Things To Do
in Asunción
Asunción, Paraguay's capital, sits along the Paraguay River with a graceful mix of colonial architecture and modern street life. The city offers a relaxed pace, riverfront promenades, markets, and a growing dining scene that blends traditional Paraguayan flavors with contemporary influences. The climate is warm and humid for much of the year, with a distinct wet season that shapes outdoor plans.
Expect welcoming people, a river-centered vibe, and rich cultural heritage in the heart of the country.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through Asunción’s historic center, starting at the Palacio de los López, the presidential palace adorned with neoclassical architecture. Visit the nearby Plaza de los Héroes to soak in the local atmosphere and admire the statues commemorating Paraguay’s history. Stop by the National Pantheon of the Heroes to learn about the country’s struggle for independence and the key figures involved.
Head to the Casa de la Independencia Museum to delve deeper into Paraguay’s fight for freedom through its well-preserved artifacts and exhibits. Enjoy a traditional Paraguayan lunch at a nearby café, sampling dishes like sopa paraguaya or chipa guasu. Walk along the costanera of the Paraguay River, appreciating the views and lively street vendors offering crafts and snacks.
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Asunción by visiting one of the local bars or live music venues in the city center. Try a refreshing tereré, the traditional yerba mate drink served cold, while mingling with locals. End your evening with a peaceful walk under the illuminated colonial buildings, capturing the charm of the city at night.
Start your day at the Museo del Barro, which houses an extensive collection of indigenous and contemporary art, pottery, and sculptures from Paraguay and the region. Wander through the colorful galleries and outdoor sculpture garden while learning about the country’s rich artistic heritage. Don’t miss the indigenous ceramics section which reflects centuries of craftsmanship.
Visit the Centro Cultural de la República to explore temporary exhibitions, cultural events, and a small library dedicated to Paraguayan literature and history. Have lunch at a nearby restaurant offering modern Paraguayan fusion cuisine to experience local flavors with a twist. Spend some time browsing the artisanal shops in the area, picking up handwoven textiles and unique souvenirs.
Attend a local theater production or live music concert at one of Asunción’s cultural venues to experience the city’s vibrant performing arts scene. Enjoy dinner at an atmospheric restaurant with traditional Paraguayan harp music playing softly in the background. Conclude your day with a relaxed walk in the Plaza Uruguaya, a popular square known for its lively yet cozy ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🚌One-way local transport | $0.5-1 |
| 🏨Night in a mid-range hotel | $50-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm and welcoming people
- Affordable with good value for money
- Vibrant riverfront and cultural sites
- Growing dining and arts scene
- Heat and humidity can be intense in summer
- Nightlife is more low-key than in larger capitals
- Some areas can feel congested during peak hours
- Public transport coverage can be inconsistent outside central areas
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Buenas tardes" - Good afternoon
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Sí / No" - Yes / No
- "Disculpe" - Excuse me / Pardon me
- "Salud" - Cheers / Bless you (after a sneeze)
- "¡Qué gusto conocerle!" - Nice to meet you!
Places to Visit in Asunción
Visit one of these nice places.
A neoclassical monument that offers solemn interiors and architectural details ideal for travel photography.
Historic site with brickwork and period rooms that provide authentic photo angles of Paraguayan history.
Central square with greenery and colonial buildings, perfect for street photography and people-watching.
Riverside promenade with wide views of the Paraguay River and skyline at golden hour.
Colorful hillside streets and murals offering vibrant, on-theme photography opportunities.
Food in Asunción
Asunción Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory corn bread studded with cheese and onions, often enjoyed as a side dish or light meal.
Must-Try!
Cheese bread baked to a golden crust; perfect for a quick snack or breakfast.
A soft corn and cheese casserole, commonly served in markets and family kitchens.
A starchy pancake-like bread made from manioc flour, often filled or enjoyed plain.
Grilled beef and other meats, a staple at gatherings and parrillas around the city.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market in downtown Asunción offering fresh produce, meat, and a wide array of street foods. Try chipa, mbeju, and other local bites from stalls and small eateries.
Seasonal, riverfront stalls offering snacks and light meals with a view of the Paraguay River.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake; many locals speak Spanish and Guaraní. Using polite forms like Señor/Señora is appreciated in formal settings.
Paraguayans are friendly but can be reserved until you get to know them. Personal space and courtesy matter; avoid public displays of anger or loud conversations in quiet spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Asunción
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always mandatory. In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common if service is good; some establishments include a service charge on the bill.
Cash and cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops; smaller vendors may prefer cash. ATMs are common in city centers, and contactless payments are increasingly available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers. Plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons and bring water and sun protection.
Warm days with cooler evenings; pleasant for walking tours and outdoor dining, though rain is possible.
Mild to cool daytime temperatures with cooler nights; light layers are useful, and rainfall is less frequent than in summer.
Warm with rising humidity; good for outdoor exploration, markets, and riverfront strolls.
Asunción at Night
Hiking in Asunción
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short hike or viewpoint hike on the edge of the city offering city views and a pleasant escape into nature nearby.
A nearby nature reserve with short trails and opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.
Airports
How to reach Asunción by plane.
The main international gateway to Paraguay, located near Luque just outside Asunción. Taxis and rideshares are common ways to reach the city center from the airport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Spanish-speaking locals and Paraguayan Guaraní speakers, with a growing number of expats and international visitors in the city center.
A significant presence of Guaraní heritage integrated into daily life, food, music, and local markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The country’s most popular sport, with local matches and public viewing events in and around the city.
A growing sport with local clubs and community leagues that draw interest from fans and families.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Asunción.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Paraguayan cuisine centers on corn, cheese, and vegetables. Look for sopa paraguaya, mbeju, chipa guasu, and salads; ask for meat-free options when ordering, and consider tapas or vegetable stews at larger restaurants.