Given its privileged geographical position and with one of the best airports in the region,Panama is not far from anywhere, with major airlines connecting it to the world.

In Panama City you will find a combination of highly modern with the old – 2019 marked its 500th year since its foundation and you can still find vestiges of what the city was like in those times- co existing in an apparent chaotic symbiosis, however everything works.

In Panama City you will find a combination of highly modern with the old – 2019 marked its 500th year since its foundation and you can still find vestiges of what the city was like in those times- co existing in an apparent chaotic symbiosis, however everything works.

Travel Tips

• Bring change. Panama currency is the US dollar, but it’s always a good idea to carry some change between 10 dollar bills or 1 dollar bills. Most businesses accept credit cards such as Mastercard and Visa.

• Dress well. Despite the heat, if you do not wish to be seen as a tourist, forget the short pants. Even at night, a lot of places do not allow entrance if you are not wearing long pants.

• Tips are out. It is not accustomed to leave tip for service. However, it is expected when dining at a restaurant.

• Use Google Maps. Directions are not Panama’s strong point, but most places of interest are on Google Maps, thus it is a useful guide.

• Uber everywhere. If you are not an Uber user, we recommend you download the app to move around in Panama. Local taxi drivers do not use a meter and some take advantage of tourists’ ignorance so they increase the fares.

• Drinking water. You can drink water from the tap in Panama City and most of the interior, so you will not necessarily need to buy bottled water. Keep in mind though, that in a lot of the islands the water is not drinkable.

• Heat. To plan outdoor activities, it is best to avoid the time frame between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm. A lot of locals prefer to engage in these activites after 5:00 pm due to the humidity and heat.

Neighborhoods

Some of the well known neighborhoods in Panama City include El Cangrejo, popular amongst young people and with great gastronomy options. San Francisco, with residential skyscrapers as well as houses, restaurants and new bars.

For ocean lovers, Punta Pacifica offers beautiful views. However, it is luxurious and expensive. In Paitilla you will find most of the Jewish community. Located next to Punta Pacifica, you can find stores and kosher restaurants.

Avenida Balboa holds impressive skyscrapers with views of the ocean and the Cinta Costera. The Hilton and the Hard Rock Hotel are on this avenue. Casco Viejo is a neighborhood with personality: in it you will find active panamanian nightlife as well as colonial buildings.

Luxury stores and restaurant options are what characterize Obarrio, located in the center of the city and close to the banking district. Costa del Este is a neighborhood where residential buildings, gated communities and office buildings coexist.

And of course, for those who enjoy golf, Santa Maria is a must in the city. This residential community combines modern architecture with green spaces, creating a unique lifestyle across 248 hectares where Jack Nicklaus designed an 18 hole course.

Things to do

In Panama City you can find a lot of things to do; these are some of the places you should not miss. The Panama Canal is definitely a must see. You can arrive by taxi or Metrobus in 20 minutes. You can see the inner workings of the Canal from the observation deck.

The Panama Canal is definitely a must see. You can arrive by taxi or Metrobus in 20 minutes. You can see the inner workings of the Canal from the observation deck.

The mix of antique buildings and boutiques, bars and restaurants create a unique experience in Casco Viejo both during the day and at night.

The BioMuseo has the architectural stamp of Frank Gehry and it is centered around the origin of the Panamanian isthmus.

If you like to hike, the Metropolitan Park is the place to visit. It is located just outside of the city center and offers impressive panoramic views. If you prefer to drive, you can always get an Uber up to the top of Ancon Hill and enjoy breathtaking views.

The Cinta Costera is an extensive park in front of the sea. Here you can walk, run or cruise. You can also find the Mercado de Mariscos at then end of it where you can enjoy a delicious ceviche.

This information was developed by Panama Living, a digital platform committed to collecting, researching, and disseminating all the necessary information to turn your interest in Panama into a pleasant and enriching experience.