The Beginner's Guide to Montevideo

How much do you know about Montevideo, Uruguay's capital city? If it's not on your travel itinerary for South America yet, then you need to read our beginner's guide to Montevideo to see why you should visit Uruguay's biggest city. Montevideo is often compared to its neighbouring capital on the other side of the Rio de la Plata: Buenos Aires. But Montevideo stands on its own as an interesting and eclectic city. It is also the hub of Uruguay, a country that despite its small size, has made an impact worldwide thanks to its progressive politics, legalising abortion, gay marriage and marijuana in recent years. Take our word for it, Montevideo is a city worth visiting. [caption id="attachment_5959" align="aligncenter" width="610"] A view of Montevideo and its beaches from above / Source[/caption]

Comparing the capitals of the Rio de la Plata

Montevideo lies across the Rio de la Plata from Buenos Aires and is sometimes referred to as the Argentine capital's "little sister." But this label doesn't do Montevideo justice. An age-old - but very amicable- rivalry exists between these Rioplatense cities. No one can argue that Argentina and Uruguay's cultures are very similar and it's probably due to their equally passionate sense of national identity and patriotism that this friendly conflict prevails. Both Argentines and Uruguayans passionately defend their country’s produce, claiming to have better meat, better dulce de leche, and better yerba mate than their neighbour does across the river. Football is another rivalry, as is, surprisingly, tango. Many people don't realise that while Buenos Aires is synonymous with tango, Montevideo actually played an equally important role in the history of tango. The Argentine tango icon, Carlos Gardel, also has some links to Uruguay, since he once claimed to have been born in Uruguay (and not in France, as is more commonly thought). Despite these similarities, if you travel from Buenos Aires to Montevideo, don't expect the Uruguayan capital to be Buenos Aires. There are many big differences, and Montevideo has its own appeal that is very different to its neighbouring city. Montevideo is a lot smaller and more laid-back. The people are known for their bohemian, relaxed way of life, giving the city a friendlier vibe. There are many other things that Montevideo has that Buenos Aires doesn't, which should tempt you across the river to visit Uruguay. Here are some of the highlights of Montevideo: [caption id="attachment_5963" align="aligncenter" width="610"] Montevideo has many beautiful beaches / Source[/caption]

Beaches

One of the biggest drawcards for Montevideo is that it is a beach city. Montevideo lies on the coast where the Rio de la Plata meets the Atlantic Ocean, which means it not only has beautiful beaches but also a much milder climate than Buenos Aires to the south. Montevideo is famous for its Rambla - a long avenue running along the beaches, stretching for 22km. Some of the best beaches to visit on its path are:

• Pocitos: The beach attached to the upscale neighbourhood of Pocitos is one of the city's most popular beaches. You'll always find people playing volleyball here;
• Ramirez: In front of the amusement park, Parque Rodo;
• Buceo: One of the most beautiful beaches, Buceo is a popular spot for windsurfers, and has a marina;
• Malvin: A quieter and calmer beach, this bay is also a great spot to learn how to windsurf.

Seafood

Another advantage of beach-side cities is the seafood. Montevideo has plenty of places to indulge in fresh seafood. Along Montevideo’s La Rambla, you can find a variety of restaurants that specialise in delicious fish and seafood. Some notable restaurants in the city are Francis Carrasco, Es Mercat, and La Fonda del Puertito. [caption id="attachment_5958" align="aligncenter" width="610"] Chivito, the crowning jewel of Uruguayan cuisine / Source[/caption]

Chivito

Staying on the subject of food, an absolute must when you’re in Montevideo is to try a Chivito, which has become a national dish for Uruguayans. Heaven for meat-lovers, it is a hearty filled steak sandwich, topped with slices of churrasco beef, ham, bacon, lettuce and tomato, melted mozzarella cheese, and a fried egg. [caption id="attachment_5964" align="aligncenter" width="610"] Montevideo's Ciudad Vieja is full of beautiful old architecture / Credit: Daytours4u[/caption]

Ciudad Vieja

One of Montevideo’s highlights, explore Uruguay's colonial past by visiting Montevideo's Old City - Ciudad Vieja. This historic district features colonial buildings with classical architecture, cafes, museums, public squares and the Solis Theatre – a Montevideo landmark. A great place to explore and get a feel for the city. You can explore the Old City and beyond with a knowledgeable guide by booking a Montevideo city tour. [caption id="attachment_5967" align="aligncenter" width="610"] Mercado del Puerto has some of the best food in the city / Source[/caption]

Mercado del Puerto

Within the Ciudad Vieja, by the city’s oldest harbour, lies the Mercado del Puerto. Established in 1868 as a fruit, vegetable and meat market, it is now a must-see destination in Montevideo. This large warehouse style building offers a huge amount of restaurants, where authentic Uruguayan cuisine can be found, including the best parrillas (grills) to be found in the city. Stop here for a hearty meal of meat, like Anthony Bourdain did. While the locals come to Mercado del Puerto to eat, you can also shop here for leather goods and artisanal products. Uruguay's capital city should definitely be on your itinerary for South America. It's easy to include on a visit to Argentina or Brazil, and has plenty to see and do. Come explore it more with uruguay4u.com.

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By: Nicole Eberhard