As many offices work half-days on Saturdays, Sundays represent the one true day of rest for many in Asuncion and the call to relax is taken seriously. Sunday is a day for family gatherings, typically in the form of asados that start late in the day and extend into the evening. Asuncion, especially the downtown area, is very quiet on Sundays. Buses run less frequently and most stores and museums are closed for the day. This can be a great time to enjoy a stroll through the city as it is much more peaceful than usual. Other Sunday activities include:
A visit to the Botanical Gardens During the week it is usually empty but on the weekends you will find many families taking advantage of the natural surroundings for picnics, drinking terere, and pick up soccer games.
Take in a partido (soccer game) There are always matches between local soccer teams – the most popular matches are between arch rivals Olympia and Cerro Porteno. Pick a team and cheer them on at a local bar or head out to the stadium to cheer in person.
Tren del Lago Leaving every other Sunday, this train ride makes for a unique and picturesque day trip to quaint and artistic Aregua.
Antiques Market Sunday mornings in front of the La Riojana department store on the corner of Mariscal Estigarribia and Yegros.
Accommodations
Given Asuncion’s low cost of living, lodging in the city is surprisingly high priced. This is especially so in the historic center. Lodging by the bus terminal is affordable, however expensive nighttime cab rides to and from the center will quickly offset any savings. There are several options in residential areas where the nightlife is more active – all are within short bus rides from the sites and activities of downtown.
