PANAMA CITY
With this Panama City travel guide, we will help you navigate through the city with details on its history, transportation, activities, accommodations, and local culture to help you plan and enjoy your trip. We hope our insights and recommendations will enhance your local experience.
HISTORY
In Central America, nestled between Costa Rica and Colombia, you will find Panama City, the largest city in Panama. As the administrative and pollical center of the county, it’s also the capital city. The city is modernized with tall skyscrapers that make up a skyline that would rival Miami. In contrast, it’s also a historic city with two World UNESCO Heritage Sites, Panama Viejo and Casco Antiguo.
The first city, Panama Viejo, was founded on August 15, 1519 by a Spanish conquistador Pedro Dávila. However, pirates destroyed the city by fire in 1671. The ruins were preserved as an archaeological site and has become a popular tourist destination. The inhabitants of the old city migrated about 5 miles away and the new city was re-established in 1673. After independence from Colombia in 1903, Panama City became the new capital.
TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
For travel to Panama, specific requirements depend on your nationality and the purpose of your trip. You must have a passport with at least three months of validity from the date of entry. If you are from a visa-exempt country, Proof of onward travel (i.e. roundtrip ticket) and economic solvency may be required. If you are from a visa-exempt country, you can stay in Panama up to 30, 90, or 180 days for tourism purposes.
Citizens from the UK or the EU, can stay up to 30 days.
Citizens from the US or Canada, can stay up to 180 days
Spanish is the official language of Panama, and it’s commonly referred to as Panamanian Spanish. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas like Panama City, and Bocas del Toros. Native languages are spoken in the indigenous villages.
The local currency is the Panamanian balboa (PAB). However, it is only issued in coins. The balboa has been fixed to the US dollar at a rate of 1:1 since it’s independence. As such, U.S. dollars are used for all paper currency.
On average, 1 PAB = 0.75 GBP
On average 1 PAB = 1.38 CAD
Panama City is modern and vibrant, while also surrounded by lush, green, tropical rainforests. However, since the country lies between the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, conditions are significantly different when comparing the Atlantic/Caribbean coast versus the Pacific. The temperature is somewhat cooler on the Pacific side. Panama City is situated on the Pacific coast.
The best time visit Panama City is from December to April. Due to its tropical climate, there are only two seasons; wet season from May to November and dry season from December to April. Year-round, the temperature sits between 23°C/75°F and 32°C/90°F.
TRANSPORTATION
Transportation in Panama City is relatively easy due to a well-connected public system including buses, subways, and taxis. Ride-sharing services are also available, including Uber and inDrive. Other notable mentions are the Panama Canal Railway and the Inter-American Highway.
Panama Canal Railway, running alongside the Panama Canal, connects the city/port of Colon on the Atlantic coast, to Balboa on the Pacific coast.
Inter-American Highway, part of the Pan-American Highway, connects Nuevo Laredo, Mexico to Panama City.
Panama Canal, which plays a crucial role in maritime trade between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.
FROM THE AIRPORT:
There are two main airports in Panama City. Tocumen International Airport (PTY), located 17 miles (~40 minutes) northeast of the city. Albrook "Marcos A. Gelabert" International Airport (PAC), about 0.9 miles west of the city.
At the PTY airport, you will multiple modes of transportation into the city. Taxis are readily available for hire. Private transfers and towncars can be pre-arranged before arrival for a more comfortable experience. Public buses and the Panama Metro (i.e. Line 2) afford travelers a more budget-friendly transfer into the city. As noted earlier, Uber is also available in Panama City.
https://www.uber.com/global/en/r/airports/pty/pickup/
If you prefer more freedom and flexibility, most of the major rental car companies are located at the airport. Renting a car in Panama City requires a valid driver's license, a credit card in the same name as the license, and a passport, with a minimum age of 23 years for renters, and note that you will need a prepaid “Panapass” for toll roads and a security deposit, which varies by car category. The average daily cost to rent a car in Panama City can be around $41, making a week-long rental approximately $288. It’s a national law that all rental cars must carry a liability policy of $20,000. On average, budget around $22/day for 7 days.
At the PAC airport, you will find the “Gran Terminal de Transportes de Albrook” bus terminal. Here, you will be able to take a bus to all provinces in Panama.
ATTRACTIONS
Panama City, a vibrant city full of color, life and energy. The city is a beautiful blend of historical sites like Casco Viejo, modern architecture with tall skyscrapers, vibrant cultural attractions like the Emberá Indigenous Community, and many outdoor activities. There are several natural parks for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation. For the foodies and culinary enthusiasts, Panama City is a UNESCO-designated Creative City of Gastronomy.
PANAMA CANAL
The Canal is a major engineering marvel and a key part of the city's identity. A manmade wonder, the canal is a 52-mile waterway that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. After 10 years of construction, the canal opened on August 15, 1914. Its opening significantly impacted international trade by facilitating a long-sought shortcut for the shipment of goods between the East and West.
LEARN MORE: https://pancanal.com/en/
CASCO VIEJO
This historic district in Panama City is known by many names:
Casco Viejo – The most common name used for this area.
Casco Antiguo – The Spanish term for “Old Quarter.”
San Felipe – Another term used for this area.
Casco – The shortened, informal term used by locals.
This historic district is the heart of the city. The “Old Quarter” features gorgeous colonial architecture, cobbled streets, historic buildings, diverse restaurant scene, and a vibrant nightlife. The neighborhood is relatively small and compact, thus very easy to navigate on foot. Walking tours are available for those who prefer a guided experience.
Sample Route: Plaza Santa Ana >> Coca-Cola Café >> Plaza Herrera >> Museum of La Mola >> Plaza de Francia >> Paseo Esteban Huertas >> National Theater >> Plaza Simon Bolivar >> Plaza de la Independencia .
LEARN MORE: https://www.tourismpanama.com/places-to-visit/panama-city/things-to-do/historical-sites/casco-antiguo/
MIRAFLORES VISITOR CENTER
At the Pacific end of the Panama Canal, you will find the Miraflores Locks. It’s an incredible opportunity to see the operation of the passage of ships. There is also a short film, in IMAX, about the history of the construction of the canal and the recent expansion. The center is open every day from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Prices start from $1.50 up to $17.22 and includes admission to the film.
LEARN MORE: https://visitcanaldepanama.com/en/points-of-interest/miraflores-visitor-center/
AMADOR CAUSEWAY
Built from rocks that were extracted during the construction of the Panama Canal, the causeway extends 3.7 miles and connects the mainland to 4 islands (Naos, Culebra, Perico, and Flamenco) in the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy views of the skyline, the Panama Canal, and the Pacific Ocean. Take a boat trip to Taboga Island or Las Perlas archipelago. Eat at one of the many restaurants serving both traditional and international cuisine. Shop for local wares at souvenir and handicraft shops.
LEARN MORE: https://visitcanaldepanama.com/en/points-of-interest/the-amador-causeway/
MONKEY ISLAND
The island is located in the Gatun Lake, which was formed during the construction if the Panama Canal. It is home to a variety of monkey species, including white-faced capuchin monkeys, howler monkeys, and tamarins. Visitors might also spot sloths, iguanas, and caimans. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy tours through lush trails and a canal boat ride, with opportunities to observe monkeys and diverse fauna in their natural habitat.
ALBROOK MALL
The largest shopping mall in Panama City and Central America. This large, multifaceted entertainment complex features a diverse array of retail stores, dining options, and indoor entertainment such as a movie theater, a bowling alley, a gaming arcade and a children's train ride. It’s situated next to the main bus terminal and the Marcos A. Gelabert domestic airport.
POIN PANAMA
One of the tallest, open-air buildings in the city. This tourist attraction is a must-see destination for architecture enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy different activities such as:
Zip-line - The only urban zip-line in Panama.
Swing - Reach for the sky and feel the wind flow around you as you enjoy a stunning view from the top of one of Panama City’s most modern skyscrapers.
SkyDeck - Panoramic views of the city and the Pacific Ocean at 500 feet above sea level.
The Edge - The highest open-air skyscraper ascent in the city.
Climbing - Climb our 28-foot-high wall and take a video in our 360 Video Booth above the apex and enjoy the feeling of flying in the air!
Virtual Tour 360 - Explore the most iconic sites and discover the most incredible views of Panama City through virtual reality.
LEARN MORE: https://poinpanama.com/en/home/
MULTIPLAZA MALL
A three-story shopping haven with luxury brands (i.e. Armani, Louis Vuitton), a diverse food court, and activities like ice skating and cinema. Be sure to stop at the reception desk upon entering, and ask for the Panama Shopping Card. This card will give you discounts and deals in over a hundred stores.
LEARN MORE: https://multiplaza.com/panama
CINTA COSTERA
Also known as the Costal Beltway, Cinta Costera is a 4.3-mile-long waterfront urban park and roadway. It runs along the Panama Bay from the upscale Paitilla neighborhood to the old city of Casco Antiguo. Along the way, you will find the Japanese garden, Anayansi plaza, the Mirador del Pacífico lookout, the Mercado del Marisco (Seafood market), the tourist decks (platos turísticos), and the Sabores de El Chorrillo in Casco Viejo.
LEARN MORE: https://www.tourismpanama.com/places-to-visit/panama-city/places-to-stay/cinta-costera/
BIOMUSEO
Designed by Frank Ghery, Biomuseo is an interactive museum with a colorful design showcasing Panama's biodiversity and cultural history. There are 8 permanent exhibits/galleries, including “Oceans Divided,” two towering semi-cylindrical aquariums that show how the isthmus of Panama was formed when the ocean was split in two. Outdoors, you will find the Biodiversity Park, with tranquil garden views.
The museum is located on the Amador Causeway. It is open Wednesday through Friday from 10:00am to 3:00pm, and Saturday through Sunday from 11:00am to 4:00pm. Ticket prices range from $10 to $18.
LEARN MORE: https://biomuseo.org/en/
METROPOLITAN NATURAL PARK
The 573-acre park, is a sanctuary in the heart of the Panama City. The city’s only tropical rainforest that also serves as a public recreational park. The park offers (5) scenic hiking trails through lush landscapes, with panoramic city views and encounters with diverse wildlife including 227 bird species, 45 mammals, 36 kinds of snakes and 14 kinds of amphibians.
The park is open Monday to Sunday from 7:00am to 4:30pm, including public holidays. Guided and educational tours are available with advance booking.
LEARN MORE: https://parquemetropolitano.org/en/giras/
AVENIDA BALBOA
Along the coast of the city, near the Pacific Ocean, there is Avenida Balboa. One of the main roadways, the avenue is defined by modern high-rise buildings, and vibrant atmosphere with a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational activities. It is approximately 3.5 kilometers and provides access to Cinta Costera.
INTEROCEANIC CANAL MUSEUM OF PANAMÁ
If you would like to learn how the Panama Canal was constructed, step-by-step, visit the museum located in Casco Viejo. Through a series of (11) eleven rooms, you learn the history of the canal from the various attempts of the French, to the takeover by the American engineers, and finally the handover to the government of Panama.
The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00am to 6:00pm. Tickets prices range from $2.50 to $15.
LEARN MORE: https://museodelcanal.com/en/
PANAMA VIEJO / PANAMA LA VIEJA
The first Spanish city on the Pacific coast of the American continent was Panama Viejo. The former capital of the country, located in the eastern suburbs of the new Panama City, is now a World UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site. At this archeological site, you will find various ruins, including the Old Panama Cathedral Tower and the Plaza Mayor Museum.
The site/museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 8:30am to 5:30pm. Guided tours are available but must be booked in advance. Ticket prices range from $2 to $17.
BOOK: https://www.patronatopanamaviejo.org
LEARN MORE: https://www.tourismpanama.com/places-to-visit/panama-city/things-to-do/historical-sites/panama-viejo/
TABOGA
The Taboga Express Fast Ferry offers 30-minute ferry trips to beautiful Isla Taboga, the closest beach to Panama City. As the boat departs, you will experience panoramic views of the city, dolphins, and/or flocks of seagulls behind the boat. During low tide, a wide sandbar develops, that connects Taboga island to the El Morrio islet.
LEARN MORE: https://tabogaexpress.com
“Live Your Life By A Compass, Not A Clock.”
— Stephen Covey