Colonia is Uruguay’s oldest city and it’s a popular addition to so many itineraries. It sits on the river, so there’s a nice coast line, but as the oldest city in Uruguay, it’s also got a cute historic Old Town. This Old Town is what draws so many of Colonia’s visitors and as you stroll these streets, it’s easy to see why people become enchanted with this city.
Colonia versus Colonia del Sacramento
Before we get too far into it, let’s talk about Colonia versus Colonia del Sacramento, because you may see both names used. The official name of the city is Colonia del Sacramento, but if you say “Colonia”, everyone will know exactly what you’re talking about.
Things to Do in Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay
Colonia del Sacramento is a beautiful city, but it’s light on sights. Despite it being the oldest city in Uruguay, there’s just not as much for tourists to do. That’s not to say that Colonia del Sacramento isn’t worth a visit, but rather your expectations should be set appropriately before you visit to avoid disappointment (and to make sure you don’t plan too much time in Colonia del Sacramento).
Stroll the Old Town
By far the best thing to do in Colonia del Sacramento is to take a walk through the Old Town, which has been designated as an UNESCO World Heritage Site.
As I’ve already mentioned, Colonia del Sacramento is the oldest city in Uruguay and the Old Town is full of charm. There’s colonial buildings, flowering trees, and cobblestone streets. For photographers, there seems to be picture perfect scenes all over this area. While it’s fine to just wander, don’t miss out on the church, the lighthouse, and the historic city gate.
Throughout the Old Town you’ll find restaurants, bars, and plenty of shops. Many of these restaurants have nice settings, but do note that you’ll be paying a premium for these restaurants. That’s not to say that they are bad, but if you head a few more blocks toward the center, you can find delicious, filing meals for 200+ UYU less. The choice is yours.
Visit the Basilica
It seems that no matter what city I visit, I always end up at a church, cathedral, or basilica. In Colonia del Sacramento, they have a minor Basilica and you can stop in and visit.
I’ll be honest, I was not impressed when I visited. That said, the Basilica was undergoing a lot of renovation and reconstruction work when I visited (the entire roof was being redone), so that may have had a big impact on things. The Basilica is right in the Old Town and there’s a nice little park right outside, so even if it’s a quick visit, there’s some charm and ambiance nearby.
Climb the Lighthouse
Colonia del Sacramento’s Lighthouse is in its picturesque Old Town and sits alongside crumbling ruins. That alone makes for a nice photo, but for just a small amount of money (and traveling on the right day), you can climb to the top of the lighthouse for views of the city.
Let’s get one thing straight first. You can climb the lighthouse, but it’s not like some of the towers in other cities. The view is very nice, but there’s not as much to see. Since you’re right on the water, a large chunk of the view is the river and then there’s only so many different angles of the city to see. Does that mean that you shouldn’t climb the lighthouse? Nope, but rather, you should have realistic expectations. The view is nice, but it’s not a wow factor that you may get from other tall buildings.
As of March 2026, it costs 35 UYU to climb the steps to the top of the lighthouse. This must be paid in cash and you’ll have to sign in at the base of the lighthouse (make sure you know your passport number!). Then, a few people are allowed to go up at a time. The stairs are narrow and there’s not a lot of room at the top so typically only about 5 or 6 people can go up at one time. Don’t be surprised if you pay and are told to wait before climbing.
Take a Walking Tour
I’ve already mentioned that Colonia del Sacramento is the oldest city in Uruguay, so why not take some time to learn about its history. If you’re here on a day trip from Buenos Aires, I think this is a great use of your time. Not only will you learn a little bit about Colonia del Sacramento, but you can also learn a bit about Uruguay.
I don’t know about you, but my school didn’t talk a lot about Uruguay during its lessons. I learned more about Uruguay on my two hour walking tour in Montevideo than I did during my entire school career. Pay the money and hire a guide to learn just a little more about the city.
Eat a Chivito
If you’re visiting as part of a larger trip through Uruguay, you may have already tried Uruguay’s famous sandwich. If you’re visiting Colonia del Sacramento on a day trip from Buenos Aires and this is your only day in Uruguay, here’s what you can eat for lunch.
Almost every restaurant in the historic Old Town will have a chivito on their menu, but you can also find a chiviteria to get a little more variety. I ate at Chiviteria La Josefina, which is just on the edge of the historic downtown, and it was delicious and cheaper than what I saw in the more touristy areas in town.
So what is a chivito? It is a sandwich that is loaded with meat. Traditionally, the sandwich comes with beef then ham then bacon. On top of that, there’s also lettuce, tomato, and a fried egg. Plus, it usually comes with fries. It is by no means a light meal, but it will absolutely fill you up.
If that’s too much meat (it’s definitely getting to my limit), there are plenty of variations, including vegetarian options (which are usually made with eggplant), so look around.
Walk Along the Ramblas
While it’s still along the river, this next item is away from the Old Town. The Ramblas follows the river through the city of Colonia del Sacramento. It’s a large pedestrian only path that’s great for walking and running. If you’re a runner and spending the night, this is a great spot to go for your morning run.
Also along the Ramblas, you’ll find the iconic Colonia sign. Every city in South America seems to have a 3D sign of their name and here’s where you can find Colonia del Sacramento’s.
Visit the Beach
Colonia del Sacramento sits right on the coast of Uruguay so it’s no surprise that there is a beach here. While you can visit and enjoy (I recommend heading up the Ramblas for some slightly nicer beaches), I will say that these weren’t the best beaches that I found in Uruguay. Punta del Diablo and Cabo Polonio are much nicer (partly because they are bigger), but if you’re looking for some relaxation on the beach, you can find that here.
Watch Sunset Along the River
If you’re spending the night, then you have to head down to the river and watch the sunset. There are plenty of spots lining the river, facing west, in the historic district. Some places are free, while there are some restaurants offering their unique position for those sunset views with a drink.
This is something that the day trippers will miss, so take advantage of spending the night and head down for sunset.
How Long Do You Need in Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay
Most visitors to Colonia del Sacramento visit as a day trip, either from Montevideo or from Buenos Aires. There is not a lot to see and do in Colonia del Sacramento so you really don’t need that much time. After spending a few days here, I think there’s a reason why most people visit as a day trip.
However, the city feels different when the day trippers leave and I recommend spending the night in Colonia del Sacramento if you can. The sunset is beautiful and you just won’t get to experience that if you’re here on a day trip.
That said, if a day trip to Colonia del Sacramento is all you can squeeze into your itinerary, take the day trip.
How to Reach Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay
Colonia del Sacramento is accessible by bus and by ferry. Most visitors will either be coming from Montevideo or Buenos Aires, so I’ve covered more specific details about these connections below.
From Montevideo
Buses depart hourly for Montevideo and take a little over two hours. My bus from Montevideo to Colonia del Sacramento was advertised as three hours and took less than two and a half, so keep that in mind. The bus terminal is just a few short blocks from the historic Old Town.
From Buenos Aires
Many people will visit Colonia del Sacramento on a day trip from Buenos Aires because there’s a convenient 1 hour and 15 minute ferry connecting the two cities. Just make sure that you give yourself plenty of time for immigration and both ends of your journey.
Buquebus and Colonia Express make the journey across the river. Tickets can be bought online in advance. When you arrive at the ferry terminal, you’ll have to check in and go through security. Then you have to go through immigration. You’ll go through the process to exit one country and enter the other country all at once.
So, when I traveled from Colonia del Sacramento to Buenos Aires, I went through and got my exit stamp from Uruguay and then immediately went through Argentinian immigration (though they didn’t give a passport stamp). Once in Buenos Aires, I could step off the boat and go straight to my hotel.
Final Thoughts
Colonia del Sacramento is nice and in my opinion, it’s the prettiest city I’ve visited. Yes, Montevideo has an Old Town as well, but it’s nowhere near as charming as Colonia del Sacramento.
Despite its lack of major sights, Colonia del Sacramento is still worth a visit. So, whether you’re planning a larger Uruguay itinerary or you’re looking for a day trip from Buenos Aires, don’t overlook Colonia del Sacramento.
