Day Tour + snack on board

A Scenic Day Trip from Buenos Aires to Colonia del Sacramento

If you’re visiting Buenos Aires and craving a quick escape to another country, the Colonia Express ferry offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to visit Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For $75 per person, you get round-trip fast ferry tickets, a delicious snack during the journey, and about five hours to stroll through cobbled streets, admire colonial architecture, and soak in views of the Rio de la Plata. Departure is at 12:50 pm, with a return at 8:30 pm, making this a flexible, day-long adventure.

What we love most about this tour is how easy and stress-free the logistics are. The ferry ride itself is smooth, and the included snack—a sandwich plus drink—adds a touch of comfort during the crossing. Two key points stand out: first, the timing allows for a relaxed exploration of the town, and second, the short travel time makes it possible to experience a different country without losing an entire day.

That said, a possible consideration is that this tour does not include a guided walking tour of Colonia’s historic sights, so you’ll need to explore independently or book a separate guide if you want in-depth history. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer free time and are comfortable navigating on their own.

This trip suits adventurous travelers eager to add a quick international experience to their itinerary, families looking for a manageable day trip, or anyone interested in historic architecture and scenic river views**. If you enjoy casual exploration with minimal fuss, this is a reliable choice.

Key Points

• Convenient, short ferry ride connects Buenos Aires and Colonia within an hour.
• Inclusive price covers ferry tickets and a snack on board.
• Flexible timing with departure at noon and return in the evening.
• Rich history and architecture in Colonia, declared UNESCO World Heritage in 1995.
• No guided tour included, giving you freedom to explore your way.
• Suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 30.

In-Depth Look at the Experience

Traveling Across the Rio de la Plata
The highlight of this tour is the fast ferry trip—a little over an hour each way—that whisks you from Buenos Aires to Colonia del Sacramento. The ferry company, Colonia Express, is praised for its smooth ride and organized queues, as one reviewer noted, “The views were incredible. Ride was very smooth. Queues were fast moving and organized although exiting was a bit chaotic and crammed.” The boat offers a comfortable environment to relax, take in the passing scenery, and enjoy the onboard snack—a sandwich and a drink—that’s included in the price.

Departure and Arrival
The departure at 12:50 pm aligns well with a morning in Buenos Aires, giving you time to grab breakfast before heading to the meeting point, conveniently located near public transportation. The return at 8:30 pm allows ample time to explore Colonia without feeling rushed, especially since the town’s streets and viewpoints are best enjoyed at a leisurely pace.

Exploring Colonia del Sacramento
Once ashore, you’re free to wander the cobbled streets, which are full of charm and history. The Portuguese colonial architecture is a visual delight, with houses, lanterns, and old buildings that seem to whisper stories from centuries past. You might visit landmarks like El Porton de Campo, the Street of Sighs, or the Faro lighthouse, all within walking distance from the main dock.

Authentic and Relaxed
Many travelers appreciate the informal style of this tour. As one reviewer put it, “We made a beat back out of good air and it was very nice for our family. A way to know another country.” There’s no pressure to follow a strict schedule or participate in guided commentary, making it ideal for those who want to set their own pace.

Authentic Food and Local Flavor
While the tour doesn’t include a guided food experience, the town itself is famed for its delicious local cuisine. Many visitors mention enjoying tapas and traditional dishes. The setting of Colonia—its traditional lantern-lit streets and spectacular sunsets—adds to the overall charm, making the visit feel like a true step back in time.

Practical Considerations
Booking in advance is recommended, especially since the tour is popular and booked on average 17 days ahead. The group size maxing out at 30 travelers keeps things intimate enough for easy navigation and socializing. Remember, a walking tour isn’t included, so if you want detailed knowledge of the sights, you might want to arrange a guide separately or explore independently.

Why Choose This Tour?

This day trip balances value and authenticity with ease of access. The cost of $75, including ferry and snack, is reasonable considering the convenience and scenic reward. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want to experience a different country without complicated logistics or long travel times. The tour’s flexible schedule allows you to enjoy Colonia’s historic charm at your own pace.

If you’re someone who appreciates scenic river journeys, historic architecture, and a laid-back exploration style, this tour delivers a memorable snapshot of Uruguay with minimal fuss. It’s especially good for families, solo travelers, or couples who enjoy a romantic stroll through cobbled streets and historic sites.

FAQ

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry ride from Buenos Aires to Colonia del Sacramento takes approximately one hour each way, making it a quick and comfortable crossing.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour price covers round-trip ferry tickets and a snack on board—a sandwich and a drink. There’s no guided walking tour included, so you’ll explore independently.

What time does the tour start and end?
You depart from Buenos Aires at 12:50 pm and return at 8:30 pm. This schedule provides a full afternoon and early evening to explore.

Is this suitable for families or solo travelers?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers, with a group size limited to 30. It’s a flexible, no-fuss way to see Colonia, ideal for families and solo explorers alike.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to book at least 17 days ahead since the tour is popular and fills up quickly.

Can I book a guided tour of Colonia?
This specific package does not include a guided walk. If you want in-depth historical insights, consider booking a separate guided tour in Colonia or exploring on your own.

Final Thoughts

This Day Tour + Snack on Board with Colonia Express offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to cross from Buenos Aires into Uruguay, enjoying the charm of Colonia del Sacramento. The fast ferry, combined with the freedom to wander and explore at your own pace, makes it ideal for travelers who want a minimal hassle snapshot of another country.

While it doesn’t include guided commentary, it compensates with timing flexibility, scenic views, and authentic ambiance. The value for money is solid, especially considering the included snack and the UNESCO-listed town awaiting your discovery.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, authentic day trip that balances comfort and adventure, this tour could be just what you need to add a little international flair to your Buenos Aires visit. Perfect for those eager to see a different side of the Rio de la Plata, without overcommitting or fussing over logistics.

Happy travels and enjoy your visit to Colonia!