Neighborhood Scores
About Centro
Centro, or Centro Histórico, is Asunción's downtown historical district. While it contains the city's most important government buildings, colonial architecture, and cultural landmarks, it's generally not recommended for expat residence due to safety concerns after dark and lack of residential infrastructure.
During business hours (8am-6pm), Centro is bustling with commerce, street vendors, and government activity. You'll find historic sites like the Palacio de los López (presidential palace), the National Cathedral, and various museums. The area has character and is worth visiting for sightseeing and understanding Asunción's history.
However, Centro empties out after business hours, and the deserted streets become higher-risk for crime. Most buildings are commercial rather than residential, and those that do have apartments lack the amenities expats expect (reliable internet, security, modern facilities). There's no nightlife scene – people leave for Carmelitas or Villa Morra after work.
Some adventurous expats have found affordable housing in Centro, but it's not recommended for newcomers. The savings aren't worth the trade-offs in safety, convenience, and quality of life. Visit Centro for culture and history, but live elsewhere.
Best For
- History buffs (visiting only)
- Budget adventurers
- Those who work nearby
Not Ideal For
- Families
- Newcomers
- Safety-conscious expats
- Digital nomads
- Anyone after dark
Pros & Cons of Living in Centro
Pros
- Historic architecture and cultural sites
- Very affordable rent
- Central location for daytime activities
- Near government offices (if needed)
- Good bus connections
- Authentic local atmosphere
Cons
- Unsafe after dark – deserted streets
- No nightlife or restaurants open at night
- Poor residential infrastructure
- Unreliable internet in older buildings
- No expat community
- Lack of modern amenities
- Not recommended by locals for residence
Practical Information
Housing Costs
Internet & Connectivity
Poor to moderate – old infrastructure
Transportation
Public Transport: Best in the city – bus hub
Uber/Bolt: Good during day, drivers avoid at night
Nearby Healthcare
- • Hospital de Clínicas (10 min)
Coworking Spaces
- • None
Cafes to Work From
- • A few during business hours only
Frequently Asked Questions
Should expats live in Centro Asunción?
No, Centro is not recommended for expat residence. While rent is cheap ($200-400/month), the area empties after business hours and becomes unsafe at night. There's no residential infrastructure, poor internet, and no expat community. Visit for sightseeing but live in Villa Morra, Recoleta, or other neighborhoods.
Is Centro Asunción safe?
Centro is safe during business hours (8am-6pm) with normal urban precautions. However, it becomes unsafe after dark when streets empty and crime increases. Avoid walking in Centro at night, even for short distances. Use Uber if you must be there after hours.
What is there to see in Centro?
Centro has Asunción's main historical and cultural attractions: Palacio de los López (presidential palace), National Cathedral, Manzana de la Rivera (cultural complex), Panteón Nacional, Casa de la Independencia museum, and colonial architecture. Visit during the day with a guide or walking tour.
Why is Centro empty at night?
Centro is primarily a commercial and government district with few residents. Workers leave after business hours, shops close, and there are no restaurants or nightlife venues. This leaves streets deserted, which increases crime risk. The social scene is in Villa Morra and Carmelitas.
Is rent really cheap in Centro?
Yes, rent in Centro is the cheapest in Asunción ($200-400/month), but this reflects the poor living conditions. Buildings are old, internet is unreliable, there's no security, and the area is unsafe at night. The savings aren't worth the trade-offs for most expats.
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