Colonia del Sacramento is a perfect entry or exit point for travelers between Uruguay and Argentina. Situated just a short, one-hour ferry ride across the River Plate from Buenos Aires, this small but stunning town offers a unique blend of history and charm, making it a must-visit destination. Whether you’re planning a brief stopover or a longer stay, Colonia is an excellent starting or finishing point for your Uruguayan adventure.
Getting to Colonia from Buenos Aires
Colonia’s proximity to Buenos Aires makes it an easy and convenient destination to reach. In just one hour, you can cross the River Plate by ferry and find yourself exploring the cobbled streets and historic architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage town.
The Ferry Options
There are two main ferry operators that run services between Buenos Aires and Colonia: Buquebus and Colonia Express. Both offer several sailings each day, with travel times ranging from one to one and a half hours.
Ferry Times
On a typical day, ferry times are as follows:
- Buenos Aires to Colonia: 8:30 am, 10:30 am, 12:50 pm, 6:30 pm, and 8:00 pm
- Colonia to Buenos Aires: 8:30 am, 10:30 am, 4:30 pm, 6:00 pm, and 8:30 pm
The variety of times provides flexibility, allowing you to plan your journey according to your schedule.
Ticket Prices
Ferry ticket prices vary depending on the operator and the type of ticket you purchase. As of July 2023, the prices for a one-way ticket are as follows:
- Buquebus: The cheapest ticket is $49, while the most expensive option is $74.
- Colonia Express: The one-way fare is a flat rate of $55 for all ticket types.
You can easily compare and book tickets using Direct Ferries, a global ferry aggregator that simplifies the booking process. This user-friendly platform helps you avoid the hassle of navigating local ferry company websites and ensures that you find the best deal for your trip.
Arriving in Colonia: What to Do
Once you arrive in Colonia, you’ll find that it’s easy to explore this quaint town on foot. The bus and ferry terminals are conveniently located near the town center, just a ten-minute walk from Colonia’s historic Old Town. If you’re heading to Montevideo afterward, you can leave your luggage at the bus station and enjoy the town without having to carry your bags around.
Colonia’s Old Town
Colonia’s Old Town is a charming and atmospheric district, filled with narrow, cobblestone streets and colonial-era buildings. The town’s architecture is a testament to its rich history, influenced by both Portuguese and Spanish settlers. Spend your time wandering through the tree-lined streets, visiting local shops, or relaxing in one of the many cafés or restaurants.
Some of the must-see attractions in Colonia’s Old Town include:
- Plaza Mayor: The main square is the heart of the Old Town, surrounded by historic buildings and picturesque views.
- Calle de los Suspiros: This iconic street, lined with well-preserved colonial homes, is one of the most photographed spots in Colonia.
- Faro de Colonia: Climb the town’s lighthouse for panoramic views of the town and the River Plate.
- Portón de Campo: The original city gate is a remnant of Colonia’s early defensive walls and offers a glimpse into its colonial past.
After exploring the Old Town, you can head back to the port for your return ferry to Buenos Aires or catch a bus to Montevideo.
Traveling from Montevideo to Colonia
If you’re starting your journey in Montevideo and planning to visit Buenos Aires, Colonia is also a great exit point. The bus ride from Montevideo to Colonia takes just two hours, with comfortable buses that include free Wi-Fi. You can easily buy your ferry tickets to Buenos Aires or bus tickets back to Montevideo at the station upon arrival. After securing your tickets, you can store your luggage at the terminal and head out to explore the town before your next leg of the journey.
Why Colonia Is the Perfect Stopover
Whether you’re entering or leaving Uruguay, Colonia del Sacramento offers a peaceful and scenic stopover. Its manageable size makes it perfect for a short visit, where you can experience the charm of a colonial town without feeling rushed. In a single day, you can explore the historic Old Town, have a relaxing lunch, and still have time to catch your ferry or bus.
Stay Longer in Colonia
Though Colonia is small, its charm can easily tempt you to stay for a few days. There are plenty of boutique hotels and guesthouses in the area, as well as excellent restaurants that offer both local Uruguayan cuisine and international options. If you have time, consider spending a couple of nights in Colonia to fully immerse yourself in its unique atmosphere and enjoy its slower pace of life.
Booking Your Ferry Stress-Free
To simplify the process of booking your ferry, we recommend using Direct Ferries. This UK-based ferry aggregator offers an easy-to-use platform that allows you to book ferries across the globe, including the Argentina-Uruguay route. By using Direct Ferries, you’ll save time and avoid the stress of navigating local websites.
And by booking through Guru’Guay’s affiliate link, you’ll also be supporting us, at no extra cost to you. We earn a small fee when you book through Direct Ferries, which helps us continue providing helpful travel advice for Uruguay.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re traveling from Buenos Aires to Montevideo or the other way around, Colonia is a perfect place to break up the journey. Its colonial charm, convenient ferry and bus services, and relaxing atmosphere make it a wonderful destination in its own right. So, whether you plan to stay for a few hours or a few days, don’t miss the opportunity to experience this beautiful UNESCO World Heritage site.