Things To Do
in San Antonio
San Antonio, Paraguay is a small river town in the eastern region of the country, set along the Paraná River floodplain. The town offers a relaxed pace, rooted in gaucho and river culture, with colorful markets and friendly locals. Its landscape blends farmland, forest patches, and sunlit river views, making it a calm base for exploring southern Paraguay.
Visitors will find authentic Paraguayan hospitality, simple eateries, and easy access to both nature and local history.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in San Antonio and settle into your accommodation. After a refreshing breakfast, head out to explore the vibrant local markets, where you can get a taste of traditional Paraguayan goods and handicrafts. Take in the sights and sounds of the area as you stroll through the welcoming streets.
Visit the San Antonio Plaza to relax and enjoy a coffee at a local café while people-watching. Explore nearby boutique shops that showcase Paraguayan art and culture. Be sure to sample some local delicacies for lunch at one of the quaint eateries in the plaza.
As the sun sets, visit a local restaurant to indulge in authentic Paraguayan cuisine such as sopa paraguaya and asado. Join locals for a cultural dance event happening in the plaza for a taste of traditional music and performance. Wrap up the evening with a leisurely walk along the river, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Start your day with a visit to the Museo del Barro, where you'll delve into Paraguayan art and culture through unique exhibitions. Spend time exploring the history of traditional crafts and the indigenous heritage of the region. This immersive experience will undoubtedly enhance your understanding of local life.
Head to the historic landmarks, such as the Church of San Antonio, where you can admire its stunning architecture. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café, sampling local soups and fresh juices. Afterward, take a guided tour to learn about the history of San Antonio and its significance within Paraguay.
As night falls,Experience live music at a local venue showcasing folk music of Paraguay. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant that specializes in regional dishes while soaking in the lively atmosphere. Engage in conversations with locals to gain deeper insights into their day-to-day lives.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚌Local transit fare | $0.25-0.75 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-70 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $20-40 |
| 🎟️Museum/attraction ticket | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Accessible river scenery and straightforward cuisine
- Limited international flight options nearby
- Rural areas may be cash-focused and language barriers for non-Spanish speakers
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in San Antonio
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river scenes with golden light at sunrise and sunset.
Classic Paraguayan plaza with colonial architecture and lively street life.
Rusty rails along the river create moody, nostalgic compositions.
Food in San Antonio
San Antonio Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional cheese bread baked until golden, widely available from bakeries and street stalls.
Must-Try!
Savory cornbread loaded with cheese and onions, a staple at family meals.
Grilled meats, often enjoyed at gatherings or local parrillas.
Starchy cheese pastry made from mandi’o (yam) flour or cassava, delicious with coffee.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A compact market offering fresh produce, baked goods, and everyday street snacks.
Casual bites such as empanadas, chipa, and fried yucca near the market square.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake is common; small talk is appreciated and friendly, with respectful language.
Dress modestly in religious spaces; avoid loud behavior in sacred or formal settings.
Safety
Tipping in San Antonio
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are modest; rounding up or leaving 5-10% at restaurants is appreciated.
Cash is widely used, especially in rural areas; some places in town accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; stay hydrated and seek shade.
Milder days, comfortable for outdoor exploration; rainfall begins to taper.
Warm days with cooler nights; generally dry with sunny spells.
Pleasant temperatures and lush vegetation; occasional rain showers.
San Antonio at Night
Hiking in San Antonio
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic riverside trails with birdlife and gentle elevation changes; suitable for easy day hikes.
Flat, picturesque routes through villages and fields, ideal for a relaxed hike or bike ride.
Airports
How to reach San Antonio by plane.
The main international gateway for Asunción, about a few hours drive from San Antonio; frequent regional flights and international connections.
Smaller airport serving the Itapúa region; limited domestic flights, useful for quick connections to Asunción when available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mix of families, retirees, and small-business owners in the town center.
Farmers and riverine communities who trade in local markets and exchange goods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Paraguay, with local matches and informal games year-round.
A traditional Paraguayan sport played in some communities and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Antonio.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist mainly around salads, soups without meat, and dairy-based dishes; look for sopa paraguaya or mbeju, and ask for meat-free preparations.