Buenos Aires to Montevideo: all the ways to go and which to choose

Going from Buenos Aires to Montevideo is probably the most everyday international crossing in the Southern Cone. Thousands of people do it every week for work, tourism or to visit family. And since there are several ways to cross, it's worth knowing which one suits each case.

The options, in short

Between the two capitals there are about 221 km in a straight line. You can cross like this:

• Plane: ~50 minutes in the air. The fastest in flight, but add transfers and the airport.
• Direct ferry: ~2 h 15 with Buquebus, from the port of Buenos Aires to the port of Montevideo.
• Ferry via Colonia + bus: a short crossing (~1 h 15) and then a coach to Montevideo.

You'll find the full breakdown, with airlines and distances, on the route page: how to get from Buenos Aires to Montevideo.

Which is best?

If total time matters most

For such a short trip, the plane doesn't win by as much as it seems. Between getting to the airport, check-in, the wait and the transfer from the destination airport, the direct ferry ends up very competitive —and it leaves you right in downtown Montevideo.

If your budget matters most

The ferry to Colonia + bus combo is usually the cheapest option, especially if you book ahead. As a bonus, you get to see Colonia del Sacramento.

If you're connecting to another flight

Here the plane does win: if you're arriving or continuing by air, crossing by plane simplifies your connections.

Practical tips

1. Documents. It's an international crossing: a Mercosur ID or passport.
2. Season. In summer and on long weekends, both ferries and flights fill up. Book early.
3. The port is central. A ferry advantage: the terminals are near downtown in both cities, unlike the airports.

For your arrival

Once in Uruguay, see what to do in Montevideo. And if your trip starts on the other side, check out Buenos Aires.

Want to go deeper into the crossing and all its variants? Read our guide: how to cross the Río de la Plata.

Approximate times. Check schedules and fares with each operator before traveling.