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About MVD
Carrasco International Airport (MVD) is Uruguay's main international airport, located 19 km east of Montevideo city center in the Ciudad de la Costa area. The airport is famous for its award-winning terminal designed by Uruguayan architect Rafael Vinoly, opened in 2009. The striking modern terminal features a sweeping parabolic roof that has won multiple architecture awards. Despite being a smaller regional airport, MVD offers a pleasant, uncrowded travel experience with efficient processes and a distinctly Uruguayan charm.
Terminals
Main Terminal
The award-winning terminal designed by Rafael Vinoly, opened in 2009. Its dramatic parabolic concrete roof spans the entire building, creating a bright, airy space. The terminal is compact and efficient with all facilities on two levels — departures upstairs, arrivals below.
Minimum Connection Times (MCT)
Airlines at MVD
Aerolineas Argentinas
Main Terminal
Air Europa
Main Terminal
American Airlines
AVIANCA
Azul
Main Terminal
Copa Airlines
Main Terminal
GOL
Iberia
Showing 8 of 12 airlines. View all airlines →
Getting There & Away
Taxis, ride-hailing (Uber), COT/COPSA intercity buses, hotel shuttles
Taxi
$25-35
25-35 min to city center
Public Transport
$2-3
40-60 min to city center
Popular Destinations
Parking at MVD
Covered and open-air parking in front of the terminal building....
Covered Parking
Open-Air Parking
Airport Lounges
VIP Lounge Carrasco
Main Terminal
The main lounge in the international departures area with views of the runway through large windows. Offers Uruguayan wines, local craft beer, a light buffet with empanadas and sandwiches, and comfortable seating.
Sala VIP Business
Main Terminal
Smaller business lounge with a selection of snacks, beverages, and workspace. Quieter alternative during off-peak hours.
Where to Stay
Nearby Hotels
Holiday Inn Montevideo Airport
Ruta 101, 3 minutes from airport
Convenient airport hotel with free shuttle, restaurant, and comfortable rooms. Basic but reliable for overnight stays or early flights.
Regency Park Hotel & Spa
Ciudad de la Costa, 5 minutes from airport
Upscale hotel near the airport with spa, pool, restaurant, and modern rooms. Free airport shuttle service. Day rooms available for layover passengers.
Food & Dining
La Pasiva
Uruguayan/Fast Food
Main Terminal (Landside)
Classic Uruguayan chain known for chivitos (Uruguay's signature steak sandwich), hamburgers, and cold beer. A taste of local fast food culture.
6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
McDonald's
Fast Food
Main Terminal (Airside)
Standard McDonald's menu. Reliable option for familiar food before departure.
5:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Cafe Martinez
Cafe/Argentine
Main Terminal (Airside)
Argentine coffee chain serving excellent medialunas (croissants), empanadas, cafe con leche, and sandwiches. Perfect for a pre-flight mate or coffee.
5:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Car Rental
Europcar
Arrivals Hall
Counter in arrivals. Roads in Uruguay are well-maintained but mostly two-lane outside Montevideo. Good for trips to Colonia del Sacramento or Punta del Este.
Avis
Arrivals Hall
Reliable option with good vehicle selection. Renting is great for coastal road trips. Note that peajes (tolls) are paid in cash or with local transponders.
What to Do During a Layover
Explore the City
These activities require leaving the airport. Make sure you have valid visa and enough time before your next flight.
Rambla Waterfront Walk
Stroll along Montevideo's famous 22-km Rambla (waterfront promenade) along the Rio de la Plata. Pass through Pocitos beach, Parque Rodo, and enjoy the sunset with mate like a local.
Mercado del Puerto
The iconic 1868 port market is a must-visit for meat lovers. Watch asadores grill massive cuts of beef over wood fires. Try a medio y medio (half sparkling wine, half white wine) — the market's signature drink.
Montevideo Old Town (Ciudad Vieja)
Explore Montevideo's historic old town with its colonial architecture, Plaza Independencia, the Solis Theater, and the Mercado del Puerto — a vibrant iron-frame market famous for parrillada (grilled meats) and local Tannat wine.
Practical Information
WiFi & Connectivity
- Free WiFi: Yes (Unlimited)
- Speed Rating: ●●●○○
- Power Outlets: Type C/F/L (European/Italian/Uruguayan), USB charging stations
- SIM Cards: Available for purchase
Services
- Left Luggage: $5-8/day
- Medical Services: Available
Family Facilities
- Children's Play Areas
- Nursing Rooms
- Family Restrooms
Money & Currency
- Currency: Uruguayan Peso (UYU)
- Exchange: Exchange counters in arrivals hall (Cambio Gales, BROU)
- Hours: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Better rates are available at cambios (exchange houses) in Montevideo city center. ATMs in arrivals hall accept international cards but charge fees.
Smoking Areas
Outdoor areas outside terminal only
Insider Tips
The airport is modern, compact, and easy to navigate. Uruguay is one of the most stable and safe countries in South America. Uber works at the airport and is cheaper than taxis. The terminal design is stunning — worth arriving early to appreciate the architecture. Duty-free prices on liquor are very competitive.
Facilities & Contact
Airport Facilities
Free Wi-Fi, chapel, duty-free shops, currency exchange, medical services, left luggage, SIM card sales, ATMs, restaurants, VIP lounges
Official Website
Phone
+598-2604-0386
Traveler Reviews
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Compare with Nearby Airports
See how MVD compares to other major airports in the region.
Carrasco International Airport
Montevideo, Uruguay
Aeroparque Jorge Newbery
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Ezeiza International Airport
Buenos Aires, Argentina