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Many people tend to skip Panama City over the more famous nature spots other places in Panama, but I think it’s worth spending at least a couple of days exploring this vibrant capital.
I’ve put together an itinerary you can use to plan your trip whether you want to stay for 2,3,4 or 5 days. I’m going to start with a two day itinerary and just build on from that so you can easily mix and match the days depending on your preference.
Best areas to stay in Panama City
No matter how long you choose to spend in Panama City you need a great spot to base yourself. The most popular areas are Casco Viejo and Punta Pacifica, however for this kind of trip I recommend staying in the Old Town of Casco Viejo so you have quick access to everything.
Hotel Casa Panama ($100 per night)
This is a solid choice for travelers who don’t want to spend big but still want to soak up the historic architecture and central location of Casco Viejo.
American Trade Hotel ($260 per night)
This Hotel is housed in a landmark 1917 building in Casco Viejo, and blends heritage with style. It features a rooftop pool, jazz-bar/lounge atmosphere and boutique hotel feel. It hits the sweet spot for comfort, character and location without going ultra-luxury.
Sofitel Legend ($370 per night)
This is a top-tier choice and perfect if you want to splurge and stay in the most atmospheric part of the city.
Daily Itinerary Panama City
Day 1 – Arrival & Historic Core
Lets start with my favorite part first, namely exploring Casco Viejo. You can choose to just explore the cobblestone streets and admire the colonial buildings on your own, or choose to book a guided tour to learn more about the history and also get a better bearing of the city outline to explore more on your own later.
In the afternoon you can chose to either do a cooking class, join a chocolate workshop or just relax. No matter what you choose to do, make sure to head to one of the rooftop bars before sunset. I do recommend trying a new one each night, because there are so many great ones to check out. See my Guide to Panama City for my favorite ones.
Legends of Casco Viejo Tour: Uncover Hidden Gems
The most popular guided walking tour in Casco Viejo
Book a guided tour in a classic car here
Explore Panama from a classic car! This tour is perfect for those who want to see as much as possible, but struggle to walk or stay on their feet all day.
Day 2 – Canal & Waterfront
No trip to Panama City is really complete without a trip to the Panama Canal. You can choose to go there alone, but my recommendation is to book a tour and choose one that combines visiting the canal with a trip to Monkey island later on to look for sloths and monkeys.
Book a combo trip: Panama Canal + Gatun Lake
Combine a visit to the Miraflores Locks with a trip to the jungle looking for sloths and monkeys
Book a Combo: Panama Canal + Walking Tour
This tour combines a visit to the Panama Canal with a walking tour of Panama City
With these two days you’ll have seen some of the most popular sights in Panama City, but my advise is to add a couple more days because there is so much to see and do here!
Day 3 – Nature trekking & Embera village
Today we focus more on the nature side of Panama City. Even though it’s a huge modern city, there are areas where you can hike in the jungle and look for sloths.
So today start your day with choosing to either take a hike up Ancon Hill or visit the nearby Metropolitan Nature Park. You will have the possibility of spotting animals both places, but the likelihood is better in the Nature Park.
Later on book a guided tour to visit the Embera Village and explore how this indigenous tribe still lives. It’s a truly fascinating experience which I’m so glad I did. You can choose to do this in the morning or afternoon so switch up the itinerary if you’d rather start there and catch the sunset at Ancon Hill instead.
Day 4 – Explore the Modern Side of Panama City
Today I advise you to spend the day exploring more of Panama City’s modern side. Take a walk or rent a bike and explore the Amador Causeway. You’ll get some amazing views of Panama City’s skyline. Head over to the fish market, Mercado de Mariscos for some fresh ceviche for lunch.
Book an organized bike tour here
This bike tour will guide you through different areas of Panama City, including Cinta Costera and Casco Viejo
In the afternoon you can choose to either visit the UNESCO-listed ruins of the original Panama City, called Panama Viejo, go shopping at Americas second biggest mall called Albrook Mall or just relax in Casco Viejo with a sample of Rum at Pedro Mandingo Rum Bar or with making chocolate at Nome.
Day 5 – Time for a Day Trip
Today is your choice again! If you feel like you haven’t seen everything you want in the city itself, or if you just prefer to spend your last day relaxing and strolling through Casco Viejo, then do that. If you want a bit more adventure I recommend booking one last day trip. If you love hiking, then head over to Anton Valley. If you want to spend some time on the beach, book a catamaran tour to the nearby Tobago Island or venture further out and take a day trip to the beautiful San Blas Islands.
Both San Blas Island and Anton Valley are great spots worth a couple of days in themselves, so if you’re visiting Panama City as part of a longer trip through Panama, then add a couple of nights there instead. If not I suggest picking the one that suits you best, either some hiking or beach time.
Final Thoughts: Panama City Itinerary
Panama City surprised me in a positive way and Ioved exploring the city and learning about all the fun stuff to do there. If you just want to see the city and don’t have much time I think 2 full days will be enough to cover the highlights. However, if you have more time I advice you to add a couple of more days to explore more of the surrounding area and add on at least one day trip to explore the jungle or beach.
I hope this guide was helpful and that you have an amazing time visiting Panama. If you have any questions about Panama City or travel in general, or just want to follow along as I travel the world full time, don‘t hesitate to reach out to me on social media. I would love to connect and help out!
-Ingrid
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