Panama City, Panama 5 Day Itinerary

Panama City, Panama 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Casco Viejo Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Tocumen International Airport. Check into your hotel (Recommended: Casco Viejo Hotels - Centrally located in the historic district)
  • Afternoon: Visit the historical district of Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning colonial architecture, vibrant street art, and lively plazas. Don’t miss the Catedral Metropolitana (Metropolitan Cathedral).
  • Evening: Savor local cuisine at Maito restaurant, known for its traditional Panamanian dishes like Sancocho and Casado.
  • Tips: Be aware of your surroundings, especially during the evening hours.
  • Transportation: Taxis or Uber are widely available and affordable in Panama City.

Day 2: Canal Zone & Biomuseo

  • Morning: Visit the Panama Canal’s Miraflores Locks Visitor Center to observe ships passing through the locks. Learn about the canal’s history at the interactive museum.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Biomuseo, an innovative biodiversity museum designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry. The exhibits showcase Panama’s unique ecological and cultural history.
  • Evening: Dine at El Trapiche restaurant, offering contemporary Panamanian cuisine in a chic setting.
  • Things to Know: Remember to bring your passport if visiting the Canal Zone, and dress appropriately for museum visits.

Day 3: Soak Up Nature

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Metropolitan National Park to hike through dense forests and visit the famous Summit Cross, offering panoramic views of Panama City and the bay.
  • Afternoon: Head to Gamboa Rainforest Resort for a boat tour through the Chagres River, spotting wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and various bird species.
  • Evening: Return to Panama City and indulge in Japanese cuisine at Nakamura Sushi Bar, voted one of Latin America’s best sushi restaurants.
  • Transportation: For this excursion, consider booking a guided tour or hiring a car with a driver for convenience.

Day 4: Modern Panama City & Shopping

  • Morning: Explore the modern side of Panama City, visiting the Financial District and Oceanview Mall, offering stunning skyline views from its observation deck.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Punta Pacifica area for upscale shopping and dining, including the popular Multiplaza Pacifico.
  • Evening: Dine at Causeway restaurant, featuring innovative fusion cuisine with breathtaking views of the city skyline.
  • Things to Know: Many businesses in Panama City close on Sundays, so plan accordingly.

Day 5: Relax & Departure

  • Morning/Afternoon: Spend your final hours enjoying the city’s beaches or relaxing at your hotel before departing. Consider visiting Playita or Pacific Ocean Mall, both with easy access to beaches and shopping.
  • Evening: Depart from Tocumen International Airport, taking home unforgettable memories of Panama City.
  • Transportation: Taxis or Uber are available for transportation to the airport.