Plaza Cagancha
A historic Montevideo square buzzing with life, famous for its 24/7 street food, a unique non-profit cafe, and dazzling Christmas lights.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical ambiance with lights
Plaza Cagancha
Best Time
Magical ambiance with lights
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Montevideo square buzzing with life, famous for its 24/7 street food, a unique non-profit cafe, and dazzling Christmas lights.
"A beautiful historical park filled with an array of buildings from historical to modern infusion style departamentos."
🍔 Grab a Burger 24/7
Don't miss 'El Italiano' for a classic Uruguayan burger, available all day and night!
☕ Support a Good Cause
Visit Franca cafe for coffee and pastries; profits go to charity.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
El Italiano Street Food
Plaza Cagancha
Iconic 24/7 street food cart serving delicious burgers and more. A true local institution.
Franca: Cafe con Causa
Plaza Cagancha 1124
Uruguay's first non-profit cafe, donating all profits to animal shelters and organizations.
Column of Peace
Center of Plaza Cagancha
A historic monument, beautifully illuminated during Christmas, symbolizing peace and independence.
Christmas Lights Spectacle
Plaza Cagancha
During the holiday season, the square is adorned with stunning, expansive Christmas lights that are a must-see.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Nighttime Charm & History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🍔 Grab a Burger 24/7
Don't miss 'El Italiano' for a classic Uruguayan burger, available all day and night! +1
☕ Support a Good Cause
Visit Franca cafe for coffee and pastries; profits go to charity. +3
✨ See the Christmas Lights
If visiting in December, the square's Christmas lights are a breathtaking spectacle.
🚶♂️ Explore Historic Surroundings
Admire the mix of historical and modern architecture surrounding the plaza.
Tips
from all over the internet
🍔 Grab a Burger 24/7
Don't miss 'El Italiano' for a classic Uruguayan burger, available all day and night! +1
☕ Support a Good Cause
Visit Franca cafe for coffee and pastries; profits go to charity. +3
✨ See the Christmas Lights
If visiting in December, the square's Christmas lights are a breathtaking spectacle.
🚶♂️ Explore Historic Surroundings
Admire the mix of historical and modern architecture surrounding the plaza.
🎶 Catch Local Music
You might stumble upon spontaneous candombe music sessions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Plaza Cagancha is a vibrant historical square in Montevideo, praised for its lively atmosphere, iconic street food, and the unique non-profit cafe, Franca. Visitors particularly enjoy the dazzling Christmas lights and the blend of old and new architecture, though some note occasional graffiti. +1
"A beautiful historical park filled with an array of buildings from historical to modern infusion style departamentos. There are also a selection of street food merchants with the notable D'Italiano being accessible any time of the day. Yes all 24 hrs. Or you can spend time under the massive Christmas lights. Absolutely surreal to see in person, especially as it dawns on you that it covers both sides of street and a little more."
Rameel
"Cagancha Square, originally named "New Town Square" was created in the late 1820 after Uruguay's independence. The old town was torn down and a new city developed. It was renamed Cagancha Square after the battle of Cagancha, which was decisive in the Uruguayan civil war which had followed after independence.
It's a nice square with a centrally located column of peace, which during the Christmas season holds several light bulbs to illuminate. There's a water fountain and you find benches in the shade as well."
Sarah Janning-Picker
"Plaza de Cagancha was built in 1836 as the central square of the new city's layout, at the time of the birth of the Oriental Republic of Uruguay. In 1840, it received its current name in honor of the battle of the same name, when General Rivera defeated the invading forces of the Buenos Aires government. With the aim of consolidating the traditional parties, the Peace Column was inaugurated in 1867."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plaza Cagancha is centrally located in Montevideo, easily accessible by public transport. Many bus lines run along Avenida 18 de Julio, which is adjacent to the plaza. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available.
Yes, Plaza Cagancha is within walking distance of other key city landmarks like Plaza Independencia and the historic city center, making it easy to incorporate into a walking tour.
Street parking can be challenging in this busy area. Several public parking garages are located nearby, offering a more reliable option for visitors arriving by car. It's advisable to check parking availability in advance.
The best way to experience Plaza Cagancha is by immersing yourself in its atmosphere. Enjoy the street food, visit Franca cafe, and take time to appreciate the surrounding architecture and the Column of Peace. +1
Plaza Cagancha is generally considered safe, especially when illuminated during the evenings and Christmas season. However, as with any urban area, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Plaza Cagancha is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time.
As a public square, Plaza Cagancha is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, individual businesses like cafes and food stalls will have their own operating hours.
The Christmas lights display in Plaza Cagancha is a public spectacle and does not have an entrance fee. It's a free event for everyone to enjoy.
Plaza Cagancha occasionally hosts events, including music performances like candombe. It's a vibrant public space that can be a venue for community gatherings.
Franca cafe operates on a first-come, first-served basis. While you can't book a table in advance, their efficient service usually means minimal wait times. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the Column of Peace from different angles, the vibrant street art, the unique architecture surrounding the square, and especially the dazzling Christmas lights if you visit during the season.
Absolutely! Plaza Cagancha is stunning at night, particularly during the Christmas season when the lights create a magical atmosphere.
Yes, you can take photos of the street food vendors, but it's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-up shots of individuals. +1
A versatile camera, whether a smartphone or a dedicated camera, will work well. Consider a wide-angle lens for capturing the architecture and a camera with good low-light performance for evening shots.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photography in public spaces like Plaza Cagancha. However, be mindful of private property and individuals' privacy.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The 'El Italiano' cart is famous for its burgers, available 24/7. Franca cafe offers pastries, coffee, and light meals, with options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. +4
Franca is Uruguay's first non-profit cafe, meaning all its profits are donated to various organizations and animal shelters. +3
Prices at Franca cafe are reasonable, with items like a cappuccino costing around $160 Uruguayan Pesos and a tostón with avocado and egg around $260. Chipás are also available for about $90.
Yes, Franca cafe specifically caters to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets, offering a good range of options. +1
Absolutely! 'El Italiano' is the prime spot for quick, delicious street food like burgers, and it's open around the clock. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During the Christmas season, the spectacular light displays are a huge draw for families, creating a memorable holiday experience.
🍔 Foodies & Budget Travelers
This plaza is a prime spot to sample local flavors without breaking the bank. The variety of street food and cafe offerings makes it easy to enjoy multiple meals and snacks while exploring the city.
📸 Photographers & History Buffs
History buffs can delve into the square's past, understanding its significance in Uruguay's independence and civil war.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Plaza Cagancha
At the heart of the plaza stands the Column of Peace, inaugurated in 1867. This monument was intended to solidify the traditional political parties and symbolize the nation's newfound peace. The square itself is a beautiful blend of historical and modern architecture, with surrounding buildings showcasing different eras of Montevideo's development.
Today, Plaza Cagancha remains a vibrant public space, a testament to Montevideo's rich history and evolving urban landscape. It serves as a gathering point for locals and a point of interest for visitors seeking to understand the city's past and present.
Culinary Delights: From Street Food to Social Enterprise
A unique addition to the plaza's food scene is Franca, Uruguay's first non-profit cafe. Located at Plaza Cagancha 1124, Franca donates all its profits to various organizations and animal shelters. Visitors can enjoy coffee, pastries, and light meals, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, while supporting a good cause.
Beyond these highlights, the plaza is surrounded by cafes and eateries, offering a taste of Montevideo's gastronomic culture. Whether you're craving a classic burger or a socially conscious coffee, Plaza Cagancha delivers.
Experiencing Plaza Cagancha at Night and During the Holidays
This festive illumination makes the plaza a popular evening destination for both locals and tourists. It's a perfect place for a leisurely stroll, to soak in the holiday spirit, or to capture some stunning photographs. The combination of historical architecture and vibrant lights offers a unique visual experience.
Beyond the holidays, the plaza maintains a lively atmosphere in the evenings, with street food vendors and cafes continuing to serve patrons. It's a great spot to experience Montevideo's nocturnal charm and vibrant urban life.
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