Panama City & Casco Viejo: Best Things to Do, Tours & Travel Guide
Explore Panama's vibrant capital, from the historic streets of Casco Viejo and the world-famous Panama Canal to rooftop views, local food, rainforest adventures and Caribbean and Pacific island day trips.
One City. So Many Ways to Explore.
Historic neighborhoods, skyscrapers, tropical nature and unforgettable experiences. Discover the best of Panama City.
Panama City combines a modern waterfront skyline with the cobbled streets of Casco Viejo, the engineering history of the Panama Canal, tropical biodiversity and a lively dining scene.
Whether you're here for a cruise stop, a weekend escape or a longer vacation, this guide helps you discover the city's neighborhoods, attractions, tours, accommodation and day trips.
Explore Casco Viejo, Panama City's Old Town
Casco Viejo, also known as Casco Antiguo, is the historic heart of Panama City. Discover colonial-era architecture, colorful streets, churches, museums, plazas, galleries and rooftop restaurants.
Explore Plaza de la Independencia, Plaza Bolívar, Plaza de Francia and the waterfront overlooking modern Panama City.
The historic district is part of the UNESCO World Heritage property associated with the historic district and archaeological site of Panamá Viejo. The two locations are different: Casco Viejo is the later historic neighborhood, while Panamá Viejo preserves the remains of the original colonial settlement.
Historic Plazas
Wander through atmospheric squares, admire restored architecture and discover Panama's history.
Rooftops & Views
Enjoy views of the city skyline, Panama Bay and historic rooftops from selected bars and restaurants.
Food, Art & Culture
Explore galleries, artisan shops, coffee houses and restaurants serving traditional and modern Panamanian cuisine.
Best Neighborhoods & Areas to Explore in Panama City
Panama City offers much more than its historic center. Discover waterfront promenades, modern neighborhoods, parks and local cultural areas.
Modern Panama City
The neighborhoods of Bella Vista, El Cangrejo, Obarrio, Punta Paitilla and Punta Pacífica showcase different sides of the modern capital.
Discover international restaurants, shopping centers, hotels, coffee shops and city nightlife.
The Cinta Costera waterfront promenade is popular for walking, cycling and views of Panama Bay.
Casco Viejo
Best for history, boutique hotels, architecture, rooftop bars and walking tours.
El Cangrejo & Bella Vista
Convenient bases for restaurants, nightlife, hotels and exploring the wider city.
Amador Causeway
A scenic waterfront destination for cycling, dining, marina views and the Panama City skyline.
Visit the Panama Canal
No first visit to Panama City is complete without discovering the Panama Canal, one of the world's most important engineering achievements.
Watch ships navigate the locks, learn about the canal's history and explore sightseeing options ranging from visitor experiences to partial transit cruises.
Miraflores is among the best-known visitor locations near Panama City. Check operating hours and ship transit schedules before visiting.
Best Panama City Tours & Experiences
Discover guided sightseeing, outdoor adventures and memorable ways to experience the capital. Select an experience to review available dates, pricing and tour inclusions.
Private Panama City & Casco Viejo Tour
Discover the capital's historic and modern highlights with a private sightseeing experience.
Cerro Ancón Hike & Local Breakfast
Discover a green escape above Panama City, with scenic views and a local breakfast experience at Mi Pueblito.
Panama City Bike Tour
Discover city scenery from a different perspective on a guided cycling experience.
Panama City Slingshot Tour
Explore Panama City in a distinctive open-air Slingshot vehicle experience.
POIN Zipline & Sky Deck Experience
Experience panoramic city views and exciting activities high above Panama City.
Emotions Dinner Theater Show
Enjoy an evening combining dinner and live entertainment in Panama City.
Panama City Food, Cooking & Cultural Experiences
Experience Panama through its food, markets, coffee and chocolate. These activities are ideal for travelers who want to connect with the country's culinary heritage.
Panamanian Cooking Class & Local Markets
Discover Panamanian ingredients, culinary traditions and local market culture in a hands-on food experience.
Afro-Panamanian Cooking Class
Explore the flavors and culinary traditions of Afro-Panamanian cuisine through an interactive cooking experience.
Panama Crafted Coffee Tasting
Discover Panama's specialty coffee culture and explore distinctive flavors through a guided tasting experience.
Panama Cocoa Experience: Make Chocolate
Learn about cacao and enjoy an interactive chocolate-making activity in Panama City.
Looking for a Rainy-Day Activity in Panama City?
Cooking classes, coffee tastings and chocolate experiences are excellent alternatives when tropical showers interrupt outdoor sightseeing.
Best Day Trips from Panama City
Panama City is an excellent base for exploring tropical islands, Caribbean beaches and the Pacific coast. Discover unforgettable experiences within reach of the capital.
San Blas Islands Day Trip
Escape to the beautiful Guna Yala archipelago for turquoise waters, tropical scenery and Caribbean island life.
Early departure and a long day of road and boat travel.
Isla Mamey Day Trip
Discover a tropical island off Panama's Costa Arriba de Colón, known for clear water and relaxed Caribbean beach scenery.
Venas Azules & Playa Blanca
Explore the Caribbean scenery near Portobelo, including mangrove waterways and beautiful beaches.
Taboga Island Day Pass
Enjoy a convenient island escape in the Gulf of Panama, with beaches, a charming village and Pacific views.
Las Perlas Day Trip
Discover the beautiful Pearl Islands in the Gulf of Panama and enjoy an unforgettable Pacific island experience.
Contadora Island – Mar y Oro Beach Club
Discover Contadora Island and enjoy a beach club experience in Panama's Pearl Islands.
Sonny Island Resort Day Pass
Enjoy an island resort day trip in the Pearl Islands with beautiful Pacific scenery.
Which Island Day Trip Is Right for You?
Choose Taboga for a convenient Pacific island escape, San Blas for Guna Yala and turquoise Caribbean scenery, Isla Mamey for Costa Arriba beaches, or the Pearl Islands for a Pacific island experience.
Departure times, transport, meals, facilities and island stops vary by tour.
Family-Friendly Adventures Near Panama City
Discover wildlife, tropical landscapes and Indigenous cultural experiences beyond the city's skyscrapers.
Monkey Island & Lake Gatún Tour
Explore the waterways around Lake Gatún and discover the natural environment near the Panama Canal.
Wildlife sightings depend on nature and are never guaranteed.
Emberá Village & Chagres Rainforest Tour
Discover rainforest scenery and learn about Emberá traditions through a guided cultural experience.
Check the tour details for boat transportation, activities and community arrangements.
Visit Amador Causeway
The Amador Causeway connects several small islands at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal and offers some of the capital's most memorable skyline views.
Explore waterfront restaurants, cycling routes, marina areas and nearby attractions.
The area is also home to the Amador cruise terminal, making it relevant for travelers arriving by ship.
Where to Stay & Eat in Panama City
From charming boutique hotels in Casco Viejo to modern city accommodations and memorable local restaurants, Panama City offers options for many travel styles.
Hotels in Casco Viejo & Panama City
Casco Viejo is ideal for travelers who love architecture, historic surroundings and boutique hotels.
Modern neighborhoods such as Bella Vista, El Cangrejo and Punta Pacífica offer alternative bases for exploring the capital.
Discover accommodation options including La Concordia Boutique Hotel.
Discover Panama City's Food Scene
Panama City's culinary landscape combines traditional Panamanian food, Afro-Caribbean influences, seafood and international cuisine.
Discover restaurants such as Fonda Lo Que Hay, explore neighborhood cafés and enjoy dining in Casco Viejo.
Look for local dishes such as sancocho, patacones, ceviche and arroz con pollo.
Casco Viejo
Boutique hotels, historic surroundings, restaurants and rooftop nightlife.
El Cangrejo & Bella Vista
Central city accommodation with access to dining, shopping and transportation.
Punta Pacífica & Waterfront
Modern hotels and residential areas with skyline views and shopping nearby.
Panama City Nightlife & Evening Experiences
As the sun sets, Panama City transforms into a lively destination with rooftop bars, restaurants, music venues and skyline views.
Casco Viejo is especially popular for atmospheric rooftop dining and nightlife. Modern city neighborhoods also offer a wide variety of restaurants and lounges.
For a structured evening, consider the Emotions Dinner Theater Show.
Getting Around Panama City & Travel Essentials
Make the most of your time in the capital with practical information about transportation, ferries, weather and connectivity.
Transportation in Panama City
The city has a metro, buses, taxis, ride-hailing services and private transportation. Traffic can be heavy during peak hours.
Ferries & Island Connections
Planning a trip to Taboga or the Pearl Islands? Compare ferry routes, departure points, check-in times and available services.
Best Time to Visit Panama City
Panama City is warm throughout the year. The drier months are popular for outdoor activities, while rainy-season travel offers different experiences.
Airport Transfers
Arriving at Tocumen International Airport? Compare airport transportation and request a private transfer quote.
Panama Airport Transfers →Stay Connected with an eSIM
Check compatible phones, mobile data options and coverage before arriving in Panama.
Panama eSIM Guide →Panama City Itineraries: 1, 3 & 5 Days
Whether you're visiting for a short city break or a longer vacation, use these itineraries to plan your time.
Panama City Highlights
Morning: Explore Casco Viejo and its historic plazas.
Afternoon: Visit the Panama Canal or enjoy a city tour.
Evening: Enjoy local dining and skyline views.
Culture, Canal & Islands
Day 1: Casco Viejo, Cinta Costera and local dining.
Day 2: Panama Canal, Cerro Ancón or a cultural experience.
Day 3: Taboga Island or another full-day excursion.
City, Culture & Nature
Day 1: Casco Viejo and city highlights.
Day 2: Panama Canal and Amador.
Day 3: San Blas or a Caribbean coast trip.
Day 4: Monkey Island or Emberá village.
Day 5: Food experiences, shopping or a Pacific island trip.
Need a Private Panama City Itinerary?
Tell us your travel dates, group size, hotel and interests. We can help you choose experiences and request quotes for private services where available.
Panama City & Casco Viejo FAQs
What are the best things to do in Panama City?
Is Casco Viejo the same as Panamá Viejo?
How many days should I spend in Panama City?
Can I visit the Panama Canal from Panama City?
What is the best neighborhood to stay in?
Is Panama City walkable?
How do I get from Tocumen Airport to Panama City?
Can I visit San Blas from Panama City?
Can I take a day trip to Taboga Island?
Are Pearl Islands day trips available?
Is Panama City suitable for families?
What is the best time to visit Panama City?
What can I do in Panama City when it rains?
Can I book a private Panama City tour?
Helpful Panama City Travel Guides
Panama City's Coffee Scene
Discover specialty coffee and tasting experiences around the capital.
Read Coffee Guide →Rainy-Season Panama City
Discover why the rainy season can still be a great time to experience the city.
Read Rainy-Season Guide →Explore All Panama Tours
Compare sightseeing, island adventures, cultural activities and nature experiences.
Browse All Experiences →Ready to Explore Panama City?
From Casco Viejo and the Panama Canal to food experiences, island escapes and private tours, discover the best of Panama's capital with Book Panama Tours.
WhatsApp: +507 6726-5532 | bookpanamatours@gmail.com