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Carrasco/General Cesáreo L. Berisso Layover Guide (MVD)

What are you looking for in MVD?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Carrasco International Airport (MVD) is an international airport located in Ciudad de la Costa, Canelones Department. It’s located about 16 km (10 miles) from downtown Montevideo. The airport first opened officially in February 2009. Montevideo is the capital and largest city of Uruguay and it is considered one of the safest capitals in Latin America. It’s also known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant coastal promenades, and excellent modern facilities.

Can you leave Carrasco Airport (MVD) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
Passengers can leave Carrasco Airport during a layover by clearing immigration. Uruguay has no transit visa; visa requirements depend on nationality. Most travelers are visa-exempt for stays up to 90 days, while others must obtain a visa beforehand. Check official policy before travel. Requirements vary by passport and nationality group. (more info).

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

• Playa Carrasco offers a wide sandy shore, calm waters and vibrant kiosks serving fresh seafood. Perfect for sunbathing or seaside strolls with panoramic Río de la Plata vistas. (Time required: 1–2 hours. / Airport to here: 10 min taxi)
• Rambla de Carrasco is a scenic coastal promenade featuring dedicated bike lanes, lush parks and sweeping sea views, ideal for walking or cycling excursions. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: 5 min taxi)
• Parque Roosevelt spans over 350 hectares of trails, lakes and diverse wildlife, offering birdwatching, jogging paths and picnic spots in a tranquil urban setting. (Time required: 2 hours. / Airport to here: 8 min taxi)
• Casino Carrasco housed in a Belle Époque landmark, features gaming tables, elegant bars and live entertainment in a historic seafront setting. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: 5 min taxi)
• Carrasco Golf Club boasts an 18-hole championship course, practice facilities and a stylish clubhouse café, perfect for an afternoon round. (Time required: 2–3 hours. / Airport to here: 5 min taxi)
• Casa de los Lamas is a restored colonial villa hosting rotating exhibitions of Uruguayan art, cultural events and guided architecture tours. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: 7 min taxi)
• Mercado de Carrasco showcases fresh produce stalls, artisanal goods and cozy cafés, ideal for sampling local cheeses, empanadas and street snacks. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: 6 min taxi)
• Museo del Automóvil displays a private collection of vintage and classic cars, offering guided visits by appointment to automotive enthusiasts. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: 10 min taxi)

Things to Do in Carrasco Airport (MVD)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
The Aeropuertos VIP Club Partidas lounge is located airside opposite Gate 7 at Carrasco Airport. Open 24 hours daily, it offers up to three hours per visit with a day pass (US $70 adult, US $35 child). Amenities include comfortable seating, complimentary snacks, beverages, Wi-Fi, flight monitors and shower facilities. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
Within five kilometers of Carrasco Airport, options range from budget to luxury. Hampton by Hilton Montevideo Carrasco sits 2 km away, offering free Wi-Fi, breakfast, fitness and parking. Nearby Sofitel Montevideo Casino Carrasco & Spa provides shuttle, spa and pool. Rates vary US $70–200 per night, many with 24-hour reception. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
Carrasco Airport lacks dedicated sleep pods, but padded bench seating, quiet corners near boarding gates and upper terrace areas offer space to rest. The terminal is monitored by security, though ambient noise persists overnight. Travelers should bring travel pillows, earplugs, eye masks for better comfort and charging points available.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Carrasco Airport offers free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the terminal via the “Antel-Wi-Fi” network with no time or data limits. Simply connect, accept terms and proceed. Power outlets and USB charging stations are conveniently located near seating areas, food courts and boarding gates for devices of all types, including laptops and tablets.

SIM/eSIM Card: Prepaid SIM cards from Antel, Movistar and Claro are sold at kiosks in Arrivals. Plans start at US $5 for 5 GB valid 7 days up to US $20 for 20 GB valid 30 days; passports required for registration. eSIM packages from Airalo or Holafly can be purchased online and activated instantly, with secure digital delivery. » buy a global esim card for Layover Guide, that you can use for other countries as well!

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Licensed taxis queue outside Arrivals at Carrasco Airport, operating on metered fares with a flag drop of UYU 250 and UYU 44 per kilometer. A trip to downtown Montevideo takes 30–40 minutes, costing around UYU 1200–1500. Payment by cash or major credit cards; ride-hail apps also available for reliable service.

Train: There is no direct train service to Carrasco Airport. The nearest rail connections depart from Montevideo’s main stations such as Tres Cruces. While AFE commuter lines serve suburban towns, frequency is low outside peak hours and trains mainly handle freight. For national and commuter schedules, visit more info.

Bus: Public buses operate from outside Arrivals at Carrasco Airport, run by COT, COETC and CUTCSA. Route 197 departs every 30–60 minutes to Tres Cruces terminal (45 min, UYU 68), while some lines reach Ciudad Vieja. Tickets cost UYU 68, purchased on board in cash, operating hours vary by company and season. more info.

Shuttle: Many hotels near Carrasco Airport provide complimentary or paid airport shuttle services. Advance reservation is required. Private operators like Turismar, Direct Bus and Sommet run scheduled transfers to Montevideo city center and Punta del Este. Fares range US $10–25 per person with pick-up and drop-off at the Arrivals hall, each direction.

Car rentals: Major agencies Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar and local firms operate desks in the Arrivals hall. Requirements include a valid driver’s license, passport and credit card. Rentals start at US $25 per day for compacts and US $40 for SUVs. Insurance and GPS are available; pick-up and drop-off match flight times for convenience. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: Carrasco Airport provides short-term and long-term parking adjacent to the terminal. The first 15 minutes of short-stay parking are free; thereafter UYU 20 per 15 minutes. Long-term parking is UYU 450 per day. Payment is via automated barriers with cash or card. The lot is monitored 24/7 by security cameras and regular patrols.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

Baggage storage is available at the Information Desk in the Arrivals hall for UYU 270 per item per 24 hours. Items must be collected by presenting ID. There are no automated lockers. Third-party storage services are not available within the terminal building. Alternative luggage solutions are offered at nearby hotels and shops. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Carrasco Airport (MVD) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks