Long weekends in Argentina: five getaways in Uruguay to take advantage of the March holiday

With the upcoming long weekend in March, many Argentinians are starting to plan short getaways that combine nature, culture, and fine dining. Just a few hours away, Uruguay presents itself as an ideal option for a quick trip, with ferry connections from Buenos Aires, accessible routes for those traveling by car, and direct flights from Córdoba to Punta del Este, as well as from Buenos Aires to Montevideo or Punta del Este.

“Uruguay has something special for short getaways: within a few kilometers, you can find cities with history, nature, great food, and a vibrant cultural scene. This allows each traveler to create their own plan, whether to relax, explore, or simply change pace for a few days,” said Cristian Pos.

Here are some suggestions for organizing a getaway to the other side of the Río de la Plata.

Colonia del Sacramento: history and walking tours

For those seeking a short getaway from Buenos Aires, Colonia del Sacramento is one of the most accessible and charming options. Just over an hour away by ferry, its historic center—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—invites visitors to explore cobblestone streets, city walls, and colonial houses that reflect its Portuguese and Spanish heritage.

The classic tour includes the Street of Sighs, the historic lighthouse, and the small museums of the old quarter. In recent years, the tourist offerings have expanded to the Real de San Carlos area, where the historic bullring recently inaugurated its Bullfighting Museum, a space dedicated to preserving the history of this national monument.

The plan is usually completed with a sunset overlooking the Río de la Plata and visits to the nearby Cheese Route, a gastronomic circuit that combines local traditions with European influences.

Punta del Este cultural: art and cinema

Beyond its beaches, Punta del Este has established itself as a growing cultural hub. During the long weekend, a variety of activities related to contemporary art and film will take place.

Among them is the cycle of screenings at the Atchugarry Museum of Contemporary Art, which takes place within the CINE MACA program, a space dedicated to the dissemination of Uruguayan and international cinema.

Near the José Ignacio Lighthouse, the Art Experience Uruguay event will also take place, organized by the Cervieri Monsuárez Foundation, which brings together exhibitions of Latin American artists and experiences related to contemporary art.

The tour can be complemented with visits to galleries, independent bookstores and specialty cafes that have proliferated in different sectors of the resort.

Cabo Polonio: nature and disconnection

On the Atlantic coast of the Rocha department, Cabo Polonio offers a completely different experience. Access is via special vehicles that cross dunes, marking the beginning of a total escape.

The small town is known for its beaches open to the Atlantic Ocean, its iconic lighthouse, and one of the largest sea lion colonies in the region. Walks along the seafront, surfing, and sunsets over the dunes are part of its appeal.

Those who wish to continue exploring the coast can add to the tour other nearby seaside resorts such as La Pedrera and La Paloma, destinations where life revolves around the ocean and gastronomy based on seafood.

Coastal hot springs: rest and well-being

The Uruguayan coast is home to one of the most important thermal regions in South America. Its waters come from the Guarani Aquifer System and reach temperatures ranging from 38 to 46 degrees Celsius, making the hot springs an ideal option for relaxation at any time of year.

Destinations such as Termas del Daymán, Termas de Almirón and Termas de Guaviyú offer everything from full-service resorts to family accommodations, water parks, spas and camping areas in natural settings.

Montevideo: Culture and Urban Life

The Uruguayan capital, Montevideo, offers a wealth of options for those who prefer an urban getaway. The city combines expansive green spaces like Parque Rodó, Parque Prado, and the Montevideo Botanical Garden with a vibrant cultural scene.

Iconic venues such as the Solís Theatre, the Verdi Hall, the Sodre Auditorium and the Zitarrosa Hall maintain an active program during the long weekend, consolidating the city as one of the main cultural centers of the region.

The urban experience is completed with tours along the waterfront promenade, the historic center of Ciudad Vieja, and a gastronomic offering that combines traditional grills with contemporary bars and tourist wineries located a few minutes from the center.

Just a few hours from Argentina and with offerings that combine nature, culture and gastronomy, Uruguay is establishing itself as a nearby and versatile alternative to enjoy long weekends with short getaways throughout the year.