1 / 9
Montevideo, the most populous city in Uruguay with a population of just 1.3 million, has become a noteworthy tourist attraction. Individuals stroll through Plaza Zabala (Zabala Square) in Montevideo, Uruguay, on April 29, 2025. REUTERS/Martin Varela Umpierrez
2 / 9
The city boasts art deco colonial architecture, galleries, museums, studios, concert venues, gin distilleries, and a charming historical district, reminiscent of more renowned European destinations. The Edificio Rex (Rex Building) is mirrored in another structure in Montevideo, Uruguay, on April 30, 2025. REUTERS/Martin Varela Umpierrez
3 / 9
Attendees participate in a Tango Gala at the Teatro Solis (Solis Theatre) in Montevideo, Uruguay, on May 9, 2025. REUTERS/Martin Varela Umpierrez
4 / 9
Visitors should indulge in Mate (pronounced MAH-tay), a bitter green tea derived from the yerba mate plant native to Southern Latin America. In the accompanying image, captured at Paseo de los Pescadores (Fisherman’s Walk) along the coastal promenade Presidente Wilson, individuals fill a gourd with the dried leaves, add hot water, and sip through a bombilla, a metal straw with a strainer. The beverage is so integral to Uruguayan culture—embraced even by some of the world’s top soccer players—that many carry thermoses with hot water for refills, noted Lucinda Elliot for Reuters. Image credit: REUTERS/Martin Varela Umpierrez
5 / 9
Don’t forget to visit the Tristán Narvaja street market, held exclusively on Sundays. Members of the Cuareim 1080 troupe are seen in a parade in Montevideo, Uruguay, on May 3, 2025. REUTERS/Martin Varela Umpierrez
6 / 9
Stalls now stretch over 50 blocks in the city center, showcasing a variety of local produce, artworks, and an array of quirky items. The principles of recycling and reupholstering are firmly embraced in Montevideo, where high import taxes render manufactured goods costly, as reported by Lucinda Elliot of Reuters. Cups for drinking yerba mate are available for sale at the Tristán Narvaja street market in Montevideo, Uruguay, on April 27, 2025. REUTERS/Martin Varela Umpierrez
7 / 9
Cuareim 1080 troupe members participate in a parade in Montevideo, Uruguay, on May 3, 2025. The cost of hot water for your mate thermos at street stalls is around 35 Uruguayan pesos ($0.80), while a scoop of ice cream at La Cigale, a favored local chain, starts at 190 pesos ($4.50). The dulce de leche flavor made by Antonio at Don Antonio’s is priced at 150 pesos ($3.60).
8 / 9
During a Tango Gala at the Teatro Solis (Solis Theatre) in Montevideo, Uruguay, on May 9, 2025, dancers showcase their talent. REUTERS/Martin Varela Umpierrez
9 / 9
Banners promoting a Tango Gala are displayed at the Teatro Solis (Solis Theatre) in Montevideo, Uruguay, on May 9, 2025. REUTERS/Martin Varela Umpierrez.
