Plizio Visual Lab

Las Piedras

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
City
—°2
Las Piedras (Uruguay)
ℹ️

Practical info — Las Piedras

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

  • Visit the Obelisk of Las Piedras, marking the historic 1811 battle.
  • The city is the wine capital of Uruguay; explore the surrounding vineyards in the Canelones department.
  • It's a short train or bus ride from Montevideo, making it an easy day trip.
  • Watch for local equestrian events at the Hipódromo de Las Piedras.

🍽 Food

🍽
Asado

Try the traditional Uruguayan barbecue at a local parrillada near the center.

🍽
Tannat Wine

Enjoy a glass of the robust local red wine at one of the family-owned wineries just outside the city.

🍽
Chivito

The classic Uruguayan steak sandwich, widely available in casual downtown eateries.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

🛍
Local wines

Buy bottles of Tannat directly from the vineyards.

🛍
Leather goods

Look for traditional Uruguayan leather items in small artisanal shops.

🧘
Parque Artigas

A historic and peaceful park surrounding the Obelisk, great for a relaxing walk.

🧘
Vineyards

The rural roads outside the city offer calm strolls among the vines.

Las Piedras is a historically significant city in the Canelones Department, Uruguay, and an integral part of the Montevideo metropolitan area. Its national importance is rooted in the Battle of Las Piedras, which took place on May 18, 1811. This decisive victory for the revolutionary forces led by national hero José Gervasio Artigas over the Spanish royalists was a landmark moment in Uruguay's path to independence. This event is commemorated annually with major celebrations in the city. Beyond its historic role, Las Piedras is renowned as a center of Uruguayan viticulture. The region is home to numerous wineries and the National Museum of Grapes and Wine, which documents the country's rich winemaking heritage. Economically, the city also functions as a key commercial and industrial hub for the surrounding region. Its identity is thus a blend of national pride, agricultural tradition, and its function as a vital satellite city to the capital.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C242321171411101113161922
Rain mm9910612210388969299991089589

Geography

Population
69,682 (2019)
Coordinates
-34.71670, -56.21670

Facts

  • The Battle of Las Piedras took place on May 18, 1811.
  • May 18th is a national holiday in Uruguay (Día de la Batalla de Las Piedras).
  • The city was officially founded in 1744 as 'San Isidro de Las Piedras'.
  • The population is over 71,000 inhabitants (2011 census).
  • The Hipódromo de Las Piedras is a major horse racing track in the country.
  • The Canelones Department produces over 60% of Uruguay's wine.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Las Piedras (2)

Museo Julio Sosa🏛 museum

This museum is dedicated to the famous Uruguayan tango singer Julio Sosa.

Casona Afcrami📍 landmark

Casona Afcrami: a historic mansion in the town of Piedras.

Frequently asked questions

What is Las Piedras known for?
It is historically significant for the Battle of Las Piedras.
What is the atmosphere in the city?
It is a typical, busy commuter town with an authentic local feel.
Can one explore the city well on foot?
The center is pedestrian-friendly; for further destinations, a taxi is recommended.
Are there any museums?
Yes, there are smaller cultural sites that highlight local history.
When should one visit the city?
Weekdays, to experience the authentic, everyday hustle and bustle.
Las Piedras: where is it located?
Las Piedras is located in Uruguay.
Las Piedras: what is there to see?
Highlights include Museo Julio Sosa, Casona Afcrami.
Las Piedras: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
Las Piedras: why is it worth visiting?
Las Piedras is a historically significant city in the Canelones Department, Uruguay, and an integral part of the Montevideo metropolitan area.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
South America
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in South America
More places in Uruguay →

Nearby cities

History & landmarks

Nature

More places