This charming and picturesque city set within a UNESCO world heritage site is located in the southwest of Uruguay, a short ferry journey from Buenos Aires (Read my Uruguay itinerary which explains how to get here). Bursting with colonial style buildings, cobbled streets and vintage cars, this gorgeous little place attracts a high number of tourists each year.

Brief history of Colonia

Colonia is one of the oldest cities in Uruguay and holds an important part in its history to gain independence. Although the city was officially founded in 1680 by the Portuguese, over the years it was taken over by the Spaniards, British, Portuguese again and Brazilian until it eventually gained independence in 1828 and was declared as belonging to Uruguay. As a result of this, the historical centre is a mixture of Portuguese and Spanish architecture.

Things to see in Colonia

Although it is a small place, there are still a few things to do and see in Colonia and if you’re a photograph fanatic, this is the perfect place for you. Unfortunately, because of the weather, I did not bring a cute outfit to take photos in and hence my pictures being pretty basic.

Here is my list of the main things to visit whilst in Colonia:

• Porton de Campo – the city gate and wooden drawbridge

• Lighthouse and convent- pay $1 to climb the 111 steps to the top and enjoy the view over Colonia.

• The main square and the Plaza de Armas

• Walk the cobblestone streets and admire the houses

• Admire the vintage cars

• Take a walk down to the marina

• Visit the restaurants, bars and cafes

Where to stay?

If you decide to visit Colonia for more than a day trip, there are plenty of options for places to stay.

Being a budget traveller, I choose to stay in El Viejero hostel. It was basic but fine for a couple of nights of exploring. If you’re looking for something more luxurious check out the Radisson Colonia del Sacramento hotel or El Mirador hotel and spa– both look gorgeous and have swimming pools.

Currency

The currency in Uruguay is the Uruguayan peso. Most places will accept Argentinian pesos or US dollars. Cash machines in Uruguay dispense both Uruguay pesos and US dollars. Top tip- take out US dollars or exchange Uruguayan pesos before leaving Uruguay, I found the currency was very difficult to get rid of when back in Argentina.

Also, try and use your international credit or debit card to pay when in restaurants as you will get the 22% VAT deducted.

How long to spend in Colonia?

This is a difficult one as it is totally dependent upon you. After having an extremely busy few weeks in Brazil and Argentina, I decided to spend a couple of days in Colonia to relax and enjoy a rest.

Although Colonia is a very beautiful historical city with a laid back and rustic vibe, there is very little there and I wouldn’t recommend more than half a day there. 3 or 4 hours is more than enough to explore the main sites, you can walk the whole city in this time.

When to visit Colonia?

I visited in August and wow it was cold as you can see from my pictures I am very wrapped up. One bonus was that it was very quiet with very few tourists there. The best and most popular time to visit is in the summer months between December and February due to the warm temperatures.

Have you visited Colonia del Sacramento before or would you like to?