location.beaches.districts_subtitle
Historic downtown - Palacio de Gobierno, cathedral, Panteon Nacional, colonial buildings. Where Paraguay's history lives. Quiet, not touristy. Government buildings, plazas. Walking tour covers main sites. Deserted on weekends.
Upscale modern district - Shopping del Sol, restaurants, cafes. Where wealthy Asuncenos live. Safe, walkable, good eating. International restaurants. More developed, less character but comfortable.
Bohemian hill neighborhood - river views, art galleries, cafes, street art. Emerging creative district. Alternative vibe. Good for evening drinks. More character than Villa Morra. Walking up the hill rewarded with views.
faq.subtitle Asunción
Most nationalities visa-free 90 days - US, EU, UK, Canada, Australia. Stamp on arrival. Very easy entry. Extension possible at immigration. One of easiest South American entries. Few restrictions.
Off-beaten-path South America! Authentic, cheap, friendly. No tourist crowds. Unique Guaraní culture (everyone speaks it). Jesuit ruins, Chaco wilderness. For travelers tired of tourist trails. Genuine curiosity from locals.
Indigenous language - Paraguay is only South American country where indigenous language is official and spoken by most population (90%!). Spanish and Guaraní both official. Unique cultural situation. Learn 'mba'éichapa' (hello)!
Yes! One of cheapest South American countries. Budget $30-40/day easy. Mid-range $50-70. Huge currency numbers but great value. Eating out very affordable. Accommodation cheap. Shopping good for electronics (tax-free trade).
Useful tips for visiting Asunción
Walk the Costanera - riverside promenade with views of Paraguay River and Chaco beyond. Where locals exercise, hang out at sunset. Free, scenic, shows local life. Best late afternoon. Connects centro to nicer areas.
Visit Palacio de López at sunset - presidential palace with river views. Beautiful pink building. Plaza de Armas nearby. Free to view exterior. Guard changing ceremonies. Centro historico walkable from here.
Day trip to Encarnación for Jesuit ruins (UNESCO) - 4-5 hours by bus. Trinidad and Jesús ruins incredibly preserved. Fascinating colonial-indigenous history. Book tour or bus from Terminal de Ómnibus.
Try chipa (cheese bread - national snack!), sopa paraguaya (cornbread), empanadas, asado, tereré (cold mate with herbs). Paraguayan food hearty. Markets for cheap eats. Very affordable dining everywhere.
Average temperature by month
location.transport.subtitle
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Cost of food, accommodation and services
Prices are approximate and may vary by season and area.
Hotels and rental prices
Prices are approximate. Book in advance during high season.
location.payment.subtitle
Cash remains king. Essential for markets, taxis, motorbike taxis, fairs, small shops, street vendors, and public transport. Upscale hotels and restaurants accept digital payments. Despite digital growth (28M transactions/month via SPI), cash dominant in daily life.
Cambios (exchange houses) at shopping malls offer good rates (register first, check cambioschaco.com). Norte Cambios on Palma St in Asuncion. Bring perfect bills (no creases/tears/marks). Avoid airport exchanges.
Tipping not mandatory but appreciated 10%. Round up for taxis.
Follow standard precautions
Asunción relatively safe but petty theft exists. Avoid Bañado Norte slums. Centro can be deserted at night. Use taxis/Uber. Normal South American precautions. Less touristy means less tourist-targeted crime. Generally welcoming.