Ferry options
| Company | Crossing time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Buquebus | ~1 h 15 min | Most departures, from the Buenos Aires port terminal |
| Colonia Express | ~1 h 15 min | Often cheaper; terminal near La Boca |
| Cacciola / others | Varies | Combined routes via Tigre |
Book in advance for weekends and holidays; prices vary a lot by time and day. Check schedules on Buquebus.
Border formalities
Arrive at the terminal about 1–1.5 hours before departure. Argentine exit and Uruguayan entry are done at the same desk in Buenos Aires. Citizens of the US, UK, EU, Canada and Australia don’t need a visa for Uruguay for tourist stays.
What to see in Colonia
- Barrio Histórico: cobbled lanes, old Portuguese houses and bougainvillea.
- Calle de los Suspiros: the town’s most photographed street.
- The lighthouse: climb it for views over the old town and river.
- Portón de Campo: the old city gate and drawbridge.
- Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento, one of Uruguay’s oldest churches.
- The waterfront: watch the sunset over the river.
Getting around
The historic centre is small and walkable. Rent a bike or golf cart to explore the coast and Real de San Carlos, with its old bullring.
Money
Uruguay uses the Uruguayan peso, but US dollars and cards are widely accepted. Prices are higher than in Argentina. Uruguay often refunds VAT for foreigners paying by foreign card in restaurants.
Tips
- Bring your passport, not a copy.
- Stay overnight if you can: the town is magical after the day-trippers leave.
- Plan it into your Buenos Aires itinerary.
More Buenos Aires guides
- Buenos Aires travel guide
- 20 best things to do in Buenos Aires
- Buenos Aires itinerary: 3, 4 or 5 days
- Where to stay in Buenos Aires
- Best time to visit Buenos Aires
- Ezeiza Airport to Buenos Aires
- Money in Argentina for tourists
- Tango shows and milongas
FAQ: Colonia day trip
Is Colonia worth a day trip from Buenos Aires?
Yes. It’s a peaceful, pretty contrast to the big city and an easy way to add another country.
Do I need a visa for Uruguay?
Most Western visitors don’t. Check the rules for your nationality before you go.
How long is the ferry to Colonia?
About 1 hour 15 minutes on the fast ferries.
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