COLONIA del SACRAMENTO: Easy Day Trip from Buenos Aires
Colonia del Sacramento is one of the best day trips from Buenos Aires. Hop on the ferry and go to Uruguay for the weekend.
If you find yourself in the city of Buenos Aires without anything to do (nearly impossible), you could consider an easy day trip across the Rio del Plata to Colonia del Sacramento in Uruguay. Whether you stay for just a day or a weekend, you won’t be disappointed.
Colonia del Sacramento is one of the most beautiful, historic, and pleasantly surprising cities in the region. It is known for its unique colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and stunning views of the Rio de la Plata.
I took the ferry to Colonia del Sacramento from Buenos Aires and spent a long weekend here. I strolled the cobblestone streets, sipped coffee with a view, and enjoyed the peacefulness of this Uruguayan town just one hour from Buenos Aires.
What to know before you go to Colonia del Sacramento
- You’ll get an 18% discount by paying with a credit card (restaurants, cafes, tourist spots)
- You can pay using Apple Pay at the majority of locations, but not all
- Bring a physical credit card (A few places do not accept Apple Pay)
- Bring your physical driver’s license (not just a copy or photo on your phone)
- Prices are more expensive than in Argentina
- You can pay with a credit card, USD, Uruguayan pesos, or Argentine pesos (@ the official rate) at most locations.
History of Colonia del Sacramento
I was surprised to find that Colonia del Sacramento was founded by Portuguese settlers in the late 1600’s, and is considered to be the oldest city in Uruguay. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a city full of charm and history, known for its picturesque colonial architecture, with Portuguese, Spanish, and Brazilian influences.
The Barrio Histórico (Historic District) is the most popular area for tourists and is where you’ll most likely spend the majority of your time in Colonia. This area is full of narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, shops, restaurants, churches, museums, and plazas.
Where is Colonia del Sacramento?
Colonia del Sacramento is in the southwest corner of Uruguay. It is directly across the River Plate from Buenos Aires Argentina. It only takes 75 minutes to cross the river to reach Colonia from Buenos Aires.
I needed to leave the country and re-enter because I overstayed my 90 days in Argentina. This was the perfect weekend trip to make to reset my tourist immigration status in Argentina. It was so easy!
Getting around Colonia del Sacramento
It is not difficult to manage the city on foot. Everything is close and easily within walking distance. That said, it is quite common to rent a bicycle or a golf cart to drive around town or along the coast.
Renting bikes or golf carts
There are several car rental shops in the Colonia del Sacramento Ferry Terminal and just outside. The two most common rental shops in Colonia are Thrifty (downtown) and Viaggio (across from the ferry terminal). I had a much better experience dealing with Viaggio. You can see that Thrify has dozens of negative reviews online.
If you want to cycle around Colonia and get some great historical info at the same time, I suggest doing a touristic cycling tour of the city.
Rental Prices
The prices at Thrifty and Viaggio were similar. These are the approximate prices (listed in USD) from December 2022:
| ITEM | $/hour | $/day | $/24 hrs |
| Bicycle | $5 | $10 | $13 |
| Electric Golf Cart (4ppl) | $14 | $43 | $50 |
| Electric Golf Cart (6ppl) | $20 | $61 | $68 |
Things to Note about renting
- I couldn’t find a scooter/Vespa for rent, even though it was on the “menu.”
- The “day” price is from 9:30 am – 5 pm.
- All gas is included in the price.
- You must present your passport, physical driver’s license, and physical credit card to rent any vehicle.
- You will receive an 18% discount by paying with a credit card
Ferry to Colonia del Sacramento from Buenos Aires
While Colonia del Sacramento and Buenos Aires are separated by the large body of water that is the Rio del Plata, it is incredibly easy to travel between the two cities.
The ferry to Colonia del Sacramento from Buenos Aires takes only 75 minutes. The two main ferry companies that travel between these cities are Buquebus and Colonia Express. I took the Buquebus and had a very positive experience.
The Colonia Express company offers transportation and an additional full-day sightseeing tour. If you plan to continue to Montevideo afterward, you can book the ferry from Buenos Aires to Colonia and the bus to Montevideo all in one combo ticket.
Because you are crossing international borders, you should expect to show your passport and go through standard immigration procedures at each port of entry/exit. Give yourself some extra time for this.
Where to stay in Colonia del Sacramento
As in most cities, staying closer to the center will bring an increase in prices. Colonia is no different. The action is in the center: The restaurants, cafes, bars, bike rentals, river views, market, etc.
That said, Colonia is not big. If you decide to stay outside of the center, you’ll have the chance to see the two sides of Colonia: The tourist center, and the local neighborhoods. I chose to stay outside of the city center for the lower price. However, I did not feel inconvenienced.
My Airbnb was a 12-minute walk to the ferry terminal and a 15-minute walk to the center. No, I couldn’t go for a quick coffee at a cute cafe in the mornings, but I did get extra steps each day.
Places to Stay in Downtown Colonia del Sacramento
- The Charco Hotel has a great view of the water and is right in the center of the old town. I didn’t stay here but came for the amazing breakfast with a view.
- This Mini Casa en Barrio Historico is a great opportunity to stay in one of the old homes right in the center.
- Hotel La Mision is a cute hotel in a historic building and includes breakfast.
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What to See in Colonia del Sacramento
Colonia del Sacramento is a small but beautiful old Portuguese colony with enough things to do to occupy yourself for a long weekend.
Walk around
Colonia del Sacramento is incredibly beautiful. Take a few hours to stroll around town to get the lay of the land. You’ll find stunning flowers climbing up old brick walls, and crumbling yet charming old buildings. Not to mention there are so many photo opportunities around.
A great way to orient yourself in a new city is to do a walking tour with a local.
Portón del Campo
This is a portion of the wall that once surrounded the city. It was rebuilt in 1968 and again in 1971. There is a great view of the water from atop the wall. In addition, you can also see the old cannons.
Calle de los Suspiros
The translation is “Street of Sighs,” possibly for all the times you sigh in disbelief at its unbelievable charm. The cobblestones on this slightly slanted street are the originals. The houses on each side are from the first colonial period.
Plaza Mayor del 25 de Mayo
This is a long and thin plaza full of park benches, large trees, and local merchants. The plaza is surrounded by wine shops, ice cream shops, restaurants, and cafes. It is very charming.
Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento
While the church underwent a partial renovation in 1957, the cathedral retains its original Portuguese design and stone walls. The cathedral is next to the Plaza de Armas Manuel Lobo. There is a great cafe just next door where you can sit and admire this old building.
Ruinas del Convento de San Francisco
You can see the remaining bricks on what was once a convent, connected to a lighthouse. The convent was originally built in 1694 but was destroyed in 1704 due to a fire. In 1845 reconstruction began, and was finally completed in 1857. However, it has gone through a lot since then as you will be able to see.
Muelle 1866 & Luz Muelle de Colonia
Two wharves poke out from the town center on its northern edge. You can only view Muelle 1866 from a distance as you are not allowed to stroll down its wooden walkway.
However, you can take a walk down the longer wharf (Luz Muelle de Colonia) several feet away. There are benches all along this wharf where you can sit down and enjoy the views of the ocean, the docked boats, and the older wharf. It’s a great place to watch the sunset.
Feria Artesanal de la Ciudad
In a small park near the north of town, just before the road curves towards the beaches, you can find an artisan market with handmade items.
Plaza de Toros
This bullring is no longer operational but exists as a reminder of its Spanish-influenced past. This cannot be reached by foot from town, so if you’re interested in seeing it, you should rent a golf cart or bicycle. Near the Plaza de Toros, you can also find an old wharf, and several beaches along the way.
Restaurants in Colonia del Sacramento
There are a ton of great places to eat in Colonia del Sacramento! If you are a wine lover or a foodie, I suggest doing a gastronomic tour in Colonia!
El Torreón
This restaurant is in a prime location right on the seafront. You can sit on the restaurant’s front porch and enjoy the river views and passersby. They often have drink specials in the evening as well.
Charco Bistrot
I had a hard time finding a great breakfast in Colonia until I was pointed in the direction of Charco Bistrot. Not only is the food delicious, but the staff is very friendly, the ambiance is cozy, and the views are unbeatable. To reach the restaurant, walk through arches into a garden where you’ll find a small restaurant with a full wall of windows with views of the river.
¡Qué Tupé!
If you decide to dine here, or just have a glass of wine, you won’t be disappointed. There are several chairs and tables outside on the cobblestone streets, with a great view of the park and the basilica. The staff is friendly, and the area is charming.
El Refugio
This is a great place for a lunch menu al fresco. They do have indoor dining, but the outside patio allows you to sit at picnic tables underneath the trees. The food was delicious and the service was fantastic. I heard the waiters speaking several languages to all their guests.
Parrillada el Portón
This parrilla restaurant is just outside the historic center along General Flores. This is a great place to try out a traditional Uruguayan BBQ. I had the fish here and was not disappointed at all. The staff was very friendly.
Deli de las Rosas
If you end up renting a bike or golf cart, make a stop here to treat yourself to a lunch or snack. You won’t be disappointed.
Colonia del Sacramento FAQs
Why is Colonia del Sacramento famous?
Colonia del Sacramento is famous for its cobblestone streets, old colonial buildings (Portuguese-influenced), its location along the Rio del Plata, and its proximity to Buenos Aires. It’s one of the best day trips to take from Argentina’s capital city.
Is Colonia del Sacramento expensive?
In general, Uruguay is more expensive than Argentina. It is one of the most expensive countries in all of South America. But if you pay with a foreign credit card, you’ll get an 18% discount.
Does Colonia del Sacramento have a beach?
Colonia del Sacramento does have a beach along its northwestern edge. It’s not that easy to reach on foot (it will take a while), but you can get there easily by bicycle, car rental, or golf cart.
There is a very small beach close to town if you want to walk there, called Playa Urbana del Rowing. However, if you want bigger beaches, continue north along the coast to Playa Urbana El Alamo, Playa Oreja de Negro, or Playa Urbana Balneario Municipal.
How much time do you need in Colonia del Sacramento?
You can easily see what Colonia del Sacramento has to offer in one day, though it might feel rushed if you want to do everything. If you rent a golf cart, it will be easier to see the beaches and the coastal walk towards the Plaza de Toros.
You can see everything in one day, but I suggest spending at least one or two nights here to really soak in the atmosphere.
Is Colonia del Sacramento safe?
Yes! I never felt unsafe or threatened in Colonia, especially in the old town area. There are a ton of people walking around.
Colonia del Sacramento Final Thoughts
Whether you have just one day or a long weekend, Colonia del Sacramento is the perfect escape away from Buenos Aires. In just over an hour you can find yourself in an entirely new country. Take some time away from the chaos that BA serves, and step into the Portuguese past with cobblestones and river breezes. It is worth it!
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