Excursion Uruguay heritage tour at Montevideo

Discover the beauty, history and culture of Montevideo during a picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion to this splendid city.

Montevideo, MAM Local Market

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive to Montevideo's former Agricultural Market (MAM). Built between 1905 and 1915, this market is located in an area which led to several roads that connected most parts of the city. During the first decades of the 19th century, this was where most products that supplied Montevideo could be found. Today, one of Montevideo's best architectural works of art offers a wide variety of products and services, including handcrafts, spices, entertainment for children, local pastries, etc. Following your visit, re-board your coach and head to the Port Market.

Port Market, Carnaval Museum, Candombe

During your visit to this impressive, wrought-iron structure, see a variety of 'parrilladas' and outstanding seafood restaurants. Leaving the Port Market, stop by the Museo del Carnaval (Carnaval Museum). Nobody does Carnival like the Uruguayans, who keep up the festivities for 40 days. Whilst Carnival is popular among many countries worldwide, Candombe can only be found here. This UNESCO World Cultural Heritage of Humanity is a Uruguayan music and dance form that originated from African slaves, and was brought to Uruguay in the 18th century. To this day, it is considered an important aspect of Uruguayan culture.

Bar Facal, Lock Fountain

Next, re-board your coach and drive to the historic Bar Facal, one of the most emblematic venues in Montevideo. Not only is it one of the oldest bars in the city, but also offers a daily tango performance every day at noon. Upon arrival, see its famous Lock Fountain, where couples from all over the world leave their love mark.

Meal, Mate Tea, Artigas Mausoleum

Enjoy a lovely snack of chivito (traditional Uruguayan fast food) and an opportunity to taste mate, an infusion made by steeping yerba mate, the dried, ground leaves of the llex paraguarensis plant, in hot water. Different from other infusions, Mate is mostly drunk communally with a bombilla (straw), and is one of Uruguay's most sacred rituals. After lunch, your final visit is at the Artigas Mausoleum, where Uruguay's National Hero's ashes can be found. At the conclusion of your tour, re-board your coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Montevideo, MAM Local Market, Port Market, Carnaval Museum, Candombe, Bar Facal, Lock Fountain, Wine Tasting, Meal, Mate Tea and Artigas Mausoleum

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.24 miles (about two kilometres) at times over flat surfaces, with steps to get on/off the coach and at the sites visited. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection and bottled water from the ship. Guests must be at least 18 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. The tour sequence and timings may vary depending on traffic, holidays and unforeseen circumstances. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.