Things To Do
in Paraná
Paraná, the capital of Entre Ríos, sits along the wide Paraná River and blends riverfront charm with a historic heart. Strolling its leafy plazas, grand cathedral, and pastel façades reveals centuries of Spanish and Italian influence. The city serves as a gateway to wetlands, riverine adventures, and rural escapades across the province, all accessible with a relaxed pace.
In Paraná you will find vibrant markets, museums, and a lively café culture that invites long afternoons by the water.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Paraná and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely walk along the picturesque riverside promenade to acclimatize to the local atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional Argentinian breakfast at a nearby café, sampling medialunas and yerba mate.
Explore the vibrant city center, visiting the historic Plaza 1º de Mayo. Discover local shops and artisans while soaking in the architecture of the colonial buildings. Stop for lunch at a local parilla to experience authentic Argentine steak.
Wind down your first day with a scenic boat tour on the Paraná River during sunset. Experience the stunning views of the city skyline as you enjoy refreshments on board. Conclude your evening by dining at a riverside restaurant, indulging in local cuisine.
Start your day with a visit to the Provincial Museum of Fine Arts, which showcases a vast collection of 19th and 20th-century Argentine art. Spend time appreciating the local and international pieces that reflect the region's cultural heritage. Afterward, take a stroll through the nearby parks and gardens.
Head to the Cathedral of Paraná, a remarkable neo-Gothic structure that offers insight into the city's religious history. Enjoy lunch at a popular café nearby. Afterwards, visit the historic San Miguel de Tucumán House, gaining a glimpse into the life of the region’s early settlers.
Experience local theater by catching a performance at Teatro 3 de Febrero. The theater offers an excellent program, from classic plays to contemporary performances. Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant, reflecting on the cultural experiences of the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🚇Local transit (1 ticket) | $0.75-1.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $40-90 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $2-4 |
| 🛒Groceries (1 week, single person) | $40-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful riverfront setting with easy access to nature
- Reasonable prices and good value for money
- Pleasant pace and friendly locals
- Limited nightlife beyond casual venues
- Some attractions may require day trips to reach
- Heat and humidity in summer can be intense
- "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is ...?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "No entiendo" - I don't understand
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Paraná
Visit one of these nice places.
Sunset shots along the wide river with boats and the distant city skyline.
Gothic façade and interior details ideal for architectural photography.
Iconic river bridge with views of both riverbanks and city lights at dusk.
Historic square with trees, fountains, and colonial-era buildings as subjects.
Elevated paths and shaded lawns offering city and river panoramas.
Food in Paraná
Paraná Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A river fish served grilled with lemon and herbs, a regional specialty often found in riverside restaurants.
Must-Try!
Dorado or surubí preparations with simple sides like potatoes and vegetables.
Grilled beef cuts shared with friends or family at parrillas around town.
Savory pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables; common as street food or in bakeries.
Hearty maize stew classic in Argentine cuisine; sopa paraguaya is a cheesy cornbread–like dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market with fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and ready-to-eat bites.
Casual stalls along the riverfront offering choripán, chips, and hand-held snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; in casual settings a kiss on the cheek may occur among friends.
Spanish is spoken; polite forms like 'usted' are used; be patient in conversations.
Offering mate is a social signal; wait for everyone to be seated before starting meals; pace meals leisurely.
Safety
Tipping in Paraná
Ensure a smooth experience
In Argentina, a 10% service charge is customary if not included; otherwise leaving a small extra is appreciated.
Most restaurants accept cash (Argentine pesos) and cards; some smaller eateries may be cash-only; ATMs are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid; thunderstorms are common; stay hydrated, seek shade, and enjoy river breezes and evening strolls.
Mild days and cooler nights; great for outdoor walking and photography as foliage changes.
Cool to mild with some chilly mornings; layers are useful, and indoor cultural venues are comfortable.
Lush greenery and spring blooms; occasional showers but generally pleasant for outdoor activities.
Paraná at Night
Hiking in Paraná
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Palm groves, bamboo thickets, and river valleys with moderate hiking trails and wildlife viewing.
Riverside nature trails with birdwatching and river viewpoints; easy to moderate walks.
Riverside paths ideal for casual hikes, sunset photography, and scenic overlooks.
Airports
How to reach Paraná by plane.
Nearest regional airport; connects to Buenos Aires and other major hubs; about a 2-hour drive from Paraná.
Local/regional airport serving Paraná with domestic flights and ground transport.
Major international hubs for long-haul connections; from Paraná, reach them by bus or air transfer via a domestic flight.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families living in a relaxed urban setting.
University students contribute to a youthful, active nightlife and cafe culture.
Visitors come for river scenery, culture, and easy access to broader Entre Ríos landscapes.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and clubs help shape weekend outings.
A traditional ball-and-horses game enjoyed in some provinces; regional events occur seasonally.
River-based sports and clubs are popular in the region; boating and fishing are common leisure activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Paraná.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in many places; ask for pastas, salads, grilled vegetables, and pastries. Communicate 'sin carne' or 'vegetariano' to the server.