Uruguay may be one of South America’s smaller countries, but it holds an outsized place in my heart. I had the joy of exploring this laid-back, sun-kissed gem with my one-and-a-half-year-old twins and my dear family friend Irene—just the four of us on a slow-traveling, soul-nourishing journey. We wandered between beaches, markets, and museums, gathering memories as we soaked in all the beauty and warmth Uruguay had to offer. Here are 10 family-friendly places that made our time in Uruguay unforgettable:
1. Punta del Este – Sunshine, Sea Breezes & Toddler Joy
Punta del Este is Uruguay’s iconic beach destination — and it didn’t disappoint. This was actually my third time there, and I’m always amazed at how much it keeps evolving: new pedestrian areas, blooming garden beds, and that fresh, flourishing feel that grows stronger every year.
While it’s often associated with glitz and glamour, we discovered a quieter, more serene side of Punta that felt just right for traveling with little ones.
Punta del Este may shimmer with glamour, but beyond the sparkle, we found a quieter beauty — one that blossoms year after year, perfect for little feet and sun-soaked memories.
I seriously considered hiring a car — which is honestly the best way to explore Uruguay — but my twins were still so little, super attached to me, and I was still breastfeeding. The idea of them crying in the backseat while I navigated unfamiliar roads just stressed me out. Still, I wanted to show them the beautiful seaside and enjoy some proper sunshine fun.
And then the universe, as it often does, intervened in its own funny way.
The Montevideo rental car offices wouldn’t accept cash or debit cards — only credit cards from the driver. I’ve had a lifelong dislike of credit cards ever since my student days, so that was a no-go. On top of that, we didn’t have fast mobile data, which meant no navigation. Picture this: two slightly desperate European women with two babies, totally lost and running out of options.
But Uruguayans are famously kind, and the men still act like old-school gentlemen. After a rapid-fire Spanish conversation between the rental owner and an employee, they suddenly had a solution: “Ladies, what would you say if our driver took you to Punta del Este and back to Montevideo — for [X] Uruguayan pesos?”
Sometimes, all it takes is a driver named Kevin, a broken plan, and a coastline full of sunlight to remind you that travel with kids is its own kind of magic.
We were in pleasant shock and both blurted out, “Yes!” Isn’t it magical how sometimes things don’t work out — and it ends up being even better that way? Thanks to our driver Kevin — an excellent driver and a super patient young guy (haha, imagine two crying babies behind his back until I finally got brave enough to breastfeed in the car!) — our trip didn’t go straight to Punta del Este. Instead, he turned it into a beautiful little day trip, with many surprising short stops along the way.
Our first stop was Eagle Port — an amazing seaside walk that leads to a sandy beach. To my surprise, not many tourists seemed to know about it. I hadn’t heard of it either, and it felt like such a hidden gem.
So, if you’re hiring a car and planning a Punta del Este day trip, definitely take the scenic route via Eagle Port! Then continue on to Casapueblo, Punta del Este, and — if you’re lucky, as we were — don’t miss catching the sunset in Piriápolis on your way back home. It was pure magic.
2. Casapueblo – Where Art Meets Ocean
Imagine a place where the sky kisses the ocean, and every corner tells a story painted in shades of white and blue. That’s Casapueblo — a sculptural dream perched on the cliffs above the Atlantic. It was my second visit to this magical spot, and just like the first, it felt like stepping inside a painting.
Casapueblo isn’t just a place — it’s like stepping inside a wave of poetry, where art and ocean breathe in the same rhythm.
Built by the Uruguayan artist Carlos Páez Vilaró, Casapueblo is part museum, part gallery, part living poem. The walls flow like waves, the terraces curve like seashells, and the whole building seems to breathe in rhythm with the ocean below. I’ve always loved when art creates that original, almost sacred connection between nature and human expression — and here, it’s everywhere. Even the breeze feels like part of the artwork.
We arrived around midday — peak heat! And if you’ve ever been to Uruguay in summer, you’ll know that sun is no joke. Thanks to its geographical location, the UV is intense, and venturing out with two small children under that sky would’ve been madness. But Casapueblo, with its shady, whitewashed patios and endless ocean views, turned out to be the perfect retreat.
Kevin, our kind and endlessly patient driver, parked in the shade while we rested and refreshed ourselves. We had lunch right there at Casapueblo — the breeze, the blue, the silence between sea and sky — and it felt like a little moment of luxury after the long drive.
Inside, the museum was small but full of soul. Thoughtful exhibitions shared glimpses into Vilaró’s life — from his paintings and sculptures to his poetry and connection with Uruguayan identity. The museum staff were lovely, especially the woman at the entrance, who completely lit up when she saw the twins. Actually, they became something of a little celebrity moment — tourists stopping to smile or wave, and I couldn’t help but feel that familiar joy that rises when your children spark light in others. Are you also that kind of mum who just melts watching strangers smile at your babies?
After lunch, we even discovered a tiny kids’ corner — with a perfectly fitting blue toddler table and chair, totally in line with Casapueblo’s dreamy design. And then, to my amazement, I spotted the same white-and-browny-grey cat I remembered from my last visit in 2016 — lounging in the very same spot near the blue bench on the terrace, surrounded by tropical plants. Knowing that Vilaró adored cats, it somehow felt fitting — like this little creature had found its own perfect place in the poetry of Casapueblo.
That moment brought a soft wave of memory — of being here years ago with my great aunt and grandfather. And now, here I was again, holding my own kids.
We didn’t want to keep Kevin waiting too long, so after soaking in a few more quiet moments and sharing a slow wander with Irene and the twins, we continued our journey — onward to Punta del Este, hearts full and spirits gently lifted.
3. Piriápolis – Vintage Charm by the Sea
Just a short drive from Punta del Este, Piriápolis has an old-world, slightly bohemian vibe that we all adored. The beachfront promenade is perfect for stroller walks, and the gentle rhythm of this seaside town felt almost tailor-made for traveling with babies.
Sunset in Piriápolis felt like the sky exhaling — soft, slow, and unforgettable.
As I mentioned earlier, we visited it — thanks to our driver Kevin — as our final stop of the day. And the timing couldn’t have been more perfect: we arrived just in time to watch the sun setting from the Cerro San Antonio viewpoint, near the charming white-and-blue Capilla de San Antonio. Perched above Piriápolis, this little chapel offers sweeping views of the town and the sea — and that evening, the sky turned soft shades of orange and lavender.
It was also a perfect stop for my twins — not so much for the view (like us!), but for the outdoor fireplace surrounded by giant rocks and tiny pebbles scattered all around the viewpoint. They were absolutely fascinated, picking up stones and exploring with wide-eyed wonder, completely in their own world.
There’s also a lovely gift shop and a small snack bar nearby, perfect for a little refreshment break before heading back down.
4. Plaza Zabala, Indoor Playground Galartija & Local Ferias – Real Life, Real Joy!
Plaza Zabala – A Playground Oasis in the Heart of Montevideo
In Montevideo, we stayed in a bright, airy Airbnb apartment just steps from the historic Plaza Zabala — and even better, right next to a lovely children’s playground in the park. I actually chose this apartment specifically for its location: literally a few footsteps from the playground. When you’re travelling across the world with toddlers, you usually don’t pack many toys (we only had a few), so having a safe, shaded play area right outside felt like the perfect setup. And yes — it truly was!
What genuinely touched me was how sociable and kind Uruguayan children were.
We spent many happy moments on the Plaza Zabala playground, and what genuinely touched me was how sociable and kind Uruguayan children were. I was almost breathless at times, watching how gentle, curious, and empathetic they were during their little encounters with my twins. Older girls turned into mini-nannies, constantly offering to play or carry the babies. Even the boys — usually known for being wild at that age — were so sweet. They happily let Ollie join their football game, sharing the ball like it was the most natural thing in the world.
Honestly, this was such a contrast to what I’ve observed in parts of Europe and in the UK, where children can often seem more materialistic or competitive. But here, the playground felt like a small oasis of connection and calm. It made our Montevideo days feel grounded, real, and so full of heart.
Galartija – Calm, Clean, and Best for Gentle Little Explorers
We also visited one of Montevideo’s indoor playgrounds — Galartija — which was about 25 minutes by Uber from our apartment. It looked like a great fit for my twins, with plenty of toddler-friendly features: a ball pit, wooden climbing frames, a soft baby area with toys, and even a cosy little book corner.
A peaceful indoor spot with great design — best for gentle explorers and book lovers. Bring your own snack if your little one has food sensitivities.
The space is beautifully designed, bright and super tidy, with thoughtful touches throughout. We had a lot of fun during our session, and my daughter Victoria especially loved it — it suited her quiet, observant nature perfectly.
That said, it might not be the most relaxed setting for every family. The woman who runs the space is very attentive and clearly cares about keeping things in good order, which is admirable — but she was also quite focused on making sure every toy stayed in its place. For more spirited children, that level of control might feel a bit limiting. My son Ollie, for example, felt a little frustrated when a toy car was gently taken from him mid-play.
So while it’s a wonderful spot for calm toddlers and children who enjoy more structured spaces, it may not be ideal for high-energy play or wild running around.
Also, a little tip for families with allergies or food sensitivities: the café on site is lovely, but doesn’t currently offer egg-free or allergy-friendly options, so it’s worth bringing your own snack just in case. Some families may also find the prices a bit higher than expected, though the quality is great.
Still, even with its structure and particular rules, Galartija is easily one of the best indoor playgrounds in Montevideo — especially if your little one thrives in a calm and curated environment.
Other Play Spaces to Explore
There are other indoor playgrounds in Montevideo, too — Indoor Park at Tres Cruces is a fun, convenient stop inside a shopping mall; Nuevocentro Shopping offers a lively mix of games and climbing zones; and Montevideo Shopping Kids Zone is another great space for letting little ones burn off some energy. For something a bit different, Parque de la Amistad in Carrasco is a beautiful inclusive playground with thoughtful features for kids of all abilities — part park, part community space.
Have you visited any of these? Let me know in the comments — I’d love to hear your stories!
Montevideo’s Street Markets – Culture, Colour & Everyday Life
We also had some real cultural experiences on our list — and I think ferias definitely belong at the top. I’d never seen anything quite like them before! These huge traditional markets stretch across several streets and intersections, with locals shopping for vegetables, chatting over yerba mate, and life just unfolding in the most authentic, everyday way.
It felt like kilometres of colourful stalls, each one offering something different — and life just unfolding in the most authentic, everyday way. This is where real Montevideo life happens.
We shared fresh empanadas, bought handmade baby socks, and connected with kind strangers who welcomed us with warm smiles. The scale was surprising — it felt like kilometres of colourful stalls, each one offering something different.
As my friend told me, many Uruguayans don’t regularly shop in supermarkets like tourists do — often because they can’t afford to — so they come to the ferias. And honestly, you feel that this is where real Montevideo life happens.
Some of the best streets and neighbourhoods to experience the markets are:
- Tristán Narvaja (Sundays) – Probably the most famous feria in Montevideo, stretching all the way from 18 de Julio Avenue to La Paz Street. It’s full of books, antiques, fruit, and absolutely everything in between.
- Villa Biarritz (Tuesdays & Saturdays) – A stylish but still friendly market in Punta Carretas, with clothes, handmade items, and lovely bits and bobs.
- Parque Rodó (Sundays) – A relaxed, family-friendly market near the park — perfect for wandering with kids, especially before or after some playground time.
5. Cabo Polonio – Magic at the Edge of the World
Cabo Polonio is one of those places that truly feels like it sits at the edge of the world. With its colourful rural settlement, wild open beaches, and many homes still without electricity, it offers a rare glimpse into a slower, simpler way of life — one shaped more by tides and stars than by screens and schedules.
At the edge of the world, where the dunes breathe and fireflies dance, Cabo Polonio reminds you how silence, stars, and sea can speak straight to the soul.
I’ve visited Cabo Polonio twice, both times before having kids, and it left a deep mark on me. Even though we didn’t go there on this trip, I still wanted to include it in my top 10 family-friendly places in Uruguay — because it’s such a unique destination, especially for families looking for a more adventurous, nature-immersed escape.
It’s a favourite among travellers from Brazil and Argentina, drawn by its special landscape, wild energy, and long stretches of sandy beach. And of course, it’s one of the best places to see sea lions in their natural habitat — though fair warning, they really are wild animals! (Still, such a breathtaking sight.)
The best time to visit is late November through February, when the weather is warm and the town comes alive. During high season, the vibe is wonderfully bohemian, with laid-back cafés, beach bars, surfboards propped against driftwood, and little shops selling handmade clothes and jewellery. You’ll find young travellers with guitars, barefoot children, and sunsets that feel like they last forever.
Off-season, Cabo becomes a quiet, almost cinematic place — a dream for photographers and filmmakers. One beautiful example is the short documentary They Are the Last, which follows Leonardo Da Costa, the lighthouse keeper of Cabo Polonio. His quiet life of care and routine inside the 19th-century lighthouse is a poetic tribute to solitude, nature, and a disappearing way of life. It’s a gentle reminder of the serenity this landscape still holds — and the fragile beauty of traditions that may one day fade.
You’ll walk through landscapes that Darwin once studied, among ancient native plants and shimmering sand dunes. And at night? The sky fills with stars, and fireflies light up the darkness. It’s truly one of the most magical places I’ve ever been.
That said, I feel it’s also important to be honest: one moment that stayed with me was seeing a group of rural dogs being treated unkindly. It broke my heart. Places like Cabo Polonio still carry some of the harder realities of rural life, and I believe Uruguay’s tourism sector could do more to raise awareness about animal welfare. With more attention and care, the natural beauty of Cabo Polonio — and the dignity of all its inhabitants — could shine even brighter.
6. Estancia San Pedro de Timote – A Traditional Uruguayan Retreat Where Time Slows Down
I included Estancia San Pedro de Timote because it’s one of the most family-friendly places we found in Uruguay — even though I first discovered it when I was looking for somewhere calm and accessible to take my 85-year-old grandfather. And what a magical place it turned out to be.
Between open skies, gaucho stories, and the sound of hooves on dry earth, we found something rare at San Pedro de Timote: a rhythm that asks nothing but presence.
We spent the day surrounded by horses, open skies, and gentle country life. Even my grandfather, a lifelong Uruguayan, was genuinely impressed. We rode the little children’s train together (yes, just the two of us, laughing like big kids!), and I remember thinking — my twins would absolutely love this place.
Located about 2.5 hours from Montevideo, San Pedro de Timote offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage and engaging activities for visitors of all ages. Originally a 19th-century cattle ranch, it’s now a peaceful countryside retreat where you can slow down and reconnect — with nature, with family, and with yourself.
There’s truly something for everyone at San Pedro de Timote — from horseback riding with real gauchos, perfect for both beginners and confident riders, to two large outdoor pools and a smaller indoor one for year-round fun. Children can collect eggs, feed rabbits and guinea pigs, or try supervised fishing, all while exploring the land in a gentle, hands-on way. And if you enjoy birdwatching, you’ll definitely spot the super-friendly peacocks that wander freely around the restaurant area — a real delight for little ones! Just be sure to feed them responsibly if you choose to — ideally with grains or special feed appropriate for birds, and never bread, which can harm their health.
The nature walks are lovely too, with wide open views and native plants that invite slow wandering. On weekends, the festive sound of live music fills the air, and the traditional Uruguayan meals — like the catered lunch we enjoyed under the trees — feel both rustic and special, grounding you in the heart of local life.
It’s the kind of place that wraps you in calm and joy. Whether you’re travelling with kids, grandparents, or just in need of a deep exhale — San Pedro de Timote is a little Uruguayan treasure.
7. El Milongón – Folklore, Tango, and a Night to Remember
If you’re looking for one of the most enchanting cultural evenings in Montevideo, I wholeheartedly recommend El Milongón — a vibrant club that celebrates Uruguayan traditions through folklore, candombe, and tango. It’s a colourful, music-filled journey through the soul of Uruguay, and while the performances are probably best appreciated by older children (my twins were still too little), the atmosphere is warm and family-friendly.
At El Milongón, music and memory danced together — and for a little while, time spun to the rhythm of Uruguay’s soul.
And don’t worry — it’s nothing like a kitschy cabaret with half-naked dancers! This is a heartfelt, dignified celebration of heritage, with live music, graceful dancers, and stories told through rhythm and movement.
I’d actually been to El Milongón once before — years ago — and this time, I surprised my grandfather and great aunt by taking them there again. They’re both around 85, and watching their eyes light up during the performance was such a moving moment. It reminded me of the exact same spark I now see in my kids when something truly magical captures their attention. El Milongón is truly a must-see — for families, culture lovers, and anyone who wants to feel the heartbeat of Uruguay in one unforgettable evening.
8. MAPI & Museo del Carnaval – Gentle Culture, Bright Joy
Hidden in the old city of Montevideo, the Museo de Arte Precolombino e Indígena (MAPI) offered us a peaceful, cool retreat on a very rainy day — and it turned out to be the perfect indoor choice. The exhibits were thoughtful and visually rich, full of stories from Uruguay’s ancient roots. For little ones with curious eyes, there was so much to look at, and the museum staff were incredibly kind and welcoming.
MAPI is a perfect indoor escape for a rainy day in Montevideo — calm, spacious, and full of visual storytelling little ones will love.
There’s also a lovely, super-friendly café on-site, where you can grab a warm drink or a bite to eat — a much-needed pause when travelling with toddlers.
No visit to Montevideo would be complete without diving into its carnival spirit, and the Museo del Carnaval was a perfect way to do just that. Bright masks, dazzling costumes, rhythm, and colour — it’s a joyful celebration of life, tradition, and creativity. The twins were mesmerised, and honestly, so was I. It gave me a deeper appreciation for how much joy and celebration are woven into everyday Uruguayan culture — not as something separate, but as something alive and present in the people.
9. Rambla de Montevideo to Playa Ramírez – Sea Breezes & Sunset Strolls
Almost every late afternoon, we joined the locals along the Rambla, Montevideo’s long coastal promenade. With strollers and sun hats (don’t forget to pack them!), we’d wander toward Playa Ramírez, collecting shells, chasing shadows, and soaking in those unforgettable golden sunsets. It was the kind of simple beauty that feels almost sacred when you’re traveling with little ones.
Bring sun hats, a picnic blanket, and stay a little longer — Montevideo’s Rambla sunsets are pure, everyday magic.
And if you find yourself at Playa Ramírez, don’t miss the charming local kids’ amusement park nearby (a little like the old seaside piers), or head over to Parque Rodó, where local families gather until late into the evening — children laughing, playing, and the community spirit glowing all around.
10. Colonia del Sacramento – Cobblestones & Storybook Charm
We ended our journey in Colonia del Sacramento, a UNESCO World Heritage site with cobbled streets, crumbling stone walls, and flowering trees. Walking here felt like stepping into a storybook. The historic quarter is compact enough for little legs (or carriers), and the laid-back pace suited our travel rhythm perfectly. Irene and I wandered with sleepy toddlers on our shoulders, sipping coffee from tiny cafés and watching the river stretch endlessly into the horizon.
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