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About this guide
From the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal to delicious Afro-Caribbean cuisine, Panama City has adventure, culture, and fun. Framed by the Pacific Ocean, the economic growth and welcoming energy make this Central American destination a must visit. The eclectic blend of ancient traditions and beautiful architecture has made Panama one of the most popular countries for Black expats that’s been chosen as the top spot in the last few years. From the Afro-Panamanian population to a biodiverse landscape and fantastic tropical weather, the canal capital captivates so many with so much wonder to share with everyone.
- Best time to travel: December to April (peak season), June to October (off-season), May and November (shoulder season)
- Time zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST)
- Currency: Panamanian Balboa (PAB)
- Language: Spanish
- Noteworthy: Panama Jazz Festival (January), Semana Santa (March), The Mejorana Festival in Guarare (September), Diablos y Congos (October)
- Best for: Adventure Seekers, Food and Nightlife, Business and Budget Travelers, Luxury Getaways
Get Away: Getting To and Around Panama City, Panama
By Air
Tocumen International Airport is the main gateway and one of the busiest hubs in Central America. It’s well-connected to North and South America, making Panama City an easy stopover or final destination. From the airport, travelers can reach the city center via taxi, rideshare, or the Metro Line 2. Flights between Panama City and nearby regional destinations are frequent and efficient.
By Car
Driving is an option; however, traffic in Panama City can be intense, especially during rush hour. Rental cars are widely available near the airport and throughout the city. Keep in mind that navigation apps are essential for avoiding congestion. Parking is manageable in modern neighborhoods like Punta Pacífica and Costa del Este, but limited in historic Casco Viejo. For short stays, driving often feels like more effort than it’s worth.
By Public Transit
Panama City’s public transit system is clean, modern, and one of the best in Latin America. The affordable and air-conditioned two-line Metro connects the airport line and downtown areas like the historic Casco Viejo and Albrook Bus Terminal. Buses (previously called Diablos Rojos) fill in the gaps where the Metro doesn’t reach. Visitors can get a rechargeable Metro card that keeps everything simple and seamless.
Explore Panama City, Panama on Foot
Walking works best in specific neighborhoods like Casco Viejo, parts of Avenida Balboa, and waterfront promenades. Sidewalks and walkability vary, so comfortable shoes and situational awareness are key. The heat and humidity can make long walks feel like cardio you didn’t sign up for, but the local cafes with beautiful views of the Panama skyline may be worth it. Visitors often pair walking with short rides to keep the sightseeing breezy and efficient.
Quick facts
Good For
Adventure Seekers
Food and Nightlife
Business and Budget Travelers
Luxury Getaways
Keep in mind
- Panama Jazz Festival (January)
- Semana Santa (March)
- The Mejorana Festival in Guarare (September)
- Diablos y Congos (October)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places to Eat in Panama City, Panama
The fine dining spot Azahar Panama offers Haute signature cuisine, fusing Western European cuts and Asian influences. The terrace has one of the most beautiful views in Panama with private rooms or a theater for larger groups.
The Santa Rita Casco Vieja is a fusion of old and new gastronomy with authentic Spanish and Argentine recipes. The menu includes patas bravas, Galician octopus, hand-sliced Argentinian beef empanadas, and more.
The aromatic menu at Bruttito Sushi Bar and Brunch offers a 360º experience with food inspired by cuisines around the world. The all-day brunch menu is a major highlight that even locals return to again and again.
For deliciously homemade sweet treats, Gelato and Caffè Benissimo creates the perfect local atmosphere to sit back and relax with a nice gelato. The coffee beans and brews are a popular part of this local spot.
Guests can indulge in sandwiches, desserts, coffee, and brunch at the Dodó Vintage Shop and Café. There are also vegan and gluten-free options for more diverse and sensitive palates.
A deliciously icy dessert destination with various specialty flavors and customized recipes in Panama is Ay Mi Negra. The menu includes rolled ice cream, crepes, cookies, milkshakes, and more.
With a love for serving their community, the owners of La Pulperia Tapas Restaurant and Bar stick to traditional service with modern cuisine. From tapas and homestyle dishes to signature cocktails and local wines, this restaurant deserves a spot on any itinerary.
For a nice dinner with a balcony view, the Zabah Kitchen and Lounge has a great ambiance to end the night. Guests enjoy beautifully crafted and colorful dishes, along with creative cocktails and local tapas.
Play
Play: Things To Do In Panama City, Panama
For a day trip outside of the city, Soberania National Park spans 55,000 acres with a rich variety of wildlife including exotic bird species. The park's scenic trails, like El Charco in Gamboa and Pipeline Road, make this an ideal family-friendly day trip.
This Four-Island Day Tour explores sunken shipwrecks with snorkeling at natural swimming pools in Aguja, Diablo, Pelicano, and Perro Islands. There is a traditional Panamanian lunch with welcome snacks provided as well.
Led by licensed local guides, this Legends Of Casco Viejo Tour highlights the story behind historic areas. Guests visit areas like Plaza Tomas Herrera, Independence Square, and Plaza Bolivar before shopping and eating at popular restaurants.
This idyllic All-Inclusive Full-Day Taboga Island Catamaran Tour takes travelers to the ‘Island of Flowers’ to cruise, sunbathe, and swim. Guests can take photos with picturesque views of Panama City and visit Taboga village.
From the lush jungle rivers to the Chagres Rainforest waterfalls, the Embera Indigenous village tour offers group and private tours for an outdoor escape. Guests can explore at their own pace in the comfort of a private vehicle, with drinks and meals.
The heart of Panama beats in this Afro-Panamanian Cooking Experience with flavors of Bacalao, Arroz con Coco, Sancocho, and more. Guests will learn to cook and then taste diverse African dishes, such as Swahili Pilao and Jollof Rice.
Whether a novice or an expert dancer, guests can enjoy a salsa lesson and a night on the town. After a dance tutorial, the group is led to the local hotspots in Panama's electrifying Latin dance scene.
The Panamanian Coffee History Experience is a great way to learn and taste exquisite brews at the coffee bar. Guests can enjoy a classic Panamanian lunch to match their local handcrafted espressos and lattes.
Perfect for a guided stroll, the Panama City and Old Town Bike Tour explores the rich history of the Rainbow City. Guests pedal through modern and historic landmarks while learning the city’s captivating stories.
