Discover San Bernardino through two distinct interests: the Costanera on Lago Ypacaraí and places that explore the city’s history and culture. The city was founded in 1881 as a summer resort. Places to visit include an open-air area commemorating important figures, a collection on the history of settlement, interactive art and an amphitheater for events. The Costanera offers lake views and opportunities for activity, while the cultural sites differ in their focus on remembrance, history and interactive experiences. This lets you choose the focus of your stay deliberately.

Views and activity along the Costanera

The Costanera de San Bernardino, also known as “SanBer,” is 850 meters long and lies on the shore of Lago Ypacaraí. Benches and viewpoints offer places to rest and linger; the promenade opens up panoramic views of the lake. The Costanera is also described as a route for bike rides. It is especially described as a place for photography at sunset. This gives you two distinct ways to enjoy it: benches and viewpoints make it a place to pause by the lake, while the bike route offers a chance to get active along the Costanera. Photography at sunset adds another clear point of interest.

History and remembrance

Paseo de los Ilustres is an open-air area dedicated to commemorating important figures from the city. Casona Büttner offers a different way to explore the region’s heritage: it houses the Centro de Experiencias Turísticas de San Bernardino, and is considered a symbol of the heritage and influence of German settlers in the region. Casa Hassler displays objects, antique furniture, photographs and household items used by the first European settlers, most of whom were German. The tour of Casa Hassler is described as free and open to the public. Check current access options before your visit.

Art, music and a viewpoint

A staircase leads up to Mirador Bella Vista, one of the highest points in the city. Escalinata y Mirador Bella Vista features a depiction of the Virgen de la Aparecida, approximately four meters high. Fuente de la Inspiración has a different design: two eye-shaped sculptures face each other and blink. At Paseo del Recuerdo, visitors can move levers on tubes to produce sounds; together, they play the chords of “Recuerdos de Ypacaraí.” The promenade runs along the city’s bike path. La Morena is located at the roundabout by the beach and offers an outdoor karaoke experience where visitors can sing Guaranias.

Anfiteatro José Asunción Flores is designed as a cultural and artistic venue for music events, performances, festivals and community activities held outdoors. The focus here is on events, while Paseo del Recuerdo and La Morena encourage visitors to participate directly.

Discover more destinations: Caraguatay, Itacurubí de la Cordillera, Arroyos Y Esteros, Piribebuy, Atyra, Nueva Colombia District, Tobati, Caacupé

For the regional travel overview: Cordillera.