Colonia del Sacramento
When visiting Buenos Aires, make sure to add a day trip to Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay. A short ferry ride away, Colonia is the perfect destination for a relaxing day trip. With its colonial-style charm, rich history, and delicious cuisine, you won’t be disappointed. In this blog post, we’ll be talking about what makes Colonia such a great destination, from the ferry ride there to the historic downtown.
The Ferry Ride
The ferry ride from Buenos Aires to Colonia del Sacramento takes about an hour, making it an easy day trip. You can choose between different ferry companies, such as Buquebus or Colonia Express. We recommend buying your tickets in advance to avoid long lines and ensure that you get the ferry time that suits you best.
Arriving at the port in Buenos Aires, you can already see people lining up for the ferry. Before boarding the ship to Uruguay, you go through customs, where your passport is checked and stamped.
PS: The Ferry ride is very smooth, takes only 1.5 hours, and costs around $45.
Old Town - UNESCO World Heritage Site
Once you arrive in Colonia de Sacramento, you’ll be transported to the past with its charming colonial-style architecture and cobblestone streets. It is no wonder that Colonia del Sacramento was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. Strolling through the old town, you find numerous restaurants, cafes, artisanal shops, and museums. The city is perfect for those who enjoy walking, photographing, or just wandering the streets.
The history of Colonia del Sacramento is fascinating. The Portuguese founded the town in 1680, and it has since been the subject of numerous battles and takeovers by various European countries, such as Spain. This history is evident in the town’s architecture and museums. One history museum worth visiting is the Portuguese Museum, located in a building that dates back to 1720.
There’s plenty to explore in Colonia del Sacramento. The old town was once the commercial center of the city and is now a great place to stroll through antique shops, enjoy the scenery, and admire colonial architecture. Another place to visit is the art and craft market, where you can find many handmade products made by local artists.
The Cuisine
Eating in Colonia del Sacramento is a unique experience. Some of the local specialties include asado (barbecued meat), chivito (a typical Uruguayan sandwich), and mate (a traditional South American drink). They also have a thriving wine region that produces fantastic Tannat wine. You can’t go wrong with any of the local restaurants, but we recommend trying El Buen Suspiro for an authentic experience that lets you step back in time. Inside the restaurant, you can enjoy homemade pizza, sip a glass of local Uruguayan wine, or have a local charcuterie board.
Summary
Overall, Colonia del Sacramento offers a fantastic day trip for Buenos Aires travelers. The ferry ride there is quick and easy, and the town itself is charming, rich in history, and full of cultural experiences and delicious cuisine. Colonia del Sacramento will impress you whether you’re a history geek, foodie, or just looking for a relaxing day trip.
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