Are you able to get your steps in in Panama Metropolis’s Casco Viejo? The historic part of Panama’s capital metropolis has one thing on each nook price exploring. And one of the best half? You don’t want a information to soak all of it in! My self-guided strolling tour is an ideal technique to see all of it (plus, you may transfer at your individual tempo). PS: If have extra time try my picks for the Greatest Issues to Do in Panama Metropolis.
Oh, and FYI: all the stroll is about 2 km (1 ¼ miles) and takes round half-hour with out stops. However you’re undoubtedly gonna need to cease, belief me!
Casco Viejo Strolling Itinerary
1. I Love Panama Chocolate
First issues first: chocolate! You’ve acquired to kick off your day with a go to to I Love Panama Chocolate. I imply, who can say no to chocolate for breakfast, proper? (I’m not judging!) They’ve acquired these scrumptious flavors like Chombo chili and salted cashew which are to die for. Plus, for those who’re a complete sucker for darkish chocolate like me, you’ll be in heaven. And right here’s slightly tip: they provide free samples! So, you may get a style earlier than you decide to your favourite taste.
2. La Calle De los Sombreros
Now that you simply’ve acquired your candy repair, stroll on over to La Calle De los Sombreros (hat road). This would possibly simply be the prettiest road in Casco Viejo! Think about lots of of colourful Panama hats hanging between buildings, creating a cover that’s simply begging for an Instagram pic. Significantly, it’s like strolling below a sky of hats—so don’t neglect to snap a shot or two!
3. France Sq.
Subsequent up, make your technique to France Sq. (Plaza de Francia). This spot is full of historical past and an ideal place to take a breather whereas soaking in some fascinating tales. The sq. is devoted to the French position within the Panama Canal’s early days, honoring their courageous—although not fully profitable—try to create the canal. You’ll discover stunning monuments right here, together with a towering obelisk and plaques that element the French contribution. However the actual star? The enduring rooster statue—it’s a unusual nod to France’s nationwide image.
4. Colourful Mural
Once you go away France Sq., take slightly detour! Stroll up the steps to the proper, and simply earlier than you cross by the bougainvillea-covered walkway, look to your left. There’s a hidden mural there that’s stuffed with vibrant colours! I nearly missed it myself, however it’s completely price the additional step.
>> Hungry? see my Picks of the Greatest Eating places in Panama Metropolis.
5. Paseo de Las Bovedas
Talking of bougainvillea, your subsequent cease is the attractive Paseo de Las Bovedas. This gorgeous arched walkway is lined with flowers creating an attractive, shaded passage that feels nearly magical. As you stroll by you’ll be greeted by native distributors promoting all types of handmade crafts and souvenirs. I picked up a cute little one thing to recollect my journey (as a result of, why not?).
6. El Boquete
Time for a fast breather! Cease by El Boquete for probably the greatest views of Panama Metropolis’s skyline. It’s a brief break, however the view is completely price it—plus, it’s a terrific probability to catch your breath and take within the gorgeous distinction between the previous and new metropolis.
7. Parish of San Felipe de Neri
Subsequent, head over to the Parish of San Felipe de Neri. The church is gorgeous, with its basic colonial structure, however what actually blew me away was the hidden treasure inside. Behind a big wood door on the again, you’ll discover a big, elaborate Nativity scene. It was created to honor Panama’s deep-rooted Christian traditions and as a technique to convey the story of Christmas to life year-round. The intricate particulars, from the tiny figures to the superbly crafted setting, make it really feel such as you’ve stumbled upon a mini world frozen in time.
8. Independence Sq.
Proceed your stroll and also you’ll end up at Independence Sq., the place Panama declared its independence from Colombia again in 1903. There’s simply one thing about being in a spot so wealthy in historical past—it’s a terrific spot to pause and replicate on what all of it means.
9. Cathedral of Santa Maria
Towering over Independence Sq. is the Cathedral of Santa Maria, the grand dame of Casco Viejo. It’s seen every thing from fires to independence celebrations, and it’s simply dripping with historical past.
10. Panama Canal Museum
Subsequent upon your self-guided tour is Panama Canal Museum (Museo del Canal). I used to be completely fascinated by the historical past of the canal—like, how did they even construct that factor?! You’ll be taught all in regards to the engineering feats and private tales behind its building. It’s a little bit of a deep dive, however price each second.
11. Museo de la Mola
Earlier than you wrap up your historical past tour, take a fast detour to the Museo de la Mola (MuMo). It’s free to enter and offers you a glimpse into the world of the Mola, which is a vibrant, hand-stitched textile that’s central to the Guna girls’s conventional clothes. The intricate designs blew me away, and it’s a beautiful technique to expertise a little bit of native tradition.
12. Pedro Mandinga
Lastly, what higher technique to finish your strolling tour on a excessive observe than with a drink? And Panama’s authentic artisanal rum bar is simply the proper spot to be: Pedro Mandinga. Whether or not you’re a rum lover or simply within the temper for an excellent cocktail, this place is a should. I personally fell in love with their Mandingo Mule! So, sit again, sip, and toast to a day nicely spent.
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