Things To Do
in Asunción
Nestled on the banks of the Paraguay River, Asunción is the vibrant capital and largest city of Paraguay, known for its rich cultural heritage and bustling commercial activity. This city is a blend of historical architecture and modern development, with landmarks such as the Palacio de los López and the Panteón Nacional de los Héroes showcasing its colonial past and independence struggle.
Asunción serves as the political, economic, and cultural heart of the country, offering a unique mix of urban life and traditional Paraguayan customs.
- "mba'eichapa" - how are you
- "aguije" - thank you
- "nderehecha'arai" - I don't understand
- "iporã" - it's good/it's nice
- "ko'ẽ porã" - good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Palacio de los López, an impressive presidential palace. Take a stroll around the surrounding Parque Ñu Guasu to enjoy the lush greenery.
Head to the National Pantheon of the Heroes to absorb some Paraguayan history. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby local restaurant, sampling traditional dishes.
End your day with a sunset walk along the Costanera, enjoying views of the Paraguay River. Consider dining at a riverside café for a relaxing evening.
Visit the Mercado 4, one of the largest markets in Asunción for local crafts and goods. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and pick up some souvenirs.
Explore the local art scene at the Museo del Barro, showcasing Paraguayan ceramics and artwork. Take a break in one of the nearby cafes for coffee and pastries.
Spend your evening at the Paseo La Galería for some high-end shopping and dining. Grab dinner at one of the many restaurants, experiencing modern Paraguayan cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable cost of living compared to many other South American cities.
- Rich cultural history and a vibrant local culture with various festivals.
- Central location in South America, making it a good hub for travel in the region.
- Friendly and welcoming locals who are generally helpful to newcomers.
- Growing opportunities for business and investment in recent years.
- Limited public transportation options, making it challenging to get around.
- Infrastructure may not be as developed as in other larger South American cities.
- Language barrier, as many locals primarily speak Spanish and Guarani.
- Higher crime rates in certain areas can be a concern for residents and visitors.
- Economic inequalities can be evident in different parts of the city.
Best Activities in Asunción
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A hill with trails for hiking and beautiful views of the city and surrounding area.
A scenic waterfront area along the Paraguay River, perfect for walking, cycling, or enjoying the view.
A great place to spend time outdoors, exploring the diverse plant life and observing animals in a natural setting.
Tours
Uncover the best of Asunción with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Asunción
Visit one of these nice places.
The Costanera de Asunción along the Paraguay River offers stunning views of the city skyline and the river, providing great photo opportunities.
La Recoleta is a historic neighborhood with beautiful views of the city and the Bay of Asunción, offering great photo opportunities, especially during sunset.
The Palacio de los López, located in the Plaza de Armas, provides a picturesque backdrop for photography, featuring elegant architecture and beautiful gardens.
Food in Asunción
Asunción Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory cornbread and cheese casserole, often accompanied by meat dishes. Best tried at Lido Bar in the city center.
Must-Try!
A corn and cheese casserole, a popular side dish in Paraguay. Can be found at Mercado 4, a bustling market in Asunción.
A type of pancake made from cassava starch and cheese, commonly served as a snack. You can sample mbeju at Lomiteria Karibe, a local food stand near the government building.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Asunción better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the largest markets in the city, offering a variety of fresh produce, local snacks like chipa and empanadas, as well as traditional crafts and clothing.
In the evening, streets around Lido Barbecue Stands come alive with grilling stations offering an assortment of meat skewers, sausages, and grilled vegetables.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Asunción, Paraguay, it is customary to greet friends and acquaintances with a kiss on the cheek or a handshake. This is a sign of respect and friendliness.
When addressing someone in a formal or respectful manner, it is important to use the formal form of 'you' which is 'usted' in Spanish. This demonstrates politeness and respect for the other person.
Paraguayans value personal space, so it is important to maintain an appropriate distance when interacting with others, especially during initial meetings or conversations.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Asunción with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Asunción
Ensure a smooth experience
In Asunción, Paraguay, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected in restaurants, taxi rides, or other service industries. However, if you receive exceptional service, you may choose to leave a small tip as a token of appreciation, but it is not mandatory.
In Asunción, Paraguay, cash is widely used for transactions. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in many establishments, especially in more urban areas. It is advisable to carry cash in smaller denominations as many places may not accept large bills. It's also important to note that in Paraguay, the currency used is the Guarani (PYG).
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Asunción.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with mild temperatures and blooming flowers.
Hot and humid weather, with occasional thunderstorms.
Pleasant temperatures, great for outdoor activities.
Cool and dry weather, suitable for exploring the city without extreme heat.
Asunción at Night
Hiking in Asunción
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A national park that offers a variety of trails and beautiful scenery, including waterfalls and diverse flora and fauna.
This large park features several hiking trails, picnic areas, and recreational spaces amidst a mix of native and planted trees.
A biological reserve with hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the rich biodiversity of the area, including unique bird and plant species.
A popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape, with trails that vary in difficulty.
A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with breathtaking views from the summit, located near Asunción.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Asunción through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Asunción by plane.
The main international airport serving Asunción, Paraguay. It offers flights to several destinations in South America and a few international routes.
Located in Porto Alegre, Brazil, this airport is approximately 600 km from Asunción and serves as a major gateway to southern Brazil.
Situated in Montevideo, Uruguay, about 200 km from Asunción, it serves as a key international airport for flights to and from South America and beyond.
Located in São Paulo, Brazil, approximately 1,200 km from Asunción, this airport is one of the busiest in Brazil and offers numerous international connections.
Located in Ciudad del Este, Paraguay, about 330 km from Asunción, it serves as an important airport for international flights, particularly to Brazil and Argentina.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Asunción, comprising individuals of mixed indigenous and European descent.
Includes various ethnic groups that are original inhabitants of the region, though they represent a smaller percentage of the population.
This group primarily includes descendants of European immigrants, particularly from Spain and Italy.
A small but significant demographic, primarily consisting of Japanese and Korean immigrants and their descendants.
Composed of individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those with indigenous, European, or other heritage.
The Soul of Asunción
Discover the essence of Asunción through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Asunción and throughout Paraguay. The country has a rich football culture and is home to various clubs and a passionate fanbase.
Basketball enjoys a significant following in Asunción, with several local clubs and national competitions that attract many fans.
Rugby has been growing in popularity, with several clubs in the city promoting the sport and competing at national and international levels.
Volleyball is a popular recreational sport in Asunción, played both indoors and on the beach, with various clubs and school competitions.
Tennis is also popular among the residents of Asunción, with numerous clubs and facilities available for both amateur and professional players.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Asunción.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Paraguayan cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants and cafes in Asunción offer vegetarian and vegan versions of traditional dishes, along with international cuisine that caters to these dietary preferences.
A growing awareness of gluten sensitivities has led to an increase in gluten-free offerings at various dining establishments in Asunción, particularly in more tourist-oriented areas and modern dining spaces.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Asunción with these cultural adventures.
