The buzzing heart of Montevideo offers a wide range of places to stay and eat, with something to suit every budget and taste, making it the perfect choice for visitors who like to be at the center of the action. The area features architecture with a range of international influences, including Palacio Salvo,the postcard symbol of the city. A good time for a wander is after dark, when the buildings and plazas are beautifully lit.
Some of the city’s most engaging museums are here, in particular the Museo del Gaucho with its fascinating gaucho artifacts, and the Museo de Historia del Arte, housing pieces from around the world; don’t miss the replica statue of Michelangelo’s David nearby. Avenida 18 de Julio is where to head for great shopping, and unique handicrafts can be found at Mercado de los Artesanos. However, many of the shops and some museums are shut at weekends, so try to make your visit during the week.
Approaching from Ciudad Vieja through the Puerta de la Ciudadela, you’ll notice that the city’s grandest plaza is spotless, dotted with fountains and flowers, and is a good place if you want to
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With Uruguay’s diverse culture, including much African influence brought over in the time of slavery, La Dirección de Mundo Afro is a good resource for finding out more about this heritage, and
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Set on the sixth floor of an automobile club (the lift is to the right of the offices), this gallery will appeal to car enthusiasts and anyone else keen to visit a museum filled with the odor of gas
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Models of horses, gaucho costumes and rifles make the Museo del Gaucho a popular stop for families, though perhaps keep the smallest ones away from the very threatening-looking boleadores (a weapon
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Stretching from Plaza Independencia in the west to near the Tres Cruces bus terminal, Montevideo’s longest street is the hub of civic, business and commercial activity. Gaining its name from the
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Every capital city needs its iconic building, and Montevideo is no exception. Built in the 1920s, Palacio Salvo was designed by Italian architect Mario Palanti and stands at 100 meters (328 ft) high.
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Although coming second to the Mercado de los Artesanos for crafts shopping, and without quite the same relaxed ambiance, the advantage of choosing here to buy your souvenir mate cup is that you can
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You weren’t expecting to see a statue of Michelangelo’s David when you came to Uruguay, but this is what can be viewed at the front of the Palacio Municipal (City Hall). A gift from Italy, it is
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With the main road running through its middle, Plaza de Cagancha may not be as relaxing as other nearby plazas but is nevertheless one of the most important. At the top of a tall column is a monument
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Although the fountains here look like they’re rising from children’s paddling pools, Plaza Fabini is a pleasant, green oasis from the bustle of Avenida 18 de Julio, and a popular spot to laze on
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