Presidente Franco(Paraguay) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Presidente Franco, the top-rated hotel is Hotel Presidente Franco, located in the city center near the Municipal Palace and Church of Our Lady of Assumption. This well-maintained property offers spacious rooms with views of the urban greenery, modern amenities, and a restaurant serving authentic Paraguayan cuisine like Pytahu and Tartaruga. Its proximity to Central Park makes it ideal for exploring local life and culture on foot.

The best area for accommodations in Presidente Franco is the downtown district, which lies close to government buildings, business hubs, and cultural attractions such as the National Library and Art Gallery. Most highly rated hotels and boutique guesthouses are concentrated here, including Hotel del Sol and Hostal Ciudad de Franco, offering convenience, safety, and easy access to daily activities and events.

Visitors to Presidente Franco should explore the Guarani Indigenous Cultural Exhibition, showcasing the heritage of South America’s oldest indigenous group. The annual Independence Day Festival in October features vibrant parades, traditional dances, and drum performances. Additionally, hands-on workshops let travelers learn to craft Paraca straw hats, a cherished craft passed down through generations of local women.

Must-try dishes in Presidente Franco include Sopa Paraguaya, a savory corn-based cake often served with spicy sauce, and Asado de Carne, a slow-grilled beef specialty prepared at family-run eateries. Don’t miss Mate, a traditional hot drink made from yerba mate leaves, commonly shared among friends in cafés or public squares—offering a true taste of Paraguayan hospitality.

Yes, Presidente Franco is excellent for families. The city boasts Central Park, featuring playgrounds, walking trails, and a lake perfect for picnics and outdoor fun. Many hotels offer family-friendly rooms and childcare services. Weekends bring children’s events like craft markets and traditional dance shows, while free attractions such as the Science Museum and Zoo provide educational entertainment.

Transportation in Presidente Franco is convenient and well-organized. Main roads connect key districts, and an extensive public bus network covers most areas, with trips lasting 15–20 minutes. For exploring rural regions, rental cars or taxis are readily available. Free parking is offered at many hotels, and the city is expanding its electric bus system to promote sustainable travel.

Nightlife in Presidente Franco centers around community gatherings and cultural performances. Every Friday, the Central Square hosts open-air concerts featuring Guarani folk music and Chacarera dancing. Local bars serve local beer and Mandioquinha, a fruit-flavored liqueur. Many residents also host informal family dinners in courtyards, inviting tourists to experience genuine Paraguayan warmth.

Key historical landmarks in Presidente Franco include the Old Presidential Palace and the 19th-century Catholic Church. The former now houses the National History Museum, displaying rare documents and artifacts related to Paraguay’s political evolution. The church features stunning stained-glass windows and Baroque decorations, with hand-painted murals from 1870—ideal for photography enthusiasts.

The best shopping destination is Mercado Central, a bustling market with over 100 stalls selling handwoven crafts, Guarani embroidery, and natural spices. The Old Town District also features boutique shops offering limited-edition wood carvings and ceramics. For souvenirs, consider buying locally produced Mate tea bags and Paraguayan straw hats, both iconic and meaningful keepsakes.

Surrounding Presidente Franco are lush natural sites, especially the Upper Paraná River wetlands, a prime birdwatching spot home to species like the Red-legged Seriema and Blue-winged Macaw. The nearby National Forest Reserve offers hiking trails through dense subtropical rainforest, complete with observation decks. Within the city, Central Park features expansive lawns and a man-made lake—perfect for relaxation and seasonal events.