Carrasco International Airport (MVD) → Piriápolis transfer

The car follows the Interbalnearia east along the Costa de Oro, passing beach towns such as Atlántida, before leaving the main road towards the coast. The hills around Piriápolis, including the Cerro Pan de Azúcar with its cross at the summit, come into view as you approach.

The drive normally takes around an hour and a half. On summer weekends the Interbalnearia is busier, especially on Friday afternoons heading east.

Piriápolis was developed in the early 20th century by the entrepreneur Francisco Piria, and its seafront still shows that era. The grand Argentino Hotel faces the long rambla, and the town is set between the sea and the Cerro San Antonio, a hill with views over the bay.

It is quieter and more traditional than Punta del Este, popular with families and older visitors. Hotels and apartments line the rambla, with houses spreading into the streets behind.

For an international flight, leave Piriápolis about five hours before departure: up to two hours on the road, three hours at the airport and a short margin. On summer Sunday evenings, when many visitors head back to Montevideo, add half an hour.