A day trip to Colonia, Uruguay, at sunset | Round trip from Buenos Aires🚢

#Sunset Colonia del Sacramento is the oldest colonial town in Uruguay, known for its laid-back atmosphere, old stone streets and rich historical background. It combines the colonial architectural styles of Portugal and Spain and has been listed as a World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. You can easily take a day trip by boat from Buenos Aires, Argentina, and enjoy a peaceful and beautiful sunset here. 🚢 Round-trip transportation To get from Buenos Aires to Colonia, you usually choose to take a ferry, which takes about 1 to 1.5 hours and is very convenient. There are two main ferry companies providing service: Buquebus and Colonia Express. 1️⃣ Buquebus: This is a more luxurious option. The ticket is more expensive but the facilities are more comfortable. The boat journey takes about 1 hour. 2️⃣ Colonia Express: This is an economical option, the ferry ticket is relatively cheap, but the ferry journey may be slightly longer, taking about 1.5 hours. It is recommended to book ferry tickets online in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, when morning departures are often more popular. Usually, the first ferry departs between 8:00-9:00 in the morning, and the last return ferry is between 20:00-21:00 in the evening. 🕒 Itinerary and suggestions Morning: departure and town sightseeing After arriving in Colonia, it is recommended to go to the town center first. The town of Colonia is not big and most of the attractions can be visited on foot. There is no busy traffic here, only quiet streets and a leisurely atmosphere. Here are a few must-see attractions: 1️⃣ Historic District (Barrio Histórico): The most representative attraction in Colonia, with well-preserved colonial buildings and cobblestone streets, exuding a strong historical atmosphere everywhere. You can stroll through the streets and admire the Portuguese and Spanish-style buildings. We recommend visiting Calle de los Suspiros, a street full of ancient charm, as if time has stood still. 2️⃣ Lighthouse (Faro de Colonia del Sacramento): The lighthouse in the town is an excellent viewing point for overlooking the entire town and the surrounding sea. The lighthouse is located on the edge of the historical district. Climbing to the top, you can overlook the panoramic view of the town and the vast La Plata River. When the weather is good, you can even see Argentina on the other side from afar. 3️⃣ Cathedral of Our Lady (Iglesia Matriz): This church is one of the oldest churches in Uruguay. The interior is simple and elegant with a strong colonial style. It is recommended to visit and experience this historic religious building. Afternoon: Relax and enjoy local cuisine After a morning of sightseeing in Colonia, you can enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Most of the restaurants here offer barbecue (Asado) and wine. We especially recommend trying Uruguay's local Malbec red wine, paired with delicious barbecue, to experience the charm of the local food culture. Recommended restaurants: • El Drugstore: This colorful restaurant in the historic district serves traditional Uruguayan cuisine and local seafood dishes. • La Bodeguita: This restaurant features a terrace with sea views, where you can enjoy your meal while admiring the views of the Rio de la Plata. After lunch, you can continue to stroll leisurely through the streets of the town, or rent a bicycle and ride along the river bank to enjoy the afternoon sunshine and fresh air. Evening: Sunset on the river bank and return The sunset in Colonia is one of the highlights of this trip. At sunset, we recommend going to the **Plaza Mayor** or strolling along the river to admire the sunset over the Rio de la Plata. The setting sun shines on the water, and the whole world seems to be dyed golden, the scene is picturesque. The lighthouse is also a great place to watch the sunset, from where you can overlook the magnificent view of the entire La Plata River. After sunset, you can take a leisurely walk back to the ferry terminal and wait for the boat to return in the evening, concluding this unforgettable day trip to Colonia. 📝 Tips 1️⃣ Book tickets in advance: Ferry trips are limited, especially during peak season. It is recommended to book round-trip tickets online in advance to avoid delays. 2️⃣ Currency: The common currency in Uruguay is the Uruguayan Peso, but most places also accept payment in Argentine Peso and US Dollar. It is recommended to bring some local currency with you in case of emergency. 3️⃣ Sun protection and comfortable equipment: There is plenty of sunshine in Colonia, so it is recommended to bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat, and wear comfortable walking shoes. 4️⃣ Leisurely mentality: Colonia is a small town suitable for slowing down. It is recommended not to arrange the itinerary too tightly, and let yourself relax and enjoy the slow life here. Conclusion The ancient charm of the small town of Colonia combined with the stunning views of the Rio de la Plata make it a must-see tourist destination in Uruguay. Take in the history of Uruguay on this day trip from Buenos Aires, Argentina, and end your visit with a beautiful sunset. Whether you are a nature lover or a history and culture explorer, this place will be the highlight of your trip.