Encarnación combines Playa San José and several waterfront avenues with cultural venues, markets and reminders of the city’s history. A cycling route runs for more than 27 kilometers along the Río Paraná; there are also shorter stops, such as squares, parks and a market. Which of these aspects interests you most can shape how you plan your stay.

Playa San José, Costaneras and cycling route

Playa San José offers restrooms, ATMs, tourist information points, a permanent cleaning service, soccer and beach volleyball courts, food kiosks and lifeguards. Buoys mark the areas approved for bathers and watercraft. Since facilities may change, check the current situation before your visit.

Avenida Costanera Padre Bolik was the first waterfront avenue to open in Encarnación, in 2010. It is just under a kilometer long and includes walking paths, a road for vehicle traffic, a bike lane, benches with views, spaces for craft markets and events, and an expanding green area. Avenida Costanera República del Paraguay opened in 2011 as the second waterfront avenue. Together with Playa San José, it hosts major cultural events, including Carnival, markets, exhibitions and music shows featuring national and international artists.

A cycling route runs for more than 27 kilometers along the Río Paraná waterfront and passes beaches, the Yo Amo Encarnación Monument, the Sambódromo, the Chimenea Ex Fabril and a replica of the railway station with its railway museum. At Playa San José, cyclists can take a break and enjoy food and drink. The route’s length calls for a different time plan than a single stop at the beach. For views of the Río Paraná, Parque de la Ciudad is another place to visit.

Squares, events and green paths

Plaza de Armas de Encarnación was officially inaugurated on March 25, 1975. An old Curupay tree stands there; its age is estimated at about 220 years, and it has been declared a natural monument of the city. A redesigned area of the square reflects Japanese influence. Its features include waterfalls, a footpath, “puertos,” a tea house and densely planted trees.

Parque Quiteria is also an important venue for events, frequently hosting cultural, artistic and festive occasions. These include the department’s annual Industry, Commerce and Services Exhibition and the Rally Trans Itapúa. Costanera República del Paraguay and Playa San José are also venues for major cultural events along the waterfront. Together, the city’s squares, event venues and waterfront represent different facets of public life in Encarnación.

Santuario Itacua is located in Punta Itacuá, a three-hectare area southeast of the historic center. The sanctuary includes a dense forest with shade and fresh air throughout the year, numerous paths and views of the Río Paraná. The Camino del Peregrino winds through the sanctuary’s trees to the grotto; about 17,000 people walk it each year. Those interested in paths and landscapes will find a different focus here than at the Costaneras.

Industrial history, railways and the market

The San José grain mill and its namesake silo date from 1940. For much of the 20th century, they were important centers for grain production, processing and export, and significant to the local and national economy. The city’s railway history can also be explored at two stations: the old railway station was built in the early 20th century. It was the terminus of the line from Asunción, which crossed several inland towns, and an important connection to Argentina.

The reconstructed railway station is a separate site. It is managed by the Encarnación City Council, forms part of the city’s tourist route and houses the Museo Memoria Ferroviario Municipal. Comparing the former station with today’s reconstruction takes you from a once-important regional transport link to a place where the city’s railway history is kept alive.

Permanent product markets are held at the municipal market La Placita. The goods on offer include everyday essentials, handicrafts and agricultural products such as pork and domestic chickens; individual vendors and products may vary. The market complements the historic and scenic sites with a glimpse of the city’s everyday offerings.

Discover more destinations: Obligado, Capitán Miranda, Natalio, Bella Vista Sur, San Cosme y Damián, Trinidad.

Return to the regional travel overview: Itapúa.