AS ONE OF THE MOST SOCIALLY liberal nations in the Western Hemisphere, Uruguay is a natural choice for LGBTQ globetrotters looking for a welcoming experience. The government decriminalized homosexuality way back in 1934 and made even more progress in the 21st century, with laws prohibiting discrimination in effect since 2003 and allowing same-sex marriage since 2013.
“Uruguay is historically a vanguard nation in terms of legislation and social rights,” said Adrián Russo, president, the Cámara de Comercio y Negocios LGBT Uruguay (Uruguay LGBT Chamber of Commerce and Business). In terms of visiting, “The peak season is summer, thanks to the sun and sand, water sports and other entertainment that’s available,” Russo said. “But Uruguay has something to offer for every season. Wine tourism, design, shopping, adventure, wellness and culture are some of the reasons why LGBTQ travelers visit our country.”
The point of entry for most visitors is the capital city, Montevideo. There, Russo recommends the culinary offerings in gaypopular restaurants like Francis, La Cocina de Pedro and 1700. Top sightseeing attractions include the historic Solis Theater and National Auditorium, as well as La Rambla, a verdant avenue that runs between the city and the sea.
For after-dark fun, top choices include Cain Club, a disco that stages a different show every night; Il Tempo, a dance club that attracts a variety of LGBTQ and straight night owls; and Chains, which targets an over-30 gay male clientele.
Gay-friendly accommodations in Montevideo include Casa Roberto and Casa Sarandi, both bed-and-breakfasts set in historic homes. Among the top internationally branded hotels in Montevideo are the Sheraton Montevideo, Sofitel Montevideo Casino Carrasco and Spa and Hyatt Centric Montevideo.
Another must-see destination — especially in the warmer months — is Punta del Este, an international hot spot for sun worshipers. Playa Chihuahua, a nudist beach, is among the popular gathering places for LGBTQ travelers. Find gay-specific accommodations at Undarius, a men-only hotel, while mainstream luxury hotels include the chic Hotel Fasano Punta del Este and spacious Conrad Punta del Este Resort & Casino.
Read This Next
Adventure Life Tours
May 2018
May 1, 2018All Reads on This Topic
Read Them All
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Sep 22, 2026Cunard’s “Queen Mary 2” to Undergo Stunning Refurbishment
Cunard recently announced a stunning refurbishment of Queen Mary 2; the ship prepares to enter dry dock on March 31, 2027, as the flagship of the Cunard fleet and the only ship in the world offering regularly scheduled trans-Atlantic crossings between Southampton and New York. The refurbishment will introduce new Grill Suites, an elevated wellness offering, enhanced retail spaces and refreshed guest areas, while preserving the ship’s Art Deco identity. The ship will return to service May 9, 2027.
Sponsored Content
Why Japan Is Best Explored by Sea with Princess
Japan is a destination that rewards repeat visits because no two regions — or seasons — feel quite the same. One moment, you’re wandering through centuries-old geisha districts in Kanazawa. The next, you’re watching neon reflections dance across Tokyo streets long after midnight.
Daily
Sep 22, 2026Santa Barbara, California, Delays Autumn with a Second Summer
Experience Santa Barbara’s second summer, when golden hour sunsets, warm evenings and wine season offer a unique Californian take on fall. The destination’s pre-autumn season is perfect for those not yet ready to let go of warm weather just yet.
Daily
Sep 22, 2026Bruce Springsteen Center for American Music Opens in Long Branch, New Jersey
Earlier this year, COOKFOX Architects announced the opening of Bruce Springsteen Center for American Music at Long Branch, New Jersey’s, Monmouth University. This new cultural landmark is dedicated to telling the story of music in this country while celebrating Bruce Springsteen’s work within that tradition. The 30,000-square-foot building houses exhibits about the music of Bruce Springsteen and of other American musical genres; the Springsteen archives; a 240-seat auditorium for concerts, academic lectures and video screenings; and gallery space for changing exhibits.
Sponsored Content
GET TO KNOW TAP FORBIZ
Unlock flexible, refined business travel with TAP Air Portugal’s program, TAP FORBIZ. Developed for small, medium and large Companies, with options for corporate events, TAP FORBIZ offers exclusive advantages adapted to each type of business.
Melt into Mediterranean Charm in Barcelona and Costa Brava
Usually regarded for its Modernist architecture, centuries of artistic influence and polarizing football team, Barcelona has come into its own as a growing tech hub. The capital of Catalonia hosts the annual Mobile World Congress each March, and its Poble Nou neighborhood cradles some of the world’s most recognizable startups like TravelPerk and Typeform.
Seven Seas Prestige to Feature New Spaces
September 2026
Sep 19, 2026Destinations
Sep 18, 2026Choose Your Own Island Vibe in French Polynesia
“We are on small, tiny rocks, isolated in the middle of the largest ocean.” On a nature tour on the atoll of Tetiaroa, my naturalist guide, Thierry Sommers, thus reminded me of the oceanic remoteness of our location in the South Pacific. I was staying at The Brando, a luxurious private island resort that sits a mere 30-minute flight from the main island of Tahiti but still feels gloriously far away from regular civilization.
Sponsored Content
An Adults-Only Resort for All the Milestone Moments
On Saturday, Feb.14, Devossion by Live Aqua celebrated its grand opening, marking a significant milestone for Grupo Posadas and the Live Aqua brand. This adults-only resort focuses on celebration, authentic Mexican experiences and elevated hospitality — perfectly situated in the heart of the Riviera Maya.
Daily
Sep 18, 2026Downtown Phoenix Welcomes First Upscale Urban Retreat
This month, in Phoenix, Arizona, Pacific Hospitality Group opens Denū Hotel & Spa, the newest hotel property in The Meritage Collection.
ShareThis