Getting Around Montevideo

General Overview

Getting around in Montevideo can be a bit quirky. One thing I learned quickly is that locals never wait too long for a bus; if you're going to catch one, you need to be on your toes! The public transport system here isn’t just efficient; it also has a rhythm that feels familiar once you get into it.

The main types of public transport available are buses and taxis. Buses are the backbone of the city’s transit system, covering a wide range of routes that are not only affordable but can get you most places. Uber is also quite popular, though taxis are still the go-to for many locals. Buses generally run from around 6 AM to 10 PM, which means they’re pretty accessible for day trips, though late-night options are limited.

Many visitors think they can just hop on any bus without checking the route first. Trust me, that can lead to an unintended city tour! A local hack, though, is using the ‘DGI’ app to navigate, which shows you real-time bus arrivals. Speaking of apps, I once spent half an hour waiting at the wrong stop because I didn’t check the bus line properly—definitely a frustration moment for me.

On the other hand, I was pleasantly surprised by the friendliness of bus drivers. Most of them are willing to help you figure out where to get off, especially if you’re looking to visit key spots like Ciudad Vieja or the Rambla. A money-saving tip: using the ‘tarjeta STM’ (transit card) can help save you a few pesos on fares compared to single tickets—about 45 UYU per individual trip versus 44 UYU when using the card.

Oh, before I forget, rush hour tends to get packed, especially around 8 AM to 9 AM and again at 5 PM. If you're traveling during these times, try to avoid the busy routes like 151 and 114 unless you’re comfortable with close encounters. Plus, when it rains—which happens a fair bit—you’ll find the buses slow down considerably, and the roads can flood, making your commute a little more chaotic than usual.

In summary, embrace the local vibe! Navigate the bus routes, use your transit card, and be ready for a bit of a wait sometimes. No one is in too much of a rush in Montevideo, so you might just find the slow pace refreshing. Safe travels!