Hostels in Piriápolis, Uruguay

Piriapolis, Uruguay, is a coastal beach city located on the Rio de la Plata, about sixty-five miles from the capital city of Montevideo. This resort town is more than a hundred and twenty-five years old! There are frequent buses from Montevideo to Piriapolis (a direct bus will take about two hours' time).

If you’re seeking a beach vacation, then head to Piriapolis between December and March during the warmer months. The long beach is most popular between Av Artigas and Av Piria. There are many seafront restaurants and stores here along the coast. You’ll find hostels in Piriapolis, Uruguay, tucked nearby in the streets that go back from the beach as it quickly becomes a residential neighborhood once you’re off the shoreline. There are many things to do in the area including beautiful hikes, fantastic architecture, and amazing seafood year round -- making Piriapolis a great destination all year long.

For a panoramic view of the Piriapolis coastline, take the chair lift from the marina up to the Templo de San Antonio. You can also drive up the hill if you’ve rented a car or hire a taxi! On a clear day you can see Punta Del Este, which is about thirty miles away. If you prefer to hike, then head over to Uruguay’s third-highest peak, the Cerro Pan de Azúcar, which is about six miles outside of the beach town. The hill, which translates to Sugar Bread Hill, is just over a thousand feet tall. At the top, you’ll find a massive cross, which can actually be climbed through a spiral stairway situated inside. The hike to the top will take about two hours. If you’re fond of beautiful architecture, take a morning excursion out to the stunning The Castle of Piria.

For nightlife, you’ll find casinos, discos, and many bars and restaurants. All of the seafood restaurants by the sea are incredibly delicious, and affordable. Mussels served in white wine is the local specialty, however they are only served when the mussels have been caught fresh that day. If the tides aren’t in your favor, settle for a wood-oven pizza or traditional Uruguayan sandwich, the chivito. You won’t be disappointed!

Piriapolis was the original resort town in Uruguay, but today it isn’t quite as popular with backpackers as Punta Del Este. This works to your benefit, as hostels in Piriapolis, Uruguay, will generally be more affordable. Keep in mind, the most popular times to visit are over the holidays in December and January. These summer months are when South Americans and worldwide tourists flock to Uruguay’s sunny beaches.