Boutique hotels in Ciudad del Este

Ciudad del Este sits on the Paraná River at the Brazilian border, across the Friendship Bridge from Foz do Iguaçu. It is one of South America's busiest trading cities, a chaotic market town of electronics and bargains. For most visitors, it is a gateway to the Itaipú dam, one of the largest hydroelectric plants in the world, and the Iguazú Falls, a short drive across the border.

Where to stay

The more pleasant hotels are outside the congested center. Bisinii Boutique Hotel, about 2.4 miles from the center, is a stylish boutique property with a pool, gym and restaurant, rated highly by guests. Las Ventanas Hotel Boutique offers rooms with private balconies, a pool and a buffet breakfast. A third, Tacuru, appears on listings without detail.

Good to know

Crossing the border is easiest with a guide or an organized tour, and passports are needed. Keep valuables out of sight in the market. The Itaipú visit includes a tour of the dam and its lit-up spillway on some evenings.