Things To Do
in San Antonio

San Antonio is a vibrant city located near the capital of Paraguay, Asunción. Known for its rich cultural heritage and lively atmosphere, it offers a blend of traditional Paraguayan customs and modern attractions. The city is surrounded by lush landscapes and is a popular destination for both local and international tourists.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including exploring historical sites and indulging in local cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of San Antonio
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Mercado Municipal, where you can experience the local culture and sample fresh products.

afternoon
:

Head to the Centro Histórico to explore the historic architecture and visit the Museo del Barro, which showcases Paraguayan art.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Paraguayan restaurant and take a stroll through the Parque Ñu Guasu, where you can enjoy the evening breeze.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a hike at the nearby Ybycuí National Park, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and waterfalls.

afternoon
:

Visit the local artisan shops in San Antonio and buy handcrafted souvenirs.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a visit to a local bar for some live music and traditional drinks like tereré.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$5-10
Coffee$1-2
🚌Public Transport Fare$0.50
🏨Night at a Budget Hotel$20-40
🍺Local Beer$2-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and local traditions.
  • Delicious and unique cuisine.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Some areas may not be well-maintained.
  • Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?

Places to Visit in San Antonio

Visit one of these nice places.

Parque Ñu Guasu

A beautiful park with lush greenery, perfect for capturing scenic landscapes.

Centro Histórico

The historic center features colonial architecture that makes for stunning photographs.

Ybycuí National Park

A nature reserve with waterfalls and wildlife, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in San Antonio

San Antonio offers a delightful array of local cuisine reflecting its rich cultural heritage. Visitors can savor traditional dishes that highlight the flavors of Paraguay.

San Antonio Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sopa Paraguaya

A cornbread-like dish made with cornmeal, cheese, and milk, often enjoyed as a side.

Must-Try!

Mbeju

A gluten-free cheese bread made from cassava starch, typically served warm.

Chipa

A popular snack made from manioc flour and cheese, often enjoyed during breakfast or as a treat.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de San Antonio

A bustling market where locals sell fresh produce, meats, and traditional snacks.

Street Vendors

Look for vendors selling chipa and mbeju on the streets for quick, delicious snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

San Antonio experiences a tropical climate with significant seasonal variations. Summers are hot and humid, with average temperatures around 30°C (86°F), while winters are mild, averaging around 15°C (59°F). The rainy season typically occurs from October to March, so visitors should be prepared for occasional downpours. The dry season, from May to September, features cooler temperatures and less humidity.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Customs

A handshake is common; close friends may greet with a hug or a kiss on the cheek.

Respect for Elders

Show respect to older individuals by addressing them formally and giving them priority.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin your meal.

Safety Guide

Safety

San Antonio is generally safe for tourists; however, it's advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and not displaying valuables. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious in crowded places. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 911.

Tipping in San Antonio

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is good; however, it's not obligatory.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Expect hot weather with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Ideal for outdoor activities.

Autumn (March - May)

Milder temperatures make it pleasant for exploration, with beautiful foliage.

Winter (June - August)

Cooler temperatures, averaging around 15°C (59°F), are perfect for cultural activities.

Spring (September - November)

Warm and pleasant weather with blooming flowers, great for outdoor festivals.

Nightlife Guide

San Antonio at Night

San Antonio has a lively nightlife scene, especially on weekends. Visitors can enjoy local bars featuring live music, particularly traditional Paraguayan music and folklore. There are also nightclubs that offer a mix of contemporary music and dance. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to socialize with locals and other travelers.

Hiking in San Antonio

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ybycuí National Park Trails

A network of trails within the park offers varying levels of hiking difficulty, with beautiful landscapes and waterfalls.

Cerro Koi

A popular hiking spot with a moderate trail leading to stunning views of the surrounding area.

Airports

How to reach San Antonio by plane.

Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU)

Located approximately 20 km from San Antonio, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it the primary gateway for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

San Antonio is moderately walkable, particularly in its downtown area where many attractions are within walking distance. Sidewalks are available, but some streets may be uneven or poorly lit. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes and be aware of traffic when walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Paraguayan Mestizos

The majority of the population is of mixed indigenous and European descent, reflecting the country's rich cultural heritage.

Indigenous Communities

Several indigenous groups still reside in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity and traditions of Paraguay.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Paraguay, with local teams and community leagues actively engaging residents.

Basketball

Basketball is also widely played, with many schools and clubs offering training and competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in San Antonio can be moderate, especially during peak hours. Public transportation options include buses, but they may not be as frequent or extensive as in larger cities. Taxis and rideshare services are also available for convenient travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting San Antonio.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat is a staple in Paraguayan cuisine, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes.

Gluten-Free

Dishes like sopa paraguaya and mbeju are naturally gluten-free, making them great options for those with gluten intolerance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in San Antonio is adequate, with several clinics and hospitals available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are accessible, and many healthcare professionals speak basic English. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers healthcare expenses while visiting.

Discover Paraguay

Read more in our Paraguay 2025 Travel Guide.

Paraguay Travel Guide