
If you are thinking of going from Argentina to Uruguay taking the Buquebus ferry is your best option. You can take the shorter crossing of Buenos Aires to Colonia; however, you also have the option of doing the longer crossing to Montevideo. Alternatively there is an overland crossing by bus which you can take at night if you're looking to save on accommodations for the evening. I did that over 10 years ago; however, given the choice we'd go with the ferry. We were all feeling really excited to be in Uruguay together and to go out for one of our first of many Uruguayan bbq (also known as Uruguayan asado). We're looking forward to sharing more travel videos from Uruguay soon.
Buenos Aires to Colonia by Ferry: First Impressions, Uruguayan Steak & Local Tips | Uruguay Travel
Crossing the River: Buenos Aires to Colonia by Ferry 🚤🌊
The video kicks off with a farewell to Buenos Aires, Argentina, as the travelers prepare for a new adventure in Uruguay. Today’s journey takes them across the famous River Plate aboard the Buquebus ferry, departing from Puerto Madero and heading to Colonia del Sacramento. With a short ferry ride of just over an hour ahead, they reflect on previous budget adventures—such as taking an overnight bus just to save on accommodation! But this time, they’re treating themselves to business class, splurging an extra six dollars to see what the experience is like. The travelers share a laugh about how priorities and travel styles evolve, and with tickets in hand, they’re ready for international travel just a short hop away.
All Aboard: Immigration, Boarding, and the Buquebus Experience 🛳️🥂
After completing immigration procedures right in the Buenos Aires ferry terminal, everyone lines up to board. There’s a stampede for the best seats, and it quickly becomes clear why—seating in business class is first-come, first-served, and it fills up fast! Despite the scramble, they manage to settle in and toast the journey with complimentary champagne. The ferry itself feels a bit like a retro casino, and most passengers seem more interested in the massive duty-free shop than the river views. The travelers note the lively, bustling scene onboard, where duty-free shopping is practically an event of its own.
Arrival in Colonia: First Impressions of a Peaceful Town 🏡🌳
After a swift crossing, they disembark in Colonia, Uruguay—a city famed for its cobblestone streets and tranquil, tree-lined avenues. Their home for the next four nights is a charming rental with a garden, patio, and a neighborhood full of friendly collies (not collard greens!). The town immediately impresses with its sleepiness, peacefulness, and slow pace. The travelers explore their new surroundings, noting the local charm and the welcoming spirit of both people and dogs. A quick rest, a stroll, and a visit to the supermarket set the tone for a relaxing stay.
Wine and Picada: Settling in with Local Flavors 🍷🧀🥖
Before heading out for the much-anticipated steak dinner, the group enjoys a classic “picada”—a spread of sliced meats, cheeses, olives, and fresh bread. They uncork a bottle of local wine, Jimenez Mendez, made from the rare Arenano grape, and savor its unique, robust flavor. This moment is all about settling in, trying new things, and enjoying the quiet beauty of Colonia with a glass of red in hand. Even the neighborhood dogs, curious about the aromas, pay a friendly visit, sniffing around for a taste.
Dinner Out: A Steak Quest in Uruguay 🥩🥗🍨
Evening brings the main event: a trip to one of Colonia’s top-rated steakhouses. Here, the focus is on the “basilico” cut—portions so large they’re easily enough for two. A vibrant side salad, loaded with onions, tomatoes, carrots, beetroot, rice, and potatoes, rounds out the meal. The diners rave about the tenderness and flavor of the Uruguayan beef, declaring it every bit the rival of Argentina’s legendary steak. The staff are quick and friendly, and the restaurant’s family atmosphere adds to the appeal. No meal is complete without dessert, and they indulge in a decadent ice cream topped with brownies and dulce de leche, even if it means exceeding their calorie quota for the day.
We're Going to URUGUAY! 🇺🇾😊 | Ferry from Buenos Aires to COLONIA on the BUQUEBUS 🛥️ + Uruguayan BBQ!
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