Are
you planning a visit to the crossroads of the Americas? Panama City offers a
dazzling blend of skyscrapers, rainforests, and centuries-old history, making
it a must-visit destination. This comprehensive guide covers everything you
need to know to make the most of your Panama City adventure.
Local Culture, History, and
Geography
Panama
City, Panama’s vibrant capital, bridges the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans via the
iconic Panama Canal. Founded in 1519 by Spanish conquistadors, the
city thrived as a trade hub. Today, it juxtaposes sleek high-rises with the
UNESCO-listed Casco Viejo (Old Quarter), where cobblestone
streets and colonial churches stand testament to its past. The culture blends
Indigenous, Spanish, Afro-Caribbean, and modern influences, celebrated through
music, festivals, and cuisine.
Cultural Customs to Know
- Greetings: A handshake or
cheek kiss (one kiss) is common.
- Respect for Nature: Panama’s
biodiversity is cherished—avoid littering in natural areas.
- Dress Code: Casual attire is
acceptable, but dress modestly in churches.
- Tipping: Tip 10% in
restaurants; small bills (USD) for guides and drivers.
Weather, Climate, and Local Time
Panama
City has a tropical savanna climate with two distinct seasons:
|
Season |
Months |
Temperature Range |
What to Expect |
|
Dry |
December-April |
24°C-32°C (75°F-90°F) |
Sunny days, low humidity |
|
Wet |
May-November |
23°C-30°C (73°F-86°F) |
Afternoon showers, lush
greenery |
Panama
City operates on Eastern Standard Time (EST), UTC-5. No daylight
saving time is observed.
Best Time to Visit
- Dry Season
(December-April): Ideal for beaches and outdoor activities.
- Wet Season
(May-November): Fewer crowds, vibrant rainforests, lower prices.
Transportation and Getting Around
Getting to Panama City
- By Air: Tocumen
International Airport (PTY) connects to major cities in the
Americas and Europe.
- By Cruise: Ships dock at Amador
Cruise Port or Colón (1-hour drive from the
city).
Getting Around Panama City
- Metro: Central America’s
first metro system, linking key districts.
- Taxis: Abundant and
affordable (negotiate fares upfront or use Uber).
- Buses: Cheap but crowded;
opt for air-conditioned Metrobús.
- Walking: Safe in areas
like Casco Viejo and Amador Causeway.
Accommodation Options
Luxury Hotels ($200+/night)
1.
Waldorf Astoria Panama
o
Location: Downtown
o Highlights: Rooftop pool, panoramic
city views, and gourmet dining.
2.
American Trade Hotel
o
Location: Casco Viejo
o Highlights: Historic charm, jazz
bar, and courtyard pool.
Mid-Range (100−100−200/night)
3.
Tantalo Hotel
o
Location: Casco Viejo
o Highlights: Rooftop bar, eclectic
art, and walking tours.
4.
Riande Granada Urban Hotel
o Central
location, modern rooms, and rooftop terrace.
Budget-Friendly (Under $100/night)
- Luna’s Castle Hostel: Social vibe in
Casco Viejo with dorms and private rooms.
- Hotel Costa Inn: Affordable stays
near the financial district.
Best Restaurants in Panama City
Fine Dining
- Maito: Fusion of
Panamanian and Asian flavors, ranked among Latin America’s best.
- Intimo: Romantic spot in
Casco Viejo with creative seafood dishes.
Mid-Range
- El Trapiche: Local favorite
for ropa vieja (shredded beef) and hojaldras (fried
dough).
- Mercado de Mariscos: Fresh ceviche and
seafood at the bustling fish market.
Budget-Friendly
- Super Gourmet: Casual café
with empanadas and tortillas.
- Café Unido: Specialty coffee
and breakfast bites in Casco Viejo.
Must-Try Dishes
- Ceviche: Fresh fish
marinated in lime, cilantro, and chili.
- Sancocho: Hearty chicken soup
with yam and corn.
- Chicheme: Sweet corn and milk
drink, often spiked with rum.
Top Tourist Attractions
1.
Panama Canal
o Visit
the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center to watch ships traverse
this engineering marvel.
2.
Casco Viejo
o Stroll
past pastel-colored buildings, Plaza de la Independencia, and
the Golden Altar at San José Church.
3.
Biomuseo
o Frank
Gehry-designed museum showcasing Panama’s biodiversity and geological history.
4.
Amador Causeway
o Scenic
waterfront path connecting four islands, perfect for biking and sunset views.
5.
Panama Viejo
o Ruins
of the original 16th-century city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Natural Beauty Spots
1.
Metropolitan Natural Park
o Urban
rainforest with hiking trails and howler monkeys.
2.
SoberanÃa National Park
o Birdwatching
paradise along the Pipeline Road (home to 500+ species).
3.
Taboga Island
o “Island
of Flowers” with sandy beaches, 45 minutes by ferry.
Outdoor Activities
1.
Kayak the Panama Canal
o Paddle
through Gatun Lake, spotting monkeys and sloths.
2.
Surfing at Playa Venao
o Day
trip to Pacific waves (4-hour drive or domestic flight).
3.
Emberá Village Tour
o Cultural
immersion with Indigenous communities in the rainforest.
Festivals and Events
- Carnaval
(February/March): Parades, music, and water fights in the streets.
- Panama Jazz Festival
(January): International artists perform citywide.
- Independence Day
(November 28): Fireworks, parades, and folk dancing.
Shopping Destinations
- Multiplaza Pacific: Upscale mall with
global brands and dining.
- Mercado
de ArtesanÃas: Handmade molas (textiles),
jewelry, and Panama hats.
- Calle Uruguay: Trendy boutiques
and nightlife in the financial district.
Tourist Tips and Emergency Info
Essential Tips
- Currency: Panamanian Balboa
(PAB) pegged 1:1 with USD. USD widely accepted.
- Safety: Generally safe, but
avoid flashing valuables in crowded areas.
- Language: Spanish is
official, but English is common in tourist zones.
Emergency Contacts
- Police: 104
- Ambulance: 911
- Tourist
Police: +507 508-2222
Conclusion: The Panama City
Experience
Panama
City dazzles with its contrasts—centuries-old plazas shadowed by futuristic
towers, rainforests hugging urban sprawl, and the rhythmic pulse of salsa
echoing through Casco Viejo. Whether you’re marveling at ships navigating the
canal, savoring ceviche by the sea, or dancing at a rooftop bar, Panama City
promises a sensory feast. Pack your sense of adventure and dive into this
dynamic gateway between continents! 🇵🇦