Santa Lucía - Discovering Uruguay

Travelling to Santa Lucía

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Santa Lucía, a pretty good destination in Uruguay (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Santa Lucía and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Santa Lucía, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Uruguay, here's everything to know about Santa Lucía for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Santa Lucía

Santa Lucía is a small city located in southern Uruguay, about 50 kilometers southwest of the capital city of Montevideo. It is situated in the department of Canelones, which is known for its beautiful beaches, rolling hills, and agricultural lands. Santa Lucía is a historic town that dates back to the 18th century, and it is known for its charming colonial architecture and cultural heritage. There are plenty of things to see and do in Santa Lucía, including visiting local historic sites, enjoying the beautiful natural scenery, and experiencing the local culture and cuisine.

What to visit in Santa Lucía

Santa Lucía is a small town located in the department of Canelones, Uruguay. It's known for its beautiful countryside and rural landscapes, as well as for its proximity to the capital city, Montevideo. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Santa Lucía: 1. Estancia La Paz: This is a historic estancia (ranch) that dates back to the 18th century and offers visitors a chance to experience the rural lifestyle of Uruguay. The estancia features a working farm, horseback riding, and a restaurant serving traditional Uruguayan cuisine.
2. Museo de la Uva y el Vino: This museum is dedicated to the wine-making heritage of the Santa Lucía region and features exhibits on the history of wine production in Uruguay. Visitors can also sample local wines and purchase bottles to take home.
3. Parque Artigas: This public park is named after the Uruguayan military leader José Gervasio Artigas and features a statue of him, as well as a playground, picnic areas, and walking trails.
4. Templo del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús: This Catholic church is one of the oldest in the area and features beautiful stained glass windows and intricate woodwork.
5. Cerro Pan de Azúcar: This hill is located just outside of Santa Lucía and offers visitors stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking.
6. Bodegas Juanicó: This winery is located just a short drive from Santa Lucía and offers wine tastings, tours of the vineyards, and a restaurant serving gourmet cuisine.
Overall, Santa Lucía is a great destination for those looking to experience rural life in Uruguay, as well as for those interested in wine-making and outdoor activities.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Uruguay, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Santa Lucía

The best time to go on holiday to Santa Lucía, Uruguay is during the summer months of December to February when the temperatures are warm and pleasant for outdoor activities. During this time, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and water activities that the region has to offer. However, it’s important to note that this is also the peak tourist season which means that prices for flights and accommodation can be higher than usual. If you prefer a quieter and more budget-friendly trip, you could consider traveling during the shoulder season months of March to May or September to November when the weather is still mild, and the crowds are fewer.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Santa Lucía

To get to Santa Lucía in Uruguay, you can either travel by car, bus or train. Here are the options: 1. By car: Santa Lucía is located approximately 40 kilometers from Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay. You can rent a car at Montevideo airport or in the city. There are two main routes you can take to get to Santa Lucía: Ruta 64 or Ruta Interbalnearia (the coastal highway). Both routes will take you around 45 minutes to an hour to reach Santa Lucia.
2. By bus: You can take a direct bus from Montevideo to Santa Lucía. The bus ride takes around 1 hour and costs around 100 Uruguayan pesos. The main bus terminal in Montevideo is Tres Cruces and several companies operate this route.
3. By train: You can also take a train from Montevideo to Santa Lucía. The ride takes around 45 minutes and there are several departures during the day. The train station in Montevideo is called Estación Central General Artigas and the Santa Lucía station is located in the center of the town.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Santa Lucía, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Santa Lucía

Sure, here are some typical foods of Santa Lucía, Uruguay that you may enjoy: 1. Asado - A traditional South American dish of grilled meat, usually beef, which is cooked over hot coals or wood fire. In Santa Lucía, beef is often seasoned with chimichurri sauce and is generally served with a side of salad, bread, and grilled vegetables.
2. Chivito - A hearty sandwich that features thin slices of beef, lettuce, tomato, mozzarella cheese, and a fried egg, all topped with mayonnaise and a variety of other sauces. The sandwich is typically served with fries or other side dishes.
3. Charque - A type of beef jerky that is made by sun-drying thin slices of beef that have been salted and spiced. Charque is often served as a snack or as a main ingredient in other dishes such as stews and soups.
4. Dulce de Leche - A thick, sweet caramel-like spread that is made by cooking milk and sugar together for several hours. In Santa Lucía, dulce de leche is a popular topping for ice cream, cakes, and pastries.
5. Empanadas - Small pies filled with different ingredients such as beef, chicken, cheese, vegetables, and more. Empanadas are a popular snack or appetizer in Santa Lucía and are often served at parties and social gatherings.
6. Torta frita - A deep-fried bread that is often enjoyed with dulce de leche, cheese, or honey as a sweet snack, or filled with ham and cheese as a savory treat. The bread is fluffy and can be found at many local bakeries. I hope this helps you plan your trip to Santa Lucía!
You can find general info about typical foods in Uruguay here.

Is Santa Lucía an expensive destination for tourists?

Santa Lucía in Uruguay is not considered an expensive destination for tourists. The cost of living in Uruguay generally is lower than in other South American countries, and specifically in Santa Lucía prices are reasonable for food, accommodation, and activities. However, prices may vary depending on the season and the level of luxury you are looking for. It's always a good idea to compare prices and plan your budget in advance to avoid overspending.

Where to find accomodation in Santa Lucía

Santa Lucía is a small town located in the southeastern part of Uruguay, near Montevideo. The town has a few options for accommodations, including hotels, hostels, and holiday homes. The best areas to find accommodation would be in the town center or along the coast, near the Santa Lucía River. Another option is to look for accommodations in nearby towns, such as Colonia Nicolich or Montevideo, which offer a wider variety of options and are still within a short driving distance of Santa Lucía.
You can check hotel prices at Santa Lucía here:
Booking.com

Is Santa Lucía a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Santa Lucía (Uruguay) is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination, it is always recommended to take certain precautions to ensure your safety. Some tips could be to avoid walking alone at night, keep your valuables in a safe place, and be aware of your surroundings. It is also a good idea to research the area before you go and ask locals or your hotel staff for any tips or advice.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Uruguay here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Santa Lucía.

What type of travelers will enjoy Santa Lucía the most?

Santa Lucía, Uruguay can be enjoyed by all types of travelers, although it is more well-suited for those who are interested in outdoor activities and nature. It is a great destination for families with children, as there are many opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, swimming, and fishing. Couples will also find the beautiful landscapes and peaceful surroundings romantic and relaxing, and there are many quaint bed and breakfasts and small hotels that cater to couples. Young people looking for fun may be interested in the local nightlife, which features bars and restaurants with live music and dancing. Overall, Santa Lucía is a great destination for those who are looking to unwind and immerse themselves in nature.

How to get around Santa Lucía

In Santa Lucía, the most common modes of transportation are taxis, buses, and private cars. Taxis are widely available and are a convenient option for short distances within the town. Buses are also available, connecting Santa Lucía to nearby towns and cities, and are a more affordable option for longer distances. Private cars are also available for rent, which can provide additional flexibility and comfort when exploring the wider region. Additionally, bicycles and motorbikes are popular options for exploring the countryside surrounding Santa Lucía.

What to see around Santa Lucía

Sure, here are some options for day trips from Santa Lucía, Uruguay: 1. Colonia del Sacramento: This charming colonial city is just 1.5 hours away from Santa Lucía. It offers beautiful historic architecture, museums, cafes and restaurants.
2. Montevideo: Uruguay's capital and largest city is just over an hour's drive from Santa Lucía. It has a mix of old and new, with attractions like the Solís Theatre, Plaza Independencia, and the Mercado del Puerto.
3. Piriápolis: This beach town is approximately 2.5 hours drive from Santa Lucía, and offers beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and the San Antonio hill with a panoramic view of the bay.
4. Punta del Este: This high-end beach resort town is approximately 3 hours drive from Santa Lucía and offers beautiful beaches, upscale shopping and dining, and iconic landmarks like the Los Dedos sculpture.
5. La Paloma: This charming beach town is approximately 4 hours drive from Santa Lucía. It has a laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches and nature reserves, and plenty of restaurants and cafes.
For every travel information about Uruguay you can click here.

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