10 Things to Do in Mercado del Puerto, Montevideo, Uruguay
Montevideo, Uruguay’s capital, is full of history, culture, and activities. One of the city’s most iconic attractions is the Mercado del Puerto, a vibrant and bustling market located in the heart of the city. This popular destination is filled with food stalls, souvenir shops, and more, and is a great place to explore and experience the culture of Montevideo. Here are 10 things to do in Mercado del Puerto.
1. Explore the Historic Market: Mercado del Puerto is one of the oldest markets in South America, dating back to 1868. The market is made up of a series of old brick warehouses that have been converted into a lively market. The market is filled with vendors selling a variety of goods, including souvenirs, clothes, and food.
2. Sample Uruguayan Cuisine: Mercado del Puerto is a great place to sample Uruguayan cuisine. There are a variety of food stalls selling traditional dishes such as chivito (a steak sandwich), empanadas, and more. There are also a few restaurants located in the market where you can sit down and enjoy a meal.
3. Visit the Museo de Artes Populares: The Museo de Artes Populares is a museum located inside the market that showcases traditional Uruguayan art. The museum features a variety of artworks, including sculptures, paintings, and other objects. The museum is a great place to learn about Uruguayan culture and art.
4. Enjoy Live Music: On weekends, the market comes alive with live music. There are a variety of musicians playing traditional Uruguayan music, as well as other genres. The music is a great way to experience the culture of Uruguay.
5. Shop for Souvenirs: Mercado del Puerto is a great place to shop for souvenirs. There are a variety of shops selling traditional Uruguayan items, including clothing, jewelry, and more.
6. Take a Boat Tour: The market is located on the banks of the Montevideo River, and there are several companies that offer boat tours of the river. The tours are a great way to get a different perspective of the city and to explore the river.
7. Visit the Artisanal Market: On Sundays, the market hosts an artisanal market where local artisans sell their handmade goods. The market is a great place to find unique and one-of-a-kind items.
8. Visit the Street Performers: The market is filled with street performers, including musicians, dancers, and more. The performances are a great way to experience the culture of Montevideo.
9. Take a Cooking Class: There are several restaurants and food stalls in the market that offer cooking classes. The classes are a great way to learn about Uruguayan cuisine and to get a hands-on experience.
10. Take a Photo: Mercado del Puerto is a great place to take photos. The market is filled with vibrant colors and interesting sights, making it a great place to capture some unique shots.
No matter what you’re looking for, Mercado del Puerto is a great place to explore. From sampling Uruguayan cuisine to shopping for souvenirs, there is something for everyone in this vibrant and bustling market. So, if you’re in Montevideo, make sure to add Mercado del Puerto to your list of places to visit.