Ciudad del Este Shopping District
A bustling tax-free shopping hub offering international brands, electronics, and more, with a lively urban atmosphere.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better browsing
Ciudad del Este Shopping District
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better browsing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling tax-free shopping hub offering international brands, electronics, and more, with a lively urban atmosphere.
"Dive headfirst into a whirlwind of tax-free temptation, it’s small but mighty!"
💰 Bring Cash!
Many shops charge an extra 20% for credit cards. Cash is king for the best prices! :moneybag:
🧐 Research Prices First
Not always as cheap as expected. Compare prices online before you buy to ensure a good deal. :mag_right:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tax-Free Temptations
Dive into a whirlwind of tax-free goods: liquor, tobacco, chocolates, and branded clothing. A shopper's paradise!
Hard Rock Cafe
Inside the mall
Grab a bite and soak in the rock 'n' roll vibe at this popular international chain.

New Zone Shop
Inside the mall
One of the few shops that stays open late, even on Sundays, for those last-minute finds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cash is King Here
Know Your Deals
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
¿Que comprar en ciudad del este/ Paraguay?
💰 Bring Cash!
Many shops charge an extra 20% for credit cards. Cash is king for the best prices! :moneybag:
🧐 Research Prices First
Not always as cheap as expected. Compare prices online before you buy to ensure a good deal. :mag_right:
Compras en Ciudad del Este que cubran el viaje
Is Ciudad del Este 🇵🇾 still the best place to buy tech devices in South America?
⏰ Check Sunday Hours
Most shops close early on Sundays. New Zone is a good late-night option. :clock1:
🛂 Easy Border Crossing
Crossing from Brazil? No stamp needed if you return the same way. :bridgeatnight:
Me voy a ciudad del este, recomendaciones de compras?
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Bring Cash!
Many shops charge an extra 20% for credit cards. Cash is king for the best prices! :moneybag:
🧐 Research Prices First
Not always as cheap as expected. Compare prices online before you buy to ensure a good deal. :mag_right:
⏰ Check Sunday Hours
Most shops close early on Sundays. New Zone is a good late-night option. :clock1:
🛂 Easy Border Crossing
Crossing from Brazil? No stamp needed if you return the same way. :bridgeatnight:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews for Ciudad del Este's shopping district are mixed, with some finding it an exciting tax-free haven and others noting surprisingly high prices and a chaotic atmosphere. While it offers a wide array of international goods, visitors are advised to be prepared with cash and do their research to ensure they're getting good value.
"Nothing special. Expensive prices for guileless Brazilian shoppers. Really a ridiculous ambiance. Don’t bother even entering. A 5 € coffee and a 200$ suitcase? Seriously? Well, don’t say you haven’t been
warned."
JC MONTE CARLO
"If you're looking for a calm, serene shopping experience... go somewhere else. But if you want to dive headfirst into a whirlwind of tax-free temptation, this is your spot. It’s small but mighty, packed with everything a tourist could crave: liquor, tobacco, chocolates, tennis shoes, and enough branded clothing to confuse your luggage at customs."
Ulf R
"Easy place to visit by crossing the bridge to Paraguay. Don’t need a stamp if you’re coming back over this way. Make sure to bring cash. They charge 20% additional nearly everywhere to use credit cards."
Brock Simon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to cross the Friendship Bridge (Ponte da Amizade) from Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil. You can walk, take a taxi, or a bus. If you are returning to Brazil the same day, you typically don't need your passport stamped.
The shopping district is quite walkable once you cross the bridge. Taxis are also readily available for shorter distances within the city.
Most of the main shopping areas are concentrated, so walking is often the most convenient. For longer distances or if you're tired, taxis are a good option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
If you are a day visitor returning to Brazil via the Friendship Bridge, you generally do not need your passport stamped. However, it's always wise to have identification with you.
No, the shopping district itself is a public urban area, and there are no entrance fees to walk around and browse. Individual shops will have their own pricing for goods.
Most shops operate during standard business hours, typically from morning until early evening. However, many shops close early on Sundays. The New Zone shop is an exception, staying open late.
While some larger stores accept credit cards, many smaller shops and even some larger ones impose a 20% surcharge. It's highly recommended to carry cash (US Dollars or Paraguayan Guarani) to avoid these extra fees.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Deals
Popular items include electronics, perfumes, clothing, liquor, tobacco, and chocolates. Many shoppers look for international brands.
While it's known as a tax-free zone, prices can vary significantly. Some items might be cheaper, but others can be surprisingly expensive, especially compared to online deals or prices in your home country. It's crucial to research prices beforehand.
Always compare prices between different stores. Haggling might be possible in some smaller shops, but it's less common in larger retail outlets. Having cash can also help secure better prices.
While many shops sell electronics, it's wise to be cautious and research reputable dealers. The 'New Zone' shop is mentioned as being open late and is a popular spot.
Be mindful of your country's customs regulations regarding the value and quantity of goods you can bring back duty-free. Buying just a couple of items for personal use is generally less problematic than bulk purchases.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The district has a food court offering various options. The Hard Rock Cafe Ciudad del Este is also a popular dining spot within the mall.
Food courts usually offer a range of prices, from budget-friendly to mid-range. Prices can be higher than expected, so check menus before ordering.
You'll find a mix of international fast food and local options in the food court. The Hard Rock Cafe offers its signature American-style menu.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas of the mall. However, some individual stores might have restrictions, so it's best to ask before taking pictures inside their premises.
The exterior of the mall, the Hard Rock Cafe facade, and the general bustling atmosphere of the shopping streets can make for interesting shots. Capturing the vibrant street life is key.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Shopping Scene
Cash is paramount in this district. While some larger stores might accept credit cards, a significant surcharge of around 20% is common. Carrying Paraguayan Guarani or US Dollars will not only save you money but also streamline your transactions. Be aware of your country's customs limits to avoid issues upon your return. The district is a hub of activity, and while it offers a unique shopping adventure, it's best experienced with a prepared mindset and a full wallet.
Beyond the Bargains: Dining and Atmosphere
The atmosphere is often described as a 'whirlwind of temptation,' characterized by bustling crowds and a constant flow of shoppers. It's an urban mall environment, so don't expect serene or calm surroundings. However, for those who enjoy the energy of a busy marketplace and the thrill of finding a good deal, it can be an exciting place to explore. Some shops, like the 'New Zone,' are noted for their extended hours, providing options even on Sundays.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit