PA
Panama City
A skyscraper capital with a colonial old quarter and ships passing through the canal
A skyscraper capital with a colonial old quarter and ships passing through the canal
The old quarter, founded in 1673, has plazas, churches and restored colonial buildings with rooftop bars and restaurants.
Explore the edges of the district with care after dark.
Photo: David Broad, CC BY 3.0
The first Spanish city on the Pacific coast, founded in 1519, was destroyed in 1671 after an attack led by the privateer Henry Morgan. Its ruined cathedral tower and a museum remain.
Photo: Adam Jones, CC BY-SA 2.0
From the visitor centre’s viewing decks, watch ships being raised and lowered through the canal locks. A museum explains the canal’s history.
Ship transits are most frequent at certain times; check the schedule.
Photo: Youngiovani, CC BY-SA 3.0
Designed by Frank Gehry and opened in 2014, this colourful museum on the Amador Causeway explains how the isthmus shaped biodiversity.
Photo: Norcasa, CC BY 4.0
This causeway links small islands at the canal entrance, with cycle paths and views of the skyline and ships waiting to transit.
Photo: Edwinosb, CC BY-SA 4.0
Try ceviche from the Mercado de Mariscos, sancocho (chicken soup), patacones (fried plantain) and Panamanian coffee.
Casco Viejo and the banking district have a wide range of restaurants.
Tocumen International Airport is about 25km east and is a hub for flights across the Americas. The city has a metro, buses and plenty of taxis and ride-hailing cars.
Buses run to David (for Boquete) and towards the San Blas road.
Panama uses the US dollar (the balboa is used for coins and is equal to US$1).
Prices are approximate; check current rates.
Old town, canal and nature.
Wander the old quarter, then watch sunset from a rooftop bar.
Visit the Miraflores Locks, then the Biomuseo and the Amador Causeway.
Hike in the Metropolitan Natural Park or visit Panamá Viejo.
In the wet season, expect heavy afternoon showers.
Traffic is heavy at rush hour; use the metro where possible.
Check ship transit times before visiting the locks.
Use taxis or ride-hailing at night and stay in busy areas.
Quick answers for planning time in Panama City.
The Miraflores Visitor Center, near the city.
The US dollar.
Yes, together with Panamá Viejo.
About 25km, 30–60 minutes depending on traffic.
December to April, the dry season.
Planning a wider trip? Our Panama travel guide covers getting there, costs, when to go and more.