Okay, here’s my take on a blog post about things to do in Montevideo, written from a personal experience perspective, keeping it casual and using basic HTML tags:
So, I finally made it to Montevideo! I’d heard mixed things, some folks saying it’s a bit sleepy, others raving about the food and the relaxed vibe. I decided to spend a few days there and see for myself.
First Steps: Rambla Strolling
First thing I did after dropping my bags at the hotel? I hit the Rambla. Seriously, everyone told me to, and they were right. This coastal promenade stretches for miles, and it’s perfect for just… walking. I grabbed a coffee, put on some music, and started strolling.
I walked, and walked, and walked. I watched people jogging, biking, families with kids, and just generally enjoying the sunshine. It was a great way to get a feel for the city and shake off the travel fatigue.
Getting Lost in Ciudad Vieja
Next up: the Ciudad Vieja, the old town. This is where you really feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, it’s all very charming. I spent an afternoon just wandering around, getting deliberately lost.
- I popped into random little shops, selling everything from antiques to handmade crafts.
- found a tiny cafe and had a cortado (basically a small latte).
- Just soaked up the atmosphere.
Mercado del Puerto: Meat Heaven
Okay, food time. Everyone kept telling me about the Mercado del Puerto. And let me tell you, it’s a meat lover’s paradise. It’s basically a big market hall filled with parrillas (grill restaurants). The smell alone is enough to make you hungry.
I picked a place at random, sat down at a counter, and ordered a chivito. This is Uruguay’s national sandwich, and it’s HUGE. Steak, ham, bacon, cheese, eggs, olives, mayo…it’s a monster. And it was delicious. Washed it down with a local beer. Perfect.
Pocitos Beach Time
After all that walking and the enormous amount of meat, it was the time to have rest.
I walked to the Pocitos Beach, found one of the best places and lay down.
- I watched the waves come and go, and people playing.
- Took a nap.
- Felt much more relaxed.
Wrapping Up
My few days in Montevideo were a whirlwind of walking, eating, and just… relaxing. It’s not a city that throws a million attractions at you. It’s more about taking it slow, enjoying the simple things, and soaking up the vibe. I definitely left feeling refreshed and with a full belly. Would I go back? Absolutely. Especially for another chivito.
