10 Days Argentina and Uruguay Itinerary

Get ready for an epic Argentina and Uruguay itinerary. For ten days, you have the chance to experience the best of South America. Feel the electric pulse of Buenos Aires and cross the river in Uruguay for a tranquil experience. Wander the charming streets of Colonia del Sacramento before immersing yourself in the cultural bustle of Montevideo. 

Day 1: Welcome to Buenos Aires!

Welcome to Buenos Aires, the energetic and ever-bustling capital of Argentina! After landing at Ezeiza International Airport, head to your hotel to relax. When you're ready to hit the streets, the city's lively atmosphere will be at your fingertips - there's plenty to discover right outside your door.

Where to stay in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires blends tradition and modernity, offering a mix of old-world charm and cutting-edge design. From elegant wrought iron balconies to sleek modern buildings, the city is a feast of Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Brutalist architecture. Given the sheer size of the city, choosing the right neighborhood is important, so make sure to read all about the best area to stay in Buenos Aires.

• For luxury seekers: CasaSur Recoleta boasts exquisite accommodations, a gourmet restaurant, and a prime location near Recoleta Cemetery. Attention to detail, from custom furniture to upscale amenities, is designed for discerning travelers seeking a luxurious stay.
• For a boutique stay: DEL900 Hotel Boutique occupies a restored Art Nouveau building, offering a unique blend of historic elegance and modern comfort. Individually decorated rooms, personalized service, and an intimate atmosphere ensure a unique stay in the Congresso district.
• For budget-friendly comfort: Ker San Telmo Hotel provides affordable accommodation without compromising on quality. Modern rooms, a fitness center, and a convenient location make this hotel ideal for travelers looking for bargains in this historic area.

Day 2: Exploring Buenos Aires

Today you'll have the opportunity to explore Buenos Aires and discover its most iconic neighborhoods. Start at the Plaza de Mayo, the historic heart of the city, where the Government Palace and Cathedral tell the story of Argentina's past.

Then get lost in the cobblestone streets of San Telmo. This bohemian neighborhood is known for its antique stores and tango spirit. If you're visiting on a Sunday, be sure to visit the Plaza Dorrego market: vendors and performers fill the entire plaza.

Head to La Boca, where the brightly colored houses and lively Caminito Street capture the essence of Buenos Aires' artistic soul. For a more modern vibe, head to Puerto Madero. This riverside neighborhood is filled with elegant restaurants, trendy bars, and gorgeous views of the cityscape.

Finally, take a stroll through Recoleta. Known for its European charm, this neighborhood is home to expensive stores, cozy cafes, and the famous Recoleta Cemetery, where Argentina's most celebrated figures, including Eva Perón, are laid to rest.

Rough Guides tip: Discover even more ways to experience Argentina with our 7-day and 14-day itineraries.

Day 3: Gaucho history and day at "La Bamba"

For the perfect day trip from Buenos Aires, head to La Bamba de Areco, one of Argentina's oldest estates. Just a short drive away, this historic estate offers a unique chance to immerse yourself in the rich gaucho tradition. It's hard to imagine a visit to this place without seeing San Antonio de Areco, a nearby town that is the birthplace of the Gaucho heritage. Known for its skilled leather and silver artisans, the town captures the true spirit of rural Argentina.

At La Bamba, you'll experience the rich history of the region during horseback riding and folkloric performances. These events vary, and while full demonstrations can be arranged in advance, there is always something that will immerse you in the estancia's deep connection to the land and its traditions.

Expecting an incomparable beach vacation from Argentina? Find out when is the best time to visit the country and read all about the best beaches here.

Day 4: Welcome to Colonia de Sacramento

On the fourth day of your Argentina and Uruguay itinerary, make your way to the Buquebus port for a scenic one-hour ferry ride across the Río de la Plata to Uruguay. Once you arrive, head straight from the port to your hotel to settle in before venturing out to explore your new Uruguayan surroundings.

Where to stay in Colonia de Sacramento

When visiting Colonia del Sacramento, choosing the right neighborhood can enhance your experience in this historic, picturesque city. Luckily the city offers something for everyone.

• Barrio Histórico (Historic Quarter): The heart of Colonia, this UNESCO-listed district offers charming stays in restored colonial buildings. Cobblestone streets, vintage facades, and a short walk to landmarks like the lighthouse and Plaza Mayor make it ideal for history lovers.
• Riverside: For those seeking tranquility and stunning views, the Riverside area offers hotels with breathtaking vistas over the Río de la Plata. It's perfect for watching the sunset and relaxing by the water, while still being close to the historic center.
• Near the Port: Staying near the port is convenient for travelers who want easy access to the ferry terminal. This area offers modern hotels and is just a short walk from Colonia’s key attractions, making it a practical choice for short visits.

How to get from Buenos Aires to Colonia de Sacramento

The easiest way to get from Buenos Aires to Colonia del Sacramento is by ferry. Buquebus, Colonia Express, and Seacat offer hour-long trips via Rio de la Plata, departing from Puerto Madero and arriving at the port of Colonia. 

For a more scenic route, you can also take a bus to Tigre, then a ferry to Carmelo, followed by a bus to Colonia. While this option is less common, it adds a twist to the trip in the form of untraveled trails. Once in Colonia, you can easily access the city's main attractions on foot from the ferry terminal.

Day 5: Colonia and Narbona exploration

Today you'll have a day to explore the charming historic neighborhood of Colonia del Sacramento, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This cobblestone neighborhood, once a Portuguese settlement, witnessed centuries of battles between the Spanish and Portuguese. As you stroll its historic streets, you'll see landmarks such as the Street of Sighs, the Church of the Blessed Saints, and the lighthouse, as well as small museums that tell the story of the city's colonial past.

Later, head to Narbona Wine Lodge, located on 50 acres of vineyards established in 1909. Restored in 1990, this historic winery combines tradition and modern winemaking to produce high-end wines. It is the perfect place to relax and enjoy Uruguay's rich wine culture.

Day 6: Welcome to Montevideo

Today you will check out of your hotel and head out to explore Montevideo. After breakfast, embark on a self-guided tour of the city's main attractions. Start with a stroll along the Rambla, which offers fresh air and stunning views of the Rio de la Plata and its magnificent beaches. Along the way, visit Independence Square, admire the Palace of the Legislature, and wander through the lively Mercado Agricola agricultural market.

Montevideo is rich in culture, food, and recreation. Be sure to check out the iconic monuments Monumento la Carreta and Monumento la Palabra. Continue on to neighborhoods such as Carrasco, each with its own unique charm.

Where to stay in Montevideo

Montevideo offers a range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique atmosphere. Here’s where to stay depending on your style and preferences:

• Ciudad Vieja (Old Town): This is the heart of Montevideo's colonial past filled with charming boutique hotels, art galleries and historic landmarks. You'll find yourself near the lively Mercado del Puerto and some of the city's best nightlife.
• Punta Carretas: This upscale neighborhood is ideal for those looking for a combination of elegance and convenience. It is also close to the Rambla, where you can enjoy scenic walks along the coast.
• Pocitos: For a more relaxed beach vacation, Pocitos is ideal. This trendy neighborhood is home to modern hotels and apartments with easy access to beaches, cafes and bars.
• Carrasco: This residential area offers upscale hotels, beautiful mansions and wide tree-lined streets. It is ideal for those who want to relax away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.

How to get from Colonia de Sacramento to Montevideo

To get from Colonia del Sacramento to Montevideo, the most popular option is by bus. Companies such as COT and Turil operate frequent services that take around 2.5-3 hours, departing from the Colonia terminal and arriving at Tres Cruces in Montevideo. 

If you prefer a more flexible approach, rent a car and drive along Route 1, which takes about 2 hours and offers scenic views of the countryside. Alternatively, you can book a private shuttle for a more comfortable and direct option.

Day 7: Day trip to Punta del Este

Take a panoramic tour of Punta del Este's most iconic landmarks as you explore its picturesque neighborhoods. One of the main attractions is Casa Pueblo, a stunning creation by artist Carlos Paez Vilaro. This charming white-washed structure, reminiscent of a Mediterranean villa, houses an art gallery, museum, and workshop. 

Located on the Atlantic Ocean, Casa Pueblo is a masterpiece that combines art and architecture. Take in breathtaking ocean views and immerse yourself in the creative energy that fills this cultural gem.

Day 8: Welcome back to Buenos Aires

On day eight of your Argentina and Uruguay itinerary, head to the port of Buquebusa and catch the ferry to Buenos Aires. Upon arrival, head to the hotel to settle in and decide what you want to do today or just relax and unwind.

How to get from Punta del Este to Buenos Aires

The quickest way to get from Punta del Este to Buenos Aires is to fly direct, which takes about 1 hour and lands at Aeroparque Jorge Newbery or Ezeiza International Airport. Alternatively, you can take a 2-hour bus ride from Punta del Este to Montevideo and then catch a ferry to Buenos Aires, which takes about 2.5-3 hours. 

Another scenic route involves traveling by car or bus to Colonia del Sacramento (about 4 hours) and then taking a ferry to Buenos Aires, which takes 1 hour.

Day 9: Free day in Buenos Aires

Enjoy your free time exploring Buenos Aires at your own pace. Wander its lively streets, check out museums, relax in charming cafes, and browse local stores. This cosmopolitan city is a combination of colorful neighborhoods and diverse architecture, making it one of the most visited places in South America.

If you're a foodie, Buenos Aires is paradise, especially for steak and wine lovers. Experience the city's rich cultural life, from iconic tango performances to exciting soccer matches. Don't miss the street art, historic cafes, and world-class museums that make this city unforgettable.

Day 10: Return flight

Your journey comes to an end: head to the airport to fly home, or set aside a few extra days to research.

Ready to start planning your Argentine vacation right now?

Contact us, and we’ll organize your Argentina itinerary for 10 days exactly as outlined or tailor it to your preferences. If you're planning a trip to Argentina and looking for more inspiration, check out our selection of Argentina itineraries.