Asunción is an incredible – and often underestimated – city in South America.
Green, historic, and vibrant, Paraguay’s capital offers a unique blend of colonial architecture, deep history, resilience, and an emerging food scene.
If you’re planning a visit, this guide was designed to help you make the most of your trip, and to invite you to discover our own accommodation, ZenGarden Paraguay.
Below, we explore the highlights of the Historic Center, focusing on Asunción’s essential trio: the Government Palace, the Costanera, and the National Pantheon of the Heroes.
The 10 Best Things to Do in Asunción
Short on time?
Here’s the definitive checklist of what to prioritize in Asunción:
- Palacio de los López – The seat of government and the city’s most iconic landmark
- Asunción Costanera – The riverfront promenade along the Paraguay River
- National Pantheon of the Heroes – The country’s most important mausoleum
- Casa de la Independencia – Where Paraguay’s independence began
- Metropolitan Cathedral – The spiritual heart of the city
- Central Railway Station Museum – A journey into the age of steam
- Museum of Economy – Culture and numismatics
- Museo del Barro – Unmissable Indigenous and contemporary art
- Sunset Rooftops – The best views in the city
- Paraguayan Cuisine – Authentic local flavors
Now, let’s explore each one in detail. Ready? Let’s go.
1. Palacio de los López
The Palacio de los López is not just the workplace of Paraguay’s president – it is the ultimate symbol of Paraguayan resilience and one of the most impressive buildings in the region.
Although visitors cannot enter the building, seeing it from the outside is essential.
History & Architecture:
Designed by English architect Alonso Taylor, construction began in 1857. The palace was built using native materials from different regions of Paraguay, symbolizing national unity before the War of the Triple Alliance.
Best Viewpoint:
Don’t settle for street-level photos. For the perfect view, head to Casa Clari Bar, located in the Manzana de la Rivera complex, directly across from the palace.
Tip:
Go in the late afternoon, order a drink, and watch the palace light up after sunset. The nighttime illumination reveals architectural details that midday light hides.
2. Walking Along the Asunción Costanera
Just steps from the palace, the Costanera is the modern riverfront that reconnected the city to the Paraguay River.
What you’ll find:
At the start of the promenade, you’ll see the famous “Asunción” sign (a must for photos) and, seasonally, a Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the bay.
When to go: Asunción is known for its intense heat.
- Avoid: 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., when the sun is harsh and the area is quiet
- Best time: After 5:30 p.m., when temperatures drop, river breezes arrive, and locals come out to drink tereré, bike, and exercise
Activities:
Bike rentals, street food vendors, and one of the most beautiful sunsets in the country. Trust us. 🙂
3. National Pantheon of the Heroes: The Heart of the City
Located downtown, the National Pantheon of the Heroes is more than a monument – it’s a place of reverence and the symbolic “kilometer zero” of Paraguay’s highways.
Admission is free, and the experience is culturally rich.
Why visit?
Inspired by Paris’ Les Invalides (on a smaller scale), it serves as a mausoleum for Paraguay’s most important historical figures and as an oratory dedicated to the Virgin of Asunción.
Who rests here?
- Marshal Francisco Solano López
- Carlos Antonio López, Paraguay’s first constitutional president
- José Félix Estigarribia, hero of the Chaco War
- The Children Martyrs of Acosta Ñu, honored for their sacrifice
Cultural tip:
Try to time your visit with the Changing of the Guard, a solemn military ceremony held several times a day.
Where to Eat Nearby
The area around the Pantheon is lively and historic, with charming squares and many dining options.
Local highlight:
Just around the corner, you’ll find El Bodegón, famous for serving what many consider the best milanesa in Paraguay. A true cultural experience for meat lovers, served in a classic, old-school atmosphere.
4. Casa de la Independencia
If there’s one must-visit museum in the Historic Center, it’s Casa de la Independencia.
This colonial house from 1772 is where Paraguay was born as a nation.
Historical importance:
It served as the secret meeting place for patriots who planned the independence movement, culminating on the night of May 14, 1811.
The experience:
Walk through preserved rooms with original furniture, documents, and personal belongings of independence leaders.
Language note:
All exhibits are in Spanish. If you’re not fluent, consider hiring a guide or using real-time translation apps like Google Lens.
Practical info:
- Admission: Free
- Hours: Monday–Friday (7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.), Saturdays (8:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.)
5. Metropolitan Cathedral & Surroundings
A short walk away stands the Metropolitan Cathedral of Asunción, the country’s main Catholic church.
Its simple neoclassical façade contrasts with an impressive silver-adorned altar inside.
⚠️ Safety Notice:
Stick to the square and main esplanade in front of the cathedral.
Avoid side streets and the area behind it, which leads into La Chacarita, an informal settlement not recommended for unaccompanied tourists.
6. Specialized Museums
Central Railway Station Museum:
Did you know Paraguay was one of the first South American countries to have a railway system?
Founded in 1857, the museum allows visitors to step inside original wooden train cars and see the first steam locomotive imported from England.
- Entry fee: Small maintenance fee (around USD 1–2)
Museum of Economy:
Recently renovated, this museum tells Paraguay’s economic story – from yerba mate cycles to the construction of Itaipu, one of the world’s largest hydroelectric dams.
- Admission: Free
- Open: Monday to Saturday
Museo del Barro:
Located outside the Historic Center, Museo del Barro is the most impactful art museum in Paraguay and absolutely worth the trip.
It features:
- Indigenous art
- Folk art
- Contemporary, politically charged works
Shopping tip:
The museum shop offers high-quality, authentic crafts – far better than street souvenirs.
8. Rooftops: Asunción From Above
Asunción is experiencing a rooftop boom.
Downtown (Classic vibe):
- Negroni Downtown Skybar – Unbeatable sunset views over the river and colonial skyline
Villa Morra (Modern vibe):
- Zulu – Two-level rooftop with panoramic views
- Negroni Dazzler – Relaxed atmosphere with a pool
9. Paraguayan Cuisine: What to Eat
Paraguayan food is hearty, comforting, and deeply rooted in Guaraní and Spanish traditions.
Must-try dishes:
- Sopa Paraguaya (a savory corn cake)
- Mbejú (crispy cassava starch pancake with cheese)
- Pira caldo (river fish soup)
- Kivevé (creamy pumpkin and corn dish)
- Milanesa (a national obsession)
The Culture of Tereré
Almost every Paraguayan carries a thermos – and it’s not water.
Tereré is cold yerba mate, often infused with medicinal herbs. It’s a symbol of friendship and was declared Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.
If someone offers you a sip, accept it. It’s the highest form of welcome.
Where to Stay in Asunción?
Most travel guides will suggest staying downtown or in Villa Morra.
While convenient, these areas come with constant noise, traffic, and little opportunity to truly disconnect.
Sometimes, the best place to stay isn’t inside the chaos – but right next to it.
ZenGarden Paraguay: Your Refuge in Greater Asunción
Located in Ñemby, about 30–50 minutes from downtown, ZenGarden Paraguay offers a different approach to accommodation.
Close enough for city access. Far enough to hear birds instead of horns.
Instead of standardized hotel rooms, we offer spaces designed as temporary homes, with minimalist architecture, thermal comfort, privacy, fiber-optic internet, and lush gardens.
Work focused. Rest deeply. Live intentionally.
Contact us on WhatsApp to book your stay.
We’ll be happy to welcome you to our garden.
Comments are closed