Colonia del Sacramento (population: 117,600) is one of the most popular tourist towns in Uruguay. It is a ferry ride across the Río de la Plata from Buenos Aires and features historical gems like the oldest church in Uruguay, the only Plaza de Toros (bull ring) in Uruguay and a historic center with a fortress and contraband port that are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just west of Montevideo along the coast facing the Río de la Plata, Colonia del Sacramento features lovely Portuguese architecture dating back to the late 1600s and streets lined with sycamore trees.

Attractions not to miss in Colonia del Sacramento:

- the lighthouse, connected to the ruins of the Convento de San Francisco and near the Plaza Mayor, which is surrounded by palm trees inhabited by parakeets is a great spot to relax. These attractions are also close to the Museo Municipal and the Museo Portugués.

- The oldest church in Uruguay, the Iglesia Matriz, on Calle Vasconcellos beside the Plaza de Armas.

- The only Plaza de Toros (bull ring) in Uruguay, which was built two years before bullfighting was abolished. Ask a local guide for a tour – you have to climb through a gap in the fence, as it is officially closed to visitors.

- All museums in Colonia del Sacramento are open from 11:15 – 16:45 and are best visited with a combined ticket from the Museo Municipial for about US $0.40. All are closed on Wednesdays.