Ciudad del Este

Alto Paraná Department, Paraguay

---

Ciudad del Este, the capital of Paraguay’s Alto Paraná Department, is the country’s second-largest city and a major commercial hub located on the Paraná River at the border with Brazil.

It is connected to the Brazilian city of Foz do Iguaçu by the Friendship Bridge and forms part of the famous Triple Frontier region shared with Argentina and Brazil. Founded in 1957, the city has grown rapidly thanks to its strategic location and thriving trade sector. It is known as one of the largest free-trade and shopping destinations in South America, attracting visitors from neighboring countries who come for its markets, malls, and business opportunities.

Beyond shopping, Ciudad del Este serves as a gateway to major attractions such as the Itaipú Dam, one of the world’s largest hydroelectric power plants, and the nearby Iguazú Falls. Its multicultural atmosphere, economic importance, and proximity to natural wonders make it one of Paraguay’s most dynamic and visited cities.