Panama Metropolis Panama Journey Information: See, Do & Eat

What do you get once 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 following, you’re sipping espresso in a centuries-old plaza in Casco Viejo. I lately celebrated my birthday month with a really lengthy getaway to this Central American metropolis, and it was every thing I wanted—the proper mix of historic websites, fashionable rooftop bars, one of the best 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 thing it’s essential find out about planning your journey to Panama Metropolis.

Planning Ideas for Visiting Panama Metropolis

Finest Time of Yr to Go

The dry season (December to April) is when the climate performs good. Assume heat, breezy days with method much less rain—temperatures often hover between 72°F and 85°F. However honest 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 significantly contemplate 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 may 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. If you happen to can, give your self 4 to 5 days. That method, you may wander with no 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 should you’re quick 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 grasp of it. The Metro and buses are tremendous inexpensive—you simply must 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. 

If you happen to’re hopping in a taxi, be sure to agree on a value 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 way in which I received round). And, actually, strolling inside districts is an choice, too—particularly within the historic districts like Casco Viejo.

Language

Spanish is the principle language right here, however don’t be stunned should you hear loads of English—particularly within the touristy spots. Most locals are pleasant and pleased that will help you out, even when your Spanish is extra “gracias” than fluent. Whereas it at all times helps to know a couple of key phrases (like “a glass of crimson wine, please” ha, ha), you positively received’t really feel misplaced in translation right here.

With that stated, positively obtain a translation app, like Google Translate, for these uncommon events. This got here in helpful with lots of the Uber drivers.

Foreign money & 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 stunned 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 received an excellent mixture of lodging, whether or not you’re into modern 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 high picks for motels.

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 class. Plus, the situation is unbeatable; you’re actually neighbors with the Panama Canal Museum and Presidential Palace. 

Waldorf Astoria Panama

If you happen to’re searching for a contact of luxurious, Waldorf Astoria Panama is the place to be. The service right here? High-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 certainly one of their many eating choices, the lodge 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 superbly restored constructing in Casco Viejo blends historical past with fashionable aptitude, and its rooftop pool and bar provide views that may have you ever snapping images continuous. The lodge’s vibe is intimate however removed from boring—good for vacationers seeking to really feel pampered with out dropping that native contact.

High 5 Issues to Do in Panama Metropolis

Take a Tour of the Panama Canal

Okay, so let’s discuss in regards to the Panama Canal—the rationale Panama Metropolis is on the map for thus many vacationers. I imply, watching large ships glide via this man-made marvel at certainly 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 via 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 High Panama Metropolis Excursions.

Discover the Outdated 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 at the moment 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 images. 

There’s no scarcity of cool spots to discover, just like the beautiful Catedral Metropolitana and Plaza Francia, the place you may 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 non-obligatory, however come on, how might you not?)

The village itself? Pure magic. We have 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 expertise. PS: We took Viator’s Embera Village tour and cherished it.

Go to BioMuseo

If you happen to’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 exhibit 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

If you happen to’re searching for 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 lodge pickup, whisking us out of Panama Metropolis earlier than 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 possibly even a crocodile lurking close by. With somewhat luck (and A LOT of skilled recognizing from our tour guides), we noticed all three monkey species: capuchins, howlers, and spider monkeys! 

After the boat trip, we went on a simple rainforest stroll that took us deeper into the jungle, the place we have been surrounded by howling monkeys, received a glimpse of some lazy sloths and noticed a lot of tropical birds. 

The day wrapped up completely with a conventional Panamanian breakfast—carimañolas and hojaldres, anybody? 

Do you need to e-book the identical tour I took?: Right here it’s: Monkey Island Tour and Rainforest Stroll

I’ve received 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 classy connoisseur experiences. And I cherished them each! Right here’s my high 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 seems like a hidden gem, and so they’ve received some killer plates. Begin with their rooster lollipops, then dive into their grilled octopus. The empanadas are crispy good, and their mac and cheese topped with popcorn rooster? Life-changing. You possibly can share some tapas too, however actually, you’ll need every thing for your self!

Corcho

I can by no means resist trying out a great wine bar once I’m touring, and Corcho didn’t disappoint! This spot takes small plates and tapas to the following degree (the tuna tataki was arms 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 in regards to the kitchen. With Panamanian delicacies combined 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. Strive their pulpo al coco (stewed octopus with coconut milk) or fresas con crema dessert (strawberries with cream). Oh, and significantly, e-book forward—this place fills up quick!

El Trapiche

Relating to genuine Panamanian dishes and flavors, the El Trapiches is the place you need 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 advisable!) which supplies you somewhat little bit of every thing: 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

If you happen to’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 cook dinner at residence, however they’ve an entire 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 truth: Anthony Bourdain himself indulged within the ceviche right here, and if anybody knew good eats, it was him! 

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