Panama City and Casco Viejo Travel Guide
Welcome to Panama City, one of the most fascinating capitals in the Americas.
Here, centuries-old plazas and colonial ruins stand beside glittering skyscrapers, while vibrant neighborhoods pulse with music, art, and world-class cuisine. As the gateway between North and South America, Panama City blends cultures, histories, and landscapes in ways few cities can match.
From watching massive ships pass through the legendary Panama Canal to wandering the colorful streets of Casco Viejo or sipping cocktails at a rooftop bar overlooking the Pacific, Panama City is a destination where urban energy meets tropical adventure.
Quick Navigation: Things to Do | Where to Stay | Where to Eat | Getting Around | Best Time to Visit | Day Trips from Panama City
Top Things to Do in Panama City
Marvel at the Panama Canal
Few sights in the world inspire as much awe as the Panama Canal, the legendary waterway connecting two oceans. Visit the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center, where you can watch massive cargo ships rise and fall through the locks, learn the fascinating history of the Canal's construction, and admire exhibits detailing one of humanity’s greatest engineering feats.
Wander the Historic Streets of Casco Viejo
Casco Viejo, the city’s charming colonial quarter, feels like stepping back in time — yet it buzzes with life. Wander its cobbled streets past pastel-hued buildings, grand cathedrals, and hidden plazas. Stop for artisan coffee, browse boutique shops, and admire street murals that tell Panama’s rich, multicultural story.
At night, Casco transforms — rooftop bars light up, and salsa rhythms drift through the streets.
Escape into Nature at Metropolitan Natural Park
Just 15 minutes from downtown lies a different world: Metropolitan Natural Park, a lush rainforest reserve teeming with life. Hike shaded trails where you might spot sloths, toucans, and coatis.
From the top of Cerro Ancón, the view stretches over the shimmering skyscrapers of the city to the vast Pacific beyond — a perfect reminder of Panama’s wild heart beating within its urban core.
Explore the Amador Causeway
Built from rocks excavated during the Canal’s construction, the Amador Causeway links four tiny islands with stunning ocean views.
Book the Panama City Slingshot Tour, rent a bike, stroll the breezy path, or stop for fresh seafood with the Panama City skyline as your backdrop. From here, you can also visit the Biomuseo, designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, which vividly tells the story of Panama’s biodiversity.
Experience the Cinta Costera
A scenic coastal boulevard stretching along Panama City’s waterfront, the Cinta Costera offers spectacular views of the city skyline, the Pacific Ocean, and the historic district of Casco Viejo. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, a bike ride, or to simply enjoy the breeze while watching the city come to life.
Where to Stay in Panama City
Panama City offers a wide range of accommodations: from luxury towers with skyline views to boutique hotels in colonial courtyards. Where you stay depends on what you want to experience.
Best Areas to Stay:
Casco Viejo – The city’s historic district, full of charm, rooftop bars, and boutique hotels. Stay steps from culture and nightlife at places like the Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo or Central Hotel Panama.
Obarrio & Marbella – Modern, central neighborhoods close to shopping, dining, and the banking district. Consider the Waldorf Astoria Panama or Sortis Hotel, Spa & Casino for a polished urban stay.
Punta Pacifica & Avenida Balboa – Ideal for ocean views, high-rise luxury, and peaceful walks. Hotels like the JW Marriott Panama offer resort-like amenities in the heart of the city.
No matter where you stay, you’ll find easy access to Panama’s top attractions — and warm hospitality at every turn.
Where to Eat & Drink in Panama City
Panama City’s dining scene is as diverse as its people. From hidden cevicherias to Michelin-star level tasting menus, foodies will be in paradise.
Mahalo Casco Viejo: Fresh, tropical vibes perfect for brunch or sunset cocktails.
Fonda Lo Que Hay: Innovative Panamanian dishes served in a casual, bustling setting (pictured).
Tántalo Rooftop Bar: Grab a cocktail and watch the sunset paint the skyline.
Getting Around Panama City
When to Visit Panama City
Panama City can be visited year-round, but the most popular time to go is during the dry season from December to April, when you can expect sunnier days, lower humidity, and ideal conditions for walking around Casco Viejo, visiting the Panama Canal, and enjoying rooftop bars or day trips. The wet season from May to November brings lush green landscapes, fewer crowds, and regular afternoon showers, but mornings are often still bright and perfect for sightseeing.
Insider Tips for a Perfect Trip
Stay Connected: Buy a local SIM card or eSIM so you can easily use Uber, Google Maps, and WhatsApp during your stay.
Carry Small Bills: Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and malls, but cash is still useful for small shops, markets, and some taxis.
Dress for the Climate: Panama City is warm and humid year-round, so lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes will make sightseeing much easier.
Plan Outdoor Activities Early: If you’re visiting during the rainy season, schedule walking tours, hikes, or Canal viewpoints in the morning for the best chance of clear weather.
Learn a Few Local Courtesies: A friendly “buenos días” or “buenas tardes” goes a long way. Panamanians are warm and welcoming, and polite greetings are appreciated.
Don’t Miss Cerro Ancón: For one of the best panoramic views in the city, head up to Cerro Ancón in the morning when temperatures are cooler and the skyline views are clearest. You can hike independently or join a guided Cerro Ancón hike with local breakfast at Mi Pueblito to combine wildlife spotting, rainforest scenery, and traditional Panamanian flavors in one memorable experience.
Best Day Trips from Panama City
One of the best things about staying in Panama City is how quickly you can trade skyline views for islands, beaches, and crystal-clear water. The capital is not only a destination in its own right — it is also the perfect base for some of Panama’s most memorable escapes.
Looking for Caribbean beauty and indigenous culture? Explore the San Blas Islands, where white-sand cays and turquoise waters create one of the most unforgettable day trips or overnight adventures in Panama.
Prefer a quick island getaway on the Pacific side? Taboga Island is the easiest beach escape from Panama City, ideal for a relaxed day of ferry rides, seaside lunches, and coastal charm.
For a more exclusive tropical experience, the Pearl Islands offer beautiful beaches, island-hopping adventures, and some of the most stunning ocean scenery within reach of the city.