Radisson Montevideo Victoria Plaza Hotel

The Radisson Montevideo Victoria Plaza Hotel stands at 759 Plaza Independencia, in the very heart of the city, facing the statue of Artigas and the gateway to the old town. The Expedia listing describes it as five-star, with an indoor pool and sun loungers, a spa with facials, massages, sauna and hot tub, two restaurants including Arcadia, coffee shops, three bars and lounges, a gym and a casino. Free Wi-Fi, air conditioning and pet-friendly policies are standard. The location is the main attraction: the Palacio Salvo, the Palacio Estévez and the Teatro Solís are all within a short walk, and the pedestrian Calle Sarandí starts almost at the door. For first-time visitors, it keeps the best sights within walking distance.

Location and getting around: you can walk from the lobby to the Teatro Solís, the Puerta de la Ciudadela, Plaza Constitución and the old-town cafés in minutes, and to the Mercado del Puerto in roughly fifteen to twenty minutes on foot. Avenida 18 de Julio, the main commercial avenue, begins at the square, with buses and taxis easy to find. The Rambla and the beaches are a short taxi ride away. Montevideo's ferry port, with boats to Buenos Aires and Colonia, is also close.

Rooms and facilities: the hotel is a tall building, so higher floors have good views over the square and the city, and some over the river. Rooms are comfortable, in a classic international style, and the facilities list is long for a city hotel, including a pool, spa, gym, children's playground and hair salon. The casino adds evening activity in the lobby area. Breakfast is generally a large buffet, and the restaurant Arcadia serves other meals.

Who it suits: first-time visitors, business travellers, families who want facilities, and anyone who values walking to sights. Good to know: the old town is quiet on evenings and Sundays, so choose restaurants in advance and take a taxi after dark. Ask for a room facing the square if you want the view, and a higher floor if you want quiet, since the plaza can be lively during events. Parking and breakfast arrangements should be checked when booking, and rates vary by season and by the day of the week.