Municipal Museum Dr Bautista Rebuffo
Discover a unique museum in Colonia's historic quarter, showcasing natural history, art, and local heritage.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Municipal Museum Dr Bautista Rebuffo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a unique museum in Colonia's historic quarter, showcasing natural history, art, and local heritage.
"A raw and thought-provoking experience with surprising natural history exhibits."
Bring Cash! :moneybag:
The museum primarily accepts cash. Ensure you have enough Uruguayan Pesos for entry.
Check Opening Hours :clock:
Not all rooms may be open on certain days. Confirm accessibility beforehand.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Prehistoric to Modern History
Main exhibition halls
Explore artifacts and exhibits spanning from ancient times to the present day, offering a comprehensive look at the region's past.
Fascinating Natural History
Natural history section
Discover a surprising collection of animal and plant specimens, including a large dinosaur and ancient turtle bones.
Historical Art and Artifacts
Art and historical displays
View intriguing paintings, historical items, and even a matador's costume, sparking curiosity about local culture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cash is King Here
Respectful Conduct is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash! :moneybag:
The museum primarily accepts cash. Ensure you have enough Uruguayan Pesos for entry.
Check Opening Hours :clock:
Not all rooms may be open on certain days. Confirm accessibility beforehand.
Be Prepared for Unique Displays :art:
Some exhibits are displayed unconventionally, offering a raw and thought-provoking experience.
Respectful Interaction :pray:
Treat staff with respect, and expect the same in return.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash! :moneybag:
The museum primarily accepts cash. Ensure you have enough Uruguayan Pesos for entry.
Check Opening Hours :clock:
Not all rooms may be open on certain days. Confirm accessibility beforehand.
Be Prepared for Unique Displays :art:
Some exhibits are displayed unconventionally, offering a raw and thought-provoking experience.
Respectful Interaction :pray:
Treat staff with respect, and expect the same in return.
Explore the Old Town :city_sunrise:
The museum is located in the historic quarter, perfect for a day trip.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Municipal Museum Dr. Bautista Rebuffo to be a unique and thought-provoking experience, particularly for its raw display of natural history and historical artifacts. However, the museum's strict cash-only policy and isolated incidents of poor customer service have detracted from some visitors' experiences. +2
"Given that Colonia is a popular day trip destination from Argentina, it is absolute madness that they do not accept payment by card (I understand why they don't want to accept Argentinian pesos in the current economic climate). Obviously noone visiting Uruguay for the day is going to be exchanging money just for a U$150 entrance fee. Can't speak to the quality of what is in the museums as could not get past the entrance!"
James Egleton
"BEWARE IF YOU HAVE TATTOOS❗️❗️❗️❗️
Lack of professionalism, minimum decency, and respect from the lady with black short hair that sells the tickets.
She mistreated me because I have tattoos.
I had to listen to her opinions about people with tattoos and how low she thinks of them, during half of the visit. Like if people pay a museum ticket to listen to the staff’s opinion.
I respect all opinions and know that not everyone likes tattoos and not everyone should.
Totally okey. I am not running around with a tattoo machine trying to tattoo you against your will.
I respect the valid opinion that you’re entitled to. But I didn't ask for it. I payed for a museum and I expect nothing else from you than doing your job and leave your opinions for other spaces.
Instead, I had to listed how badly she thinks of me or anyone with tattoos and her reasons, through a curtain.
Finally, after getting tired of it and totally ruining the experience my husband and I travel all the way from Germany for, I confronted her.
She got aggressive and justified her opinion, because "she has opinions".
Lady: your opinions are for tea time with your pals, not to talk trash about the only visitors in the museum to make them feel
uncomfortable.
Cannot believe Colonia pays someone to talk trash about a customer behind a curtain with her colleagues, then gets aggressive, and then runs away.
Maybe the lady is still in 1800 stuck in the museum’s foundation date. If so, I recommend a comment from her superiors and an update in customer service, respect, and modern manners.
Probably she still comments who “looks like a slave”, and who doesn’t.
Colonia is lovely, and it’s people too.
But everyone commenting and talking trash about you, your skin, and your choices, should not work in a place where millions of international tourist come everyday.
Went and left a complaint in the tourist secretary office.
Hopefully this reaches her superior someday.
It’s so sadden, frustrating, and insulting."
María González
"One ticket for all museums was 150 pesos and not all of them where open then day i went but they were all nice and fun."
Shaylah Conley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is to take a ferry from Buenos Aires to Colonia del Sacramento. Several ferry companies operate this route, offering day trip packages that may include museum access. +1
Yes, the museum is located in the historic quarter of Colonia del Sacramento, which is a walkable area. Many visitors explore the town on foot after arriving by ferry.
Colonia del Sacramento's historic center is best explored on foot. For longer distances, taxis or rental bikes are available.
Yes, some day trip packages from Buenos Aires include guided tours of Colonia del Sacramento, which may feature the Municipal Museum. +1
The museum is situated in the heart of the historic district, making it a short walk from most accommodations or points of interest within the old town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee was reported as 150 Uruguayan Pesos, though prices can vary. It's advisable to check the latest pricing upon arrival.
Unfortunately, many reviews indicate that the museum only accepts cash, specifically Uruguayan Pesos. They do not accept credit cards or Argentinian Pesos.
A combined ticket for all museums was available for 150 pesos, but it's important to verify if all museums are open on the day of your visit.
Operating hours can vary, and some sections might not be open on all days. It's recommended to confirm the current opening times before your visit.
Information regarding specific discounts is not widely available. It's best to inquire directly at the ticket counter upon arrival.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The museum features a diverse range of exhibits, including prehistoric artifacts, natural history specimens (like dinosaur bones and ancient turtle remains), historical items, and local art.
The natural history section with dinosaur bones and various animal exhibits can be particularly engaging for children.
A visit can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in the exhibits and how thoroughly you explore each section.
While not explicitly detailed, the museum's raw display style and diverse collections offer a unique, albeit less interactive, experience compared to modern museums.
The museum is described as having a unique, raw, and sometimes unsettling atmosphere, presenting history and nature in a less curated, more direct manner.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check for signage or ask museum staff before taking pictures to ensure compliance.
The natural history displays, particularly the dinosaur and turtle bones, and the historical artifacts offer visually interesting subjects for photography.
Flash photography is often restricted in museums to protect delicate exhibits. It's advisable to avoid using flash unless explicitly permitted.
The museum's historical and natural elements lend themselves well to black and white photography, capturing the textures and timeless feel of the exhibits.
Yes, the museum is located in the charming historic quarter of Colonia del Sacramento, which is highly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the museum's historical displays might be less captivating for very young children, the overall experience of exploring the charming historic quarter of Colonia del Sacramento offers plenty of visual interest. Remember to bring cash for admission, as card payments are not accepted.
💰 Budget Travelers
Exploring the historic quarter on foot is free and highly recommended. Pack your own snacks and water to save on costs, and enjoy the picturesque streets and waterfront views.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Colonia del Sacramento: A Day Trip Gem
Beyond the Municipal Museum, exploring the Calle de los Suspiros (Street of Sighs), the lighthouse, and the ruins of the Convent of San Francisco are highly recommended. The overall vibe is relaxed and picturesque, perfect for a leisurely stroll and soaking in the history.
While the museum offers a glimpse into local history and nature, the true allure of Colonia lies in its atmospheric old town. Plan your day to include ample time for wandering and discovering its hidden corners.
The Unique Exhibits of the Municipal Museum
One of the most talked-about aspects is the natural history section, featuring a large dinosaur skeleton and ancient turtle bones. The museum also houses historical artifacts, paintings, and even a matador's costume, sparking curiosity and contemplation about the region's past and its inhabitants.
This unconventional approach, while not for everyone, provides a valuable and thought-provoking experience, prompting visitors to consider the complexities of history and the natural world. It's a museum that leaves a lasting impression, encouraging reflection on the stories held within its walls.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit