Things To Do
in Ciudad del Este
Ciudad del Este is a high-energy border city on the Paraná River, opposite Brazil's Foz do Iguaçu. It serves as Paraguay's gateway for cross-border shoppers and traders, offering a vast market feel and neon-lit streets. The city buzzes with a mix of Paraguayan, Brazilian, and Argentine influences, evident in street food and multilingual chatter.
Plan time for both the markets and the riverfront, and stay mindful of belongings in crowded spots.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Cathedral of San Blas, known for its stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Stroll through the nearby Plaza de los Héroes, where you can admire local sculptures and enjoy the morning sun. Stop by a local café for a traditional Paraguayan breakfast featuring 'chipa' and freshly brewed yerba mate.
Head to the Itaipu Dam, one of the world's largest hydroelectric plants, where you can take a guided tour to learn about its engineering marvels and ecological impact. Explore the visitor center and enjoy the breathtaking views of the dam and the Paraná River. Afterward, return to the city and indulge in some shopping at the bustling Ciudad del Este market, famous for electronics and local crafts.
As the sun sets, visit a local restaurant to savor traditional Paraguayan cuisine like 'asado' and 'sopa paraguaya'. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and perhaps catch some live music featuring local folk artists. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront to enjoy the night view of the illuminated dam.
Embark on a thrilling journey to Iguazu Falls, one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world. Arrive early to experience the falls from the Brazilian side, where you can take in panoramic views of the cascading water. Don’t forget your camera, as the morning light offers perfect lighting for stunning photographs.
After exploring the main viewpoints, take a boat tour that will take you closer to the base of the falls for an exhilarating experience. Feel the mist on your face as you navigate the waters, surrounded by lush rainforest. Post-adventure, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the designated areas in the national park while listening to the sounds of nature.
Return to Ciudad del Este and unwind at a local bar, where you can try traditional drinks like 'tereré' or a refreshing cocktail. Engage with locals and fellow travelers as you share stories of your day. Enjoy a quiet dinner at a restaurant, reflecting on the awe-inspiring beauty of Iguazu Falls.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨Budget hotel night | $30-60 |
| 🚕Taxi 1 km | $1-3 |
| 🛒Markets or street snacks | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Low prices and a wide range of goods due to cross-border trade
- Vibrant street life and easy access to river and border viewpoints
- Compact city center that is walkable and navigable
- Crowded markets can be hectic and noisy
- Pickpocketing in crowded areas; keep valuables secure
- Limited vegetarian options in some eateries and variable quality in informal stalls
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Estoy perdido" - I am lost
- "¿Aceptan tarjetas de crédito?" - Do you accept credit cards?
Places to Visit in Ciudad del Este
Visit one of these nice places.
A long riverside walk with sunset views, boats, and silhouettes along the water.
Where Paraguay, Brazil, and Argentina meet; great for panoramic shots and urban silhouettes.
Neon storefronts, crowds, and vibrant street life ideal for candid photography.
Colorful textiles, local crafts, and everyday scenes perfect for street photography.
Food in Ciudad del Este
Ciudad del Este Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cheese bread snack common at breakfast or on the go.
Must-Try!
Savory cornmeal cake with cheese and onions.
Starchy pancake made from manioc flour and cheese.
Savory corn cake often served warm.
Grilled meats, a staple at Paraguayan eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market where you can sample fresh produce, meats, pastries, and quick bites.
Casual stalls offering empanadas, pastelitos, and grilled snacks along busy streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake and a friendly greeting in Spanish go a long way.
Sharing tereré is a social ritual; participate if invited and offer to share.
Be respectful in conversations; avoid loud, confrontational discussions in public.
Safety
Tipping in Ciudad del Este
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated in nicer establishments or if service charge is not included; 5-10% is common.
Cash in Guaraní (PYG) or USD is widely accepted in markets; credit/debit cards are common in restaurants and shops; ATMs are available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon storms; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shade.
Warm days with cooler nights; generally comfortable for outdoor activities.
Mild to cool nights; light jackets recommended, especially after sunset.
Expect warm days with intermittent showers; good for outdoor explorations with rain gear.
Ciudad del Este at Night
Hiking in Ciudad del Este
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Riverside trails and viewpoints around the Itaipú Binational Dam offering easy hiking and photography opportunities.
Scenic riverbank walks with birdwatching chances and sunset views.
Airports
How to reach Ciudad del Este by plane.
Brazilian airport just across the border; quick drive to Ciudad del Este via the Tancredo Neves Bridge.
Main international gateway in Paraguay; farther from Ciudad del Este but reachable by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of mestizo residents primarily engaged in trade and daily commerce.
Significant presence of cross-border residents from Brazil and Argentina who shop and work in the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport; local leagues and casual games are common.
Popular in schools and community centers; street basketball appears in some neighborhoods.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ciudad del Este.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options exist, but vegetarian choices can be limited; look for salads, beans, mandioca, and cheese dishes, and ask for 'sin carne' or 'vegetariano' preparations.