Historic & Urban

Panama City

Panama City pulses with energy, seamlessly blending old and new along its stunning bayfront. Discover the dramatic skyline dotted with modern high-rises, then wander into the historic heart of Casco Viejo, where cobblestone streets echo with tales of pirates and conquistadors. Renowned for the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal, the city is also a vibrant center for arts, gastronomy, and nightlife, offering something for every type of traveler.

Why We Love Panama City

Panama City is where old-world charm and modern vibrance meet, creating a destination that invites you to slow down, look closer, and truly connect. We love how Casco Viejo’s cobblestone streets hum with history while rooftop terraces glow with contemporary energy. Beyond its skyline, Panama City offers rich cultural layers, locally loved cuisine, and the warmth of a community eager to share its stories.

A historic street at sunset features an elegant white building with ornate balconies. Palm trees line the sidewalk, and people stroll leisurely.

Historic Charm

Wandering Casco Viejo, you’ll feel immersed in a world of colonial-era facades, picturesque plazas, and centuries-old churches. Behind every pastel stucco wall is a story linked to pirates, gold rushes, and the city’s transformation through the ages. The architecture is meticulously restored, and the area buzzes with local markets, boutique art galleries, and inviting cafes, making it a must for history and culture enthusiasts.

A large red cargo ship with colorful containers passes through a canal lock under a cloudy sky, with hills and a bridge in the background.

Modern Marvels

Panama City’s skyline rivals any in the Americas, with soaring glass towers and designer hotels set along a glittering waterfront. Culinary adventurers will love the city’s avant-garde restaurants, rooftop lounges with panoramic views, and the ever-changing food scene. The marvel of the Panama Canal is just a short drive away, allowing visitors to witness ships navigating this engineering wonder up close.

Historic three-story building with ornate balconies, warmly lit at night. Surrounding streaks of car lights add movement under a deep blue sky.

Cultural Diversity

As a true crossroads of continents, Panama City delivers an exciting blend of cultures and traditions. The city’s music festivals, art shows, and vibrant street life reflect influences from around the world. Markets showcase indigenous crafts alongside international delicacies, and every neighborhood offers a mix of flavors and languages, making the city feel both global and distinctly Panamanian.

Ancient stone ruins under a dramatic cloudy sky at dusk, with an illuminated tower glowing orange, creating a mysterious and historic ambiance.

Our Favorite Things To Do

  • Explore Casco Viejo: Wander the UNESCO-listed old quarter’s colorful streets, plazas like Plaza de la Independencia, and landmarks such as the Metropolitan Cathedral, soaking in colonial architecture and lively cafés.​
  • Visit the Miraflores Locks at the Panama Canal: Watch massive ships navigate this engineering wonder from the visitor center, learning about its history and global impact through exhibits and live views.​
  • Walk Cinta Costera promenade: Enjoy this 9km waterfront path lined with parks, monuments, and skyline views—perfect for jogging, biking, or relaxing amid urban greenery and ocean breezes.​
  • Hike Cerro Ancón for panoramic views: Climb this hilltop viewpoint for sweeping sights over the city, Casco Viejo, and the canal, plus chances to spot wildlife in the surrounding rainforest.

Our Favorite Places To Stay

American Trade Hotel

Located in the historic Casco Viejo neighborhood, the American Trade Hotel blends old-world elegance with contemporary design in a beautifully restored 1917 building. This boutique upscale property offers stylish rooms and suites, a lively jazz club, a rooftop pool with city views, and renowned dining options. Ideally situated for exploring vibrant plazas, trendy restaurants, and the cultural pulse of Panama City, it is a standout for travelers seeking a sophisticated, authentic local experience.

Amarla Boutique Hotel

Tucked away in Casco Viejo, Amarla Boutique Hotel is an intimate retreat boasting only eight uniquely decorated rooms. The hotel is set in a lovingly restored colonial home adorned with artisan crafts, antiques, and local artwork. Guests enjoy personalized service, a lush inner courtyard, and a rooftop Jacuzzi overlooking the old city. The on-site restaurant showcases fresh flavors with an open kitchen and outdoor patio, making it a perfect base for culturally immersive adventures in Panama City.

Gamboa Rainforest Resort

Immersed in the lush landscapes of Soberanía National Park, Gamboa Rainforest Resort offers a unique ecological escape just 30 minutes from Panama City. Overlooking the Chagres River and Panama Canal, this expansive property features comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, a spa, and access to guided rainforest adventures. Guests can enjoy aerial trams, wildlife tours (including a sloth sanctuary), and boat trips, blending comfort and thrilling exploration in the heart of Panama’s tropical jungle.