Holidays in Uruguay 2026: which ones to take advantage of to visit Argentina

Uruguay and Argentina share a deep cultural, historical, and traditional connection. Thanks to their geographical proximity, travel between the two countries is frequent, especially during long weekends and public holidays. This article brings together Uruguay’s 2026 public holidays, the ideal long weekends for crossing into Argentina, and destination-based travel recommendations, designed for travelers seeking nearby, appealing, and memorable experiences.

Public Holiday Calendar in Uruguay 2026

Throughout 2026, Uruguay will have 18 national public holidays, including both non-working and working days. Some of these create long weekends that are perfect for short getaways to Argentina.

Non-working public holidays (mandatory rest days)

These holidays are ideal for planning trips in advance:

• January 1 (Thursday): New Year’s Day
• May 1 (Friday): International Workers’ Day
• July 18 (Saturday): Constitution Day
• August 25 (Tuesday): Independence Day
• December 25 (Friday): Christmas – Family Day

Working public holidays (optional workdays)

Although not all of them create long weekends, these dates can still be used for short trips, especially to nearby destinations:

• January 6 (Tuesday): Epiphany
• February 16–17 (Monday and Tuesday): Carnival
• March 30 to April 5 (Monday to Sunday): Holy Week – Tourism Week
• April 19 (Sunday): Landing of the Thirty-Three Orientals
• May 18 (Monday): Battle of Las Piedras
• June 19 (Friday): Birth of Artigas
• October 12 (Monday): Day of the Race
• November 2 (Monday): All Souls’ Day

Long weekends ideal for traveling to Argentina

From the entire calendar, these are the most convenient long weekends to cross into Argentina, whether by car, ferry, or plane, from Montevideo, Colonia, Punta del Este, or other Uruguayan cities:

Carnival – from Saturday, February 14 to Sunday, February 17

A great opportunity to enjoy the final weeks of the Argentine summer in destinations perfect for a short getaway, such as visiting southern Argentina, planning urban and cultural experiences in Buenos Aires, or even traveling to Mendoza during the grape harvest season.

International Workers’ Day – from Friday, May 1 to Sunday, May 3

In the heart of autumn, this is the perfect time to enjoy gastronomic and cultural experiences in cities such as Buenos Aires, Rosario, or the thermal resorts of Entre Ríos.

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Recommended destinations in Argentina for your long weekend getaway

Buenos Aires

A cosmopolitan, nearby and always vibrant city. It is one of the favorite destinations for Uruguayans due to its shows, cafés, gastronomy, shopping, and nightlife. In addition, flights and ferries from Montevideo and Colonia are frequent and affordable.

Argentine littoral (Entre Ríos, Misiones, Santa Fe)

Just a few kilometers from Uruguay, cities like Colón, Concordia, or Gualeguaychú invite visitors to enjoy hot springs, nature, and traditional festivals. In summer, they are an excellent getaway for couples or families.

And the Argentine littoral is much more than the famous Iguazú Falls. The region, including provinces like Entre Ríos, Misiones, and Santa Fe, offers unmatched natural wealth, amazing landscapes, and authentic experiences. From jungles and waterfalls to navigable rivers and hot springs, the littoral invites you to discover diverse destinations that combine adventure, culture, and relaxation.

Córdoba

Offers nature, culture, and activities for the whole family. The sierras of Córdoba are an excellent plan for long weekends, with peaceful towns like Villa General Belgrano, La Cumbrecita, or Villa Carlos Paz.

Mendoza

An ideal destination for wine and fine dining lovers. Mendoza combines mountain landscapes, wineries with gourmet experiences, and adventure tourism options like rafting, trekking, or horseback riding.

Argentine Patagonia

Patagonia is one of the most stunning destinations in Argentina and a great option for those seeking natural landscapes, snow, or unique experiences. From Bariloche, ideal for family or couple getaways, to El Calafate with the majestic Perito Moreno Glacier, and Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. In winter, it offers snow sports; in autumn and spring, trekking, navigation, and adventure tourism.

Practical tips for Uruguayan tourists

• Documentation: To enter Argentina from Uruguay, a valid ID card is enough. Passport or visa are not required.

• Transport options: There are multiple ways to cross, including ferry (Buquebus, Colonia Express), short flights, and car or bus via international bridges.

• Currency exchange: It is advisable to carry Argentine pesos or use electronic payment methods (cards or digital wallets). Check the updated exchange rate before traveling.

• Advance bookings: During long weekends, hotels and tourist services are often booked in advance, especially in high-demand cities like Buenos Aires or Mendoza.

• Travel insurance: It is highly recommended to have medical travel assistance.

2026 is an ideal year to rediscover Argentina

Thanks to its proximity, variety of destinations, and quality tourism offer, Argentina is an accessible and attractive option for Uruguayans during the 2025 holidays. Whether for a short getaway, a gastronomic plan, or a nature adventure, crossing the river on long weekends is an excellent way to recharge and enjoy new experiences.

Plan your trip in advance, choose the date that best suits your pace, and discover everything Argentina has prepared for you.