What do you get if you combine historical past, fashionable aptitude, and a little bit of journey? Panama Metropolis! One minute, you’re marveling on the Panama Canal, and the subsequent, you’re sipping espresso in a centuries-old plaza in Casco Viejo. I not too long ago celebrated my birthday month with a really lengthy getaway to this Central American metropolis, and it was every part I wanted—the proper mix of historic websites, stylish rooftop bars, the perfect eating places and scenic coastal walks alongside the Cinta Costera.
However, there are such a lot of extra issues to do. So, let’s get into it. Right here is every part you have to find out about planning your journey to Panama Metropolis.
Planning Suggestions for Visiting Panama Metropolis
Finest Time of 12 months to Go
The dry season (December to April) is when the climate performs good. Suppose heat, breezy days with method much less rain—temperatures often hover between 72°F and 85°F. However truthful warning: that is additionally prime vacationer season, so issues may get a bit pricier.
I went in February, and let me let you know, it wasn’t simply heat — it was scorching! We’re speaking low 90s, the sort of warmth that makes you critically take into account residing in your swimsuit. However hey, that’s what chilly drinks and shady plazas are for, proper?
How Many Days to Spend in Panama Metropolis
Panama Metropolis is a cruise port so it’s the sort of place the place you’ll be able to dip your toes in for a fast journey or dive deep for an prolonged keep. Positive, you might hit the highlights in a day or two (Panama Canal? Examine. Casco Viejo stroll? Double verify), however you’d positively miss out on a lot goodness. When you can, give your self 4 to 5 days. That method, you’ll be able to wander with out a schedule, sip limitless cups of espresso in previous plazas, and eat an embarrassing quantity of ceviche with out feeling rushed.
I truly stayed a few weeks as a result of I needed to discover all of the nooks and crannies at a slower tempo. However in the event you’re brief on time, take a look at my One Bucket Listing Day in Panama Metropolis, Panama itinerary— it’s full of the proper highlights.
Getting Round
Getting round Panama Metropolis is fairly simple, when you get the cling of it. The Metro and buses are tremendous inexpensive—you simply have to seize a reloadable fare card from any mall or Metro station for about $2. Bus rides are a steal at $0.25, and the Metro prices between $0.35 and $0.85 relying on the road.
When you’re hopping in a taxi, be sure you agree on a worth first (often $2.50 to $5 throughout the metropolis). Or skip the awkward fare discuss and use Uber—simple, low-cost, and also you’ll know the price upfront (this was the best way I bought round). And, truthfully, strolling inside districts is an possibility, too—particularly within the historic districts like Casco Viejo.
Language
Spanish is the primary language right here, however don’t be shocked in the event you hear lots of English—particularly within the touristy spots. Most locals are pleasant and glad that can assist you out, even when your Spanish is extra “gracias” than fluent. Whereas it all the time helps to know a number of key phrases (like “a glass of pink wine, please” ha, ha), you positively received’t really feel misplaced in translation right here.
With that mentioned, positively obtain a translation app, like Google Translate, for these uncommon events. This got here in useful with lots of the Uber drivers.
Forex & Credit score Playing cards
Panama’s foreign money scenario is so simple as it will get. The Panamanian Balboa has a one-on-one conversion price with the US greenback, and the US greenback is extensively accepted. For something beneath a buck, although, don’t be shocked after they provide you with Balboa cash for change as an alternative of cents. It’s the identical worth—just a bit extra native taste in your pocket!
The place to Keep
Panama Metropolis’s bought an incredible mixture of lodging, whether or not you’re into smooth high-rises or charming boutique stays. Although I selected an Airbnb within the San Francisco district (as a result of size of time I used to be there), these are my prime picks for inns.
Central Resort Panamá
Central Resort Panamá in Casco Viejo has been round since 1874, however don’t let its age idiot you—inside, it’s all about fashionable consolation wrapped in classic magnificence. Plus, the situation is unbeatable; you’re actually neighbors with the Panama Canal Museum and Presidential Palace.
Waldorf Astoria Panama
When you’re in search of a contact of luxurious, Waldorf Astoria Panama is the place to be. The service right here? Prime-notch, and the views—particularly from the rooftop bar—are value writing residence about. Whether or not you’re unwinding on the spa or indulging in considered one of their many eating choices, the resort strikes the proper stability between upscale pampering and metropolis cool.
Resort La Compania, within the Unbound Assortment by Hyatt
Resort La Compania is the proper mixture of previous meets new. This fantastically restored constructing in Casco Viejo blends historical past with fashionable aptitude, and its rooftop pool and bar supply views that may have you ever snapping pictures continuous. The resort’s vibe is intimate however removed from uninteresting—excellent for vacationers trying to really feel pampered with out shedding that native contact.
Prime 5 Issues to Do in Panama Metropolis
Take a Tour of the Panama Canal
Okay, so let’s discuss concerning the Panama Canal—the rationale Panama Metropolis is on the map for therefore many vacationers. I imply, watching huge ships glide by means of this man-made marvel at considered one of its three locks is like witnessing magic, solely with much more engineering concerned.
I hopped on a five-hour tour on the Miraflores Locks and wow, seeing these ships squeezed by means of the locks in actual time? Simply unbelievable. It’s an iconic expertise and one you received’t cease speaking about!
For extra nice excursions, see my picks for the Prime Panama Metropolis Excursions.
Discover the Previous Metropolis of Casco Viejo
Casco Viejo is the historic district that was constructed after the unique Panama Metropolis was sacked by pirates in 1671, and immediately it’s a cool mixture of old-world allure and fashionable aptitude. With cobblestone streets, colourful facades, and hidden courtyards, it’s the sort of place the place you’ll end up stopping each few steps to snap pictures.
There’s no scarcity of cool spots to discover, just like the beautiful Catedral Metropolitana and Plaza Francia, the place you’ll be able to soak in each historical past and views. Swing by Hat Road (Calle de los Sombreros) to admire rows of Panama hats dangling above you—it’s a unusual sight you received’t discover wherever else.
Quick on time? See my self-guided Casco Viejo strolling tour.
Take a Tour to the Embera Village
Visiting the Embera village deep in Panama’s rainforest was like stepping right into a Nationwide Geographic episode. You begin off gliding down the Chagres River in a canoe, and after a fast jungle hike, growth — waterfall! (Swimming optionally available, however come on, how might you not?)
The village itself? Pure magic. We had been welcomed with music, dance, and a tilapia feast that tasted as recent because it will get. Between the beadwork, basket weaving, and carvings, I left wishing I had some critical crafting abilities. PS: We took Viator’s Embera Village tour and beloved it.
Go to BioMuseo
When you’re into quirky structure and studying cool stuff, make sure that the BioMuseo is in your Panama Metropolis hit record. Designed by the legendary Frank Gehry (yep, the identical man behind the Guggenheim), this museum is as colourful as it’s mind-blowing. Inside, you’ll discover immersive reveals that showcase Panama’s insane biodiversity, from prehistoric beasts to modern-day ecosystems. Plus, there’s a nod to the Panama Canal, simply to sweeten the deal.
Take a Monkey Boat Tour
When you’re in search of a day of nature, historical past, and wildlife, the Monkey Island Tour and Rainforest Stroll is the place you’ll discover it. My journey kicked off vibrant and early with a resort pickup, whisking us out of Panama Metropolis earlier than the town even had its first sip of espresso.
On our tour, we cruised alongside the Panama Canal after which took a ship throughout Gatun Lake, maintaining our eyes peeled for the native wildlife—monkeys swinging from branches, colourful birds, and perhaps even a crocodile lurking close by. With somewhat luck (and A LOT of knowledgeable recognizing from our tour guides), we noticed all three monkey species: capuchins, howlers, and spider monkeys!
After the boat trip, we went on a straightforward rainforest stroll that took us deeper into the jungle, the place we had been surrounded by howling monkeys, bought a glimpse of some lazy sloths and noticed plenty of tropical birds.
The day wrapped up completely with a standard Panamanian breakfast—carimañolas and hojaldres, anybody?
Do you wish to ebook the identical tour I took?: Right here it’s: Monkey Island Tour and Rainforest Stroll
I’ve bought much more enjoyable exercise concepts for you: Finest Issues to Do in Panama Metropolis, Panama (for first-timers).
What + The place to Eat
Panama Metropolis’s meals scene is a tasty mixture of conventional Panamanian dishes and stylish connoisseur experiences. And I beloved them each! Right here’s my prime 5 picks of locations not-to-miss, but when your nonetheless hungry, see my record of all my favourite Panama Metropolis Eating places.
La Pulpería
La Pulpería is a cool spot that looks like a hidden gem, and so they’ve bought some killer plates. Begin with their rooster lollipops, then dive into their grilled octopus. The empanadas are crispy excellent, and their mac and cheese topped with popcorn rooster? Life-changing. You possibly can share some tapas too, however truthfully, you’ll need every part for your self!
Corcho
I can by no means resist testing a superb wine bar after I’m touring, and Corcho didn’t disappoint! This spot takes small plates and tapas to the subsequent stage (the tuna tataki was fingers down my favourite), and their rotating wine record retains issues thrilling. Plus, their charcuterie sport? On level.
The employees right here actually know their stuff, so I fortunately allow them to advocate a wine—and ended up with a tremendous Malbec.
Maito
Run by Chef Mario Castrellón, this place is scorching—and I’m not simply speaking concerning the kitchen. With Panamanian delicacies blended with influences from Afro-Caribbean, Asian, and Creole cultures, the meals speaks for itself, and also you’ll see why they’re a part of each Latin America’s and The World’s 50 Finest Eating places record. Attempt their pulpo al coco (stewed octopus with coconut milk) or fresas con crema dessert (strawberries with cream). Oh, and critically, ebook forward—this place fills up quick!
El Trapiche
On the subject of genuine Panamanian dishes and flavors, the El Trapiches is the place you wish to go. Their menu is full of conventional favorites—assume hearty stews, fried meat platters, and attractive rice-and-chicken dishes. I went for the Fiesta Panameña (extremely really useful!) which supplies you somewhat little bit of every part: yuca frita, carimanola, plantains, sancocho, arroz con pollo, and extra. Oh, and professional tip: save room for dessert—coconut ice cream is a must-try!
Mercado de Mariscos
When you’re a lover of seafood, then Mercado de Mariscos is your go-to spot. This bustling fish market serves up among the freshest catches on the town. Not solely can locals purchase fish to prepare dinner at residence, however they’ve a complete part on eateries cooking proper on web site.
You possibly can’t go away with out attempting the ceviche—zesty, citrusy, and completely addictive. And tremendous low-cost—a loaded styrofoam cup is just some {dollars}. And right here’s a enjoyable reality: Anthony Bourdain himself indulged within the ceviche right here, and if anybody knew good eats, it was him!
Touring Quickly? Use my Suggestions for Reserving Your Journey!
E-book Your Flight
Skyscanner is my favourite flight search engine, as a result of it checks dozens of airways so you’ll be able to simply discover the perfect fare offers. Additionally they has the choice to decide on ‘least expensive month’ because the departure to seek out the bottom priced dates to fly to your vacation spot (I exploit this feature A LOT!).
E-book Your Lodging
I exploit each Reserving.com and Expedia for inns. Why? As a result of every gives a pair completely different resort selections and I like to match the opinions on each. When you’re in search of extra of a house ambiance (or are touring with a bunch of individuals), head over to VRBO or AirBNB that has homes, residences and even only a room for lease in each worth vary.
E-book Your Rental Automotive
In case your’e like me and need the liberty to essentially discover a vacation spot, driving from place to position is the best choice! I all the time ebook with Uncover Automobiles as a result of it present choices from all the massive model names and provides me the perfect pricing.
E-book Some Enjoyable Excursions!
Viator and Get Your Information are my go-to search engines like google and yahoo for cool bucket record experiences! Each can have completely different excursions, so verify each—why restrict your self, proper?
Don’t Overlook Journey Insurance coverage
Journey could be unpredictable. Whether or not it’s a last-minute cancellation, an damage, or (ugh) theft, issues occur. That’s why I like to recommend by no means leaving the nation with out journey insurance coverage. Listed below are my faves for the perfect service and worth:
This submit could include affiliate hyperlinks. When you make a purchase order by means of my hyperlinks, I earn a fee that helps to maintain this weblog operating—at no further value to you. For extra data learn my full disclosure.
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