Colonia

caption=Calle de los Suspiros

For the (German) town founded as "Colonia Ara Agrepinensis" and still known in some contexts as "Colonia" or derivatives, see Cologne.

Colonia del Sacramento 2016 026 - Draw bridge at the old town gate View from the lighthouse (5460198436) - View from the lighthouse over the old town

Colonia del Sacramento is in southwestern Uruguay, across from Buenos Aires on the northern shore of the Rio de la Plata. Founded in 1680 as a Portuguese colony, Colonia's historic neighborhood is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, full of cobblestone streets lined with historic buildings.

Colonia Halal Travel Guide

Colonia del Sacramento (Nova Colonia do Santissimo Sacramento) was founded in 1680 by the Portuguese (Manuel Lobo), sandwiched in between the Portuguese colony of Brazil and the Spanish Vice Royalty of the River Plate (later Argentina, Uruguay and Southern Brazil). Its strategic position and use as a smuggling port meant that its sovereignty was hotly contested and the city changed hands several times between Spain and Portugal and was for a while also part of Brazil before the independence of Uruguay.

The city now has 25,000 inhabitants. Its old buildings and cobblestone streets preserved from the colonial days make it a popular destination for people from Buenos Aires on the opposite side of Rio de la Plata. It's especially popular as a weekend getaway for couples or as an attractive stop on a trip between Buenos Aires and Montevideo.{{Climate|janhigh=27.3|febhigh=27.2|marhigh=25.4|aprhigh=21.7|mayhigh=18.3|junhigh=14.9|julhigh=14.6|aughigh=16|sephigh=18|octhigh=20.9|novhigh=23.8|dechigh=26.7|janlow=19.2|feblow=18.8|marlow=17.2|aprlow=14.3|maylow=11.4|junlow=8.7|jullow=8.1|auglow=8.9|seplow=10.3|octlow=12.8|novlow=15|declow=17.6|janprecip=92|febprecip=116|marprecip=125|aprprecip=91|mayprecip=78|junprecip=66|julprecip=69|augprecip=76|sepprecip=80|octprecip=113|novprecip=108|decprecip=87|description=Source: Colonia_del_Sacramento#Climate|Wikipedia|

Orientation

Colonia's historic neighborhood (barrio histórico) is on a small peninsula pointing west, towards Buenos Aires. Walk east a bit and you'll be in the downtown area (centro), including the bus and ferry terminals. Going northwest is a beachfront path (rambla or costanera), taking you past residential areas, occasional hotels and restaurants, and views of the Rio de la Plata, for 4 kilometers or so. Hotels and attractions are mostly concentrated in the historic neighborhood and downtown, aside from a few dotting the beach; the biggest tourism attraction outside of the compact, walkable central area is the old bullfighting ring (Plaza de Toros), a little over 4 kilometers northwest of downtown.

Tourist information

There is a large tourist information center adjacent to the ferry terminal, a tourism booth in the bus terminal, a larger one in the basement of the cultural center two blocks from the terminals along Odriozola/Calle Florida and as well as a small office at the western terminus of Calle Manuel Lobo near the old city gate. Some brochures and other tourism information is also available in the Casa Nacarello museum next to the main square.

How to travel to Colonia

Travel on a Bus in Colonia

Colonia bus terminal - The bus terminal

The GPS -34.4726, -57.8427 bus station - Colonia bus terminal.JPG is about 1 kilometers east of the old town (or 1½ kilometers south from the commercial downtown), not far from the port and is accessible by foot. Food, luggage storage, an ATM, and restrooms are available. The following companies offer intercity bus service to the terminal: Berrutti, COT, central.com.uy/ Grupo Agencia, Nossar, Ómnibus Colonia, and Turil.

There are almost hourly connections from Montevideo, with most buses leaving from Montevideo's php Tres Cruces terminal. The ride takes 2½ to 3½ hours depending on stops and several bus companies operate the route. Expect to pay U$300–400 (Uruguay#Buy|Uruguayan pesos) for a one-way ticket as of July 2017. There are no two-way tickets, and if you are traveling to Colonia and back you will pay exactly as much as two single tickets.

Be careful with people telling you that all buses are booked out. Thit is in general not true, as you can also buy tickets on board if you don't have one when boarding the bus and there are places to stand on board if all the seats are full. A taxi is several times more expensive, and should probably be considered only in emergencies. For peace of mind, buy a bus ticket upfront to avoid rare disappointment - this would apply in the main tourist season in the Southern Hemisphere summer.

By car

Two major highways arrive in Colonia. Highway 1 unites Colonia with Montevideo and other destinations in the east. Highway 21 goes north to the Aarón de Anchorena National Park, and Fray Bentos, and is the one you will arrive along if you are driving overland from Argentina.

There is an airport 17 kilometers east of the town and railway tracks leading into Colonia but plane and train transport have ceased operations.

Book a Halal Cruise or Boat Tour in Colonia

Colonia is a good destination for visa runs for those people who wish to extend their stays in Argentina, and an easy day trip from Buenos Aires. The GPS -34.4745, -57.8443 port Puerto de Colonia - panoramio - is around 1 kilometers southeast of the old town, at the edge of the commercial downtown.

For details check out the comprehensive Uruguay#By_boat|country level information.

How to get around in Colonia

-34.4710|-57.8477 The old city of Colonia, which holds the main attractions, is quite small. It can be easily walked in a single day. There are shops where you can rent bicycles or scooters which you can use to ride around the town or in to the nationside. Streets aren't always in perfect condition, so keep an eye on the road, especially cobbled ones.

The ferry and bus terminals are next to each other, about 500 m east of the old town (barrio historico) and about 1 kilometers south of the downtown. You can rent row and sail boats from the marina, and there are companies around the bus and ferry terminals that rent cars and golf carts.

Travel on a Bus in Colonia

There is a tour bus (information is available at the port) but it's probably not worth the money—most of Colonia's sights are within walking distance, and the few that aren't can be visited more cheaply by local bus or even by taxi.

There are two local bus companies, ABC and Sol Antigua. Most of their routes aren't too useful to tourists, but Sol Antigua's service to the old bullfighting ring is convenient. It starts in the old city, passes near the bus terminal, and takes you to the Plaza de Toros, for U$23. Look for the orange buses going to "Real de San Carlos".

Best way to travel in Colonia by a Taxi

You'll see white taxis waiting around at convenient locations, like outside the bus station. You can also ask for a taxi at the information desk next to Ta-Ta supermarket at the shopping center. If you're in an out-of-the-way place or it's an unusual time of day, you can call one at +598 4522 2920 or +598 4522 9230. Fares are higher than in Montevideo—to get from the center to the bull ring is about U$200, for instance.

By electric car

Thrifty at the west end of the primary street (Gral. Flores) just before the water rents electric 4/5 seater mini cars that are great for adventuring the surroundings of Colonia and its beaches.

By motorbike

There is a motorbike rental company at the southwestern corner of Gral. Flores and Ituzaingó roads. Equally great for adventuring the surroundings of Colonia if it's just one or two of you.

What to see in Colonia

Ruinas del convento bajo el faro - The lighthouse and the San Francisco convent ruins Plaza de Toros - Colonia del Sacramento 2 - Bull ring

The major tourist attraction in Colonia is its historic center the lower part of the town which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It consists of lots of old buildings, many from the Portuguese colonial age. It's a lovely area to wander around. The old fort has played an important role in the wars against Argentina and Brazil, and the old city wall is worth seeing.

You will frequently encounter old cars parked on the streets of Colonia and the oldest of them being from the 1930s.

Buildings

• The lighthouse -34.47284, -57.85231 Opening Hours: Open until sunset AR$/U$25 - Vista frontal junto a las ruinas del Convento For a nominal fee you can go up to the top of the lighthouse (faro) and see most of the city and look out over the city and Rio de la Plata. On a clear day probably even Buenos Aires is visible. The lighthouse was built in 1857 and it is 26.92 m high with 118 steps. Its light is not white but red.

• The old bullfighting ring - Plaza de Toros | -34.4365, -57.8652 - Plaza de Toros 2 - Colonia del Sacramento . Outside of the city is Uruguay's only bullfighting ring that is almost "unused". It was finished in 1910 with room for 8,000 spectators, but bullfighting was banned by law in the nation two years later. The ring is now abandoned to total disrepair and fenced off for visitors' safety.

• The house of the Viceroy - Casa del Virrey | -34.472146, -57.852595 just around the junction to the right of the municipal museum - La Casa del Virrey, Colonia del Sacramento . Reconstructed somewhat on the ruins of the original building. Don't miss the whale skeleton on display just to the West of it!

• Portón de Campo -34.47266, -57.85037 - Colonia-Porton de Campo-murallas-TM . The gate of the city with its draw bridge. Next to it are the ruins of the city walls.

Streets and squares

Calle de Los Suspiros towards Plaza Mayor - Calle de los suspiros

Few of the streetscapes in Colonia's old town are not worth taking a photo of, but here are the most famous places:

• Calle de los Suspiros -34.47286, -57.85117 Calle de los suspiros - Calle de Los Suspiros towards Plaza Mayor Probably Colonia's most famous street and the view along the street towards the main square is featured on many tourist related publications of the town. The name of the street translates to "the street of sighs". There are two stories of how the street got its name: either because the houses along it used to be brothels, or because prisoners were brought along it before being put to death.

• Paseo de San Gabriel -34.47206, -57.85340 - Paseo de San Gabriel.JPG Goes along the seashore with a beautiful white handrail all the way.

• Plaza 25 de Mayo - Plaza Mayor | -34.47225, -57.85150 - PlazaMayor-Colonia1 . Everyone wandering around the barrio histórico will pass through the main square at some point. It is lined by several points of interest for travelers such as museums, places to eat, drink and sleep, and some small stands selling souvenirs. On the western edge there are old cannons laying on the ground and in the middle there is a palm functioning as an electrical pole and a lamp post complete with a fuse box and even electrical sockets! If you wonder about the noise from the palms, it's from small green parrots that have their nests there.

• Plaza de Armas -34.47144, -57.85077 - Plaza de Armas Colonia . Next to the basilica and several restaurants, this square includes the ruins of the former governor's house (Casa del Gobernador), with signs explaining the different rooms.

Religious buildings and sites

Colonia basilica interior - The interior of the basilica

• Basilica del Santísimo Sacramento - Iglesia Matriz | -34.47108, -57.85089 - Fachada de Iglesia del Santísimo Sacramento . The oldest church in Uruguay. Constructed by the Portuguese in 1808, but the first church on this place was built in the 1690s.

• The ruins of the San Francisco convent -34.47265, -57.85231 - Ruinas del Convento de San Francisco zona frontal . Small brick ruin between the lighthouse and the main square. You would not know what kind of building it was if there weren't a sign next to it.

The eight museums

NacarelloHouse2 - Casa Nacarello Colonia historical map - Historical map of the town

There are eight small museums that can be visited with one ticket (U$50) which must be purchased in the Museo Municipal. Children under 12 are free. They are open 11:15-16:15. However, every museum is not open every day; each of them is closed one or two days a week. Because of this you'd have to stay two days if you want to see all museums. Also, photography is banned in all of them.

• Portuguese Museum - Museo del Período Histórico Portugués | Enríquez de la Peña 180 -184 -34.47257, -57.85133 Opening Hours: Closed West and Friday - Museo Portugués - In this 18th century building, objects from the time when Colonia was a part of the Portuguese empire are on display including the coat of arms that was mounted on the city gate.

• Casa Nacarello - Casa de Nacarello | Del Comercio 67 -34.472431, -57.852414 Opening Hours: Closed Tuesday - Casa de Nacarello interior - A Portuguese 18th-century building: an example of a furnished home from those times.

• "Dr Bautista Rebuffo" Municipal Museum - Museo Municipal Dr. Bautista Rebuffo | Del Comercio 77 -34.472240, -57.852485 Opening Hours: Closed Tuesday - MunicipalMuseum1 . Museum in two floors presenting objects of daily life 200 years ago as well as the works of scientists and explorers that have lived and worked in the town. In the room dedicated to a biologist there are various two-, six-, and eight-legged creatures on display, as well as small and very large fossils. If you're lucky you get to meet the offspring hanging next to the fusebox in the back corner. This museum is also where you buy the U$50 ticket that allows you into all eight museums.

• Regional Historical Archive - Archivo Histórico Regional | Misiones de los Tapes 115 -34.47182, -57.85219 Opening Hours: Closed Saturday Sunday - Archivo Regional, Colonia del Sacramento - The house was built by the Portuguese in the 18th century and called "Casa de Palacios". The museum shows documents from the various epochs in Colonia's history.

• Tile Museum - Museo del Azulejo | Misiones de los Tapes 104 -34.47223, -57.85337 Opening Hours: Closed Friday - TileMuseum1 - 19th-century tiles are on display in the tile museum. At Paseo San Gabriel just behind the museum and there is a beautiful map of Colonia as it looked in 1762 painted on tiles.

• Indigenous Museum - Museo Indígena | Del Colegio -34.47082, -57.85260 Opening Hours: Closed Monday Thursday - Puntas de flechas - Uruguay . Showcases numerous artifacts, mostly from the indigenous population of the area.

• Spanish Museum - Museo Español | De San José/España -34.46992, -57.85155 - SpanishMuseum-Colonia1 . Closed for renovations as of October 2017. Here you can see everyday objects from the Spanish era and the late 18th century.

• Armando Calcaterra Paleontological Museum - Museo Paleontológico Armando Cancaterra | Roger Balet s/n -34.43915, -57.86029 located in Real de San Carlos north of Colonia Opening Hours: Thursday - Sunday - Muestras fósiles en exposición enel Museo Prof.Armando Calcaterra - Fossils, including a glyptodon, and other paleontological and archeological discoveries on display.

Other

File:"Colonia" sign 2 - The "Colonia" sign

• Naval Museum - Museo Naval | Web: naval&Itemid=37 Enríquez de la Peña/San Francisco -34.47252, -57.85212

Monday to Friday 11:00–17:00 - Museo Naval, Colonia del Sacramento

• Dock - Muelle | Calle de España -34.468912, -57.85181 Opening Hours: 08:00–01:00 - Muelle de Colonia del Sacramento 2 . Built in 1866 as the city's port, before the new port was built on the other side of the peninsula. Relax on the water and see the yachts and views of the northern part of the city.

• "Colonia" sign -34.444567, -57.859532 - "Colonia" sign 1 . Like Montevideo, Colonia has a sign by the water displaying the city's name in big white letters, though this one is newer (installed in 2022) and less well known. A popular spot for taking pictures.

• The quarries - canteras | NA, NA- There are three beautiful quarry lakes on the outskirts of Colonia, two pretty close and one almost 20 kilometers away. Don't go swimming in them, but they're lovely to look at.

• Cantera el Calabrés -34.470009, -57.803888 Take Route 1 towards Montevideo and after about 2 kilometers, turn right at the sign for "Playa el Calabrés". Park at the beach and then walk to the right

• Cantera de Ferrando -34.473498, -57.826916
• Cantera de Riachuelo -34.441560, -57.723087

Nearby

File:Museo de Granja Arenas 1 - Part of the world's largest pencil collection

• Granja Arenas Ruta 1 kilometers 167 -34.434741, -57.740815 Follow Route 1 and watch for a blue sign that says "Granja Turística" ☎ +598 4520 2025 - Museo de Granja Arenas 2 . A farm outside of Colonia with an animal reserve and two unique attractions.

• Museo de las Colecciones NA, NA

Monday to Friday 09:00–17:30, Saturday Sunday and holidays 09:00–18:00 Free A museum of local eccentric Emilio Arenas's extraordinary collections of everything from ashtrays to baseball caps. The museum includes the Guinness World Records–certified largest collections of matchboxes, keychains, and (the highlight of the museum) pencils. We're talking more than 10,000 pencils—the farm is worth visiting just to see that collection.

• Restaurant and store NA, NA- The farm also includes a restaurant and an attached store, which sells products including jarred fruit, none-alcoholic drinks, Cheese, alfajores, and all kinds of jam, from blueberry to eggplant (around U$130–200). Even if you don't want to buy any jam, try some free samples of flavors you won't find elsewhere!

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Colonia

• Walk around: wander the old downtown, or walk along the GPS -34.4525, -57.8486 beach Sunset on the beach in Colonia del Sacramento.jpg. The views of the water are lovely, and Colonia'ssunsets are famously beautiful. At night you can see the glow from the city lights of Buenos Aires across the water. Watching the moon set at night is breathtaking as well.
• Every year for the Independence Day celebrations around August 25 and there's a festival including horse racing at the Hipódromo Real de San Carlos GPS -34.436303,-57.869963 - Hipódromo Real de San Carlos - racetrack just west of the old bull ring.

• The sun sinking into Buenos Aires - 34.47301, -57.85379 Opening Hours: Middle of February Viewed from Bastión de San Pedro and the southwestern most point of Colonia, thit is an interesting, great natural spectacle. In the middle of February and the sun dips down during sunset right where you can find Buenos Aires at the horizon. In other words, on a clear evening it seems to sink into the Argentinian capital on the other side of the river with its skyscrapers and high buildings. If you have a good zoom, this allows for a great picture. Of course, do not look directly into the sun.

Shopping in Colonia

The old city has several small boutiques, and all kinds of stores, including supermarkets, can be found on the downtown area's main street, Avenida General Flores.

• Colonia Farmers' Market - Feria de Productores de Colonia | Calle Fosalba -34.468517, -57.844048 between Rambla Cristóbal Colón and Avenida Artigas Opening Hours: Sunday mornings - Feria de Productores de Colonia . A farmers' market on two blocks of Calle Fosalba, selling clothes, food, and all sorts of items. Try authentic Uruguayan foods like queso Colonia, a type of Cheese invented in the region, or a torta frita (a sort of fried pancake for U$20).

• Colonia Shopping Roosevelt 458 -34.465669, -57.835026 ☎ +598 4522 9636 - Colonia Shopping . A small shopping center with a restaurant, stores, a movie theater, a go-kart track, currency exchange, and an ATM with relatively low fees.

• Feria Artesanal Fosalba and Lavalleja -34.468423, -57.846536 - Feria Artesanal de Colonia . A cluster of small shops selling handicrafts and souvenirs, including clothes, bags, dreamcatchers, and various knickknacks

• La Carlota Calle Real 150 -34.471648, -57.851788 ☎ +598 4522 6717 - La Carlota 3 . Cozy shop stuffed with art and high-quality handicrafts, including unique funky, decorative, and functional souvenirs.

• El Tambor Calle Real 126 -34.471813, -57.851826 ☎ +598 98 858 617 - El Tambor, Colonia del Sacramento . A courtyard right next to La Carlota, surrounded by little shops selling clothing, art, handicrafts, and all sorts of souvenirs.

If you need to change money, beware of the banks on Avenida General Flores, as some of them have outrageous exchange fees of up to 20%. HSBC has a bank at Calle Portugal with good exchange rates. Also Banco República at Calle General Flores in the historic neighborhood is a good place to change and withdraw money. Many places accept US dollars, Argentinian pesos, and Brazilian reais too, but as all but the real use the symbol "$", you'd better check which currency the price is listed in.

Halal Restaurants

Please be informed that on some destination such as Colonia we had no local Muslim/a that has researched some of the area. If you are a Muslim/a and have been to Colonia or would like to maintain the eHalal Guide to Colonia, please contact us at guides@ehalal.io or email us your updates.

ColoniaMayorEating2 - Outside eating at Plaza Mayor

The old city is full of restaurants which serve the weekend tourist crowd from Buenos Aires. The specialties are Italian (pizza and pasta) and asado (barbecue). Fresh ice cream or Uruguayan specialties like chivitos are good choices too. If you pick a place by the water, you'll have lovely views while you eat—though of course you'll be paying more for the privilege, and be careful of sitting outside if it's a windy day.

Being a significant tourist destination, Colonia's restaurants tend to be more expensive than elsewhere in Uruguay. They're especially expensive in the old city. There's a mix of price ranges in the downtown area, and budget options tend to be located a bit further out.

• El Abuelo - Rotisería & Pastelería | Zorrilla de San Martín 629 -34.461112, -57.841445 ☎ +598 4522 8890 Opening Hours: Tu–Sa 09:00–15:00, 19:00–21:30 Around U$100 for a slice - El Abuelo, Colonia . Small shop selling slices of more than 40 types of pies, savory and sweet. Generous portions, especially of the sweet pies. Menu in Spanish and English, good Vegetarian options. Takeout or delivery only.

• Buena Moza Av. Artigas 427 -34.466255, -57.843012 ☎ +598 4523 1870 Opening Hours: Thursday - Tuesday 11:30–13:00 and 20:00–24:00 U$150–300 - Buena Moza, Colonia del Sacramento . Inexpensive empanadas and Pizzas with lots of options for fillings/toppings. Delivery available.

• Candela - Candela Express | Av Artigas 459 -34.465515, -57.843065 ☎ +598 4522 3581 Opening Hours: Monday W-Sa 12:00-02:00, Sunday 12:00-24:00 U$200-300 - Candela Express - Colonia . Cozy restaurant, crowded on weekends, with affordable, generous servings. Two people can easily share a serving. Messages from clients are written all over the walls. Indoor and outdoor seating. Delivery available.

Chivito al plato - Chivito al plato at El Drugstore

• La Bodeguita Del Comercio 167 -34.47141, -57.85246 also accessible from the lower coast side U$250–550 - La Bodeguita, Colonia del Sacramento - A great place if you want something lighter than the common asados. Try to get a table at the lower patio with a view over the water. They have excellent sangria.

• El Drugstore Portugal 174 -34.47110, -57.85112 next to the basilica U$250–500 - El Drugstore, Colonia - interior . This restaurant is pretty artsy and colorful on the inside. Everything seems to be painted in different colors and there's a quirky assortment of paintings, posters, photos and trinkets decorating the walls. There is a small stage where local guitarists are playing. They have an extensive menu ranging from Uruguayan specialties (though their chivito is only served al plato) to Japanese Vegetarian dishes. On the downside they charge a cover charge (like most restaurants in Uruguay). They have outdoor seating as well.

• Irene's General Flores 441 -34.470320, -57.845230 Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 11:00–17:00 U$250–400 - Irene's, Colonia del Sacramento . Mostly Vegetarian food, including vegan and gluten free options. Good for visitors hoping to try Vegetarian versions of Uruguayan specialties like milanesas and chivitos, or looking for a respite from standard meat-heavy Uruguayan cuisine. Menu in Spanish and English. There is a health food store next door.

• La Pasiva Avenida General Flores 444 -34.470615, -57.845292 ☎ +598 4522 8225 U$300–600 - La Pasiva, Colonia del Sacramento . A chain restaurant also present elsewhere in Uruguay. Filling portions of typical Uruguayan fare, including chivitos, Pizzas, Pasta and various kinds of Meat. Indoor and outdoor seating.

• Parrillada El Portón Av. General Flores 333 -34.470381, -57.847679 ☎ +598 4522 5318 U$300–500 - El Portón, Colonia del Sacramento . Family-run restaurant with some of the best barbecue in Colonia. The meal for two is enough to feed three or four. Warm atmosphere, good for families.

ColoniaOldMill - Old mill, nowadays a restaurant — El Torreón

• Bocadesanto Paseo de San Miguel Puerta 81 -34.472936, -57.850660 Opening Hours: Tu–Thursday12:00–19:00, F–M 12:00–16:30, 20:00–23:00 U$450–600 Burgers place with craft soft drinks and a Vegetarian option. Menu in Spanish and English.

• Charco San Pedro 116 -34.473317, -57.851822 ☎ +598 45 23 5000 Opening Hours: Daily 12:00–15:30, 20:00–23:00 U$600+ - Charco Bistro, Colonia . Charming, stylish restaurant run by a hotel. Delicious food served on a heated patio right on the river with stunning vistas. Indoor seating is also available. Reservations recommended but not required.

• El Torreón Paseo de San Gabriel -34.47048, -57.85327 ☎ +598 4523 1524 Opening Hours: Daily 08:00–24:00 U$500+ - ColoniaOldMill - If you always wanted to eat or have a glass in an old mill, you can do so at El Torreón. They also have outdoor seating. The food itself is nothing special, but it's right by the water so the views are lovely.

• Típico Nuestro General Flores 230 -34.470812, -57.850174 ☎ +598 92 017 230 U$400–700 - Típico Nuestro, Colonia del Sacramento . A variety of family recipes, passed down for five generations, elegantly served indoors in brick-walled rooms or outdoors in the restaurant's courtyard. Large selection of and craft soft drinks. U$40 cover charge. Vegetarian options and children's menu available.

• Ganache Real 178 -34.470934, -57.851872 ☎ +598 4522-6386 Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 09:30–20:00, Sunday 10:00–20:00 U$200 for coffee and a Snacks - Ganache, Colonia . A charming and cozy coffee shop with a good selection of beverages and pastries. Outdoor and indoor seating, with a homey feel.

• Lentas Maravillas De Santa Rita 61 -34.47009, -57.85309 ☎ +598 52 2-0636 Opening Hours: Daily 10:30-20:00 - Lentas Maravillas, Colonia - Amazing cafe and lounge with garden overlooking the Rio de la Plata. Brunch is especially good with Illy Coffee. Stop by for 17:00 tea to enjoy tartlets, muffins, cookies, and other culinary delights or sip mojitos in the garden while reading a wide selection of Books from the lounge.

• Barbot Washington Barbot 160 -34.471244, -57.848230 ☎ +598 4522 7268 U$200–230 for a pint - Barbot, Colonia del Sacramento . Brewpub/restaurant with craft soft drinks and a nice selection of Pizzas, sandwiches, /desserts/ desserts, and Snacks (including good Vegetarian options). Casual but still elegant, with colorful but unobtrusive artwork on the brick wall that forms one side of their otherwise modern interior. Reservations recommended for large groups or popular nights. Happy hour with 2-for-1 soft drinks Thursdays 20:00–22:00.

• Chopería Mastra Del Comercio 158 – local 9 -34.471532, -57.85245 ☎ +598 92 818 496 Opening Hours: F–Su 12:00–17:00; 20:00–closing daily U$160 for a pint - Chopería Mastra, Colonia del Sacramento . A chain also present in other city's in Uruguay, with brick walls and barrels surrounded by stools used as tables. Indoor and courtyard seating. A variety of organic juice as well as Pizzas and Snacks.

• Miró Dance Club Jose Batlle y Ordóñez 572 -34.457143, -57.831217 ☎ +598 4524 1717 - Local nightclub (boliche) that's particularly popular when there's a special event. Think disco balls, dark dance floor, and colorful flashing lights. Live music and good service.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Colonia

Colonia - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Colonia, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Colonia. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Colonia and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Colonia. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Colonia. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Colonia: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Colonia.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Colonia: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Colonia, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Colonia.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Colonia, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Colonia, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Colonia and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Colonia, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Colonia, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Colonia without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Colonia is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Colonia.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Colonia is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Colonia, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Colonia Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Colonia

eHalal Group Colonia is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Colonia. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Colonia.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Colonia ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Colonia. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Colonia, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Colonia are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

AutoantiguoColoniadelSacramento3 - Classic cars on the cobbles of Calle de Portugal.

Accommodation is generally concentrated in the downtown and old city area, though there are also some hotels dotting the beach as you go north.

• Hostel Colonial hostelling@ Av. General Flores 440 -34.47064, -57.84560 ☎ +598 5228151 Dorms from U$380 incl. breakfast - Hostel Colonial, Colonia . Nice basic hostel, with Internet and shared kitchen. It is located in the old town in a building from the 17th century. It is an official YHA hostel. Offers horseback riding. The crowd is older than your typical hostel.

• El Viajero Hostel Washington Barbot 164 -34.471138, -57.848250 7 min by foot from the boat and bus terminals ☎ +598 5222683 Dorms from US$17, rooms US$59 - El Viajero Hostel, Colonia del Sacramento - Well-run, clean, friendly hostel just a few metres from the historic old city. WiFi, computers, kitchen, great common area. Live music on the weekends.

• Sur Hostel Rivadavia 448 -34.46967, -57.84523 ☎ +598 45220553 dorms from US$14 - Sur Hostel, Colonia - Just a few blocks from the historical center. Wifi, free internet, hot water 24 hr, kitchen, great terrace and great barbecue.

• Hostel El Español -34.47232, -57.84636 near the bus terminal Dorm from U$390 online, but probably cheaper when walking in - El Español Hostel, Colonia . One of the cheapest options in town. Offers simple lodging and a good morning Coffee.

• Celestino Hostel 18 de Julio -34.47149, -57.84626 ☎ +598 45238690 Dorm from U$315-400 A little more comfort than Español and popular with backpackers.

• Posada Plaza Mayor Calle Del Comercio 111 -34.47190, -57.85257 in the center of the historic Colonia ☎ +598 4522 3193 From US$100 - Posada Plaza Mayor, Colonia del Sacramento.jpg

• Costa Colonia Rambla Costanera between Torres García and Pedro Figari -34.454552, -57.845033 follow the beach north until you see it on your right ☎ +598 4522 3097 - Costa Colonia Hotel . Boutique hotel by the beach in a less busy part of Colonia.

• Hotel La Misión M. del Tapes 171 -34.47203, -57.85150 ☎ +598 5226767 Check-in: 2pm / Check-out: 11:30am from US$135 - Hotel La Mision, Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay (7086872057) - Small, cute hotel. Great location in historic neighborhood. The original building dates from 1762.

• Sheraton Colonia Rambla de las Américas -34.436339, -57.878899 follow the rambla north ☎ +598 452 29000 From US$180 - Sheraton Colonia - 2017-08-07 . Golf and spa resort by the beach with an on-site restaurant and a "kid's club" for families.

• Radisson Hotel Colonia del Sacramento Washington Barbot 283 -34.46895, -57.84892 ☎ +598 452-30460 +1 800 333-3333 - Radisson Colonia -

Stay Safe

Del Comercio looking north - Calle del Comercio

Colonia is a preserved tourist town with very little of the harassment seen in most city's in Latin America. The dominance of local weekenders from Buenos Aires and Montevideo creates a very different environment from other tourist city's. Many streets seem eerily empty outside the main tourism season.

However petty crime still exists, and especially on the beach you should never leave your stuff out of sight.

Like in other towns in Uruguay and there are a good number of stray dogs. They might follow you around a bit, but they do not seem to Aggressive dogs|behave aggressively towards people, though it's always better to be careful.

Telecommunications in Colonia

The Uruguayan government's free "Ceibal" wifi is available in some of the historic neighborhood, though it's hard to find in other parts of town. Beyond that, some Halal restaurants have Wi-Fi.

• Correo Uruguayo Lavalleja 226 -34.469869, -57.846059

Monday to Friday 09:00–17:00 - Correo Uruguayo de Colonia del Sacramento . Local branch of the Uruguayan postal service.

Cope in Colonia

Consulates in Colonia

Due to its geographic importance and history, Colonia has two consulates, but most travellers in need of consular services will have to go to nearby Montevideo or Buenos Aires.

Argentina Avda Gral Flores 209 -34.470432, -57.850730 ☎ +598 52 22093 - Consulado de Argentina, Colonia del Sacramento.jpg {{flag|Portugal

• Portugal General Flores 269 -34.470923, -57.849366 ☎ +598 4522 8063 - Consulado de Portugal, Colonia del Sacramento.jpg

More Muslim friendly Destinations from Colonia

• Buenos Aires – one of South America's great city's is just across the river
• Conchillas – a tiny town founded by English immigrants and still featuring distinctively English architecture
• Fray Bentos – home to Uruguay's other UNESCO World Heritage site, a complex of former meat-packing buildings that were once a globally important industrial plant
• Montevideo – the capital of Uruguay is a natural next place to go, perfect if you want more activity than Colonia but less of a "big city" feel than Buenos Aires
• Nueva Helvecia – founded by Swiss and (German) immigrants, now known for its dairy products and remnants of Swiss culture

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