What to do in Asunción: a destination for shopping, history and foodie spots

Asunción is much more than a shopping destination. Although in recent years it’s become a favorite among Argentinians for that purpose, the city also offers a wide range of cultural attractions and, above all, plenty of foodie spots to discover on a quick getaway. Thanks to its proximity (less than a two-hour flight from Buenos Aires) and manageable size, you don’t need more than three days to explore its main highlights. Several airlines connect both cities with over 20 weekly flights. Low-cost airline JetSmart offers the most options, with 10 weekly routes.

What to do in Asunción: between history and modernity

Anyone visiting Asunción will immediately notice that contrasts are part of its daily charm. It’s a strikingly modern city — with endless skyscrapers, a vibrant rooftop scene (Zulú Rooftop and Guay Rooftop are among the favorites) — and yet also deeply nostalgic, with a historic downtown dating back to the 1800s. Its most iconic building is the Palacio de López, now home to the Executive Branch.

Also of interest: 6 Limeño flavors and where to try them in Buenos Aires 

Historic sites to visit in Asunción

Asunción was the city chosen by the Spanish as the base for their conquests. From here, expeditions set out across the continent — which is why it’s known as the “Mother of Cities.” To learn about its history, the Museum of Economy offers a journey from the earliest inhabitants to the present day. Just across the street, you’ll find the National Pantheon of Heroes and the Metropolitan Cathedral, rebuilt after a fire in 1845.

Where to go shopping in Asunción: can’t-miss malls and brands

If your travel plans include some shopping, there are two malls you shouldn’t miss (they’re practically across from each other). Paseo La Galería features over 200 stores with national and international brands, as well as an outdoor terrace area with great dining options. At Maurice de Talleyrand, you can try dishes like imperial surubí with natural potatoes or truffled mushroom risotto.

Shopping del Sol is another top mall with international brands that you won’t find in Argentina, including Forever 21, Bimba y Lola, Banana Republic, and more.

Where to eat in Asunción: restaurants, rooftops and foodie hotspots

Beyond the rooftops and the eateries inside its shopping centers, Asunción has plenty of other culinary circuits and can’t-miss dining stops. Across the board, one thing stands out: top-notch service and meticulous attention to every dish that hits the table.

La Cuadrita is a must. This open-air dining area was born from the closure of Alberto de Sousa Street, between Cruz del Chaco and Cruz del Defensor. Today it’s a pedestrian promenade surrounded by greenery, home to diverse culinary options — from grill houses to international and local cuisine. At Patria y Familia or El Porvenir, you can savor Paraguayan barbecue and traditional flavors.

Another highly recommended spot is 8Ríos Food Hall at the recently renovated Sheraton Asunción Hotel. The space features four distinct culinary concepts led by Juan José Brítez, an Argentine chef from Formosa who moved to Asunción at 18.

“Paraguayan cuisine has a lot in common with that of northern Argentina. My grandmother used to make an incredible sopa paraguaya,” he says while plating at 8Ríos, the hotel’s gourmet restaurant. Complementing it are 8 BV, a speakeasy-style bar with signature cocktails; Copetín, a modern cantina celebrating traditional Paraguayan home cooking; and &More, a café offering healthy options tailored to an international crowd.

Asunción: a hub for major events and football passion

Beyond shopping and gastronomy, Asunción has also positioned itself as a venue for international events — especially sports tournaments. This year it hosted the Pan American Junior Games and the World Rally Car, and it’s currently bidding to host the 2030 Youth Olympic Games and the 2031 Olympic Games.

In November, the city will also host the Copa Sudamericana final, one of South America’s most important football tournaments. Asunción is home to CONMEBOL, the governing body of South American football — and a must-see for fans is the CONMEBOL Museum, located on the same grounds.

This interactive museum celebrates the continent’s greatest passion, showcasing historic jerseys, trophies, relics from every championship, and a special area dedicated to South American football legends. The building itself is worth the visit: its modern architecture and vast gardens dotted with sculptures make it an ideal outing that combines culture, history, and a good dose of football emotion.

The perfect getaway: why Asunción is worth the trip

Asunción has that perfect mix: modern yet soulful, small but full of things to do. In one weekend you can explore its history, taste new flavors, enjoy drinks on a rooftop, and browse tempting shops. It’s the ideal getaway for those looking for something different, close to home — and to return with the feeling of having discovered one of the continent’s best-kept secrets.