Punta Del Este: Puentes Destination Guide

Punta del Este, often called the "St-Tropez of South America," is Uruguay’s most well-known and sophisticated seaside city and resort. Situated on a peninsula at the Atlantic Ocean's edge, it attracts tourists, including the "jet setting" and affluent vacationers from Latin and North America, particularly during the summer months of December to March. Punta del Este is a fun, beach-first destination where you can balance chilling, socializing, and going out without needing a luxury budget. It’s popular with young travelers because it feels safe, walkable, and social—especially in summer—but it’s still enjoyable (and much cheaper) outside peak season.

HOw to get there

To get to Punta del Este, the most common routes are via Buenos Aires, Argentina, or Montevideo, Uruguay. You can reach the city by plane, ferry-bus combinations, or car.

By Air:

  • Punta Del Este International Airport (PDP), also known as Laguna del Sauce Airport, is located about 16 km (10 miles) from the city center. Aerolíneas Argentinas operates direct flights from Buenos Aires (Jorge Newbery Airport/AEP) with a flight time of approximately 55 minutes.

  • Carrasco International Airport (MVD), located in Montevideo, is about 1.5–2 hours drive away. Many international travelers fly into MVD and then take a bus or private transfer to Punta del Este.

From Buenos Aires (ferry & bus):

There is no direct ferry to Punta del Este; instead, travelers use a combined ferry-and-bus service.

  • Operators: Buquebus and Colonia Express are the primary providers.

  • The Route: Take a ferry from Puerto Madero to Colonia del Sacramento (approx. 1h 15m), then board a connecting bus (included in your ticket) for a 4.5-hour drive to Punta del Este.

  • Total Time: Approximately 5 hours 15 minutes to 7 hours 30 minutes, depending on the ferry type and connection.

From Montevideo (bus & car):

  • By Bus: Frequent bus services operated by COT and COPSA depart from Terminal Tres Cruces in Montevideo.

    • Frequency: Buses depart roughly every 30 minutes.

    • Duration: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes.

  • By Car: The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

    • Route: Take the Ruta Interbalnearia (Route 93) east toward Maldonado/Punta del Este. This route includes tolls.

Local Recommendations:

  • Booking: For summer travel (December–February), it is highly recommended to book flights and ferry tickets well in advance due to extremely high demand.

WHERE TO STAY

F&F Hostel is highly rated and popular with a lively atmosphere. Dorms and cheap private rooms make it good for groups or solo travelers. Airbnb is also a great resource for finding accommodation in the area, especially for groups.

WHAT TO DO

  • La Mano (The Hand): Also known as Los Dedos, this famous sculpture of a giant hand emerging from the sand is located at Parada 1 of Brava Beach. It is the city's most photographed landmark.

  • Casapueblo: Located in nearby Punta Ballena, this white "living sculpture" by Carlos Páez Vilaró houses a museum and art gallery. It is renowned for its Ceremony of the Sun, where a recorded poem by the artist accompanies the sunset.

  • Museo Ralli: A must-visit for art lovers, featuring a vast collection of contemporary Latin American and European art, including works by Salvador Dalí.

  • Fundación Pablo Atchugarry: Located in the Manantiales area, this foundation offers a stunning outdoor sculpture park set amidst rolling hills.

where to eat

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