Cerro de Montevideo - Image 1
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Cerro de Montevideo

4.5
·298 reviews·Montevideo, Uruguay

Iconic historical fortress offering breathtaking panoramic views of Montevideo's bay and port, a symbol of the city's heritage.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late Afternoon

Golden hour views

CrowdMedium
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Cerro de Montevideo - Image 1

Cerro de Montevideo

Best Time

Late Afternoon

Golden hour views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic historical fortress offering breathtaking panoramic views of Montevideo's bay and port, a symbol of the city's heritage.

4.5
(298 reviews)

"A symbol, The Seventh Mountain from East to West, is the story we learned in school, the one on our national coat of arms."

Vertical photo
TIP

Taxi/Ride-share Recommended

For safety, especially in surrounding areas, opt for taxis or ride-sharing apps to reach the summit. :taxi:

Keep Valuables Secure

Be mindful of your belongings; pickpocketing and theft have been reported. :moneybag:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fortín del Cerro

Fortín del Cerro

Summit of Cerro de Montevideo

Historic fortress offering breathtaking panoramic views of Montevideo's bay and port. A true symbol of the city's heritage.

Reddit
Lighthouse Views

Lighthouse Views

Summit of Cerro de Montevideo

The iconic lighthouse provides a distinct landmark and a unique perspective of the cityscape and coastline.

Reddit
Panoramic Cityscape

Panoramic Cityscape

Summit of Cerro de Montevideo

Witness the sprawling beauty of Montevideo, from the bustling port to the distant horizon, especially captivating at dusk.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Safety First: Be Aware of Your Surroundings

While Cerro de Montevideo offers stunning views, some visitors report safety concerns in the surrounding neighborhood, especially during daylight. It's advised to use taxis or ride-sharing services to reach the top and remain vigilant with your belongings. Reddit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

To avoid potential crowds and enjoy the panoramic views, consider visiting during off-peak hours. The fortress itself is a key attraction, so check its operating times before you go. Reddit

Best Times

When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour views
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#cerrodemontevideo #parati #viralvideo
@luisitodelafarandulaa
38.3K likes • 874.7K views

Taxi/Ride-share Recommended

For safety, especially in surrounding areas, opt for taxis or ride-sharing apps to reach the summit. Reddit :taxi:

Keep Valuables Secure

Be mindful of your belongings; pickpocketing and theft have been reported. Reddit :moneybag:

reddit.com

Going To Montevideo... have no clue what to do there lmao

reddit.com

What does everyone know about Montevideo, Uraguay? Or other cool stops in UR?

Check Fortress Hours

Verify the operating hours of Fortín del Cerro before your visit to ensure access. :clock:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing some walking around the fortress and viewpoints. :athletic_shoe:

reddit.com

Anyone else having a soft spot for Montevideo, Uruguay?

Tips

from all over the internet

Taxi/Ride-share Recommended

For safety, especially in surrounding areas, opt for taxis or ride-sharing apps to reach the summit. Reddit :taxi:

Keep Valuables Secure

Be mindful of your belongings; pickpocketing and theft have been reported. Reddit :moneybag:

Check Fortress Hours

Verify the operating hours of Fortín del Cerro before your visit to ensure access. :clock:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing some walking around the fortress and viewpoints. :athletic_shoe:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(298 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Cerro de Montevideo is lauded for its spectacular panoramic views of the bay and port, offering a significant historical perspective with the Fortín del Cerro. However, visitors frequently caution about safety concerns in the surrounding neighborhood, advising vigilance and the use of taxis. While appreciated for its heritage, some feel the site could benefit from better maintenance. Reddit

"Good view point. But donot walk around the street nearby. Got robbed on gun point by bunch of teenagers during broad daylight. Always take a car and be careful"

Abhilash nair

"Nice place to visit. Good view of the city. The tickets are 40 Uruguayan pesos."

Leandro

"Seeing it from afar, on the horizon, at dusk, at night, illuminated, and the lighthouse with its three white flashes. A symbol, The Seventh Mountain from East to West, is the story we learned in school, the one on our national coat of arms. Up close, the fortress at the top, with the lighthouse. A beautiful place to see a panoramic view of the bay and the port. A bit neglected, what in another part of the world would perhaps be the most beautiful place to live. A working-class neighborhood, which over the years and due to crime is transforming it into a dangerous place for tourists and the unwary. Visit, don't be careless. Wallets, purses, phones."

Bartolome Totoda

What People Like

Stunning panoramic views
Historical Fortín del Cerro
Iconic city symbol

What People Dislike

Safety concerns nearby
Site could be better maintained

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most recommended way to reach Cerro de Montevideo is by taxi or ride-sharing service due to safety concerns in the surrounding neighborhood. Public buses do go to the area, but travelers advise caution. TikTokReddit

While the summit and fortress area are generally considered safe for sightseeing, visitors strongly advise caution in the surrounding streets, especially during daylight hours. Reddit

Yes, you can drive to the summit, but be aware of your surroundings and secure your vehicle. Many prefer to use taxis for peace of mind. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the general area is free. However, there might be a small admission fee for the Fortín del Cerro itself, reported to be around 40 Uruguayan pesos. Reddit

It's best to check the current operating hours for Fortín del Cerro closer to your visit, as these can vary. Some sources suggest it's open during daylight hours. Reddit

No advance booking is typically required for Cerro de Montevideo. Entry is usually on a walk-in basis, especially for the general viewpoint areas. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The summit offers incredible panoramic views of the bay, port, and city, making it ideal for landscape photography. The lighthouse also provides a striking subject. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! Visiting in the late afternoon allows you to capture the beautiful golden hour light and a stunning sunset over Montevideo. Reddit

Drone regulations can be complex. It's advisable to check local aviation laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the area. TikTok

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

The main attraction is enjoying the panoramic views from the summit and exploring the historic Fortín del Cerro. It's a place for reflection and appreciating the city's history. Reddit

Most visitors spend 1-2 hours here, allowing time to take in the views, explore the fortress, and capture photos. Reddit

Information on facilities like restrooms or cafes at the very summit is limited. It's recommended to come prepared with water and any essentials. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cerro de Montevideo can be a great outing for families, offering a chance to explore history and enjoy expansive views. The Fortín del Cerro provides an engaging historical site for children to learn about. The open spaces at the summit allow kids to move around, and the panoramic views can spark their imagination about the city and its port. Reddit

When visiting with children, it's especially important to adhere to safety recommendations. Using taxis or ride-sharing services to get to the top is highly advised to ensure a secure journey. Keep a close eye on children and their belongings at all times. Pack snacks and water, as facilities at the summit might be limited. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Cerro de Montevideo is an excellent option as the general access to the viewpoint is free. The primary cost would be transportation to the site. While taxis are recommended for safety, exploring public transport options or walking from a safer nearby area (if feasible and researched) could further reduce expenses. Reddit

Bring your own water and snacks to save money on potential vendors. The main draw is the incredible view and the historical significance of the fortress, both of which are accessible without significant expenditure. It's a fantastic way to experience a key landmark of Montevideo without breaking the bank. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historical Significance of Fortín del Cerro

Cerro de Montevideo, often referred to as the 'Seventh Mountain,' holds deep historical roots for the city. At its peak stands the Fortín del Cerro, a historic fortress that has witnessed Montevideo's development since its inception. This elevation is not just a geographical landmark but a symbol etched into the national coat of arms, representing the city's enduring spirit. Reddit

Visiting the fortress offers a tangible connection to the past. Imagine the strategic importance of this vantage point, overlooking the vital bay and port. While some visitors note that the site could benefit from more upkeep, its historical value and the sense of history it evokes remain powerful. It's a place where you can truly reminisce about Uruguay's past. Reddit

The fortress provides a unique perspective, allowing visitors to see the city unfold below. It's a reminder of how far Montevideo has come, from its early years to its present-day status. The combination of historical architecture and sweeping vistas makes it a compelling stop for anyone interested in the city's heritage. Reddit

Navigating Safety and Local Perceptions

While Cerro de Montevideo offers unparalleled views, it's crucial to acknowledge the safety advice shared by locals and travelers. Several reviews highlight concerns about the surrounding neighborhood, with some reporting incidents of crime, even in broad daylight. This has led to a perception that the area can be dangerous for tourists and the unwary. Reddit

Consequently, the consensus among many is to prioritize safety by using taxis or ride-sharing services to reach the summit. This minimizes exposure to potentially risky streets. It's also strongly advised to be extremely vigilant with personal belongings, such as wallets, purses, and phones, as these are common targets. TikTokReddit

Despite these safety considerations, the historical and scenic value of Cerro de Montevideo is undeniable. The key is to be informed and prepared. By taking sensible precautions, visitors can still enjoy the panoramic beauty and historical significance of this iconic Montevideo landmark without undue risk. Reddit

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