Getting Around

Trains, roads, taxis and how to move around Uruguay.

Trains (Trenes)

Very limited network — Uruguay's passenger rail is minimal and not a practical way to get around the country. AFE (Administración de Ferrocarriles del Estado) runs a few commuter and regional services rather than a nationwide network.
Montevideo commuter line — There are limited suburban services running north from Montevideo toward places like Progreso and 25 de Agosto. Check current schedules locally, as timetables change and services are sparse.
Buses beat trains — For intercity travel, long-distance buses are far faster, more frequent and more comfortable than trains. Treat rail as a curiosity rather than a core option.

STM card in Montevideo — Montevideo's buses are run under the STM (Sistema de Transporte Metropolitano). Buy and top up an STM smartcard at kiosks and terminals for cheaper, contactless fares versus paying cash to the driver.
Free transfers — The STM card gives you timed transfers between lines within about an hour, letting you complete a trip on two buses for one fare. Tap on when boarding each bus.
Intercity companies — For travel between cities, companies like COT, Copsa, Agencia Central, CUT Corporation and Turil serve most destinations. Tres Cruces terminal in Montevideo is the main long-distance hub.
Book online — You can buy intercity tickets at Tres Cruces counters or online via operator sites and platforms. On weekends and holidays popular routes to Punta del Este or the coast fill up, so book ahead.
Strikes happen — Transport strikes (paros) organized by unions occasionally halt or reduce bus service, sometimes with little notice. Check local news or ask your accommodation if a paro is planned.

Uber and Cabify work — Uber and Cabify both operate in Montevideo and some other areas, and are widely used. They're convenient because the fare is set in-app, avoiding cash and meter disputes.
Metered street taxis — Traditional taxis are metered and generally honest, using a printed fare chart tied to the meter reading. Confirm the meter is running when you start.
Local apps — Radio-taxi apps such as Voy en Taxi are used to call registered cabs in Montevideo. These are a reliable alternative if you prefer licensed taxis over ride-hail.
Night and holiday surcharges — Taxis charge higher tariffs at night, on weekends and holidays, which is legitimate but can surprise you. Carry small cash as not all drivers take cards.

Lights on always — Headlights must be on at all times, day and night, on all roads. Police enforce this and you can be fined for driving without them.
Zero tolerance alcohol — Uruguay enforces a 0.0 blood-alcohol limit for drivers. Any detectable alcohol can result in heavy fines and license issues, so don't drink and drive at all.
Seatbelts and tolls — Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Highways have toll booths (peajes) that take cash and cards, so keep some pesos handy.
Rental and fuel — International agencies plus local firms operate at Carrasco airport and in cities. Fuel (nafta) is sold by state company ANCAP and is relatively expensive, so budget accordingly.
Rural road hazards — Outside cities, watch for livestock, unlit vehicles and unpaved stretches, especially at night. Distances are long and services sparse, so keep your tank filled.

Carrasco is the main gateway — Montevideo's Carrasco International Airport (MVD) handles most international flights and is modern and well-organized. It's about 20 km from the city center.
Punta del Este airport — Laguna del Sauce (PDP) near Punta del Este serves the beach resort region, busier in summer high season. It's handy if you're headed straight to the coast.
Getting to town — From Carrasco you can use taxis, Uber/Cabify, or the COT and Copsa airport buses into Montevideo. Ride apps are often cheaper than airport taxis.
Limited domestic flights — Domestic air travel within Uruguay is essentially nonexistent for tourists given the country's small size. Plan on buses or driving instead.

Buquebus to Argentina — Buquebus runs ferries across the Río de la Plata connecting Montevideo and Colonia del Sacramento with Buenos Aires. It's a popular and scenic international crossing.
Colonia Express — Colonia Express is a competing, often cheaper operator sailing between Colonia and Buenos Aires. Compare both for price and schedule before booking.
Book ahead in summer — Cross-river ferries fill up during summer and holiday periods, so reserve online in advance. Combined bus-plus-ferry tickets to Buenos Aires from Montevideo are available.
Bring your passport — These ferries are international crossings, so you clear immigration and need your passport. Arrive early to allow time for check-in and border formalities.

STM card for the city — In Montevideo the STM smartcard is your best tool for daily bus travel, offering lower fares and free transfers. Reload it at kiosks, terminals and some shops.
Buy intercity tickets in advance — For long-distance buses, purchasing ahead online or at Tres Cruces guarantees a seat on busy routes. Keep your ticket for boarding checks.
Carry cash and card — Many services accept cards, but small operators, rural buses and some taxis prefer cash in Uruguayan pesos. Keep a mix to avoid being caught short.

Main operators — Antel (the state operator), Movistar and Claro provide mobile coverage across Uruguay. Antel generally has the widest reach outside cities.
Buy a prepaid SIM — Prepaid tourist SIMs are available at Antel stores, airport counters and phone shops with a passport. Top up credit and data packages easily via apps or kiosks.
eSIM option — If your phone supports eSIM, travel eSIM providers offer Uruguay data plans you can activate before arrival. This avoids hunting for a physical SIM on landing.
Rural gaps — Coverage is strong in cities and along main routes but can drop in remote rural areas. Download offline maps before heading into the countryside.