Punta Gorda

The basics

This primarily residential neighborhood east of the city center is a good place to hit the beach and do a little historic sightseeing. Walk the wide sidewalks of the Rambla O’Higgins and Rambla República de Mèjico, lounge in Fructuoso Rivera Park, and don't miss Plaza Virgilio. This waterfront square features a must-see bronze statue honoring fallen seamen: Monument to the Fallen in the Sea. From this elevated spot, you can view the Rambla, and easily add a stop at the beach to feel the sand between your toes.

There are also a handful of historic sights here. Standouts include the Monument to the Discoveries—honoring 16th-century explorer Juan Díaz de Solís—as well as Molino de Perez, a former watermill that's now a cultural center.

Things to know before you go

• Beachgoers can head to one of the neighborhood's beaches: Playa de los Ingleses, Playa Verde, or Playa La Mulata.
• Art fans should check out the sculpture in Plaza Virgilio, which was created in 1957 by sculptor Eduardo Yepes Diaz.
• Wear comfy shoes—you'll want to explore on foot here as you stroll the Rambla.

How to get there

Punta Gorda is between Malvín, to the west, and Carrasco Norte, to the east. Just north, you can find Las Canteras, and to the south is the sea. The most convenient way to visit is by bus. Lines run along Caramurú Street. You can also avoid the hassle by booking a taxi cab or city sightseeing tour.

When to get there

Since you'll want to spend your time outside in Punta Gorda, plan to visit when you can enjoy beachy weather. Book a trip from December to January for picture-perfect weather—though keep in mind that sunshine brings more tourists. You can avoid crowds and still enjoy pleasant weather in October, but be ready for a chance of rain.

Exploring Montevideo's Rambla

The waterfront roadway in Montevideo is known as the Rambla. It runs through Punta Gorda and along the oceanfront, and this lengthy thoroughfare is thought to be the world's longest continuous sidewalk. With more than 20 segments, there's lots to see. You can take a selfie with the Montevideo sign (in Pocitos), visit Pittamiglio Castle (in Punta Carretas), and more.