A long layover in Montevideo is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Carrasco International /General C L Berisso Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 100 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave MVD:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Uruguay. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Montevideo takes about 100 minutes by Local Bus. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is UYU. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Getting from MVD to Montevideo
The most straightforward way into Montevideo is the Local Bus, which takes about 100 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 120 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Local Bus is usually the smarter call.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at MVD aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Montevideo itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Money & Budget Tips
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Montevideo, budget roughly $39 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $19 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Montevideo, two standouts are:
- Plaza Independencia & Ciudad Vieja — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
- Rambla de Montevideo — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Montevideo.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside MVD, you can spend time at Aeropuertos VIP Club Lounge or try Duty Free Shop Uruguay. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Montevideo: El Palenque (Mercado del Puerto) and La Cocina de Pedro. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for La Pasiva (Airport) or Lavazza Coffee Shop (Airport). Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Staying Connected
WiFi at MVD should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Uruguay and you’re good to go.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at MVD, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Montevideo count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave MVD. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.