Montevideo Day Trip from Buenos Aires with Lunch and Transfers

Buenos Aires and The Pampas , Argentina

Montevideo Day Trip from Buenos Aires with Lunch and Transfers

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12h

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About this experience

Enjoy a full-day trip from Buenos Aires to Montevideo, the capital city of Uruguay. Known for its theater scene and cultural heritage, Montevideo offers an array of sightseeing options in both its old and new areas. Take a scenic ferry ride there from Buenos Aires and enjoy a delicious lunch before discovering the city. You will also have time to do some shopping. Hotel pickup (if option selected), ferry tickets and a city tour are all included, so you don't have to worry about a thing!

Available options

Without Transfer

Tour meets at the ferry terminal in Buenos Aires.

With Transfer

Includes roundtrip transportation from your Buenos Aires hotel to the ferry port and back.

What's included

Lunch

Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option not selected)

Visit to Montevideo Shopping

City sightseeing tour

Round-trip Ferry Tickets

Detailed itinerary

Embark on a memorable day trip from Buenos Aires to Uruguay’s vibrant capital, Montevideo. Your journey begins at the Buquebus pier, where you’ll board a comfortable ferry for a scenic 3-hour cruise across the Río de la Plata. Sit back, relax, and enjoy sweeping views of the water as you make your way to the Uruguayan coast.

Upon arrival, take in the city’s coastal beauty before heading to the bustling downtown area. Enjoy a traditional Uruguayan lunch, and take time to relax and absorb the local atmosphere.

In the afternoon, explore Montevideo on a guided city tour. Discover the charm of the historic Ciudad Vieja, visit the iconic Plaza Independencia, and admire architectural landmarks like Teatro Solís and Iglesia Matriz. The tour will also pass by several museums and cultural sites, giving you a glimpse into the city’s rich artistic and historical heritage.

This day trip offers a well-rounded experience of Montevideo—combining scenic travel, cultural highlights, and local flavor in a single unforgettable excursion.

What's not included

Gratuities

Guide assistance except during city tour

Beverages

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 2.7

15 reviews

5★

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Tripadvisor 3.4

5 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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 number, date of birth, nationality and complete name are required to complete the reservation process for this tour

Meeting point

The ferry departs from the terminal. You must check in at the counter. We recommend arriving two hours in advance to allow time for immigration procedures. The same applies for your return journey.

Important notes

Please note:
• If you select the option without transportation, please head to the Buquebus Terminal located on: Antartida Argentina Avenue and Cecilia Grierson Street, Puerto Madero, Buenos Aires, Argentina
• 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
• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
• You should meet your group at the terminal in Montevideo at 6pm (Uruguay time) to take the ferry back to Buenos Aires

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