What is the currency in Uruguay?

Uruguay has its own currency – the Uruguayan peso – and you can buy it before you travel to South America if you want to get ahead on your travel prep. Before you do though, read our guide to Uruguay’s currency to get an idea of how much spending money you might need, which currency denominations to expect, and the payment methods you can use while you’re there. We’ve covered everything you need to know below, so you can plan ahead and make the most of your trip when you arrive.

The Uruguayan peso at a glance

The Uruguayan peso is Uruguay's official currency. Its currency code is UYU, and its symbol is $, although you’ll sometimes see the symbol $U used to differentiate from other peso currencies. 

The currency was introduced in 1993 to replace the nuevo peso (UYP). Today, each Uruguayan peso contains 100 centésimos and the currency comes as both coins and banknotes.

Uruguayan peso denominations

Coins include:

$1, $2, $5, $10

Banknotes include:

$20, $50, $100, $200, $500, $1000, $2000 

Is the Uruguayan Peso used anywhere else in the world?

No, the Uruguayan peso is only used in Uruguay.

What is the current exchange rate for the Uruguayan Peso?

Exchange rates fluctuate all the time, so use our currency calculator to check today’s pound to Uruguayan peso rate.

What currencies can you use in Uruguay?

The Uruguayan peso is the only official currency used in Uruguay. You may find that US dollars are accepted in some tourist-heavy destinations, at places like supermarkets and car rental companies, although you’re likely to receive any change in Uruguayan pesos. If you choose to pay in USD by card, you might face unfavourable exchange rates – so it’s often preferable to pay in the local currency when you’re abroad.

What payment methods are accepted in Uruguay?

Cash

Cash is one of the most common and widely accepted payment method in Uruguay, although card and digital payments have become increasingly common in recent years. Having some Uruguayan pesos on hand is useful for paying at local markets like El Mercado del Puerto in Montevideo, and small independent shops, cafés and rural businesses, where card payments may not always be available. Cash can also come in handy for small purchases and tips, particularly outside larger towns and cities.

Debit and credit cards

Debit and credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, supermarkets and tourist attractions across Uruguay, especially in cities like Montevideo and Punta del Este. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted card networks, and you’re likely to need a credit card if you’re planning to hire a car here. Before you travel, check whether your bank charges foreign transaction or overseas cash withdrawal fees, as these could increase the cost of using your cards abroad. 

Digital wallets

Digital payments are becoming increasingly common in Uruguay, with contactless cards and mobile wallets gaining popularity. Google Wallet is available in Uruguay, but digital payment options may vary by bank and retailer. For that reason it’s a good idea to carry a range of payment methods including cash and cards, especially if you’re travelling outside larger towns and cities. 

How much money should I take with me to Uruguay?

According to Exiap, you’ll need about UYU 21,684 – about £400 – for a week’s spending money in Uruguay. That figure will vary based on what you plan to do there, so always check things like entrance fees for popular attractions before you travel and build a buffer into your budget for unexpected costs. And if you’re not sure how much foreign currency to take, bear in mind you can sell your leftover notes back at an M&S Travel Money bureau when you get home.*

At the time of writing, the cost of living in Uruguay is around 21% lower than it is in the United Kingdom, so you're likely to find your money goes further here when it comes to things like food, drink and everyday purchases. To give you a better idea of how much money to budget, we've listed some example costs in Uruguay vs the UK below* – just bear in mind these prices are illustrative.

• A mid-range three-course meal for two: £65.00 in the UK vs £37.42 (UYU 2,009.95) in Uruguay

• A small domestic draught beer: £5.00 in the UK vs £2.89 (UYU 155.00) in Uruguay

• A regular cappuccino: £3.53 in the UK vs £3.22 (UYU 173.06) in Uruguay

• A one-way ticket on local transport: £2.50 in the UK vs £1.04 (UYU 56.00) in Uruguay

*Example prices from Numbeo.com correct as at August 2026. All prices are illustrative.

Buying Uruguayan pesos with Marks & Spencer Travel Money

Ready to go to Uruguay? Don’t forget to take some local currency in cash. You can buy Uruguayan pesos to collect for free from 580+ participating M&S stores*. 

*T&Cs apply. Subject to availability. Sell-back only available at bureau locations.