Day Trip to Colonia from Buenos Aires

How to Visit Colonia from Buenos Aires on a Day Trip

Crossing the Rio de la Plata and changing countries in just one hour is one of the great privileges of living in Buenos Aires. Just a few kilometers away, Colonia del Sacramento appears as an ideal destination for a short getaway to break your routine: cobblestone streets, colonial history, delicious traditional dishes, and a calm rhythm that invites you to slow down.

Taking a day tour to Colonia from Buenos Aires is a great option if you need to disconnect and change scenery for a few hours. The trip is simple, accessible, and very rewarding, even for those who, if they wish, can stay overnight.

In this article, we share the best tips for traveling to Colonia del Sacramento, covering transfers, main attractions, food, excursions, and much more.

The Easiest Way to Travel

The most chosen option to travel to Colonia is the ferry that directly connects Buenos Aires with Uruguay in just over an hour. The two companies that operate the crossing are Buquebus and Colonia Express, both with many daily frequencies. In Buenos Aires, the boats depart from the port located between the neighborhoods of Retiro and Puerto Madero. They arrive at the port of Colonia del Sacramento in less than two hours.

With Best Buenos Aires Tours, in addition to managing ferry tickets, you can find organized tours through Colonia that take you to see the essential sites. Don't miss the opportunity to tour the highlights of this Uruguayan town with tourism experts and guaranteed transfers.

Documentation, Prices, and Key Tips

Although the trip is short, it is an international crossing. For Argentines, it is mandatory to present a valid DNI, and for foreigners, a passport. Before embarking, you will go through immigration procedures, so it is recommended to arrive at the port at least one hour before departure.

Regarding prices, the round-trip ticket usually ranges between 60 and 120 dollars, depending on the company, the schedule, and how far in advance it is purchased. The first morning services and the last returns tend to be cheaper, an advantage for those looking for a full day in Colonia del Sacramento.

What to Do in Colonia del Sacramento in One Day

One of the great virtues of the destination is that it is easily explored on foot. The port leads almost directly into the Historic Quarter (Barrio Histórico), declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Among the main points of interest are:

A leisurely walk through the Historic Quarter takes between two and three hours, ideal to combine with a walk along the Rambla (waterfront promenade). If you travel with an agency like Best Buenos Aires Tours, you will not only have guaranteed transfers to and from Buenos Aires but also a guide for your tours and lunch to recharge your energy.

Those who prefer to add historical information or extend the tour can opt for organized excursions that include a guide and meals. Some may even choose a private bike tour or a group city tour. These experiences are specially designed for short trips and optimize the available time.

Where to Eat in Colonia del Sacramento

Finding where to eat in Colonia del Sacramento is not difficult at all. During weekends, restaurants, ice cream parlors, and cafes put tables and chairs out on the sidewalk to anticipate the large influx of visitors and tempt the appetites of those who have spent time touring the city's attractions.

Amor Amor, Santa Rita, and Lentas Maravillas are three fantastic options facing the river, at the end of Flores Street. Vintage Resto, on Henrique de la Peña, is perfect if you are looking for something more intimate and quiet with good views.

A colorful detail is that in the heart of the historic center, you will see many cafes with outdoor tables, while restaurants with river views are concentrated along the rambla, ideal for long lunches or sunset dinners.

There are also traditional bodegones (taverns) and places specializing in Uruguayan wines and regional cheeses that we recommend you visit.

A Nearby Getaway That Always Works

Colonia del Sacramento combines history, landscape, and tranquility in a perfect format for short trips. The Uruguayan city remains one of the best options to escape the porteño routine without long transfers or complex planning.