Across the Río de la Plata: Buenos Aires, Carmelo & Colonia

Buenos Aires

For your added comfort, an English-speaking guide will be awaiting your arrival outside of Customs with personalized signage. Your representative will then lead you to your private driver and accompany you to your accommodation.

Accommodation: Algodon Mansion - Recoleta (B) (Suite), Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires

Discover why Buenos Aires is known as the "Paris of South America" on a privately guided tour through the city’s finest landmarks. See the dazzling structures representing the city's Belle Epoque era, rich in tree-lined sidewalks, turn-of-the-century palaces and handsome apartment buildings featured prominently. The sprawling Plaza San Martín, an important part of today’s exploration for example, is surrounded by several masterpieces such as the Beaux Arts Palace, originally built as a residence for the Anchorena family, an imposing mansion, partially, inspired by the Louvre. Putting this into perspective, in Argentina the name Anchorena evokes the wealth and power similar to the likes of Rockefeller and Morgan in the United States, Krupp in Germany or Rothschild in France and England. Then there is the Kavanagh Building, a ground-breaking Art Deco skyscraper that was at the time of its inauguration, in 1936, the tallest skyscraper in Latin America. Still in the same area, the Museum of Decorative Arts was the former home to Argentine aristocracy, the Errazuriz-Alvear family, an elegant piece of architecture, surrounded by sumptuous gardens and encircled by detailed, wrought iron railings. The list of splendid edifices you can see also includes Circulo Militar, designed in Paris and built in Buenos Aires for the Paz family who owned the La Prensa newspaper, the French Embassy, owned by the Ortiz Basualdo family until 1939 and the Brazilian Embassy, owned by the Pereda family until 1944. Today's walk sheds plenty of light into how sublime architecture transformed Buenos Aires into the most European of Latin American cities.. Established in the historical district of Buenos Aires back in 1867, La Cava is an exclusive wine club located at the El Querandi Restaurant. Meet your private driver for a transfer to La Cava, its wine cellar housed in a carefully restored antique mansion. The wine list features exclusive labels, traditional products from small vineyards, signature wines, and other rare wines not normally found on the market. A selection of three Malbec wines from three different regions have been selected for your tasting enjoyment today, and you’ll experience these in the presence of a sommelier. A return transfer to your hotel will round out the activity.

Accommodation: Algodon Mansion - Recoleta (B) (Suite), Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires

Embark on an exploration of magnificent San Telmo and La Boca, two of Buenos Aires' most beloved neighborhoods. San Telmo is without question one of the trendiest quarters of the city thanks to its cool, bohemian atmosphere and famed antique shops. Plaza Dorrego is the place to be on Sundays to find anything from antiques, memorabilia, second-hand clothes to dusty magazines during its traditional Antiques Fair. Next, set out to experience La Boca, arguably one of the city's most authentic neighborhoods. La Boca's history was largely shaped by immigrants who established themselves within this gritty port-side barrio. A working-class district, La Boca has jealously guarded its identity, of which soccer and tango are major ingredients. What will strike you immediately is the peculiar architecture, especially along Caminito Street, which in 1959 was declared an outdoor museum. It is the work of one of Argentina’s most famous painters and neighborhood philanthropists, Quinquela Martín. He gathered neighbors to paint the houses, made out of tin and scrap metal, in bright colors, emulating the early immigrants. The most recognizable icon, though, is La Bombonera (the Chocolate Box), right in the heart of the area and home of the Boca Juniors, the country’s largest soccer club.

Accommodation: Algodon Mansion - Recoleta (B) (Suite), Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires, Montevideo

You will be privately transferred between the pier in Buenos Aires alongside an English-speaking guide and a professional driver.. First class ferry between Buenos Aires and Montevideo. One-way trip takes 3 hours. Ferries leave Buenos Aires at 8:00am and 3:30pm daily.. Founded by Mr. Aldo Mazzoni more than 30 years ago, the Primuseum is an iconic restaurant, music venue and museum hybrid that features some 3,000 antiques. Inspired by the memory of his grandmother cooking with a Primus stove, Mr. Mazzoni unconsciously began forming the foundations of the Primuseum while a young adult, bringing his concept to fruition after years of planning. To this day, Mr. Mazzoni’s passion for antiques is evident; the cleanliness of each item exhibited in the museum is outstanding, which is hardly a surprise as each item is personally cared for by Mr. Mazzoni. At night, locals and visitors alike flock to enjoy a live entertainment complemented by the gastronomic offerings available, relishing the warm and cozy atmosphere, made even better by evening performances of either tango, milonga (a group tango), or candombe (a UNESCO recognized heritage dance created and popularized by Afro-Uruguayan slaves in centuries past). Tonight, discover the Primuseum for yourself, enjoying a three-course dinner paired with wine (included), all while taking in the evening's performance. At the end of the night, your driver and guide will transfer you back to your hotel.

Accommodation: Sofitel Montevideo Casino Carrasco & Spa (B) (Luxury ), Buenos Aires

Montevideo

La Ciudad Vieja, or Old City, is – as the name suggests – the foundational neighborhood of Montevideo. After undergoing years of renovation, the area has been transformed from an abandoned, dilapidated barrio into the city’s go-to location for lively entertainment in the evening and is also host to Mercado del Puerto, a popular and sprawling marketplace where you’ll find some of the best and freshest Uruguayan food and beverages in the country. Originally a walled port, the fortifications of Montevideo were torn down in 1829, however, the Gateway of the Citadel is still standing near Plaza Independencia. In Plaza Independencia, Montevideo’s most historic park, you’ll discover the historic Solis Theatre as well as the impressive Palacio Salvo. After exploring the historic center of Montevideo, take the time to enjoy a fantastic lunch at Mercado del Puerto (included) and then sit back and relax as you are returned to your accommodations.

Accommodation: Sofitel Montevideo Casino Carrasco & Spa (B) (Luxury )

Montevideo, Carmelo

Colonia del Sacramento is one of Uruguay’s oldest and most visually-striking cities. It’s historic center – declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995 – is lined with colonial-era buildings constructed during Portuguese reign, all found along beautiful cobblestone streets that were designed to suit the natural contours of the landscape, giving the district a unique character. Intense warfare between Spain and Portugal throughout the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries cast a pall over the region as both Crowns ceaselessly vied to dominate the region. Despite the constant battles, the historic center was spared. On this privately guided tour, discover the history – both new and old – of Colonia del Sacramento as you casually saunter through the city, passing landmarks including Calle de los Suspiros (or the Street of Sighs), the Holy Sacrament Church – consecrated in 1680 – the Lighthouse, and a trio of museums that focus on Spanish and Portuguese rule, respectively, and a third that hosts a vibrant range of tiles that have been regionally produced through the centuries. During the tour, you’ll break for a replenishing lunch in the historic quarter when the time is right, then stroll along the shores of the River Plate where an impressive boardwalk offers the perfect opportunity to snap gorgeous sea-side photos. After a day exploring Colonia del Sacramento, you will then carry onward to your hotel in Carmelo.

Accommodation: Narbona Wine Lodge Boutique Hotel (B) (Vineyard View Suite), Montevideo

Carmelo

Dotted with centuries-old Jesuit ruins, traveling the Uruguayan countryside with a private guide in tow reveals a fascinating colonial history and gorgeous archaeological sites. Today, set out to visit Jesuit ruins as well as a nearby boutique, family-run winery for tastings, and depending on the season, to see harvesting and bottling. Your vineyard escape is guided by a wine expert from the Wine House who will lead the way through the premises, opening the doors to the wine making temple, explaining the distinct phases of wine making and wrapping up the experience in the main room where a wine tasting and lunch will be offered. Following a day exploring the ruins and wines of Uruguay, you will be returned to your hotel.

Accommodation: Narbona Wine Lodge Boutique Hotel (B) (Vineyard View Suite), Carmelo

Carmelo

For those seeking a gentle pace in the heart of country, Narbona may well be nirvana. The colonial patio affords a magnificent view to the front lines of expansive vineyards, making it an excellent spot to break during the day. In the lounge found near reception, relax while listening to timeless classics, cozied up with a book by the fireplace. With the sun high in the sky, swim in the outdoor pool, then find a spot on the private beach, Puerto Camacho, to take in a few rays. Speak to concierge to borrow a bicycle, then set out to pedal down the winding trails and pathways scattered across the property. At additional cost, horseback riding, sunset cruises, golf or even helicopter excursions can be arranged; please speak to your Destination Expert for more information on such activities.

Accommodation: Narbona Wine Lodge Boutique Hotel (B) (Vineyard View Suite), Carmelo

Carmelo, Colonia, Buenos Aires

You will be privately transferred from Carmelo to Colonia by a professional driver and an English-speaking guide. Approximate travel time is one hour.. Board the ferry in Colonia for a scenic transfers to Buenos Aires by boat. Approximate travel time is just over one hour.. You will be privately transferred between the pier in Buenos Aires alongside an English-speaking guide and a professional driver.. Buenos Aires and tango are nearly synonymous, and no trip to this cosmopolitan gem is complete without catching a show. This evening, enjoy a special night out as you are picked up from your hotel by a private driver and a bilingual guide, setting out for Rojo Tango. Take in a sophisticated performance that showcases the rhythm, emotion, and gentle precision require to master this intimate dance. Delivered in a small venue, the costume and hairdo of each performer is accentuated, allowing you to better appreciate the embroideries, designs and attention to detail. Adding to the experience, you’ll enjoy a gourmet meal paired with refreshments, all of which is included. Before long, the evening will wind to an end and you will be returned to your hotel, full in body and spirit.

Accommodation: Algodon Mansion - Recoleta (B) (Suite), Carmelo

Buenos Aires

Embark on an exploration of magnificent San Telmo and La Boca, two of Buenos Aires' most beloved neighborhoods. San Telmo is without question one of the trendiest quarters of the city thanks to its cool, bohemian atmosphere and famed antique shops. Plaza Dorrego is the place to be on Sundays to find anything from antiques, memorabilia, second-hand clothes to dusty magazines during its traditional Antiques Fair. Next, set out to experience La Boca, arguably one of the city's most authentic neighborhoods. La Boca's history was largely shaped by immigrants who established themselves within this gritty port-side barrio. A working-class district, La Boca has jealously guarded its identity, of which soccer and tango are major ingredients. What will strike you immediately is the peculiar architecture, especially along Caminito Street, which in 1959 was declared an outdoor museum. It is the work of one of Argentina’s most famous painters and neighborhood philanthropists, Quinquela Martín. He gathered neighbors to paint the houses, made out of tin and scrap metal, in bright colors, emulating the early immigrants. The most recognizable icon, though, is La Bombonera (the Chocolate Box), right in the heart of the area and home of the Boca Juniors, the country’s largest soccer club.. Enjoy the convenience of a late hotel check-out.. Meet your professional driver and English-speaking guide for an airport transfer.