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San Lorenzo is a vibrant city with a rich cultural history and a pulse reflecting modern Paraguay’s energy and youthfulness. Known as the “City of Knowledge,” San Lorenzo is home to the country’s largest university, Universidad Nacional de Asunción, which brings a youthful vigor to the city’s streets.
This post covers San Lorenzo, when to visit, getting around, where to stay, safety, and attractions. We’ll also delve into considerations for those seeking to remain long-term, like cost of living and healthcare.
Overview
San Lorenzo’s Plaza Central is a perfect starting point, where you can soak in the local atmosphere, admire the historic San Lorenzo Cathedral, and perhaps enjoy some tereré, Paraguay’s beloved cold tea, as locals do. The plaza is a hub for community gatherings and is the perfect place to unwind and watch people.
San Lorenzo offers a variety of cultural experiences. The Museo de Arte Sacro (Museum of Sacred Art) houses a fascinating collection of religious artifacts and artwork that reflect Paraguay’s deep-rooted traditions. Meanwhile, the city’s bustling markets offer a chance to engage with local artisans and purchase handmade crafts, from colorful textiles to intricate pottery, making meaningful souvenirs to take home.
Food lovers will delight in the city’s array of traditional Paraguayan dishes. Be sure to try the savory chipa, a cheesy bread that’s a national favorite, or indulge in a hearty asado, the Paraguayan barbecue, at one of the many local restaurants. Street food stalls also abound, offering a quick and delicious way to sample the local cuisine while on the go.
San Lorenzo may not be the first city that comes to mind when considering Paraguay, but its charm lies in its authenticity. It’s a place where tradition meets modernity; students and families fill the streets, and every corner reveals a new tale.
San Lorenzo
- Department: Central
- Population: 263,000
- Official language(s): Spanish and Guarani
- Currency: Guarani/guaranies (₲ or Gs.)
- Climate: Cfa (humid subtropical)
- Safe to visit: Yes
- Cost of living: Low
When to Visit
The best time to visit San Lorenzo is during the off-peak tourist season, typically between April and October. During these months, you’ll experience cooler, more pleasant weather, especially from May to August, coinciding with the Paraguayan winter. Since this is outside holiday periods and the university summer break, the city tends to be less busy, and you’ll have a more relaxed experience at local attractions, markets, and public spaces.
Getting Around
Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU) is San Lorenzo’s and Paraguay’s main airport. Paranair is Paraguay’s national airline company. It offers domestic and continental flights to Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Bolivia, and Chile. Alternatively, LATAM Airlines is the largest airline in Latin America, serving Latin America, North America, the Caribbean, Oceania, Asia, and Europe.
Rental car options include Alamo, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Localiza. Consider getting an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) to drive in Paraguay. It translates your home license, making it understandable to local authorities. That can be helpful in Paraguay, where English is not widely spoken.
There’s a central bus terminal in Asuncion at Avenida Doctor Fernando de la Mora. However, the NSA bus company has pick-up and drop-off points in San Lorenzo. You will need a transit pass to take local buses.
Uber, Bolt, and taxis are available in San Lorenzo.
Where to Stay
The best neighborhoods to stay in San Lorenzo include the area around Plaza Central, which offers easy access to shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks, and Barrio Universitario, ideal for those who want to be near the university and enjoy a lively, youthful atmosphere with more affordable accommodations.
San Lorenzo offers various accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to affordable hotels.
Airbnb is present in San Lorenzo. For long-term stays, you can book one to three months through the platform and then deal with the host privately. Many homeowners and travelers prefer private arrangements to avoid Airbnb’s high fees. You can also search Vrbo for vacation rentals and private homes.
Things to Do
The top things to do in San Lorenzo include:
Centro: Explore the city’s heart, featuring the historic San Lorenzo Cathedral, shops, and vibrant local life.
Ciclovía de San Lorenzo: This park features bike and walking paths.
Universidad Nacional de Asunción: Visit Paraguay’s largest university and surrounding area, which buzzes with student activity and has a youthful vibe.
Barrio Universitario: Wander through this lively district near the university, known for its cafes, shops, and vibrant street life.
Shopping: Walkabout Pinedo and San Lorenzo shopping malls for international brands and restaurants.
Discover more activities and tours in San Lorenzo and surrounding areas.
Shopping and Gyms
The best shopping malls in San Lorenzo are Pinedo Shopping, San Lorenzo Shopping, Paseo La Catedral, and Plaza Hogar.
San Lorenzo’s best gyms include Forever Fit Gym and Club Vital Gym.
The best supermarkets in San Lorenzo are Superseis and Supermercado Stock.
Safety and Crime
San Lorenzo is safe to visit. However, like any urban area, staying cautious is essential, especially at night. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded markets or on public transportation, so keep your belongings secure. It’s advisable to avoid poorly lit or less populated areas at night. The city’s central areas, especially near the university and tourist spots, tend to have a police presence, contributing to a safer environment.
Consult your government’s travel advisories for more details.
Cost of Living
San Lorenzo’s living costs are low, with accommodation, food, and transportation well below the prices of other major cities.
Dallas, Texas, is a good representation of the average cost of living in the U.S.; it is neither extremely expensive like New York or San Francisco nor particularly cheap like Mississippi or Arkansas.
San Lorenzo’s living costs are about 74% lower than Dallas’s.
- Rent prices in San Lorenzo are 74% lower than in Dallas, TX.
- Restaurant prices in San Lorenzo are 70% lower than in Dallas, TX.
- Groceries prices in San Lorenzo are 71% lower than in Dallas, TX.
Healthcare
Paraguay’s healthcare system includes public and private hospitals. Public hospitals suffer from supply shortages, overcrowding, and long wait times. Private hospitals charge a premium and provide better care, equipment, and services.
The best hospitals and medical centers in San Lorenzo include Hospital General de San Lorenzo, Sanatorio Santa Catalina, and Hospital de Clinicas de San Lorenzo. Pharmacies include independents and chains, including Farmacenter, Punto Farma, and Farmacia Catedral.
Health insurance providers are available nationally and locally. They operate in Spanish, so you might consider getting insurance from a company that operates globally, like SafetyWing and WorldTrips. That will make policy and claim management much easier should a medical concern or incident arise.
Mobile and Internet
Tigo, Claro, and Personal lead Paraguay’s mobile, T.V., and internet sectors.
If planning a short visit to Paraguay, consider buying an eSim to save on roaming fees. Nomad and Jetpac offer the best rates and plans.
Real Estate
Visit InfoCasas, REMAX Paraguay, and Century21 Paraguay for Paraguayan real estate and rentals.
Nearby Cities
- Asunción
- Fernando de la Mora
- Luque
- Mariano Roque Alonso
- Capiatá
Updated: October 17, 2024