Uruguay
Money in Uruguay: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping
Use Uruguayan pesos for most purchases; cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist spots, but keep some cash for small shops and rural areas. Tip 10 % in restaurants and round up taxis.
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GuideUruguay
Key facts
- Currency
- Uruguayan peso (UYU)
- Typical ATM feecheck
- Varies by bank, often 2–3 % of withdrawal
- Card acceptance
- Visa and Mastercard accepted in most hotels, restaurants and larger shops
- Cash necessity
- Carry small amount for markets and rural areas
- Typical tip
- ≈10 % of bill in restaurants, round up taxi fare
Currency and payment methods
The official currency is the Uruguayan peso (UYU). Exchange rates in 2026 are about UYU 40 per US$1 (check). ATMs (Banred, RedBrou) dispense pesos and sometimes US dollars; fees differ by operator.
Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in most urban establishments, hotels, car rentals and larger shops. Some restaurants and bars apply a VAT exemption for foreign cards during the summer season (15 Nov – 30 Apr).
US dollars are quoted for many tourist services (hotels, ferries, car hire) but are not legal tender; expect change in pesos.
- Use a card for most city purchases.
- Keep 2,000–5,000 UYU for markets, taxis, and remote towns.
- Notify your bank of travel to avoid blocks.
Tipping guidelines
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. In restaurants, a 10 % tip is customary; many establishments add a service charge, so check the bill first.
For taxis, round the fare up to the nearest 10 UYU or add about 5 %.
Guides, drivers and hotel staff generally receive a small tip (5–10 USD) for good service.
| Service | Typical tip |
|---|---|
| Restaurant | ≈10 % of bill (or round up) |
| Taxi | Round up or 5 % |
| Hotel staff / guides | 5–10 USD per day |
Questions people ask
What currency is used in Uruguay?
The Uruguayan peso (UYU) is the legal tender; exchange rate is about 40 UYU per US$1 in 2026.
Should I use cash or a card in Uruguay?
Use cards in cities and tourist venues; carry cash for small shops, markets and rural areas.
How much should I tip in Uruguay?
Around 10 % in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and give 5–10 USD to guides or hotel staff for good service.
Do ATMs dispense US dollars?
Some ATMs may offer US dollars, but most dispense pesos; fees vary, so check before withdrawing.
Is VAT removed when I pay with a foreign card?
Yes, foreign cards get a VAT exemption at restaurants, bars, cafés and car hire during the summer season (15 Nov – 30 Apr).
Check live
Prices, schedules, rules and availability change. Open these to confirm today's details before you book.
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
- officialBanco Central del Uruguay – Currency info
- secondaryWikivoyage – Uruguay
Ask about Uruguay
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