Panama City is a vibrant and bustling city, with history, culture and adventure all packed into one place. From the beaches to the mountains and everything in between, this city has something for everyone. Here are some of our favorite things to do when visiting Panama City:
- Panama Canal
- Rooftop Drinks in Casco Viejo
- Panama Transit/Metro
- No Me Olvides Dessert
- Isla Taboga
- Coffee Tour at a local Coffee Shop
- Casco Viejo Plazas/Squares
- Casco Viejo Cathedrals/Churches
- Cinta Costera 3
- San Blas Islands
Explore the Panama Canal
The Panama Canal is an engineering marvel that connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. It’s one of the most important shipping routes in the world, allowing ships to travel from one ocean to another without having to go around South America.
The construction of this canal began in 1881 and took over 50 years to complete because of its difficult terrain and harsh conditions. When it opened in 1914, it was considered one of mankind’s greatest engineering feats: an incredible example of human ingenuity!
Spend an evening on a rooftop in Casco Viejo
If you want to experience Casco Viejo, Panama’s oldest district and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, there’s no better place than from the top of one of its many rooftop bars.
The best part? You can choose from over 20 different options–and they’re all within walking distance from each other! You can spend your evening sampling drinks at La Casona or El Bugaloo Bar & Grill or enjoying a romantic meal at El Santo Grial Restaurant & Bar on Calle Real (the main drag). If it’s an early night for you, stop by La Casa de los Mejores Tacos de PanamA for some tacos before heading home.
Take the Panama Transit Train
The Metro is the easiest way to get around Panama City. It’s cheap, safe and reliable. If you’re looking for a fun way to see some of the best sights in Panama City, take a ride on this historic train!
Panama Metro has four different lines: Line 1 (red), Line 2 (blue), Line 3 (yellow) and Line 4 (green). Most tourists will want to use either Line 1 or 2 as these two lines go from one end of town all the way across town and back again without having to transfer trains like Lines 3 or 4 do when traveling through certain areas in Panama City such as Casco Viejo or El Chorrillo where there are no stations yet built onto those routes yet but instead require passengers who need access into those neighborhoods instead opt for taking buses instead which can sometimes be difficult because they usually don’t stop unless asked by someone waiting at bus stops along the route so make sure if possible try using public transportation whenever possible instead because otherwise finding yourself stuck somewhere without being able to get home may cause problems later down line…
Try a No Me Olvides Dessert
Panama City is home to a dessert that captures the essence of Panamanian flavors – the No Me Olvides dessert. Named after a local flower that translates to “Don’t Forget Me,” this treat is a delicious reflection of Panama’s rich culinary heritage.
The No Me Olvides dessert begins with a moist sponge cake soaked in a syrup made from tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, and passion fruit. On top of the cake sits a layer of creamy coconut milk custard, adding a velvety texture and indulgent taste. To finish, slices of fresh tropical fruits such as kiwi, papaya, and banana are artfully arranged, adding a burst of color and tangy sweetness. This dessert is not only a delight for the taste buds but a visual feast that will transport you to the sunny beaches and tropical paradise of Panama. Don’t miss the chance to experience the unforgettable No Me Olvides dessert when you visit Panama City.
Travel to Isla Taboga
Isla Taboga is a picturesque island located just off the coast of Panama City. The island is only 15 minutes away by boat, and it’s an ideal destination for those who want to get away from it all without having to travel too far.
Isla Taboga has several beaches and trails to explore, including one that leads through the forested interior where you can see monkeys playing in trees or just relaxing on branches overhead! If you’re looking for something more adventurous than lounging on a beach chair all day long (though we won’t judge), Isla Taboga also offers snorkeling excursions where you can swim alongside sea turtles or take guided hikes through old-growth rainforest filled with exotic plants and animals like monkeys, iguanas…and maybe even jaguars!
You’ll want at least half a day here–but if time allows for more than that then definitely consider adding some extra activities into your trip plans: scuba diving around sunken ships; visiting nearby Isla Grande de Chiriqui National Park (home base for many types of wildlife); renting kayaks/canoes/jet skis from local vendors along Avenida Balboa; eating fresh seafood at one of many restaurants serving up delicious seafood dishes such as ceviche served with avocado slices atop corn tortillas topped with lime juice drizzled over top – YUMMY!!
Enjoy a coffee tour
There are two ways to enjoy this activity: go on a guided tour at one of the city’s many cafes, or find your own way around town and learn from locals. If you choose to take part in an official coffee tour, expect to be educated about Panama’s history and culture through its most famous export–coffee! You’ll also get the chance to sample some delicious brews along the way (and buy some for yourself).
The Gesha coffee bean has found great success in Panama City, captivating coffee enthusiasts with its exquisite flavor and uniqueness. Since its introduction to the coffee scene in Panama City, the Gesha bean has quickly gained popularity and a loyal following. Renowned for its delicate floral and tea-like qualities, the Gesha coffee offers a one-of-a-kind taste experience that has made it a favorite among Panama City’s coffee lovers. With flavor notes that often include hints of jasmine, bergamot, and tropical fruits, the Gesha coffee bean has become a symbol of excellence and has helped to elevate the coffee culture in Panama City to new heights. Whether enjoyed in a cozy cafe or brewed at home, the Gesha coffee bean has become a cherished part of Panama City’s thriving coffee scene.
Explore historic squares in Casco Viejo
In Panama City, there are several historic squares that you can explore. The Plaza Simon Bolivar is located in Casco Viejo and is surrounded by historic buildings. You’ll find this square to be quite charming with its cobblestone streets and old world feel.
The Plaza del la Independencia is another popular place to visit because of its location near the Cathedral of Panama and other historical sites such as the San Francisco Fort (an old fort). If you’re looking for something different than what you’ve seen before, check out Plaza Tomas Herrera which features colorful murals on its buildings!
Explore historic cathedrals in Casco Viejo
The city’s historic district, Casco Viejo, is home to three of the most beautiful cathedrals in Panama. The Catedral Basilica of Santa Maria La Antigua was built in 1510 and remains the oldest church in Central America. Its counterpart, San Francisco de Asis Church (also known as El Temple), was built between 1671 and 1686 by Jesuits who had arrived from Spain. Finally there’s Church of Santa Ana which was consecrated in 1739 but later abandoned when earthquakes destroyed its bell tower and damaged other parts of the structure during an earthquake that struck Panama City in 1882
Walk the Cinta Costera 3
The Cinta Costera is a 25-mile long boardwalk that stretches from Panama City to the Pacific Ocean. It’s the longest in Latin America and makes for a great place to enjoy a walk or jog.
The boardwalk runs along beaches, through parks and forests, past restaurants and shops–it’s even possible to rent bikes there!
Visit the San Blas Islands
The San Blas Islands are a group of islands off the coast of Panama. The islands are inhabited by the Kuna people, who have lived there for centuries. The islands are a popular tourist destination, especially since they’re known for their beaches and coral reefs.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for an exciting place to visit, Panama City is the place to be! With so much history and culture, there is something here for everyone. Whether it’s exploring the San Blas Islands or enjoying a coffee tour through Casco Viejo Historic Districts, there are many things to do in Panama City that will leave lasting impressions on your mind forever.
Also read my blog post about staying at the JW Marriott Panama!