Top 10 Things to See and Do in Asunción, Paraguay
![Asunción across El Río Paraguay](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/20x11/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/river-184612_1920.webp)
Asunción is a vastly underrated city. One of the oldest settlements in South America, this sprawling metropolis is home to some striking architecture, fascinating museums, colonial gems and a recently upgraded coastal boardwalk. For something a little different, stick around in Paraguay’s capital and check out our top things to see and do.
For travellers in search of untrampled pastures, Asunción’s crumbling colonial buildings only add to its charm. Locals speak a mixture of Spanish and the indigenous Guaraní – and little English. Dirt poor and recovering from the dictatorships that gripped South America in the latter part of the 20th century, Paraguay’s capital is still dusting off its knees when it comes to tourism. Yet, for the curious, there’s plenty lurking beneath the surface. Imposing palacios rub shoulders with up-and-coming restaurants, while the renovated Costanera draws hundreds to watch the sunset over the Río Paraguay. Here’s where you should head on your next trip.
![Asunción across the water](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/7625711398_5198b0572f_o.webp)
1. Palacio de los López
Building
![1. Palacio de los López](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/1024px-palacio_de_lpez_de_noche.webp)
La Costanera
Winding alongside the Río Paraguay, La Costanera is a broad promenade frequented by strolling locals with tereré (cold-brewed yerba mate) in hand. Redeveloped in 2013, it’s now one of the most pleasant spots in the city to while away an afternoon or to catch the setting sun. Feeling active? Rent a bike or rollerblades from one of the many riverside vendors.
![La Costanera](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/9684920854_f1440e9a1f_o.webp)
Loma San Jerónimo
Head to this upbeat, colourful neighbourhood for a glimpse of authentic Paraguay. It’s a little tricky to find, though the locals are especially welcoming here, even more so if you can show off some Spanish. When night falls, pick up some chipá (cheese rolls) as you wander around, then grab a cocktail at the delightful rooftop bar, La Casa del Mojito.
http://instagram.com/p/BSE7VVVjPW9/?taken-at=295353440&hl=en
2. Casa de la Independencia
Museum
![800px-Casa_de_la_Independencia_museum,_Asunción (1)](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/800px-casa_de_la_independencia_museum_asuncin-1.webp)
3. El Cabildo
Museum
![3. El Cabildo](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cabildo_asuncion.webp)