Cross the Río de la Plata by high-speed ferry to Uruguay's UNESCO-listed Colonia del Sacramento — a perfectly preserved 17th-century Portuguese colonial town that feels like another century entirely.
What to expect
The Buquebus hydrofoil slices across the wide river in just 60 minutes, docking steps from Colonia's flower-lined Barrio Histórico. Your private guide — a trained archaeologist — leads you through basalt-paved alleys past Portuguese, Spanish, and British architectural layers that tell a story of contested empire. Climb the lighthouse for panoramic river views, explore the Museo Portugués, then linger over a long lunch of freshly caught river fish and Tannat wine at a terrace restaurant on the waterfront. The return crossing at sunset is pure magic.
Good to know
A valid passport is required — Uruguay is a separate country. Check your ship's Buenos Aires call date; this works best on an overnight or long port day (allow 7–8 hours). Book Buquebus tickets in advance online as peak crossings sell out. Visa-free for most Western passport holders.