Asunción Paraguay: Unique Things to Do in Paraguay’s Capital in 2025

Are you planning to travel internationally? Consider visiting Asunción, Paraguay. With various things to do, you will surely appreciate the rich cultural heritage mixed with modern allure.

The capital of a country with a rich colonial and contemporary history, Asunción packs it in with fascinating ruins, diverse museums, wonderful artworks, and dynamic architecture that travelers of every stripe would enjoy.

Paraguay is a landlocked country with Asunción as its capital city. Located in the south, Asunción is the country’s largest city, home to over three million people. 

Buzzing with rich history and culture that traces back to the Spanish colonial era, Asunción is known for its beautiful architecture, blending Spanish and Guaraní styles.

Travelers often overlook Asunción, but it is a destination you should not miss. The city offers a lot—from museums and historic sites to art galleries and parks. This guide will share some of the best things to see, do, and taste in Asunción, Paraguay.

Let’s uncover more of Asunción’s mystery with this article that lists the best things to see and do in the city of “Nuestra Señora de la Asunción” (Our Lady of the Assumption). 

Best Things To Do In Asunción Paraguay – Sights 

Asunción, Paraguay, is a city that is rich in culture and history, and there are several attractions that you should not miss. 

1. Casa de la Independencia

Casa de la Independencia is a museum that showcases the history of Paraguay’s Independence Day, including artifacts, documents, and paintings of the early years. It is in a colonial-era building, once the home of one of the leaders of Paraguay’s independence movement.

2. Palacio de López

Palacio de López is the presidential palace of Paraguay, located in the heart of Asunción. It was built in the 19th century by Carlos Antonio López. It was the residence of General Francisco Solano López, a dictator of Paraguay from 1862 to 1870 who died during the Paraguayan War or the War of the Triple Alliance. 

3. Museo del Barro

Museo del Barro features exhibits showcasing the country’s indigenous cultures. It also exhibits contemporary art from Paraguay and other countries in the Latin-American Mercosur area, like Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay.

4. Panteón Nacional de los Héroes

Panteón Nacional de los Héroes is a mausoleum dedicated to Paraguay’s heroes who played great roles in its history. It’s a place with impressive buildings, art, and culture. They do a special ceremony where the guards change several times each day. On the front of the building, there’s a Latin saying, “Fides et Patria,” which means “My faith and my country.”

5. Mercado Municipal 4

Mercado Municipal 4, or Mercado Cuatro, is a bustling common market in Asunción that is a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine. The market sells everything from cooked food, fresh produce, and meat to handmade crafts and souvenirs.

6. Calle Palma

Calle Palma is a bustling street that captures the city’s energy and charm. Lined with colorful buildings, shops, and restaurants, it’s a good destination for travelers exploring the vibrant capital of Paraguay.

If you want to go out to eat, this is the place to be. Check Bolsi on Calle Estrella, a one-road to Calle Palma, for a lovely drink or incredible food.

7. Loma San Jerónimo

Loma San Jerónimo is a picturesque Asunción neighborhood with stunning city views. Its winding streets, charming homes, and lush greenery create a peaceful, relaxing atmosphere perfect for a stroll or a picnic.

8. Catedral Metropolitana de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción

Catedral Metropolitana de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción is a breathtakingly beautiful cathedral in the heart of Asunción. Its impressive neoclassical architecture, ornate decor, and rich history make it a landmark for anyone interested in culture, art, and religion.

9. Costanera de Asunción

Costanera de Asunción is a stunning waterfront promenade along the Paraguay River that offers visitors various activities. From leisure walks along the beach to renting bikes and exploring nearby parks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

Just be careful if you visit in summer like we did, it was 104°F (40°C), and there is absolutely no shade. Within 10 minutes, we were completely drenched, so please go later at night or early in the morning when you want to walk a longer way.

Best Things To Do in Asunción Paraguay – Activities 

Asunción, Paraguay, is a city that offers plenty of activities for travelers. Whether you are looking for adventure or want to immerse in its culture, there is something for you in Asunción. 

10. Visit the Parque Ñu Guasu

Parque Ñu Guasu is a large park on Asuncións outskirts, home to several lakes and a bird sanctuary. The park is excellent for relaxing and enjoying nature, with plenty of walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds. 

Take into account what time of year you visit. If it’s too warm during the day, I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the scorching sun.

11. Take a Boat Tour of the Paraguay River

The Paraguay River is a really important river in South America. Going on a boat to explore it is a great idea. In Asunción, you can take boat tours that give you a special view of the city and nearby areas.

They include stops at several historical sites and provide stunning views of the city’s skyline. You can also meet other travelers on tour.

12. Learn To Play the Harp

The harp is an essential instrument in Paraguayan music. There are several places in Asunción where you can take harp lessons, an excellent way to experience the local culture. Playing with the locals will also help you connect with the friendly people of Asunción.

13. Watch a Football Match

In Paraguay, soccer is the main sport, and Asunción has many soccer stadiums where you can see a game. Watching a soccer match is a cool way to feel the local culture and how much people love the sport.

14. Attend a Cultural Event

Asunción, Paraguay, is a rich cultural city, and several cultural events occur yearly. Among the popular events that you should not miss:

• Carnival – is the largest festival in Paraguay, taking place multiple days before Lent begins.
• Día de San Blas – celebrates Paraguay’s patron saint, Saint Blas, held every February 3.
• Verbena de San Juan – a traditional festival held in June where people walk on hot coals.
• Independence Day (Día de la Independencia) – marks Paraguay’s independence from Spain with events like parades, concerts, and fireworks held nationwide every May 19.

Visitors have a special chance to explore the vibrant cultural heritage of Asunción and Paraguay through these festivals and events.

15. Visit the Parque de la Salud

Parque de la Salud is a popular park in Asunción that offers visitors a peaceful and scenic escape from the city. With shaded paths, playgrounds for kids, and plenty of spots to sit and relax, it’s an excellent place for a morning, afternoon, or all-day outing with the family.

16. Visit the Jardín Botánico y Zoológico

Jardín Botánico y Zoológicois a botanical garden and zoo in Asunción, Paraguay, covering 110 hectares (270 acres) of natural forest. It’s a popular attraction in the city and allows visitors to see various flora and fauna. This zoo is a great sight if you want to immerse in biodiversity.

Best Things To Do in Asunción Paraguay – Food

Asunción, Paraguay, is known for its delicious cuisine, blending Spanish and indigenous flavors. These are the best unique foods and drinks in Asunción, Paraguay.

17. Chipa

Chipa is a bread made with corn flour, cheese, and eggs. People in Paraguay like to eat it, especially in the morning or for a snack during the day.

18. Sopa Paraguaya

Sopa Paraguaya is like cornbread, made with cornmeal, cheese, and onions. It’s a common side dish in Paraguay, often served with meat.

19. Tereré

Tereré is a traditional refreshing drink popular in Paraguay, similar to mate. It is made of yerba mate leaves steeped in cold water, often flavored with herbs or fruits. 

20. Mbejú

Mbejú is a pancake made from cassava flour, cheese, and eggs. It is a popular snack in Paraguay that you usually eat with dulce de leche or honey.

21. Pira Caldo

Pira Caldo is a fish soup with catfish, onions, tomatoes, and peppers. You can eat it with cornbread.

Getting Around Asunción, Paraguay – Transportation Options

Getting around Asunción, Paraguay, is relatively easy. Some buses run throughout the city, and taxis are also readily available. I don’t recommend the bus system if you’re staying short-term, as you need to buy a bus pass that you need to charge. We have been looking for a place that sells bus passes for over an hour, but we couldn’t find any. That’s just our experience. 

You can ride a taxi to your hotel or accommodation if you are from the airport. The base taxi fee is around 5,000 Paraguayan Guarani (0.70 US Dollars), with about 10,000 PYG ($1.4) added per kilometer. I recommend using Uber around Paraguay, which is less hassle and extremely cheap. Renting a car is also an option if you prefer to explore the city at your own pace.

One of the best ways to explore Asunción is on foot. The city is compact, and many main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking around the city is also a great way to experience the local culture and interact with the friendly people of Asunción.

Where To Stay in Asunción Paraguay

Asuncion Paraguay has various accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some of the accommodations include:

Budget: El Viajero Asunción Hostel & Suites

Are you traveling on a budget? You can stay at the El Viajero Asunción Hostel & Suites. This hostel is at the heart of Asunción’s historic center, around 11 miles (18 kilometers) from the Silvio Pettirossi International Airport. It offers dormitory and private rooms with free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour front desk, and a shared kitchen and lounge.

Mid-Range: Dazzler by Wyndham Asunción 

If you want both affordability and a bit more boogie, try Dazzler by Wyndham Asunción . It is 6 mi (9 km) from the Silvio Pettirossi International Airport. It is a modern-style hotel with free Wi-Fi access when you book. You also have access to their outdoor pool, a fitness center, a restaurant, a bar, a buffet breakfast, and 24-hour room service.

Luxury: Sheraton Asunción Hotel

If you can splurge on your accommodation, then the Sheraton Asunción Hotel offers a 5-star experience in the residential neighborhood of Villa Morra. It is a five-minute walk from the Ñu Guazu Park. If you come from the Silvio Pettirossi International Airport, the hotel is 5 miles (8 km) away. 

The location has fancy rooms with free Wi-Fi, a pool outside, a gym, a restaurant, and a bar. The hotel provides a buffet breakfast; you can get room service anytime, day or night.

For more accommodation options, you may click on the map.

Tips To Enjoy Your Asunción Paraguay Visit

As with any destination, it is essential to take precautions when traveling in Asunción, Paraguay. Some safety tips to keep in mind include:

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Asunción, Paraguay, is generally safe, but you must be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas and stay in well-lit areas. Don’t just do this when you travel to Asunción. Be aware of your surroundings when traveling abroad, whether in Asunción or other places like Cotopaxi, Ecuador, Cartagena, Colombia, or Jardin, Colombia.

Keep Your Valuables Safe

Pickpocketing and theft can occur, especially in crowded areas like shopping malls. Hence, it is essential to keep your valuables safe. You can use a money belt to secure your money and travel documents like a passport and visa.

Use Reputable Taxi Services

You can ride taxis around Asunción, Paraguay, but use reputable taxi services. Avoid flagging unmarked taxis, and make sure the taxi has a working meter before entering. We avoided taxi services entirely and used Uber instead. That way, you know exactly what you pay and can pay by card, avoiding the hassle of needing smaller bills to give to the driver.

Stay Hydrated

Asunción can be hot and humid, especially during the summer months. So, ensure that you drink water throughout the day to stay hydrated.

Learn Basic Spanish

While many people in Asunción speak English, learning basic Spanish phrases can help you communicate with locals and navigate the city more efficiently. Think about joining a language class or using apps to learn the language before your trip.

Stay in Safe Areas

While Asunción is generally safe, it is still better to stay in secure areas, especially if you are a woman or a solo traveler. Avoid walking alone at night. When you go out, stick to well-lit and busy areas.

Additionally, consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing, which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Asunción, Paraguay

What Is Asunción Paraguay Known For?

Paraguay boasts a lot of interesting facts, with Asunción standing out for its unique blend of colonial and modern architecture, diverse international cuisine, friendly locals, and vibrant nightlife. Asunción is the country’s biggest city on the east of the Paraguay River.

Is Paraguay an American Country?

Yes, Paraguay is an American country. Based on its geography, it is one of the landlocked South American countries. It shares borders with the South American countries of Brazil, Argentina, and Bolivia.

Does Paraguay Speak English?

The official languages of Paraguay are Spanish and Guaraní, with only a tiny percentage of the people speaking English. We recommend that you have some knowledge of Spanish or Guaraní when traveling to Paraguay. Or ensure that you have a SIM card to use Google Translate. You can just speak on the phone, and they can do the same.

Is It Safe To Travel to Paraguay?

As with any foreign destination or country, taking safety precautions when traveling to Paraguay is essential. Petty crime and scams can occur, particularly in tourist areas. However, violent crime is rare. 

Be sure to stay alert and apply common sense, such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping valuable items out of sight. Also, plan your itinerary and familiarize yourself with the location of your country’s embassy or consulate in case you need help.

Conclusion – Asunción Paraguay

There are numerous delightful attractions in Asunción that you should not miss, whether you are visiting the city for the art or just passing through Friendship Bridge, which connects Asuncion to Ciudad del Este on your way to Iguazu Falls as you backpack across the best places in South America. 

Asunción, Paraguay, may yet to ascend to its place as a top travel destination in Latin America compared to its world-famous neighbors. However, that is a blessing for laidback travelers who just want to soak in the sights, immerse in the culture, and interact with people without the tourist hordes.

¡Buen viaje!

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