Travelling to Panama City

With its modern shopping centers, vibrant nightlife, ocean views, and natural parks, Panama City is a destination to explore and enjoy to the fullest.

The Panama Canal – An engineering marvel The Panama Canal is one of the main attractions and one of the greatest engineering feats in the world. Connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, it has been pivotal in global trade since its opening in 1914. Visitors can learn about its construction and operation at the Miraflores Visitor Center, where they can watch ships pass through the locks and discover the canal's history and impact.

For those seeking a more comprehensive experience, the Agua Clara Visitor Center offers views of the expanded locks accommodating larger ships, symbolizing the connection between continents and offering a point of interest for city explorers.

Historic District (Casco Viejo) – Colonial history and bohemian charm The Historic District, also known as Casco Viejo, is the city's historical neighborhood filled with colonial architecture. Founded in 1673 and declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s one of the city's most charming spots. Visitors can stroll around cobbled streets, discover historical churches like the Metropolitan Cathedral, and explore the San José Church with its famous golden altar.

Casco Viejo also has a vibrant nightlife and cultural scene, with bars, restaurants, and cafés offering a chance to enjoy local and international cuisine. As the sun sets, live music fills the air, creating a bohemian atmosphere at venues like Tantalo.

Waterfront Promenade – Cinta Costera and skyline views The Cinta Costera is a waterfront promenade running along much of the city's coast, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Panama City’s skyline. This outdoor space is perfect for walking, biking, or simply relaxing while enjoying the scenery. Along the promenade, you’ll also find parks, sports areas, and restaurants, providing a taste of the local cuisine amid the lively urban atmosphere.

The Cinta Costera connects with other city areas, offering a unique experience that combines modernity with the sea.

Biomuseo – Iconic museum celebrating biodiversity Designed by architect Frank Gehry, the Biomuseo is one of the most fascinating museums in Panama City. Located on the Amador Causeway, it explores Panama’s biodiversity and its role as a biological bridge between North and South America. Interactive exhibits showcase the country’s incredible diversity of species and the geological history of the isthmus.

The museum’s architecture is as impressive as its content, with a colorful structure symbolizing life and diversity. Visitors can also enjoy ocean views from the museum.

Amador Causeway – A walk between two oceans The Amador Causeway is an artificial peninsula jutting into the Pacific Ocean, connecting the city with small islands. It’s perfect for walking, cycling, or simply enjoying the marine breeze and views of the canal and city. The causeway also features restaurants and marinas, making it an ideal place to relax and watch the sunset.

Shopping and modernity in Panama City Panama City is known as a major shopping hub in Latin America, offering a wide variety of shopping centers and luxury stores. Malls like the Multiplaza Pacific and Albrook offer international brands and a wide range of dining options. Albrook Mall is the largest in Latin America, providing an ideal place to spend the day taking advantage of tax-free shopping.

These malls offer family entertainment, including cinemas, playgrounds, and various dining options, making Panama City a shopping destination as attractive as its beaches and historical sites.

Natural Parks and Cerro Ancón Despite its urban environment, Panama City is surrounded by nature, offering several nearby parks for ecotourism enthusiasts. The Metropolitan Natural Park is a tropical jungle area within the city, with trails for observing monkeys, sloths, and birds in their natural habitat. Cerro Ancón, the highest point in the city, provides panoramic views of Panama City and the canal.

Nearby, Soberanía National Park, about 25 minutes from the city, features jungle trails and is famous among birdwatchers for hosting one of the world’s largest concentrations of bird species.

Panamanian cuisine and local markets Panamanian cuisine is a blend of Caribbean, African, and Latin flavors. Dishes like sancocho (a chicken and vegetable stew) and patacones (fried green plantains) are local favorites. The city also has a growing restaurant scene where local chefs blend Panamanian ingredients with international influences. Dining in Panama City offers a glimpse into the country’s cultural diversity, combining tradition with modernity.