How to Get to Carmelo

Complete guide

The city is accessible from multiple international destinations. Discover the best transportation options for your trip to the wine route.

Buenos Aires

Distance: ~130 km

Travel time: 3 hrs
By boat

Direct by boat

Departures from Tigre, Buenos Aires

Travel time: 2 hrs
By boat By car

Boat to Colonia + Car

More frequencies, ideal with own car

Travel time: 5 hrs
By car

Car via Fray Bentos Bridge

Requires toll on the bridge

Montevideo

Distance: ~240 km

Travel time: 3 hrs
By car

Direct by car

Requires tolls

Punta del Este

Distance: ~370 km

Travel time: 5 hrs
By car

Direct by car

Requires tolls

São Paulo

Distance: ~1,780 km

Travel time: 6 hrs
By plane By car

Plane to MVD + Car

3 hrs flight + 3 hrs car, rental available

Rio de Janeiro

Distance: ~2,402 km

Travel time: 6 hrs
By plane By car

Plane to MVD + Car

3 hrs flight + 3 hrs car, rental available

Madrid

Distance: ~9,962 km

Travel time: 15 hrs
By plane By car

Plane to MVD + Car

12 hrs flight + 3 hrs car, rental available

Miami

Distance: ~7,500 km

Travel time: 12 hrs
By plane By car

Plane to MVD + Car

9 hrs flight + 3 hrs car, rental available

Shanghai

Distance: ~18,000 km

Travel time: 29 hrs
By plane By car

Plane to MVD + Car

26 hrs flight + 3 hrs car, rental available

Location of Carmelo

In the west of the Colonia department, next to the Uruguay River

Carmelo - Colonia Department, Uruguay

Coordinates: 33°59'S 58°17'W

By Boat

The most popular way from Buenos Aires. Unique experience navigating the Río de la Plata.

  • Daily departures with cafeteria and duty-free
  • Destination to Carmelo directly or Colonia del Sacramento
  • Onboard WiFi service

By Car

Scenic route with stops in historic towns and coastal beaches.

  • Electric charging points, available here
  • Service stations every 50km
  • Rural landscape

By Plane

Airports: Carrasco International (MVD) and Carmelo International (SUCM).

  • MVD: direct commercial flights from 15+ cities
  • SUCM: private flights only at the moment
  • Private transfers available from airports

Best Time to Visit

Jul-Sep

Winter: A good wine by the warmth of the wood stove

Oct-Dec

Spring: Ideal climate, green vineyards, fewer tourists

Jan-Mar

Summer: High season, harvests and events

Important Information

  • Argentinians and Brazilians: Only valid DNI/RG
  • Currency: Uruguayan pesos (UYU), USD and cards accepted
  • Connectivity: Good 4G/5G, WiFi in wineries and accommodations

Need help planning your trip?

Local tourism agencies offer complete packages that include transfers, accommodation, and winery tours. Book in advance during harvest season (February-March) and long holidays. Come discover the Wine Route!

Ready for your Carmelo adventure?

Explore the best wineries in the region and find the perfect accommodation for your stay.