Overview

Often called the "Oriental Republic," due to its location on the eastern bank of the Rio de la Plata, Uruguay is one of the smallest countries in South America. And with 300 miles of fine, sandy beaches on the Atlantic and the Río de la Plata, it's the perfect place for a relaxing getaway. However, if you so desire, you'll find plenty to keep you on the go like casinos, art festivals and world-class musical entertainment. In the capital, Montevideo, head to the inner city (called Old Town) for antique shopping at its finest.
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Travel Facts

Population
3,419,000

Capital
Montevideo

Currency
Peso/Euros/U.S. Dollars

Time Zone
U.S. Central Standard Time +2 hours

Weather
Uruguay's climate is temperate with mild summers and winters. Summer is from December to March and is the most pleasant time for tourists. During other seasons the weather is bright and sunny with comfortable, cool nights.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Montevideo is home to theater, ballet and symphonic concerts which take place most of the year. To the west of Montevideo is Colonia Suiza (The Swiss Colony), and its delightful Old Quarter charms visitors. If you've always wanted to tango, now is the time. It's nearly as popular here as in Argentina. You'll find discos in the Carrasco area and there are several dinner/dance places in Montevideo, although the larger hotels have the best bars. Even the suburbs have an abundance of restaurants, nightclubs and hotels.

Restaurant and Cuisine Listings

Las Brasas, Montevideo
This casual restaurant serves an outstanding range of seafood such as the Spanish Paella or flathead fish served with prawns, mushrooms and mashed potatoes. The Filet de Lomo is the best cut of meat and be sure to order yours with Roquefort, mustard and black pepper sauce to taste.

El Viejo y El Mar, Montevideo
El Viejo y el Mar is located on the riverfront near the Sheraton hotel. This intriguing bar is made from an abandoned boat, and the dining room is decorated with dock lines, sea lamps and pictures of 19th-century regattas. Every kind of fish and pasta you can imagine is on the menu, and the restaurant is equally popular for evening cocktails.

Arcadia, Montevideo
Plaza Victoria is a quiet paradise and is considered one of the finest restaurants in all of Montevideo. Semiprivate nooks are available with floor-to-ceiling bay windows and crystal chandeliers. Creative dishes such as Terrine of Pheasant, marinated in Cognac are what make this a local favorite.

Culture & Heritage

For such a small country, Uruguay has a big legacy of artistic and literary traditions. The influence of its many conquerors and diverse immigrants has resulted in rich, native traditions. Centuries-old remains and fortresses of the colonial era dot the landscape, and an impressive number of artists, musicians and writer call this unique country home. Uruguay even has its own music and dance called Gaucho that symbolizes their pride, dignity, and integrity.

Famous Uruguayans – Spotlight on Jorge Drexler

The first Uruguayan ever to win an Academy Award, Jorge Drexler composed and sang the song "Al Otro Lado del Río" for the popular U.S. movie, The Motorcycle Diaries.