19-Day Ultimate Family Travel Guides Route in Uruguay
Uruguay is the perfect destination for families seeking an 'Epic Journey' without the exhausting pace of larger South American neighbors. This 19-day route focuses on the country's southern and eastern coasts, where the distances are short, the people are incredibly welcoming, and the infrastructure is modern and reliable.
Traveling with children in Uruguay is a breeze thanks to the abundance of public parks, wide 'Ramblas' (waterfront promenades), and a culture that treats kids like royalty. We have designed this itinerary to ensure you see the historic highlights and natural wonders while maintaining a relaxed schedule that allows for afternoon naps and spontaneous beach play.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Montevideo - Settling In
Arrival at Carrasco International Airport
Touch down at one of the most beautiful airports in South America. After clearing customs, pick up your pre-arranged transfer to the city center.
Check-in at Punta Carretas
Drop your bags at a family-friendly hotel in Punta Carretas, a safe, upscale neighborhood with plenty of green space and shopping.
Villa Biarritz Park
Let the kids burn off some energy at the playground in Villa Biarritz. If it is a Saturday, enjoy the local outdoor market.
Sunset Dinner on the Rambla
Take a slow stroll along the Rambla, the world's longest continuous sidewalk, and enjoy a relaxed dinner at a coastal parrillada.
Day 2: Montevideo, Uruguay - Historic Old City
Plaza Independencia
Explore the gateway to the Old City (Ciudad Vieja). View the Artigas Mausoleum and the stunning Palacio Salvo.
Teatro Solis Tour
Take a kid-friendly guided tour of Uruguay's most famous theater. The grand architecture is sure to impress all ages.
Lunch at Mercado del Puerto
Experience the traditional Uruguayan BBQ (asado). While it's busy, the atmosphere is electric and kids love watching the giant grills.
Peatonal Sarandí Stroll
Walk down this pedestrian-only street, perfect for strollers, and browse local crafts and street performances.
Day 3: Montevideo, Uruguay - Parks and Museums
Parque Rodó
Visit this massive park featuring a lake with pedal boats, several playgrounds, and a small amusement park for younger children.
Museo Nacional de Artes Visuales
Located within the park, this museum is spacious and quiet, offering a great indoor break with beautiful local art.
Castillo del Parque Rodó
A small castle that houses a children's library. It's a magical spot for a quiet reading hour.
Ice Cream at Heladeria Garcia
Treat the family to artisanal Uruguayan gelato, a local staple influenced by Italian traditions.
Day 4: Montevideo, Uruguay - Botanical Beauty
Prado Botanical Garden
Head to the Prado neighborhood to explore the lush Botanical Gardens. It is stroller-friendly and full of exotic plant species.
Juan Manuel Blanes Museum
Visit the museum and its beautiful Japanese Garden, a peaceful oasis perfect for a family photo op.
Prado Rose Garden
Walk through the historic Rosedal, featuring over 12,000 rose bushes and elegant pergolas.
Dinner in Punta Carretas
Enjoy a quiet meal at one of the many family-oriented cafes near the shopping mall.
Day 5: Montevideo to Colonia del Sacramento
Intercity Bus Travel
Board a comfortable, air-conditioned bus from Tres Cruces station to Colonia (approx. 2.5 hours).
Check-in at a Historic Posada
Settle into a charming inn within the UNESCO-listed historic quarter.
Barrio Histórico Exploration
Walk the cobblestone streets. Note: strollers can be bumpy here, so a carrier is helpful for toddlers.
Sunset at the Lighthouse
Climb the Faro (Lighthouse) for a view of the Río de la Plata, or enjoy the view from the base with the kids.
Day 6: Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay - Riverside Relaxing
Ferrando Park
A local favorite for families, featuring wide paths and plenty of shade for a mid-morning picnic.
Lunch by the Water
Choose a restaurant along the 'Calle de los Suspiros' for a meal with a view of the river.
Colonia Municipal Museum
A small, manageable museum for kids to learn about the Portuguese and Spanish history of the town.
Plaza de Toros Visit
Take a short taxi to the recently renovated bullring, now a cultural center with plenty of space for kids to run around.
Day 7: Colonia to Carmelo - Wine & River
Transfer to Carmelo
A short 1-hour drive or bus ride north leads you to the tranquil riverside town of Carmelo.
Check-in at a Riverside Lodge
Carmelo is known for its slow pace, perfect for families to decompress by the river.
Carmelo Swing Bridge
Watch the unique hand-cranked bridge operate as boats pass through—a fascinating sight for children.
Seré Beach
Enjoy the calm, shallow river waters at this local beach, which is very safe for small children.
Day 8: Carmelo, Uruguay - Farm & Vineyards
Finca Narbona Visit
Visit this historic farm and winery. While parents taste Tannat, kids can see the farm animals and explore the old grocery store.
Outdoor Picnic Lunch
Many Carmelo wineries offer family-friendly picnic baskets to be enjoyed among the vines.
Biking the Country Lanes
Rent bikes with child seats and explore the flat, quiet roads surrounding the town.
Dinner in Carmelo Center
Try some local river fish at a cozy family-run restaurant near the main plaza.
Day 9: Carmelo to Piriápolis - The Coastal Drive
Scenic Drive East
Begin the drive toward the Atlantic coast (approx. 4 hours). Stop in small towns like San José along the way.
Arrival in Piriápolis
Check into your hotel in this classic Belle Époque seaside resort town.
Piriápolis Chairlift (Aerosillas)
Take the chairlift up Cerro San Antonio for breathtaking views of the bay (safe for kids with adult supervision).
Walk on the Argentino Hotel Promenade
Admire the grand historic hotel and enjoy the wide, stroller-accessible waterfront paths.
Day 10: Piriápolis to Punta del Este
Castillo de Piria
Visit the former home of the city's founder. The castle-like architecture is a hit with kids' imaginations.
Drive to Punta del Este
A short 45-minute drive takes you to Uruguay's most famous beach destination.
Casapueblo Visit
Visit Carlos Páez Vilaró’s living sculpture in Punta Ballena. It is a labyrinthine white building that looks like it's from a fairy tale.
Sunset Ceremony
Listen to the recorded poem by the artist as the sun dips into the ocean—a moving experience for the whole family.
Day 11: Punta del Este, Uruguay - Sea Lions & Port
Isla de Lobos Boat Tour
Take a boat trip to see one of the world's largest colonies of sea lions. Most boats are safe and equipped for families.
Port Side Lunch
Eat fresh seafood at the port while watching the resident sea lions wait for scraps from the fishermen.
Los Dedos (The Fingers)
Visit the famous hand sculpture on Brava Beach. It’s a must-do photo stop where kids can climb on the giant fingers.
Plaza Artigas Market
Shop for high-quality woolens and local handicrafts at this open-air evening market.
Day 12: Punta del Este, Uruguay - Beach Day
Playa Mansa
Spend the morning at the 'Calm' beach. The water is shallow and wave-free, perfect for small children.
La Barra Exploration
Cross the famous wavy bridge (Puente Leonel Viera) to the trendy La Barra neighborhood.
Pablo Atchugarry Sculpture Park
A massive outdoor art space where kids can run through the fields while adults admire world-class sculpture.
Dinner in Maldonado
Head to the quieter neighboring city of Maldonado for more budget-friendly and local dining options.
Day 13: Punta del Este to Jose Ignacio
Laguna Garzón
Visit the circular bridge and watch kitesurfers. It's a great spot for bird watching and nature walks.
Jose Ignacio Lighthouse
Explore this chic fishing village. The pace here is much slower than Punta del Este, perfect for a relaxed day.
Beachcombing at Playa Brava
Hunt for seashells and enjoy the rugged Atlantic beauty of the eastern shores.
Relaxed Dinner in the Village
Enjoy a wood-fired pizza at one of the rustic-chic eateries in the heart of Jose Ignacio.
Day 14: Jose Ignacio to Punta del Diablo
Drive to Rocha Department
The scenery becomes wilder as you enter the Rocha region (approx. 2 hours).
Arrival in Punta del Diablo
Check into a cozy 'cabaña' (cabin) in this colorful and bohemian fishing village.
Fishermen's Port
Walk down to the rocks to see the brightly painted boats and watch the daily catch come in.
Village Stroll
Explore the winding dirt roads of the village, which are full of artisan stalls and local charm.
Day 15: Santa Teresa National Park
Santa Teresa Fortress
Explore this incredibly well-preserved colonial hilltop fortress. Kids love the tunnels and the old cannons.
Picnic in the Park
The park features over 3,000 hectares of forest and gardens with dedicated picnic and BBQ areas.
Invernáculo & Sombráculo
Visit the massive greenhouses filled with tropical plants—a warm and beautiful indoor activity.
Playa de la Moza
Check out one of the most beautiful beaches in the country, located right inside the national park.
Day 16: Cabo Polonio Adventure
Truck Ride to the Village
Cabo Polonio is inaccessible by car. Take the giant 4x4 open-top trucks over the dunes—an absolute highlight for kids!
Lighthouse & Sea Lions
Walk to the lighthouse to see another massive sea lion colony basking on the rocks below.
Lunch in the Sand
Eat at one of the rustic, off-grid restaurants where the tables are set right in the sand.
Dune Sliding
Let the kids slide down the enormous sand dunes before taking the truck back to the main entrance.
Day 17: Rocha to a Gaucho Estancia
Drive Inland
Leave the coast and head toward the rolling hills of central Uruguay (approx. 3.5 hours).
Arrival at the Estancia
Check-in at a traditional working ranch (Estancia). Experience the legendary Uruguayan hospitality.
Intro to Gaucho Life
Watch the local gauchos work with the cattle and learn about the traditions of the Uruguayan countryside.
Traditional Fogón
Gather around a campfire for stories and traditional music before a hearty farmhouse dinner.
Day 18: Estancia Stay - Horses & Nature
Horseback Riding
Take a gentle ride across the fields. Estancias usually have very calm horses suitable for children and beginners.
Asado Lunch
Enjoy a final traditional BBQ with meat and vegetables grown right on the ranch.
Bird Watching Walk
Explore the ranch trails. Uruguay is a bird-watcher's paradise with many colorful species visible even to novices.
Maté Tasting
Learn how to prepare and drink 'Maté,' the national herbal tea, a true social ritual in Uruguay.
Day 19: Return to Montevideo & Departure
Drive to Montevideo
Enjoy the final scenic drive back to the capital city (approx. 2 hours).
Souvenir Shopping at Mercado de los Artesanos
Pick up high-quality leather goods and woolens for the family before heading to the airport.
Final Chivito Lunch
You can't leave without trying the Chivito, Uruguay’s epic steak sandwich (there are junior versions for kids!).
Airport Drop-off
Return your rental car and head to Carrasco Airport for your flight home.
Best Time to Visit Uruguay
The best time to visit Uruguay for a family trip is during the late spring (October to November) or early autumn (March to April). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm, avoiding the intense summer heat and the massive crowds that flock to the beaches in January. Summer (December to February) is great for beach lovers, but accommodation prices peak and restaurants are very busy. Winter (June to August) can be damp and chilly, though still charming for city exploration.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Uruguayan Peso (UYU). While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities and major tourist hubs like Punta del Este, it's essential to carry some cash for smaller towns in Rocha and for tips. A major bonus for tourists: paying for restaurant meals with a foreign credit card often triggers a VAT refund (around 18-22%), which is automatically deducted from your bill, making dining out much more affordable!
Getting Around Uruguay
Getting around Uruguay is straightforward. The intercity bus system (companies like COT and TTL) is excellent, with clean, punctual, and comfortable coaches. For a 19-day family journey, renting a car is highly recommended for the Rocha and Estancia segments to provide flexibility with kids. The roads are generally in excellent condition, and driving is safe and orderly compared to other South American countries. There are no domestic passenger trains, and domestic flights are rare given the country's compact size.
