Getting to Montevideo, Uruguay

Getting There and Away

Written by David Garcia, Keith Roberts, Maria Gaulto

06/08/2025

City street view in Montevideo, Uruguay showing urban architecture and moderate traffic.

Nikolai Kolosov, Pexels

Montevideo's primary transport hubs include Carrasco International Airport (MVD) for air travel, the Tres Cruces Bus Terminal for domestic and international bus routes, and the Port of Montevideo for ferry services.

By Air:

Carrasco International Airport (MVD) is located approximately 22 km east of the city center. Flights from major cities in the United States can range from around 13 to 16 hours, with average round-trip costs varying, for example, a route from Miami to Montevideo averages around $1,574. From the airport, taxis and private transfers offer a direct route to the city center, taking about 25 minutes and costing approximately €45 (UYU 1890). Public buses from the airport to the city center are a budget-friendly option, costing around €1.60 (UYU 68) and taking approximately one hour to reach the historic center or 45 minutes to Tres Cruces bus station.

By Bus:

The Tres Cruces Terminal is Montevideo's main bus station, offering extensive connections. Buses from Montevideo to Buenos Aires typically take about 8-9 hours and can cost between $55 and $75 USD. Within Montevideo, public buses are a frequent and affordable way to travel, with a single ticket costing around 56 pesos (approximately $1.50 USD) without an STM card, or 46 pesos (about $1.20 USD) with an STM card.

By Ferry:

Direct ferry services connect Montevideo and Buenos Aires. Buquebus is a prominent operator, with direct trips taking around 2 hours 30 minutes and costing between $70 and $150 USD. Alternatively, a combined bus and ferry option via Colonia del Sacramento is available, where the bus from Montevideo to Colonia costs about 496 pesos (around $13 USD) and the subsequent ferry from Colonia to Buenos Aires takes just over an hour, costing between $45 and $60 USD.

By Car Rental:

Car rental services are available at Carrasco International Airport from various companies, including Europcar, Dollar, Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Sixt.

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