boat, which leaves at 16:30 pm. After 2 hours on the water we’ll be back in Buenos Aires, where our tour will come to a close at the ferry pier or at your hotel if you selected the option.

What's not included

Gratuities

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.1

37 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 2.6

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Ferry ride is approximately 2 hours

Please note: a current valid passport is required to enter Uruguay

Possession of proper government issued documentation is the responsibility of the passenger. You may require additional documentation to enter Uruguay. A Uruguayan visa may be required for some nationalities; check your home country requirements for entering Uruguay.

Passport name, number, date of birth, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants

Note: The city tour may include an English-speaking guide, subject to availability. Please contact the local tour operator upon booking so they can arrange this service for you

Meeting point

If you select the option without transfer, please, go directly to the Colonia Express ferry station.

Important notes

• Note: Please provide your email address upon booking to receive your vouchers and boarding passes as you will need to have them with you on the day of the tour
• Important: Please contact Tangol at +5411 3221-8400, at least two days before the day of the tour, to make sure you have your voucher and e-tickets for the ferry, city tour and lunch
• Passport name, number, date of birth, expiry and country is required at time of booking for ALL participants
• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
• Important: Once you arrive at the port in Colonia and exit customs, please head straight to a booth (approx. 39 inches/7 meters high) which says 'City Tours, Full Day Tours'. A person there will greet you so you can board the bus for the tour

We suggest you to confirm the booking details with us prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.

OFFICE NUMBER: (+54 11) 3221-8400 (Mon to Sun from 9 to 18 Hs)
EMERGENCY MOBILE: (+54 911) 4991-4035 (After office hours)

About Buenos Aires and The Pampas

Buenos Aires, the vibrant capital of Argentina, is known for its European-influenced architecture, rich cultural scene, and passionate tango. The Pampas, a vast fertile plain, offers a glimpse into Argentina's gaucho (cowboy) culture and stunning landscapes. Together, they provide a unique blend of urban sophistication and rural charm.

Top Attractions

Recoleta Cemetery

A famous cemetery where Eva Perón is buried, featuring ornate mausoleums and a rich history.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

La Boca

A colorful neighborhood known for its vibrant street art, tango performances, and the famous Caminito street.

Cultural 2-3 hours Free to explore, paid shows

The Pampas

A vast fertile plain offering a glimpse into Argentina's gaucho culture, with estancias (ranches) and beautiful landscapes.

Nature Full day or overnight Varies by estancia (ARS 1,000-5,000 approx. USD 13-65)

Teatro Colón

One of the world's most famous opera houses, known for its stunning architecture and acoustics.

Cultural 1-2 hours (tour), longer for performances Tour: ARS 1,200 (approx. USD 16), Performances: ARS 500-5,000 (approx. USD 6.50-65)

San Telmo Market

A historic market offering antiques, collectibles, and local crafts, with a lively Sunday market atmosphere.

Market 1-3 hours Free to explore, varies for purchases

Must-Try Local Dishes

Asado

Argentine barbecue featuring various cuts of beef, sausages, and other meats, cooked over an open fire.

Dinner Not vegetarian or vegan

Empanadas

Savory pastries filled with various ingredients like beef, chicken, or cheese.

Snack or Lunch Can be vegetarian or vegan

Milanesa

Breaded and fried meat cutlet, similar to schnitzel, often served with mashed potatoes or salad.

Lunch or Dinner Not vegetarian or vegan

Dulce de Leche

A sweet, caramel-like spread made from milk and sugar, used in various desserts.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Horseback riding in The Pampas Kayaking in Tigre Delta Hiking in Sierra de la Ventana Wine tasting in Palermo Spa day in Recoleta Strolling through Bosques de Palermo Tango shows in La Boca Visiting museums in Recoleta

Best Time to Visit

Spring (September to November) and Fall (March to May)

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant city life. Ideal for outdoor activities and exploring both the city and the Pampas.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English, Italian, French
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Argentine Peso (ARS)

Time Zone

GMT-3

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Buenos Aires is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime like pickpocketing and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Avoid flashing expensive items
• Use reputable taxi services or app-based taxis

Getting there

By air

Ministro Pistarini International Airport • 35 km from city center
Aeroparque Jorge Newbery • 4 km from city center

By train

Retiro Station

By bus

Retiro Bus Terminal, Constitución Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Efficient and affordable, with six lines connecting major neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Cabify

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Palermo Recoleta La Boca San Telmo

Day trips

Estancia Santa Susana

100 km from Buenos Aires • Full day

A traditional estancia offering horseback riding, gaucho shows, and authentic Argentine asado.

Colonia del Sacramento

100 km from Buenos Aires (by ferry) • Full day

A charming colonial town in Uruguay with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Tigre Delta

35 km from Buenos Aires • Half day to full day

A network of islands and waterways offering boat tours, kayaking, and nature walks.

Festivals

Carnaval de Buenos Aires • February or March (dates vary) Festival Internacional de Cine Independiente de Buenos Aires (BAFICI) • April (dates vary) La Noche de los Museos • November (dates vary)

Pro tips

Use the SUBE card for convenient and discounted public transport
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Explore beyond the tourist hotspots to discover the city's hidden gems
Try local specialties like empanadas, milanesa, and dulce de leche
Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds