Just an hour across the Río de la Plata lies a city frozen in time. If you’ve been feeling the chaotic energy of Buenos Aires lately, Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay is the peaceful, European-style breath of air you need. Founded by the Portuguese in 1680, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a stunning mix of colonial history, cobblestone charm, and a distinct Mediterranean Europe feel.

Why Visit Colonia?

Colonia is the perfect getaway from Buenos Aires, if you want to step foot in another country. Colonia del Sacramento is safe, calm, peaceful, and chill. If you like history, and beautiful sunset views, then this UNESCO city is a must see.

Whether you’re visiting for the history or doing a quick visa run to reset your 90-day Argentina stamp, here is the perfect 2-day itinerary based on my recent trip.

Getting There: The Colonia Express Ferry

Take the Colonia Express ferry from the Dársena Norte terminal in Buenos Aires (near Puerto Madero). The crossing is genuinely enjoyable — open water, fresh air, and views of the Uruguayan flag as you enter the port. Book online in advance, especially in summer (December–February) when it fills up fast.

• Round-trip cost: ~$50–70 USD depending on timing
• Journey time: ~1 hour 15 mins (Fast Ferry)
• Departure point: Dársena Norte, Buenos Aires
• Pro tip: Take the earliest morning ferry on Day 1 and the night ferry home on Day 2. The night crossing is an experience in itself — atmospheric, calm, and oddly memorable.

Where to Stay in Colonia del Sacramento

I stayed at Hostel & Suites del Rio (Rio Hostel) — just $36 for 2 nights, perfectly located near the waterfront and steps from the historic quarter. It’s a classic colonial building with high ceilings and a very chill vibe. If you’re visiting on a budget or doing a nomad visa run from Buenos Aires, this is the move.

Day 1: The Historic Quarter, the Lighthouse, and the Coast

Morning: Walk the Barrio Histórico

Drop your bags and head straight to the Barrio Histórico. Go early — by 9 or 10 AM the streets are almost empty and the light is perfect.

Start on the original Portuguese street — the cobblestones here are different from anything else in the neighborhood, rough-cut and uneven, laid in the late 1600s. Then walk toward the Spanish side of town and notice the shift: wider streets, formal plaza layout, symmetrical architecture.

From the old city walls, you get your first full view of the Río de la Plata. A massive Uruguayan flag flies here. It’s a stunning sight that reminds you just how far this “river” stretches.

Points of Interest:
Calle de los Suspiros: Start on the “Street of Sighs.” These original Portuguese cobblestones are different from anything else in the neighborhood—rough-cut, uneven, and laid in the late 1600s.

Plaza Mayor: Walk toward the Spanish side of town and notice the shift: wider streets and the symmetry of the Plaza Mayor, the town’s central square.

Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento: Visit this stunning white church, one of the oldest in Uruguay, located right off the main square. Its simple, colonial elegance is a must-see.

The Bastión: Explore the remains of the old city walls and fortifications.

Nomad Tip: If you have extra time, check out the local Spanish and Portuguese Museums. They are small but offer a deeper look into the artifacts and maps that defined this border-clash city.

Late Morning: Climb the Faro (Lighthouse)

The Faro de Colonia sits right in the heart of the historic quarter. It’s a tight climb but worth every step — from the top, you get a full 360° view: the old town below, the colonial church, and the water in every direction.

Cash tip: Entry costs 45 Uruguayan pesos and it’s cash only. No card reader at the door. Get pesos before you go or you’ll have to turn around.

Afternoon: Rent Bikes and Ride the Coast

After the lighthouse, rent bikes near the Bastión del Carmen by the old wall. Pricing is around $20 USD for two bikes for the full day — one of the best value activities in Colonia.

Ride along La Rambla toward the Colonia sign, about 15–20 minutes away. Continue on to Playa Oreja Negra. The beach can get a bit crowded, but it’s a nice stretch of sand with a great local atmosphere.

• Lunch: Grab a bite or a drink at the restaurant right on the beach at Oreja Negra before heading back.

Skip Playa Ferrando. I asked ChatGPT for a recommendation and it sent me here. It’s a 30-minute walk through nothing and the beach is not worth it, it was dirty. It has a 4.5 star review, which is why it was shown by AI. Stick to the coast toward Oreja Negra — it’s much nicer.

Evening: Sunset in the Old Town

Ride back to the Barrio Histórico for golden hour. This is one of the nicest and most beautiful sunsets I have seen. This is the moment Colonia is made for. The warm light on the cobblestones, the colonial walls glowing amber — it looks like Mediterranean Europe and feels completely safe. Grab a drink at a small bar outside and just let it happen. Don’t rush this.

Day 2: Slow Morning, Waterfront Walks, and the Night Ferry

Day 2 is the reason staying overnight is worth it. Wake up with no agenda. Walk the historic quarter again — it looks different in the morning light.

When you’re ready to leave, take the night ferry back to Buenos Aires. It’s a different experience from the daytime crossing — quieter, slightly cinematic, with the lights of BA appearing slowly on the horizon. A fittingly calm end to the trip.

Complete Itinerary at a Glance

• Ferry: Colonia Express from Buenos Aires — book in advance
• Barrio Histórico: Portuguese streets + Spanish plaza — go early
• Faro de Colonia: Best views in the city — bring 40 UYU cash
• Bike rental: ~$20 for two bikes, from near the Bastión del Carmen
• Playa Oreja Negra: Ride the coast, see the sign, and eat at the beach restaurant
• Sunset: Return to the old town for golden hour — unmissable
• Stay: Hostel & Suites del Rio (Budget-friendly & central)

Budget Breakdown

• Round-trip ferry: ~$50–70 USD
• 2 nights accommodation: ~$36 USD (Hostel & Suites del Rio)
• Lighthouse entry: 40 UYU (~$1 USD) — cash only
• Bike rental (2 bikes, full day): ~$20 USD
• Food and drinks (2 days): ~$30–50 USD
• Total estimated: ~$140–180 USD for a full 2-day trip

Is Colonia del Sacramento Worth It?

The answer is almost always yes. Colonia isn’t a city that tries to impress you with scale. It earns its place quietly: through streets that have barely changed in 300 years, through a pace of life that forces you to slow down, and through sunsets that genuinely stop you in your tracks.

Watch the Full Video Colonia Uruguay: The Perfect 2-Day Itinerary

Useful Links

• Where I stayed: Hostel & Suites del Rio
• Travel Insurance: SafetyWing — Don’t cross borders without it.

Going back to Buenos Aires? These links may be useful to you:

Check out my post about Safety in Buenos Aires Here
My 2-Month Review of Living in Buenos Aires Here

The post 2 Day Colonia del Sacramento Itinerary: A Safe Escape from Buenos Aires appeared first on Nomadic Sean.

Donegal is in northwest Ireland and is known for preserving traditional Irish culture and the Gaelic language. Within County Donegal, you’ll find Donegal Town, a charming destination with history, scenic views, and great local spots. We visited in October during our road trip from Kincasslagh to Ennis in County Clare, making a stop to explore this vibrant town. If you’re wondering what to do in Donegal Town, here are the top attractions, historic sites, and best places to eat—all discovered in just one day!

Visit Donegal Castle – A Historic Landmark

The first thing I did when I arrived in Donegal Town was head straight to the castle I had been eager to see. The name O’Donnell is everywhere in County Donegal, and this place is packed with history. Built in 1474 by Red Hugh O’Donnell (Aodh Ruadh Ó Domhnaill), the castle was home to the powerful O’Donnell clan—one of the most influential Gaelic families in Ireland. It wasn’t just a residence; it was a fortress, one of the strongest in the country, built to defend against English forces. It played a key role in the Nine Years’ War from 1593 to 1603. Standing there, you can almost feel the history in its walls.

Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved tower house, stone fireplaces, and restored banqueting hall, showcasing both Gaelic and English influences. Below are the admission costs.

Admission Costs

Adult: €5.00
Group/Senior: €4.00
Child/Student: €3.00
Family: €13.00

Learn more about the castle’s history and their hours on their website here

Where to Eat in Donegal Town – Olde Castle Bar & More

After touring the castle, we ran into Olde Castle Bar, an award-winning gastro pub with amazing reviews. Known for fresh seafood and quality meat, it was the perfect spot to warm up from the chilly weather. I ordered an Irish coffee, one of the best I had in Ireland. My go-to meal in Ireland is always a pint of Guinness with steak and potatoes.

In addition to Olde Castle Bar, other great dining options include:

• McCafferty’s – A popular franchise also found in Dungloe, which I’ve visited before.
• McSwine’s – A cozy spot with great reviews and a welcoming atmosphere.

With a wide range of bars and restaurants, Donegal Town has plenty of appetizing options to satisfy every taste.

Did you know? Donegal in Irish, Dún na nGall, means “Fort of the Foreigners”.

There are many bars and restaurant options in Donegal Town to choose from that seem very appetizing. If you have some time, you can pop into some stores.

Donegal Town Shopping – Unique Local Finds

Exploring the shopping scene in Donegal Town was fun, even with limited time. My sister and I found several charming souvenir shops. I picked up a Donegal flag, scarf, and an Irish American flag pin.

I wished I had more time to visit more stores. However I did manage to stop at Giftworld, which had a fantastic selection of local treasures. After we strolled around and did some shopping, we found old abbey ruins.

Donegal Abbey Ruins

A short walk brought me to the atmospheric ruins of Donegal Abbey. This historic site is connected to Donegal Castle and Red Hugh O’Donnell—the founder of the Franciscan friary in 1474. Positioned by Donegal Bay, the abbey offers breathtaking sunset views that perfectly capture Samhain, Halloween-like vibes of October. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in the rich history of the region.

Take a Scenic Walk Along the Donegal Pier

While I didn’t have the chance to experience a walk along Donegal Pier myself, fellow travelers rave about its charm. Reviews suggest that this picturesque pathway offers expansive views of Donegal Bay, where the sound of gentle waves and the crisp sea breeze create a serene atmosphere. Visitors have mentioned that it’s the perfect spot to snap a few memorable photos of the rugged coastline and enjoy a quiet moment of reflection. Even if you’re short on time, consider a quick detour to see what the pier has to offer—it might just be the peaceful pause you need during your visit to Donegal Town.

Final Thoughts on Donegal Town

Donegal Town is a beautiful mix of history, culture, and modern hospitality. Whether you’re exploring Donegal Castle, enjoying an Irish coffee at Olde Castle Bar, shopping for local gifts, or soaking in the haunting beauty of Donegal Abbey, every corner of this town tells a story.

For travelers looking to experience the best of Irish heritage and contemporary charm in just one day, Donegal Town is an unmissable destination that offers a little something for everyone.

Interested in Italy? Check out the best day trip from Florence here

The post Things to do in Donegal Town – Ireland Guide appeared first on Nomadic Sean.

When I told my Italian host family that I was planning to visit Florence, they gave me some suggestions for a day trip — and to my surprise, they strongly advised against Pisa with distaste. “Non mi piace, non è bella. Go to Lucca instead!” they said with conviction. Of course, seeing the Leaning Tower still felt like a must, so I went — and honestly, I agree with what most Italians say about it. Afterward, I hopped on a quick train to Lucca, and that’s when I realized: you can absolutely fit both Pisa and Lucca into one day, but I truly wish I had more time in Lucca.

Lucca quietly outshines Pisa in more ways than one. In this post, I’ll break down exactly why Lucca deserves the top spot on your Tuscany itinerary — offering a much more enjoyable and authentic experience. Without the tourist traps or the rush. From its stunning Renaissance walls to its inviting piazzas and relaxed, local vibe, Lucca quietly outshines Pisa in more ways than one.

In this post, I’ll break down exactly why Lucca deserves the top spot on your Tuscany itinerary.

Here are the reasons:

Why Lucca is Better than Pisa for a Day Trip

Lucca: Peaceful, pedestrian-friendly, beautiful medieval streets. Even the train to Lucca was far nicer, newer, and peaceful compared to the one to Pisa.

Pisa: Overrun with tourists, especially around the Leaning Tower. The walk from the train station to the tower is creepy, and not the most pleasant walk.

More Authentic Tuscan Experience

1. Local Life, Not Just Tourism: Lucca offers a much more authentic Italian, or Tuscan experience than Pisa, where mostly tourists can be seen. For starters, Lucca is a city where people actually live. While Pisa seems to revolve entirely around the Leaning Tower and the tourists that flock to see it, Lucca felt calm, lived-in, and relaxed. Locals were riding bikes along the city walls, shopping at outdoor markets, and chatting over coffee in quiet piazzas. It wasn’t about rushing from sight to sight — it was about slowing down and experiencing the town’s rhythm.

2. Preserved Medieval Charm: The city’s medieval charm is beautifully preserved. Walking through Lucca’s narrow, cobbled streets or along its Renaissance walls, you get the sense that not much has changed in centuries. The walls themselves are a highlight, offering a peaceful, panoramic stroll above the city — something Pisa simply doesn’t have.

3. Local Cuisine: Another thing I noticed was the food. In Lucca, it was all about cozy, family-run trattorias and small wine bars where locals gather for long, leisurely meals. I tried “tordelli lucchese,” a delicious meat-filled pasta, and a slice of “buccellato,” a sweet bread with raisins — both local specialties.

What can I do here in a day?

If you’re planning a day in Lucca, here are three things I did that made the experience unforgettable:

Explore the Piazza’s:

Lucca has several beautiful squares, or piazze (piazza in singular form) that are rich in history and charm. First I came upon Piazza San Michele. See the beautiful church of San Michele in Foro, which offers a lovely glimpse into Lucca’s medieval past. Next I walked around, and into Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, built on the ruins of an ancient Roman amphitheater, which is a circular square lined with cozy cafés and perfect for people-watching. However when I went, it was filled with some flower market so I couldn’t see the whole piazza. Lastly I stumbled upon Piazza San Frediano, which amazed me when I saw the stunning mosaic facade of the Basilica di San Frediano.

Walk up the Torre dell’Ore:

Climbing this medieval clock tower was a highlight of my day. The panoramic views of the terracotta rooftops and rolling Tuscan hills from the top were absolutely breathtaking — well worth the climb. I believe it costed me 5-10 euros to enter, which was fine considering the view. Also, the ticket worker there complimented my Italian, which I still remember to this day. He said that my Italian is good, and even knowing that I was a foreigner because of my accent, he was not sure where I was from because my American accent did not stand out, and he said that impressed him! This gave me good vibes climbing up the tower .

Click here to learn about the details of the clock tower: https://www.visittuscany.com/it/attrazioni/torre-delle-ore

Iconic City Walls

Stroll atop the old city walls: This peaceful walking and biking path offers a unique perspective of Lucca and is the perfect way to soak in its charm. The walls are wide and shaded, making them ideal for a leisurely walk, with scenic views of both the city and the surrounding countryside. Walk or bike the 4km path atop the walls and enjoy the views.

Pisa lacks this kind of scenic experience.

The views from the walkable city walls

Lucca vs. Pisa: Which is the Better Choice?

By now you can see how Lucca is a more laid back, authentic experience instead of a touristy Pisa, which only contains the Leaning tower, and no charming piazza’s. However, of course it is a must to still see the Unesco site of Pisa, which you can do in the morning first, then after take the scenic train to Lucca. From there you can take a relaxing beautiful train ride back to Florence.

Planning a Trip to Lucca?

Have you visited both Lucca and Pisa? Which city won your heart? Let me know in the comments!

Check out our Ultimate Italy Travel Guide, and other destinations!

GetYourGuide Activities:

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