Welcome to Panama City, the vibrant capital of Panama! Whether you are here for business or pleasure, there is so much to see and do in this beautiful city. In this travel guide, we will give you some travel tips and highlight the most important places you should visit during your three days in Panama City.
Day One: Historical and Cultural Sites
On your first day in Panama City, we recommend exploring some of the city’s historical and cultural sites.
- Panama Canal: No trip to Panama City is complete without a visit to the Panama Canal, one of the engineering marvels of the world. You can take a guided tour of the canal and learn about its history and operation.
- Casco Viejo: This historic district of Panama City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its colonial architecture and charming plazas. Take a stroll through the narrow streets and stop by one of the many cafes and restaurants.
- Museo del Canal Interoceánico de Panamá: This museum tells the story of the Panama Canal and its impact on the country and the world. It is located in the Casco Viejo and is well worth a visit.
Day Two: Nature and Shopping
On your second day in Panama City, we recommend exploring some of the city’s natural beauty and shopping districts.
- Ancon Hill: This hill offers panoramic views of Panama City and its surroundings. You can hike to the top or take a taxi.
- Panama Viejo: This is the site of the original Panama City, founded in 1519 Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has many archaeological ruins to explore.
- Cinta Costera: This scenic waterfront walkway is a great place to take a stroll or a bike ride. It offers great views of the city skyline and the ocean.
- Multicentro Mall: This is one of the largest shopping malls in Panama City and has a wide range of stores and restaurants.
Day Three: Beach and Food
On your third day in Panama City, we recommend heading to the beach and trying some of the local cuisine.
- Playa Bonita: This beautiful beach is just a short drive from Panama City and is a great place to relax and soak up the sun.
- Fish Market: Located in the Casco Viejo, this market is a great place to try some fresh seafood. There are many restaurants around the market that offer ceviche and other local specialties.
- Biodiversity Museum: This museum, designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, tells the story of Panama’s unique biodiversity. It is located on the Amador Causeway, which offers great views of the Panama Canal.
Routes in Panama City
If you want to explore Panama City on your own, here are some suggested routes:
- The Panama Canal Route: Start at the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center and take a guided tour of the canal. Then, head to the Amador Causeway and the Biodiversity Museum. End the day with a sunset view from Ancon Hill.
- The Casco Viejo Route: Start at Plaza de la Independencia and explore the many historic buildings and plazas of the Casco Viejo. Stop by the Museo del Canal Interoceánico de Panamá and then head to the Cinta Costera for a waterfront walk. End the day with a sunset cocktail at a rooftop bar.
- The Nature Route: Start with a hike up Ancon Hill for panoramic views of the city. Then, head to Panama Viejo to explore the archaeological ruins. End the day with a stroll along the Causeway and a seafood dinner at the Fish Market.
Where to Sleep in Panama City
There are many great hotels in Panama City to choose from. Here are some of our top picks:
- American Trade Hotel: This boutique hotel is located in the heart of the Casco Viejo and offers stylish rooms and a rooftop pool.
- The Bristol Panama: This luxurious hotel is located in the financial district and offers spacious rooms and a full-service spa.
- The Westin Playa Bonita: This beachfront resort is located just outside of Panama City and offers stunning views and a range of amenities.
Where to Eat in Panama City
Panama City is known for its diverse and delicious cuisine. Here are some of our favorite restaurants:
- Maito: This award-winning restaurant serves up creative Panamanian cuisine using local ingredients. The tasting menu is a must-try.
- Casa Casco: This chic restaurant in the Casco Viejo serves up modern Mediterranean cuisine and has a great rooftop bar.
- Los Años Locos: This lively restaurant in the Bella Vista neighborhood serves up traditional Panamanian dishes in a fun atmosphere.
Free Tours in Panama City
If you are on a budget, there are also many free tours available in Panama City:
- Panama Canal Walking Tour: This tour takes you along the Panama Canal and provides a history of its construction and operation.
- Free Walking Tour Panama: This tour explores the Casco Viejo and provides a history of the city’s colonial past.
- Cinta Costera Walk: This waterfront walkway is a great place to take a stroll and offers views of the city skyline and the ocean.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best time to visit Panama City? The best time to visit Panama City is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. The temperatures are cooler and there is less rain.
- Do I need a visa to visit Panama? Visitors from most countries do not need a visa to visit Panama. However, make sure to check the visa requirements for your country before you travel.
- Is Panama City safe? Panama City is generally a safe city to visit, but like any big city, you should take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
- What is the currency in Panama? The official currency of Panama is the balboa, but the U.S. dollar is also widely used.
Panama City is a vibrant and exciting destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, nature, shopping, or food, you will find plenty to explore during your three days in this beautiful city. Make sure to visit the Panama Canal, the Casco Viejo, and the beach, and try some of the delicious local cuisine. And don’t forget to take advantage of the many free tours and activities available. We hope you have a wonderful trip to Panama City!
Official tourism website of the city of Panama City
