Where to Stay in Montevideo (2026 COOLEST Areas!)

FIRST TIME IN MONTEVIDEO

FIRST TIME IN MONTEVIDEO

Ciudad Vieja

The oldest town in Montevideo, Ciudad Vieja is brimming with Uruguayan history, colonial architecture and urban street culture – making it the perfect choice for where to stay in Montevideo for one night.

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ON A BUDGET

ON A BUDGET

Cordon

Wondering where to stay in Montevideo on a budget? The central neighborhood of Cordon is the best area in Montevideo to stay in if you’re hoping to save a bit of cash.

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NIGHTLIFE

NIGHTLIFE

Parque Rodo

Parque Rodo is packed full of fun for adventurous travelers. Named after the enormous green park at its center, Parque Rodo is usually one of Montevideo’s busier suburbs.

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COOLEST PLACE TO STAY

COOLEST PLACE TO STAY

Punta Carretas

Punta Carretas is hands down one of the coolest places to stay in Montevideo. With a mix of the old and new – modern buildings alongside shopping malls within a converted prison – it’s got a different feel to it from any other neighborhood in Montevideo.

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FOR FAMILIES

FOR FAMILIES

Pocitos

Wondering where to stay in Montevideo with kids? Pocitos is one of Montevideo’s most fashionable coastal neighborhoods. With its excellent beaches and green parks, it’s well suited to families.

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Let’s take a closer look at the top five best neighborhoods to stay in Montevideo. Each one is a little different from the last, so you’ll be sure to find one that’s the right fit for you. Here are our favorites to base yourself whilst visiting Uruguay.

1. Ciudad Vieja – Where to Stay for First Time Visitors

The oldest town in Montevideo, Ciudad Vieja is brimming with Uruguayan history, colonial architecture and urban street culture, making it the perfect base for a short stay.

The district is a great contrast of old and new, so it’s the best neighborhood to stay in if you enjoy a bit of history. As an old port town, Ciudad Vieja was once the city’s entry point. Today, museums are telling the story of Uruguay’s past around just about every corner.

As the original part of the city of Montevideo, Ciudad Vieja was once a walled metropolis. These days, only the Ciutadella (city gate) remains as evidence of the original fortified city.

A short stroll around Ciudad Vieja will take you past cute cafes turned from abandoned buildings and graffitied streets to the main market square with its famous British-style clock. The views are gorgeous!

• Best For: Staying close to the main attractions, restaurants and supermarkets.
• The Vibe: It’s a bit gritty with heavily-graffitied streets. By day it’s safe, by night, addicts start to roam the streets and it can be a little dodgy.
• Proximity to Airport: It’s 40 minutes away by Uber, or 1 hour by bus. The 700, 710 and 711 buses stop 3 blocks north of Plaza Indepencia, just outside Ciudad Vieja.
• Transport Level: It’s walkable by day, and buses can take you elsewhere in the city. By night I recommend Uber.
• Budget: Montevideo isn’t the cheapest South American city, but Ciudad Vieja is pretty affordable by local standards.
• Crowds: Moderate. Despite being one of the busiest parts of the city, the crowds here aren’t too bad.

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Top Things to Do in Ciudad Vieja

1. See the statue of General Artigas in Plaza Independencia and visit the mausoleum located underneath it for free!
2. Try a traditional Uruguayan BBQ at Mercado del Puerto – you’ll find some excellent leather products here!
3. Discover the city’s history by visiting one of the many popular museums, such as Museo de Arte Precolombina e Indígena, Museo del Carnaval, and the Museo del Tango
4. Explore the National Cathedral in Plaza Matriz
5. Shop for vintage clothing and antiques in Ciudad Vieja’s many auction houses

Best Hotel: Don Boutique Hotel

Wondering where to stay in Ciudad Vieja? This 4-star hotel is located right in front of Mercado del Puerto. Stylish rooms have free Wi-Fi and air-con – some have private hydromassage tubs! Guests can enjoy free parking, a restaurant, and a rooftop with a pool, bar, and sun terrace. 

Best Hostel: Casa Vegana

Slap bang in the middle of the old city, Punta Berro is a sociable backpackers in Montevideo with a choice of shared dorms or private rooms. Facilities include a common room, a roof terrace, and a fully equipped kitchen. It’s important to note that this is a vegan hostel (hence the name), so only vegan-friendly products are allowed.

Best Airbnb: Enjoy the heart of Ciudad Vieja!

This impeccable and spacious apartment is conveniently located in the old city of Montevideo, just a short walking distance away from all the restaurants, shops, and the main tourist attractions of the city. The place consists of a private bedroom and a modern kitchenette equipped with modern amenities.

2. Cordon – Where to Stay on a Budget

Wondering where to stay on the cheap? The central neighborhood of Cordon is the best area to stay in if you’re hoping to save a bit of cash.

There’s plenty of accommodation options to choose from, and you’ll find the cheapest hotel and hostel in the city right here in Cordon. Don’t miss the Feria de Tristán Narvaja, an enormous street market held every Sunday – it’s the cheapest spot to shop in Montevideo!

Apart from being affordable, Cordon’s other claim to fame is its fantastic craft beer – you’ll find loads of hipster bars and breweries where you can taste some delicious independent craft ales.

Located close to the Tres Cruces bus station and within easy reach of all of the city’s top landmarks and attractions, you couldn’t find a more convenient holiday base. Seriously.

• Best For: Anyone looking to save a bit of cash.
• The Vibe: It’s a little gritty, but has a high student population bringing youthful energy to Cordon.
• Proximity to Airport: It’s a 35-minute Uber ride away, or 50-60 minutes by bus, usually with one change.
• Transport Level: It’s pretty easy to get around, with the bus station right on your doorstep. As always in Montevideo, Uber is a great option too.
• Budget: It’s one of the more affordable parts of the city.
• Crowds: It’s moderately busy by both day and night, largely due to the student crowds.

Top Things to Do in Cordon

1. Taste Cordon’s craft beer at The Montevideo Beer Company bar in the Sinergia Design Food Hall
2. Dig into tapas and tragos (drinks) at Baker’s Bar – there are live DJs on weekends!
3. Discover the neighborhood’s most beautiful bookshop at Escaramuza. There’s a lovely cafe inside this historic building
4. Browse the antiques, books and other hidden gems at the weekly Sunday flea market

Best Hotel: Hotel Europa

Located close to the old city, Hotel Europa is one of the best places in Montevideo to stay in. It caters to all with comfy double, triple, and family rooms – all with private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi and buffet breakfast. You’ll love the on-site bar which often features live piano music! 

Best Hostel: Hostel Bohemian

This hostel is in a great location in the centre of the city. The beds are comfortable and the hostel is cleaned regularly. There are chill common spaces to hang out in and meet fellow travellers, including a patio at the back full of plants. Plus, the workers are super nice!

Best Airbnb: Monoambiente on the South Cordon

This cozy and very affordable space is centrally located and near all the city’s attractions, pubs, and bars, yet in a safe and quiet neighborhood. This is hands down the best place to stay in Montevideo for those on a budget. If you stay over the weekend, be sure to check out the fruit and veg markets BY Calle Salt on Saturday!

3. Parque Rodo – Where to Stay for Nightlife

Parque Rodo is packed full of fun for adventurous travelers. Named after the enormous green park at its center, it is usually one of Montevideo’s busier suburbs. However, because of its spacious size, it doesn’t often feel crowded.

This trendy neighborhood is one of the top areas to stay in for nightlife. The bars and restaurants are open (and packed) every day of the week. If it’s dancing you’re after, you’ll find some of the trendiest clubs in the city here, open from 1 a.m from Thursday to Saturday.

While Parque Rodo tends to attract a younger crowd who take to the streets come nightfall, the fun begins way before the sun goes down. Outdoorsy travelers can enjoy a jog or picnic in the leafy park, pedal boating on the lake, or relaxing on nearby Ramirez beach.

• Best For: Youngsters who wanna stay in the top party spots.
• The Vibe: This is more of a bohemian neighborhood where you can find more of a hipster feel.
• Proximity to Airport: It’s a 35-minute drive away, or 1 hour by bus, with 2+ buses needed.
• Transport Level: As with much of the city, it’s well-connected by buses and Uber.
• Budget: It costs a little more to stay here as you’re near the beach.
• Crowds: It’s pretty busy with lots of movement at both day and night.

Top Things to Do in Parque Rodo

1. Shop for clothes and souvenirs at the weekly Sunday market
2. Taste some local brews at the Montevideo Beer Company
3. Have a relaxing picnic on the lawns of Parque Rodo
4. Get a suntan on Ramirez beach
5. Hire a pedal boat and explore the lake in the center of Parque Rodo
6. Discover the artwork inside the National Museum of Visual Arts
7. Let your hair down at the amusement park – there are separate sections for kids and adults!

Best Hotel: Ibis Styles Montevideo

Located just outside Parque Rodo park, this 24-hour hotel offers twin and double rooms, each with an en-suite bathroom. Guests can enjoy access to a bar, a shared lounge, private parking, free Wi-Fi, and an airport shuttle service during their stay. A buffet breakfast is included.

Best Hostel: MedioMundo Hostel

This 24-hour hostel offers air-conditioned rooms 200 meters from the beach. Guests will have access to a shared lounge with a fireplace, a communal kitchen, and a patio with BBQ facilities. Perks include free Wi-Fi, free daily breakfast and free rice and pasta for evening meals. 

Best Airbnb: PRIME TIME Punta Carretas!

This stylish and modern apartment is ideal for those who want to experience the nightlife in Montevideo with restaurants, pubs and wineries all within walking distance. The space consists of a modern kitchen and bathroom that comes with all the basic amenities you will need to feel at home during your stay in Montevideo.

4. Punta Carretas – Coolest Neighborhood to Stay

Punta Carretas is hands down one of the most awesome places to stay in Uruguay’s capital. With a mix of the old and new – modern buildings alongside shopping malls within a converted prison – it’s got a different feel to it from any other neighborhood in Montevideo.

Bordered by the Rambla and the Punta Carretas lighthouse, Punta Carretas is a middle-class neighborhood. It’s decidedly residential, characterized by trendy buildings and expensive homes. You’ll find no shortage of trendy bars, cafes, and restaurants to explore.

Punta Carretas is one of the best areas to stay in for beach bums. Tucked between Pocitos beach and Ramírez beach, you’ll have plenty of choices for suntanning.

The main boulevard is a social spot on the weekends – perfect for grabbing a sundowner or a jog along the promenade. If you love a good sunset, you’re in for a treat!

• Best For: Access to amenities and a good balance of safety and entertainment.
• The Vibe: This is a quieter neighborhood with a more upmarket feel to it.
• Proximity to Airport: It will take almost 40 minutes to get an Uber here, or an hour across 2 buses.
• Transport Level: It’s pretty well-connected by buses and Uber.
• Budget: This is one of the city’s pricier places to base yourself.
• Crowds: Crowds are higher around the beaches, shops and restaurants. Not so bad in the residential areas however, which are much quieter.

Top Things to Do in Punta Carretas

1. Watch the sunset at Punta Brava – the best place to see it in Montevideo
2. Hunt for treasures at the Sunday street market inside Parque Villa Biarritz
3. Indulge in retail therapy at Punta Carretas Shopping Center –  housed within a former jail
4. Hit the beach. Choose from Pocitos and Ramirez beaches – both nearby
5. Browse the book stores and boutiques along Ellauri and 21 de Setiembre
6. Have an ice cream and watch the waves

Best Hotel: Palm Beach Plaza Hotel

A lovely 4-star experience with a delicious breakfast for an extra $10. As a broke backpacker, I wouldn’t generally splash out on expensive extras, but I met a couple here who said it was worth it… and they were right!

Elsewhere, I found the beds to be very comfy, and enjoyed phenomenal views of Montevideo from above.

Best Hostel: Regency Golf – Hotel Urbano

This hostel is a great place to stay if you like…. You guessed it… GOLF! There is a golf course within 50 metres of the hotel so you can swing your heart out all day long. The hotel has a gym and restaurant on-site, plus it’s less than a 10-minute walk from the Riverside Promenade.

Best Airbnb: Stylish and Functional Apartment in Punta Carretas

Full of character and soul, this stylish, modern and clean apartment is one of the coolest places to stay in Montevideo. Well equipped with everything you need and located in a very cute and quiet street, you’ll sure have a very comfortable stay. Enjoy the natural light going through the glass roof. It’s not ideal for solo travellers, but for a group of 4, this can be considered a great budget option.

5. Pocitos – Where to Stay for Families

Wondering where to stay with kids? Pocitos is one of Montevideo’s most fashionable coastal neighborhoods. With its excellent beaches and green parks, it’s well-suited to families.

While the area may be home to many modern tower blocks, Pocitos is actually one of the oldest and coolest places to stay in Uruguay’s capital. There’s so much to do for all ages.

Pocitos, which means “small holes in the ground” dates back to the colonial period when women would wash their clothes in small holes along the river. For those interested in architecture, there are a few historical homes worth a visit such as  Casa D’arnaud and Casa Towers.

The Rambla – Montevideo’s world-famous beachfront promenade – is Pocito’s main claim to fame. Stretching 22 kilometers around the bay, it’s the longest continuous sidewalk in the world! Spend your time strolling, cycling, and rollerblading along the boardwalk or head to the beach with the kids.

• Best For: Anyone who wants to base themselves by the beach.
• The Vibe: This is a beach spot with an energetic feel to it.
• Proximity to Airport: It’s just under 40 minutes away by Uber, or 50 minutes by bus.
• Transport Level: Buses and Uber are options. You can easily walk between Pocitos, Parque Rodo, and Punta Carretas.
• Budget: A little on the pricy side. This is right where some of the city’s top beaches are found.
• Crowds: It gets pretty busy, especially around La Rambla.

Top Things to Do in Pocitos

1. Build sandcastles or play a game of beach volleyball at Playa de los Pocitos
2. Snap a family photo with the famous Montevideo sign
3. Take a stroll or rent a bike along the Rambla
4. Check out the shops, boutiques, cafes and restaurants along the boulevard
5. Admire the art deco buildings, such as Edificio El Mástil
6. Enjoy live tango at Plaza Tomás Gomensoro on a Friday night
7. Get in some retail therapy at Punta Carretas Shopping center or the Montevideo Shopping Mall

Best Hotel: Private Room in Beautiful Home

If you’re on a budget, this place is perfect. You’ll have a room and private bathroom within a family home. The room is a decent size with a small desk. The hosts are really nice and make you feel welcome upon arrival. There is a lovely terrace that you can soak in the sun too. However, if you want to get out and about, you’ll be just a five-minute walk from the beach.

Best Hostel: Destino26

This affordable Montevideo accommodation is within easy reach of the beach. Choose from shared dorms or private family rooms. Perks include a living room for watching movies, a backyard with a BBQ area and themed dinner nights. Bikes, beach chairs, and towels can be rented. 

Best Airbnb: Comfortable and Spacious House in Pocitos

This spacious, clean and comfortable house in Pocitos can accommodate up to 6 guests. It consists of two bright bedrooms both with a smart TV, a fully-equipped kitchen, a bathroom and a cosy living room. Located in an excellent family neighborhood, this house is ideal for families staying in Montevideo.

Here’s what people usually ask us about the best places to base themselves in during a trip to Uruguay’s capital.

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Montevideo is a fantastic city to visit solo, with friends or as a family. Whether you want to make the most of the capital’s nightlife, explore the history of the old town, or stay near the beach, you’ll find a neighborhood to suit you.

Each and every district has its own special character and appeal. But if you asked us where to stay and we had to choose just one place, we’d pick Ciudad Vieja.

Ciudad Vieja is the best neighborhood to stay in because of its history and old-world charm. The location also makes it a great base for exploring the rest of the city’s highlights.

We hope our Montevideo neighborhood guide has given you food for thought and helped you decide which area is best for you. If we’ve left anything out, please let us know in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you!