📖 About Asunción

Asunción, Paraguay's capital and largest city, has emerged as South America's hottest rising destination. Condé Nast Traveler included Asunción in its prestigious list of Best Places to Visit in Central and South America for 2026, recognizing the city's growing tourism momentum driven by new gastronomic offerings and a vibrant cultural scene. Paraguay's tourism sector recorded historic growth in 2025.

Between January and September 2025, Paraguay welcomed 2,252,532 international arrivals—a stunning 53% increase compared to the same period in 2024. The country generated US$1.279 billion in tourism revenue through November, with domestic tourism doubling as over 1.2 million Paraguayans traveled during long weekends. Asunción set an all-time air travel record with 1.28 million passengers through Silvio Pettirossi International Airport.

In 2025, Asunción became the "Meeting Point of the Americas," positioning itself as a premier MICE hub. The city hosted over 236 major events including the FIFA Congress in May and Junior Pan American Games in August, which alone brought 10,000 international visitors and generated US$23 million. Air Europa increased to seven weekly Madrid flights, cementing Paraguay's role as an accessible gateway for European travelers.

🏛️ Top Attractions

💼 Economy & Culture

Asunción contributes 70% of Paraguay's GDP, hosting the nation's government, financial services, and commercial activity. The city's MICE sector exploded in 2025, with major events from FIFA Congress to Junior Pan American Games establishing Asunción as South America's emerging conference destination. Growing air connectivity—including potential Asunción-Miami routes—signals continued international integration.

Paraguayan culture blends Spanish colonial heritage with indigenous Guaraní traditions—Paraguay is the only Latin American country where an indigenous language (Guaraní) holds co-official status. Asunción's culinary scene mixes traditional dishes like chipa and sopa paraguaya with international influences. The FITPAR 2025 fair gathered tourism leaders for its 20th edition, showcasing the city's cultural and gastronomic renaissance.

📜 History

Founded in 1537 by Spanish conquistadors, Asunción earned the title "Mother of Cities" for its role as the base for founding Buenos Aires, Santa Cruz de la Sierra, and other South American settlements. The city served as a major colonial center, surviving the devastating War of the Triple Alliance (1864-1870) that reduced Paraguay's population by over half.

Today's Asunción blends colonial heritage with modern ambition. The Historic Centre revitalization strategy, developed with community participation, aims to create a sustainable, globally renowned tourist destination. With the World Rally Championship on the horizon and Asunción pursuing the 2030 Youth Olympic Games, the city's transformation from overlooked capital to must-visit destination is just beginning.