Trails along the beach, the capital promising pleasant stroll in the old city

Montevideo with an atmosphere evoking European cities is a city rich in green, where more than 3 hundred thousand roadside trees are planted. A stone gate remaining in the Independence Square (Plaza Indipendencia), where the declaration of independence was made in 1825, is a remnant of a fortress. The area spreading from the gate to the harbor was once laid inside the fortress, and also it was the cradle of Montevideo.

With the Independence Square at the center, the city is divided into the new city and the old city. It is fun to stroll around in the old city where cafes, restaurants and boutiques are lined. The big food mall (Port’s Market) on the harbor is accommodated in an old building with 200 years of history and is flavored with unique atmosphere. It is crowded with tourists.

Along the trail, there are such sightseeing spots as an art museum, historical museum, cathedral and Solis Theater (Teatro Solis), a national theater inaugurated in 1856, and a flea market is open in the Matriz Square (Plaza Matriz). Many souvenirs are sold in the old city. Leather products, amethyst mined in the northern Uruguay and simple potteries are among popular souvenirs. There are many stately buildings and parks on the Av.18 de Julio, or a main street.

The beach along The River Plate, the way to suburban areas, is urbane and sophisticated, on which many citizens enjoy sun bathing. As trails and cycling roads are well developed, you may leisurely stroll around the area.

Entertainment

Candombe
Candombe is the distinct music of Uruguay, which takes its roots from the Blacks. This rhythm is said to develop into tango.
An event called "Desfile de Las Llamadas" is held yearly during the time of the South American carnival. A traditional parade presenting the sounds of (the tambor), a percussion instrument peculiar to Uruguay, can be seen.

Gourmet
You can enjoy world cuisine here in Montevideo ranging from the traditional Asado (grilled meat dish) and Parrillada (mixed grilled platter of meat and internal organs) to the dishes of various countries. At night, pubs, bars and discos are open and hilarious music are kept playing.

Popular as a calling port for cruise

Montevideo and Punta del Este are gaining popularity year by year as the calling port for cruise by passenger boats. During 6 months from October 2005 through March 2006 alone, as many as more than 150,000 passengers and crews visited them by 110 boats. One of the world largest luxurious passenger boats, the Queen Elizabeth II has called at these ports twice, and the Millennium, the Symphony and the Queen Elizabeth II have called at the ports too.

Against the backdrop of increasing cruise boats, there is a blessed environment that enables to provide well-maintained harbors and fresh water of good quality, and also to provide public safety. A new style of traveling, go cruising from Europe to Mercosur, is attracting tourists.