Where to stay
Hotels in Panama City
Book direct on our own Panama City hotel pages — no booking fee and instant confirmation.
Apartamento en el Corazón de Casco Viejo Panamá 9
Calle Victoriano Lorenzo | Panama City, PA
5BR House with Pool and King Beds in Punta Paitilla
Calle Gil Colunge | Panama City, 0000, PA
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At a glance
Climate
Tropical
Languages
Spanish and English
Local currency
USD
(USD)
Local time
(GMT-5)
Ideal trip length
3–5 days
Cost level
3 of 5 · our research
Suggested area to stay
Casco Viejo
Tap water
Generally described as safe to drink
Tipping
10-15% in restaurants, optional for others
What this place is for
History
95 · Outstanding
Culture
90 · Outstanding
Food
90 · Outstanding
Family
70 · Good
Our own 0–100 ratings for this one destination. They describe a city; they are not a league table of cities.
Food to try
Sancocho
Ceviche
Ropa Vieja
Patacones
When to visit Panama City
How good each month is here, on this destination's own scale. It compares months within this city, never one city against another.
Best months: January, February
Busiest: Dec-Apr
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Jan90
Dry, sunny, pleasant
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Feb90
Dry, sunny, pleasant
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Mar85
Dry, hot, sunny
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Apr80
Hot, humid, transition
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May70
Rainy season begins
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Jun65
Frequent afternoon rain
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Jul65
Frequent afternoon rain
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Aug60
Heavy afternoon rain
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Sept60
Heavy afternoon rain
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Oct55
Wettest month
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Nov60
Rainy, transition to dry
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Dec80
Dry season starts
Things to do in Panama City
7 places worth your time, grouped by when they are at their best.
Showing 7 of 7 places ·
Best in the morning
2 places
Miraflores Locks Visitor Center
Miraflores 2.5 hrs
Watch ships traverse the iconic Panama Canal at this impressive visitor center.
Hike Ancon Hill
Ancon 2 hrs
Ascend to the highest point in the city for panoramic views of the Canal, Casco Viejo, and modern skyline.
Best in the afternoon
3 places
Explore Casco Viejo
Casco Viejo 4 hrs
Wander through the charming cobblestone streets of Panama City's historic district.
Stroll Amador Causeway
Amador Causeway 2 hrs
Enjoy scenic views of the city skyline and islands while walking or biking along the causeway.
Dine at Mercado de Mariscos
Avenida Balboa 1.5 hrs
Savor fresh ceviche and seafood dishes at the bustling local fish market.
Best in the evening
1 place
Experience Panama City Nightlife
Casco Viejo 4 hrs
Enjoy vibrant bars and rooftop lounges in the historic Casco Viejo district.
Any time of day
1 place
Visit the Biomuseo
Amador Causeway 3 hrs
Discover Panama's biodiversity and its impact on the world in a colorful Frank Gehry-designed museum.
Panama City itineraries
First-timer highlights
3 Days in Panama City — First-Timer Highlights
Uncover the magic where history, modernity, and nature converge.
This 3-day itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors eager to experience the essential highlights of Panama City. From the historic charm of Casco Viejo to the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal and the city's vibrant modern pulse, you'll discover the diverse facets that make this capital truly unique. It's designed for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed introduction to Panama's bustling heart.
3 Days
12 Stops
See the full plan
For couples
2 Days in Panama City — Romance
Ignite your passion amidst historic charm, modern marvels, and tropical beauty.
This intimate 2-day itinerary is crafted for couples seeking a romantic escape, blending the old-world allure of Casco Viejo with the engineering marvels of the Panama Canal and the city's vibrant modern pulse. Discover hidden gems, savor exquisite cuisine, and create unforgettable memories together in the heart of Panama.
2 Days
8 Stops
See the full plan
Culture and history
3 Days in Panama City — Culture & History
Uncover the layers of history, from ancient ruins to the modern marvel of the Panama Canal.
This 3-day itinerary is designed for history buffs and culture enthusiasts eager to explore Panama City's rich past and vibrant present. Dive deep into colonial architecture, indigenous art, and the engineering feat that shaped global trade, offering a comprehensive journey through one of Central America's most dynamic capitals.
3 Days
12 Stops
See the full plan
With the family
3 Days in Panama City — Family with Kids
Discover a vibrant blend of history, nature, and modern marvels, perfect for an unforgettable family adventure.
This 3-day itinerary is crafted for families with children, offering a dynamic mix of educational experiences, outdoor adventures, and interactive fun across Panama City. From exploring the iconic Panama Canal and historic Casco Viejo to spotting wildlife in urban parks and engaging with science, every day promises excitement and discovery for all ages. It's an ideal trip for families seeking a memorable city break with a unique blend of culture and nature.
3 Days
11 Stops
See the full plan
Food and drink
2 Days in Panama City — Food & Wine
Savor the vibrant flavors and rich history of Panama's capital.
This itinerary invites foodies and wine enthusiasts to explore Panama City's dynamic culinary scene, from traditional Panamanian dishes to upscale international dining. Discover bustling local markets, charming historic districts, and innovative gastronomy, perfectly paired with refreshing drinks and a touch of culture. It's designed for travelers eager to taste the best of Panama.
2 Days
10 Stops
See the full plan
Things to book
Tours and activities in Panama City
Guided tours, day trips and tickets to book alongside your stay.
Standard tour
Craft Beer & Rum tasting in Bohemian El Cangrejo
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Sunset Walking Tour at Casco Viejo El Chorrillo and the fish market
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Anton Valley Day Tour with Hiking
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Panama City: Embera Indian Village and Waterfall Tour with Lunch
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Foodie Neighborhood Walking Tour in Panama
Free cancellationFind deals
Activity tour
Zipline Gamboa
Free cancellationFind deals
Activity tour
Class for Chocolate Making and Tasting in Panama
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Legends of Casco Viejo Tour: Uncover Hidden Gems
Free cancellationFind deals
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Practical ratings
Our own ratings and key insights for this destination.
Getaways from Panama City
Places people from Panama City travel to, from our own travel research.
