Plaza Matriz (Plaza Constitución)
Historic heart of Montevideo's Old Town, featuring a beautiful fountain, colonial architecture, and shaded green spaces for relaxation.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Plaza Matriz (Plaza Constitución)
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic heart of Montevideo's Old Town, featuring a beautiful fountain, colonial architecture, and shaded green spaces for relaxation.
"A beautiful place in the old town, with a nice fountain and plenty of shops and markets around!"
🚶♀️ Stroll the Pedestrian Street
Enjoy the adjacent pedestrian street for a more immersive old town experience with shops and cafes. :shopping_bags:
☕ Grab a Coffee Nearby
Plenty of cafes and restaurants surround the plaza, perfect for a break and people-watching. :coffee:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Central Fountain
Center of the plaza
A beautiful focal point with unique figures, offering a refreshing centerpiece to the historic square.

Historic Architecture
Surrounding the plaza
Admire the stunning colonial buildings that frame the plaza, showcasing the area's rich history.

Green Spaces & Benches
Throughout the plaza
Relax under the shade of sycamore trees on ample benches, perfect for people-watching and soaking in the atmosphere.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Relaxing Visit
Explore Beyond the Fountain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroll the Pedestrian Street
Enjoy the adjacent pedestrian street for a more immersive old town experience with shops and cafes. :shopping_bags:
☕ Grab a Coffee Nearby
Plenty of cafes and restaurants surround the plaza, perfect for a break and people-watching. :coffee:
plaza matriz, montevideo, uruguay. [practice]
Plazas en Montevideo
☀️ Enjoy the Shade
The large sycamore trees offer ample shade, making it a great spot to relax on a sunny day. :sunwithface:
🛍️ Browse Local Stalls
Keep an eye out for local craft stalls that sometimes set up within the plaza. :art:
Plaza Constitución
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll the Pedestrian Street
Enjoy the adjacent pedestrian street for a more immersive old town experience with shops and cafes. :shopping_bags:
☕ Grab a Coffee Nearby
Plenty of cafes and restaurants surround the plaza, perfect for a break and people-watching. :coffee:
☀️ Enjoy the Shade
The large sycamore trees offer ample shade, making it a great spot to relax on a sunny day. :sunwithface:
🛍️ Browse Local Stalls
Keep an eye out for local craft stalls that sometimes set up within the plaza. :art:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Plaza Matriz is a charming and historic square in Montevideo's Old Town, praised for its beautiful central fountain and relaxing green spaces with ample shade. Visitors appreciate the surrounding colonial architecture and the lively atmosphere created by nearby shops and cafes. Some note minor details like a spelling mistake on the fountain, but overall it's seen as a pleasant spot to relax and soak in the city's history.
"This is a small plaza just down the street from Plaza Independencia, with a nice fountain in the center. There are shaded areas and benches."
Heather S.
"Nice park to relax with lot of shop. , resto and market around ! Pietonal street aside !"
Jean-Pierre Beaulieu
"A beautiful place in the old town.
The fountain with the spelling mistake and some strange figures is the centre. Around you find religion, museum, restaurants and more.
People sitting on the benches just enjoying the sun is very nice."
Jens Peter Olesen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plaza Matriz, also known as Plaza Constitución, is centrally located in Montevideo's Old Town. It's easily accessible by public bus from most parts of the city. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available. If you're staying in the city center, it's a pleasant walk.
Plaza Matriz is generally considered safe, especially during the day. However, like any busy urban area, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings. Some Reddit users suggest caution in the early morning hours, particularly around transport hubs.
The best way to explore is on foot. Plaza Matriz is a great starting point to wander through Montevideo's historic Old Town, discovering its charming streets, architecture, and hidden gems.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Plaza Matriz is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time.
As a public plaza, Plaza Matriz is open 24/7. However, the surrounding shops and attractions will have their own operating hours.
You cannot buy tickets for attractions directly within the plaza itself, but many museums and historical sites are located within easy walking distance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can admire the central fountain, relax on the benches under the shade trees, browse occasional craft stalls, and soak in the historic atmosphere. It's a great spot for people-watching.
Public restrooms are not typically available directly within the plaza. You'll likely need to use facilities at nearby cafes or restaurants.
The plaza is generally flat and paved, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. The surrounding sidewalks are also mostly navigable.
You might find local craft vendors selling souvenirs, artwork, or handmade goods. Food vendors occasionally appear, offering snacks and local treats.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The area surrounding Plaza Matriz is brimming with dining options, from traditional Uruguayan restaurants to cafes and international cuisine. Many reviewers mention enjoying meals with a view of the plaza.
Yes, numerous cafes are located around the plaza, perfect for a coffee break while enjoying the ambiance. Look for spots along the pedestrian streets adjacent to the square.
Occasionally, you might find street vendors selling snacks or local treats within the plaza, but it's not a constant feature.
📸 📸 Photography
The central fountain with its unique figures is a prime photo opportunity. Also, capture the colonial architecture surrounding the plaza and the interplay of light and shadow under the sycamore trees.
Early morning or late afternoon offers beautiful soft light for photography. The golden hour can create a magical atmosphere.
There are no specific restrictions on photography for personal use in the public plaza. However, always be respectful of individuals and any ongoing events.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Nearby attractions like the Museo del Carnaval (Carnival Museum) or a short bus ride to the Mercado del Puerto (Port Market) can offer more engaging activities for children after a visit to the plaza. The general atmosphere of the Old Town is also quite engaging for curious young minds.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To keep costs down, opt for a coffee and a pastry at one of the many local cafes surrounding the plaza rather than a full sit-down meal. Also, consider exploring the nearby streets on foot rather than taking taxis for short distances. The occasional craft stalls might offer affordable souvenirs if you're looking for a memento.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Montevideo's History
The plaza's name changes, from Plaza Mayor to Plaza de la Constitución, and finally Plaza Matriz, reflecting different periods of Uruguay's history. The fountain in the center, while a beautiful focal point, has also been noted for a spelling mistake in its inscription, adding a quirky detail to its historical narrative.
Today, Plaza Matriz continues to be a vibrant part of the city. It serves as a meeting point, a place for relaxation, and a gateway to exploring the rich cultural tapestry of Montevideo's Old Town. The blend of historical significance and present-day activity makes it a must-visit for any traveler.
Navigating the Old Town Charm
Many visitors enjoy combining a visit to Plaza Matriz with a stroll down the adjacent Peatonal Sarandí, a lively pedestrian street that offers a more intimate shopping and dining experience. This street is often lined with small craft stalls and local businesses, providing a true taste of local life.
Don't be afraid to get a little lost in the cobblestone streets. Each turn can reveal a new architectural gem, a hidden courtyard, or a local eatery. Plaza Matriz serves as an excellent anchor point, allowing you to easily find your way back after your explorations.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit