Panama City

Panama City, where skyscrapers touch the clouds and history runs deep. The Panama Canal, an engineering marvel, operates nearby, while Casco Viejo whispers tales of pirates and colonial conquests. As day turns to night, the Cinta Costera invites for a stroll, overlooking the shimmering Pacific.

Chapters

Panama City Guide
Where to Stay
Best Season
Local Tips

Local Tips

Highlights:

• Panama Canal
• Casco Viejo
• Amador Causeway
• BioMuseo
• Ancon Hill

Lowlights:

• Traffic congestion
• Humidity
• Urban sprawl


Currency: –
Festivities: –

Panama City Guide

Guide for 1 Day

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious local breakfast at Mercado de Mariscos, where you can savor fresh seafood dishes at affordable prices.
  • Next, head to the historic district of Casco Viejo to explore the charming colonial architecture and learn about the city’s rich history at the Museo del Canal Interoceánico.
  • Afterward, take a stroll down the picturesque Paseo Las Bóvedas, a promenade with stunning views of the ocean and the city skyline.

Midday

  • For lunch, try traditional Panamanian cuisine at El Trapiche, a local restaurant known for its hearty stews and grilled meats.
  • Afterward, visit the Mercado de Artesanías de Panamá Viejo, a market where local artists sell handmade crafts and souvenirs.

Afternoon

  • Take a short taxi ride to the Metropolitan Natural Park, a lush rainforest in the heart of the city where you can go on a nature walk and see exotic wildlife.
  • Next, head to the Mercado Nacional de Artesanías, a market that showcases the handicrafts and artwork of indigenous communities from all over Panama.

Evening

  • For dinner, indulge in fusion cuisine at Madrigal, a trendy restaurant with a sophisticated atmosphere.
  • Next, head to Calle Uruguay, a lively street known for its bars and nightlife, and grab a drink at La Rana Dorada, a popular local brewery.
  • End your night with a visit to Callejón de la Murga, a colorful alleyway with vibrant street art and live music performances.

Guide for 2 Days

Day 1

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious local breakfast at Mercado de Mariscos, a bustling seafood market offering fresh catches of the day.
  • Explore the historic district of Casco Viejo and wander through its charming streets filled with colonial architecture and quaint cafes.
  • Visit the iconic Panama Canal and marvel at the engineering marvel that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

Midday

  • Indulge in a traditional Panamanian lunch at Restaurante Tinajas, known for its authentic cuisine and lively atmosphere.
  • Head to the Biomuseo, a unique museum designed by Frank Gehry that tells the story of Panama’s biodiversity and ecological importance.

Afternoon

  • Take a scenic stroll along the Cinta Costera, a waterfront promenade offering stunning views of the city skyline and the Pacific Ocean.
  • Visit the Ancon Hill, a lush nature reserve where you can hike to the top for panoramic views of Panama City.

Evening

  • Savor a delightful dinner at Manolo Caracol, a renowned farm-to-table restaurant known for its innovative dishes.
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife of Panama City at Calle Uruguay, a street lined with bars and clubs.
  • End the evening with a visit to Plaza Bolivar, a historic square surrounded by charming cafes and live music.

Day 2

Morning

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Mercado de Abastos, a local market where you can sample traditional Panamanian delicacies.
  • Explore the hidden gem of Amador Causeway, a scenic road connecting four small islands with stunning views of the Panama City skyline.
  • Visit the Metropolitan Natural Park, a lush oasis in the heart of the city where you can spot wildlife and enjoy nature trails.

Midday

  • Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Restaurante El Trapiche, a popular spot for traditional Panamanian cuisine.
  • Discover the historic neighborhood of Santa Ana, known for its colorful buildings and local artisan shops.

Afternoon

  • Spend the afternoon exploring the modern shopping district of Multiplaza Pacific, home to a wide range of international brands and local boutiques.
  • Visit the Mercado de las Bovedas, an underground market filled with unique handicrafts and souvenirs.

Evening

  • Indulge in a delicious dinner at El Mercadito Biologico, a farm-to-table restaurant specializing in organic and locally sourced ingredients.
  • Experience the trendy rooftop bar scene at Tántalo Hotel, known for its panoramic views and creative cocktails.
  • End the evening with a visit to the F&F Tower, the tallest building in Panama City, offering breathtaking views of the city lights.

Guide for 3 Days

Day 1

Morning

Midday

Afternoon

Evening

Day 2

Morning

Midday

Afternoon

Evening

Day 3

Morning

Midday

Afternoon

Evening

Guide for 5 Days

Day 1

Morning

  • Start your day with a traditional Panamanian breakfast at Café Coca Cola and try their famous hojaldras with cheese and coffee.
  • Visit the iconic Panama Canal and learn about its history through a guided tour.
  • Take a stroll in the beautiful Parque Natural Metropolitano, home to diverse flora and fauna.

Midday

Afternoon

  • Explore the colorful streets of Casco Viejo, the old quarter of Panama City and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Visit the impressive Catedral Metropolitana, a neoclassical cathedral built in the 18th century.

Evening

  • Dine at Las Bóvedas, a vibrant restaurant in Casco Viejo known for its delicious Panamanian cuisine.
  • Sip on a refreshing cocktail at Tantalo Rooftop, a trendy rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.
  • Dance the night away at Teatro Amador, a nightlife hotspot in Casco Viejo.

Day 2

Morning

Midday

Afternoon

  • Explore the lush gardens and exotic animals at Parque Municipal Summit, a nature park located in the mountains outside of Panama City.
  • Take in the panoramic views of the city from the top of Ancon Hill, the highest point in Panama City.

Evening

  • Dine at Market, a trendy restaurant in the financial district known for its fusion cuisine and innovative cocktails.
  • Enjoy a few drinks at La Rana Dorada, a popular brewery that serves a variety of craft beers and pub food.
  • Catch a live performance at Ateneo, a cultural center that offers a variety of events throughout the week.

Day 3

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Manolo Caracol, a restaurant that serves fresh and innovative dishes made with local ingredients.
  • Visit the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo, a museum that showcases contemporary art from Panama and around the world.
  • Take a walk through the lush Parque Omar, a popular park that offers a variety of recreational activities.

Midday

  • Satisfy your hunger with a tasty lunch at Deli Gourmet, a deli that offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and other light bites.
  • Visit the Mercado de Antigüedades de Calle 8, a flea market that sells a variety of antiques and collectibles.

Afternoon

  • Explore the vibrant street art scene in Panama City by taking a guided walking tour.
  • Visit the Casa Museo del Banco Nacional, a museum that showcases the history of banking in Panama.

Evening

  • Dine at Maito, a restaurant that offers innovative Panamanian cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Sip on a cocktail at The Strangers Club, a bar that offers a variety of craft cocktails and small plates.
  • Catch a movie at Teatro en Círculo, a cinema that screens indie and international films.

Day 4

Morning

  • Grab a quick breakfast at Don Lee, a small café that serves delicious coffee and pastries.
  • Visit the Museo de Historia de Panamá, a museum that showcases the history of Panama from pre-Columbian times to present day.
  • Take a stroll through the beautiful Parque Cervantes, a park that features a variety of sculptures and fountains.

Midday

Afternoon

  • Explore the fascinating Museo Afroantillano, a museum that showcases the history and culture of Panama’s Afro-Caribbean community.
  • Take a short hike to the Mirador de la Rana, a lookout point that offers stunning views of the city and the ocean.

Evening

  • Dine at Madrigal, a restaurant that offers a fusion of Mediterranean and Panamanian cuisine.
  • Enjoy a few drinks at Casa Jaguar, a trendy bar that offers a variety of cocktails made with local ingredients.
  • Catch a live music performance at Platea, a cultural center that offers a variety of events throughout the week.

Day 5

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at La Posta, a restaurant that offers a variety of breakfast dishes with a Panamanian twist.
  • Visit the Museo de Arte Religioso Colonial, a museum that showcases the religious art and artifacts of colonial Panama.
  • Take a stroll through the colorful Parque Andrés Bello, a park that features a variety of sculptures and murals.

Midday

Afternoon

  • Explore the fascinating Museo de la Biodiversidad, a museum that showcases the biodiversity of Panama and the importance of conservation.
  • Take a short boat ride to Isla Taboga, a picturesque island located just off the coast of Panama City.

Evening

  • Dine at Donde José, a restaurant that offers a tasting menu of Panamanian cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Sip on a cocktail at Axel, a trendy rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.
  • End your trip with a relaxing spa treatment at Ygia Spa, a luxury spa located in the financial district.

Guide for 1 Week

Day 1

Morning

Midday

Afternoon

  • Explore the charming historic district of Casco Viejo and its colorful colonial architecture.
  • Take a guided tour of the historic Panama Viejo ruins and learn about its significance in Panama’s history.

Evening

Day 2

Morning

Midday

Afternoon

  • Take a break from the city and visit the beautiful San Blas Islands.
  • Relax and soak up the sun on the white sandy beaches or go snorkeling in the crystal clear waters.

Evening

  • Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner on the beach at El Porvenir.
  • Sip on a refreshing cocktail at Yandup Island Lodge.
  • Experience the local culture with a bonfire and music on the beach.

Day 3

Morning

  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Manolo Caracol.
  • Visit the unique Biomuseo designed by famous architect Frank Gehry.
  • Explore the colorful street art in the district of El Chorrillo.

Midday

Afternoon

Evening

  • Savor a delicious dinner at the elegant Maito.
  • Enjoy live music and cocktails at the chic rooftop bar Tantalo.
  • Visit the Teatro Amador for a cultural performance.

Day 4

Morning

Midday

Afternoon

  • Take a scenic drive to the beautiful Soberanía National Park.
  • Go on a boat tour to spot exotic wildlife along the Chagres River.

Evening

Day 5

Morning

Midday

Afternoon

  • Take a scenic drive to the beautiful Chagres National Park.
  • Go on a jungle hike and spot exotic wildlife.

Evening

Day 6

Morning

Midday

Afternoon

Evening

Day 7

Morning

  • Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the trendy Café Unido.
  • Visit the Sombrero Museum to learn about the country’s traditional hat-making process.
  • Explore the trendy district of El Cangrejo.

Midday

Afternoon

  • Take a scenic drive to the beautiful Barro Colorado Island.
  • Go on a guided nature hike to spot exotic wildlife.

Evening

Where to Stay

Coming soon for Panama City!
Luxury: –
Good: –
Budget: –
Hostel: –

Best Season

Coming soon for Panama City!