Paysandú

Written by David Garcia, Keith Roberts, Maria Gaulto
06/08/2025
Basilica of Paysandu, Uruguay
Fedaro, Wikimedia Commons

Paysandú, nestled on the banks of the Uruguay River, offers a captivating blend of rich history, vibrant cultural festivities, and relaxing natural thermal springs. One can explore significant historical sites, enjoy leisurely moments by the river beaches, and immerse themselves in the city's lively annual events like the Beer Week.

The city's most prominent social gatherings occur during its renowned festivals, especially the Semana de la Cerveza and Carnival, which bring together locals and regional visitors for music, performances, and community celebration. Beyond these events, public squares and the picturesque riverfront provide inviting spaces for casual interaction and enjoying the local ambiance.

Top 5 Things to do in Paysandú

In Paysandú, one finds a balance of relaxation by the river and at thermal springs, alongside enriching cultural and historical explorations within the city.

1. Relax at Termas de Almirón

Nestled east of Paysandú, Termas de Almirón invites visitors to immerse themselves in its unique saline thermal waters. These mineral-rich waters, sourced from the Yaguarí Aquifer, offer significant therapeutic benefits for rheumatic, dermatological, and respiratory conditions, also aiding in muscle relaxation and stress relief. The complex features outdoor pools with warm saline water and fresh water at room temperature, along with indoor heated saline pools. Surrounded by undulating hills, woodlands, and creeks, it creates a tranquil environment for unwinding. It is important to note that access to Termas de Almirón requires a reservation for lodging within the complex, as day visits and camping are not permitted.

Cost: Entry is typically part of booking accommodation, with lodging options available from approximately $40 USD per night.

Transport: Located about 85 km from Paysandú, a bus ride takes approximately 1 hour and 27 minutes and costs between $13-$16 USD. Several daily frequencies are available via Empresa Alonso. Alternatively, a taxi or private car journey takes around 1 hour and 21 minutes, with an estimated cost of $13-$21 USD.

2. Relax at Termas de Guaviyú

Just north of Paysandú, Termas de Guaviyú offers another natural oasis with its mineralized thermal waters, emerging at approximately 39ºC from the Guaraní Aquifer. The complex boasts a range of outdoor and indoor pools, including options for adults, children, and jacuzzis, all within a municipal area featuring natural prairies and beautiful palm groves. During warmer months, one can also enjoy the beach by the homonymous stream, suitable for fishing and other recreational activities. Like Almirón, entry to Termas de Guaviyú is tied to booking private or municipal accommodation, and day visits or camping are not allowed.

Cost: Entry requires an accommodation booking; specific per-day entry costs are not available without a stay.

Transport: Situated about 60 km from Paysandú, reaching Guaviyú by bus takes roughly 45 minutes to 1 hour, with multiple daily services provided by companies like Alonso and Agencia Central. A car or taxi journey is approximately 53 minutes.

3. Explore Paysandú's Historic City Center

Wandering through Paysandú's city center reveals its rich historical layers. Begin at Plaza Constitución, the city's picturesque heart, surrounded by significant buildings like the City Hall and the Cathedral. Nearby, Plaza Artigas offers lush green spaces for quiet reflection. The historic Teatro Florencio Sánchez, dating back to the early 20th century, stands as a testament to the city's cultural past, hosting diverse performances. For deeper insights, the Museo Histórico Regional showcases exhibits on Paysandú's colonial history and its role in national independence. A visit to the Monumento a Perpetuidad, a unique cemetery and national monument, offers a silent outdoor gallery of intricate mausoleums and statues.

Cost: Exploring the plazas is free. Entry to the Museo Histórico Regional and Monumento a Perpetuidad may involve a nominal fee.

Transport: All mentioned sites are within walking distance of each other in the city center.

4. Stroll and Enjoy the Costanera Norte (Riverfront Promenade)

The Costanera Norte offers a refreshing experience along the Uruguay River. One can enjoy leisurely walks, relax on the sandy river beaches, or engage in various recreational activities. The area is home to the Anfiteatro del Río Uruguay, an amphitheater known for its perfect acoustics and as a venue for major events, particularly during the Semana de la Cerveza. Recent developments have transformed this riverfront into a linear park with pedestrian areas, bike paths, and green spaces, ideal for outdoor enjoyment and admiring sunsets over the river.

Cost: Access to the Costanera Norte and its amenities is free.

Transport: The Costanera Norte is easily accessible on foot from the city center, or via a short local bus or taxi ride.

5. Experience Semana de la Cerveza (Beer Week)

For those visiting during Easter week, the Semana de la Cerveza is a vibrant, must-experience event. This major annual festival, celebrated since 1966, transforms Paysandú with a lively atmosphere. Held at the fairgrounds by the Uruguay River and featuring the Anfiteatro del Río Uruguay as its main stage, it showcases a diverse lineup of national and international music artists. Beyond the concerts, the festival offers the largest artisanal fair in the region, extensive gastronomic options, 'fun zones,' and various family-friendly entertainment, drawing thousands of visitors from across Uruguay and beyond.

Cost: Entry to the fairgrounds is typically very modest, around 100 Uruguayan Pesos (approximately $2.5 USD), with concert tickets priced separately, generally around 300 Uruguayan Pesos (approximately $7.5 USD) for major acts, offering good value.

Transport: The festival grounds are located in the balneary zone by the Uruguay River, making them easily accessible from the city center via walking or a short taxi/bus ride.

Check out our other pages on Paysandú

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