Safety in Montevideo - Most dangerous neighborhoods

For your next stay in the capital of Uruguay, you want to find out about the level of security in Montevideo and its neighborhoods.

Indeed, with its palm-fringed beaches, colonial architecture and cultural dynamism, Montevideo is a city that attracts tourists.

However, as in any major city today, safety is a major concern for residents and tourists alike.

This is why, in this article you will find all the information you need to plan your stay:

Detailed assessment of security in Montevideo,
List of the most dangerous neighborhoods and areas to avoid,
Safe and most recommended neighborhoods for a tourist stay.

The aim of this article is to help you fully enjoy your stay in Montevideo while remaining vigilant and avoiding risk areas.

Dangerous neighborhoods to avoid in Montevideo

How dangerous is Montevideo?

With a crime index of 55.97 , Montevideo is at the top of the world rankings (78th most crime-ridden city out of 311 ranked cities).

But the city is relatively safe for a South American capital if you compare it, for example, with Caracas , Recife or Rosario.

The main types of crime reported are pickpocketing, burglary and minor assault. Violent crime and homicide are much rarer.

However, Uruguay's capital has experienced a sharp increase in crime in recent years. This is confirmed by official government websites ( France Diplomatie and travel.gc.ca ).

It is therefore essential to avoid the most dangerous areas of the city in order to have a pleasant and safe stay there.

Most criminal areas in Montevideo

The two most dangerous areas are in the north and west of Montevideo.

These areas constitute what is known as the "red zone" of Montevideo, where most homicides, robberies and burglaries are concentrated.

Dangerous neighborhoods in Montevideo

Here are the neighborhoods (mostly on the outskirts) with the highest crime rates in Montevideo in 2024:

El Borro is considered the most dangerous neighborhood in Montevideo.
Cerro, along with Casabó, Cerro Norte and Santa Catalina, is part of an area with a high incidence of crime.
Casavalle
South Quarter
Cerrito
The tile
Peñarol
Paloma Tomkinson
Maroñas Flower
Three Shadows
Malvin North
40 Weeks
Bella Italia
Hipódromo de Palermo
Marconi
Spanish Villa

Areas to avoid in downtown Montevideo

There are also some areas to avoid in downtown Montevideo where crime is on the rise:

18 de Julio Avenue
Ciudad Vieja (the old town)
Independence Square
Puerto de Montevideo (around the port)
Parque Rodo and Parque Prado especially at night.
Bus stations, especially Terminal Tres Cruces.

To view all these areas, here is a website with a map of the dangerous neighborhoods of Montevideo: elobservador.com.uy

Safest Neighborhoods for Tourists in Montevideo

Among the safest neighborhoods in Montevideo, we particularly recommend the following for your stay:

little bits : This upscale, residential neighborhood is home to many hotels, restaurants, and popular tourist attractions, such as the promenade along La Rambla.
Carrasco : It is a trendy and dynamic area, with many restaurants and a beautiful beach.
Punta Carretas : This vibrant area offers plenty of shopping, dining and entertainment options, while remaining safe for visitors.

These neighborhoods offer an excellent balance between safety and accessibility to Montevideo's main attractions.

However, even in these areas considered safer, it is recommended to remain vigilant, particularly in the evening and at night.

Authorities have increased police presence in tourist and residential areas, but it is still advisable to take the usual precautions as in any large city.

Which hotel for a tourist stay?

Pocitos is the best area for a tourist stay.

By choosing your hotel in Pocitos, you will enjoy a pleasant stay in a lively, safe and well-located area, with easy access to Montevideo's attractions while enjoying the seaside charm of Uruguay.

Here are the 2 recommended hotels in this touristy and safe area of Montevideo: