Colonia is one of the oldest colonial towns of Uruguay, living up to its name, which means colony in Spanish. It is renowned for its historical quarter, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Colonia is an open-air museum of the country’s Spanish and Portuguese colonial past, with architecture and folkloric influences from both reigns.
• The original Barrio Histórico (historic quarter) retains its wide Spanish streets, which contrast with the irregular, terrain-fitting street plan built by the Portuguese.
• The Calle de los Suspiros, meaning the street of sighs, is named as such for the many legends that have been told about the street over the centuries. These legends include stories of love, betrayal, and hauntings.
• Buenos Aires is just a 50-minute ferry ride from Colonia.
• Visit two countries in one day: Argentina and Uruguay!
• Walk the cobblestone streets of Colonia’s historical quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a private and insider walking tour.
• Head west of Colonia to visit the neighboring town of Carmelo. Regarded for its wineries, this is the best place to taste Uruguay’s famous red wine variety, the Tannat.
