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Waterfront · Piriápolis, Maldonado
Rambla de los Argentinos
The promenade along Piriápolis bay, inaugurated in 1916, with beaches, cafés and the façade of the Argentino Hotel from 1930.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Rambla de los Argentinos
The Rambla de los Argentinos runs along the bay of Piriápolis and is the city's main axis. Francisco Piria began the work in 1910, and it was inaugurated in 1916. On one side is the calm sea of the bay; on the other, hotels, cafés and buildings from the resort's early decades.
The best-known building on the rambla is the Argentino Hotel, designed by Pierre Guichot for 1,200 guests. The cornerstone was laid in 1920 and it opened on 24 December 1930. The building has belonged to the Uruguayan state since 1942 and was declared a historic monument in 1993. Visitors who are not staying in the hotel can still use the café and the casino.
In front of the hotel is the small Museo Ferroviario, and the walk along the rambla leads east to the port, at the foot of Cerro San Antonio, and west to the beaches that continue toward Playa Grande.
The sand in front of the rambla forms a sequence of calm-water beaches, protected from most waves and suitable for family swimming in summer.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to two hours' walk; all day if you're going to the beach.
Best time
In summer, from December to March, the rambla is busier and the beaches fill up. Off-season it's a quiet walk, and late afternoon often provides good light over the bay.
How to get there
The rambla is two blocks from the Piriápolis bus terminal. From the city of Maldonado it's about 35 km; from Montevideo, about 98 km via Ruta Interbalnearia and Ruta 37.
Tip
Go into the Argentino Hotel for a coffee in the lounge and see the interior architecture. Walk to the port and, from there, climb Cerro San Antonio to see the rambla from above.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Rambla de los Argentinos
When was the Rambla de Piriápolis built?
Francisco Piria began the work in 1910, and the rambla was inaugurated in 1916.
Can you visit the Argentino Hotel without being a guest?
Yes. The café and the casino are open to the public, and the main hall hosts cultural events.
Are the beaches along the rambla good for swimming?
Yes, they are in the bay and usually have calm water, good for families.
What is at each end of the rambla?
To the east, the port at the foot of Cerro San Antonio. To the west, the beaches continue toward Playa Grande.