How to get from Montevideo Airport (MVD – Carrasco): transport, prices and tips ✈️🇺🇾
The Carrasco International Airport (MVD) is Uruguay’s main international gateway. Located about 20 km from Montevideo’s historic center and 15 km from neighborhoods like Pocitos and Punta Carretas, it is a modern, award-winning terminal known for its functional design and passenger comfort.
If you are wondering how to get from Montevideo Airport to downtown or your hotel, this guide brings all updated 2025 options — from public buses to taxis, Uber, private transfers and rental cars.
Location and context 📍
- Distance to downtown: ~20 km (25–30 min by car).
- Distance to Pocitos/Punta Carretas: ~15 km (~25 min by car).
- Operator: Puerta del Sur S.A.
- Code: MVD.
- Facilities: modern terminal, Wi-Fi, duty free shops, restaurants, car rentals and full accessibility.
1. Public transportation (urban and suburban buses) 🚌
The cheapest way to leave the airport is by public bus. Several lines stop in front of the terminal and connect to the city.
- Price: 50–70 Uruguayan pesos (~US$ 2).
- Travel time: 30–40 minutes.
- Comfort: safe but not very practical if you carry large luggage.
Line 703, for example, connects the airport with the Baltasar Brum Terminal downtown. Buses are reliable but may get crowded.
2. Official taxis 💵
At the arrivals area there is an official taxi rank with licensed drivers. Vehicles run on a taximeter, but prices are relatively standardized.
| Destination | Average fare (US$) | Estimated time |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Montevideo | 25–30 | 25–30 min |
| Pocitos/Punta Carretas | 25–30 | 25–30 min |
- Payment is accepted in pesos or US dollars.
- Official taxis are safe and reliable, though more expensive than ride-hailing apps.
3. Ride-hailing apps (Uber and Cabify) 📲
Uber and Cabify operate normally at Montevideo Airport. Pick-up is usually arranged via the app in the arrivals zone.
- Price range: US$ 18–25.
- Travel time: 25–35 minutes.
- Availability: 24/7.
Compared to taxis, apps can be cheaper and payments are processed automatically through the app.
4. Private transfers and shared vans 🚐
Private transfers are the most convenient option for those who prefer to book everything in advance.
- Price: from US$ 47 per vehicle.
- Comfort: driver waiting inside the terminal with a name sign.
- Travel time: 40–50 minutes, depending on destination.
Shared vans are another option, costing about 400 pesos (~US$ 10) per passenger. However, departure depends on a minimum number of travelers.
5. Car rental 🚗
International rental companies such as Hertz, Avis and Sixt are available at the arrivals hall.
- Daily rates: US$ 40–60.
- Best for: travelers planning to explore beyond Montevideo (Punta del Este, Colonia del Sacramento, etc.).
- Not ideal for: those staying only in Montevideo, as traffic can be heavy and streets in central areas are often narrow.
6. Safety tips ⚠️
- Always use official taxis, ride-hailing apps, or pre-booked transfers.
- Confirm vehicle and driver details when using Uber or Cabify.
- Do not accept offers from unlicensed drivers outside the terminal.
- Public buses are safe but not the best option if you carry heavy luggage.
7. Accessibility ♿
Carrasco Airport is modern and fully accessible:
- Elevators and ramps throughout the terminal.
- Adapted restrooms.
- Clear signage in Spanish and English.
For transportation, accessible taxis or adapted vans can be arranged if requested in advance.
8. Where to buy a SIM card 📱
At the arrivals hall you can find kiosks from Uruguay’s main operators:
- Antel
- Claro
- Movistar
Prepaid packages start at US$ 10–20 for 5–10 GB of mobile data. Travelers may also choose an international eSIM before arriving.
9. Conclusion: best transport for each profile 🎯
- Budget option (💰): suburban bus (~US$ 2).
- Fastest (⚡): official taxi (~US$ 25–30, 25 min).
- Flexible (🚗): Uber or Cabify (US$ 18–25).
- Most comfortable (👥): private transfer (from US$ 47) or shared van (~US$ 10).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How much is a taxi from Montevideo Airport to downtown?
Around US$ 25–30.
2. Does Uber work at Montevideo Airport?
Yes, with fares ranging between US$ 18–25.
3. Is public transport recommended?
Yes, buses are safe and cheap, but not convenient for travelers with large luggage.
4. What is the best option for groups?
Private transfers, as the cost is per vehicle.
5. Can I get a SIM card at the airport?
Yes, at kiosks from Antel, Claro and Movistar in the arrivals hall.
Sources
Airport and context
- https://www.dicasdouruguai.com.br/montevideu/aeroporto-em-montevideu
- https://www.elandfly.com/br/aeroportos/como-ir-do-aeroporto-montevideu-para-centro-cidade
Public buses
- https://www.rome2rio.com/pt/s/Aeroporto-Internacional-De-Carrasco-MVD/Centro-Uruguai
- https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/L%C3%ADnea_703_%28Suburbanos_Montevideo%29
Taxis
- https://www.welcomepickups.com/montevideo/airport-to-city
- https://www.eduardo-monica.com/new-blog/como-sair-do-aeroporto-de-montevideu
Ride-hailing apps
Transfers and vans
- https://www.viator.com/tours/Montevideo/Transfer-from-Carrasco-International-Aiport-to-Montevideo
- https://www.viajenaviagem.com/destino/montevideu/como-chegar
SIM cards
