Panama Metropolis, Panama Journey Information: See, Do & Eat

What do you get while you combine historical past, trendy aptitude, and a little bit of journey? Panama Metropolis! One minute, you’re marveling on the Panama Canal, and the subsequent, you’re sipping espresso in a centuries-old plaza in Casco Viejo. I just lately celebrated my birthday month with a really lengthy getaway to this Central American metropolis, and it was every part I wanted—the proper mix of historic websites, stylish 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 part it is advisable find out about planning your journey to Panama Metropolis.

Planning Ideas for Visiting Panama Metropolis

Greatest Time of 12 months to Go

The dry season (December to April) is when the climate performs good. Suppose heat, breezy days with approach much less rain—temperatures normally hover between 72°F and 85°F. However honest warning: that is additionally prime vacationer season, so issues would possibly get a bit pricier.  

I went in February, and let me inform you, it wasn’t simply heat — it was sizzling! We’re speaking low 90s, the form of warmth that makes you critically take into account 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 form of place the place you may dip your toes in for a fast journey or dive deep for an prolonged keep. Certain, you might hit the highlights in a day or two (Panama Canal? Verify. Casco Viejo stroll? Double test), however you’d undoubtedly miss out on a lot goodness. In the event you can, give your self 4 to 5 days. That approach, you may wander with no schedule, sip infinite cups of espresso in outdated plazas, and eat an embarrassing quantity of ceviche with out feeling rushed.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 brief on time, try my One Bucket Listing Day in Panama Metropolis, Panama itinerary— it’s filled with the proper highlights.

Getting Round

Getting round Panama Metropolis is fairly simple, when you get the hold of it. The Metro and buses are tremendous inexpensive—you simply have to 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. 

In the event you’re hopping in a taxi, be sure you agree on a worth first (normally $2.50 to $5 inside the metropolis). Or skip the awkward fare discuss and use Uber—simple, low cost, and also you’ll know the fee upfront (this was the way in which I obtained round). And, truthfully, strolling inside districts is an choice, too—particularly within the historic districts like Casco Viejo.

Language

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

With that mentioned, undoubtedly obtain a translation app, like Google Translate, for these uncommon events. This got here in helpful with most 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 charge with the US greenback, and the US greenback is broadly accepted. For something below a buck, although, don’t be shocked 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 obtained an ideal mixture of lodging, whether or not you’re into smooth 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 prime picks for accommodations.

Central Lodge Panamá

Central Lodge Panamá in Casco Viejo has been round since 1874, however don’t let its age idiot you—inside, it’s all about trendy consolation wrapped in classic magnificence. Plus, the placement is unbeatable; you’re actually neighbors with the Panama Canal Museum and Presidential Palace. 

Waldorf Astoria Panama

In the event you’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 price writing house about. Whether or not you’re unwinding on the spa or indulging in one among their many eating choices, the lodge strikes the proper stability between upscale pampering and metropolis cool.

Lodge La Compania, within the Unbound Assortment by Hyatt

Lodge La Compania is the proper mixture of outdated meets new. This fantastically restored constructing in Casco Viejo blends historical past with trendy 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 uninteresting—excellent for vacationers trying 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 therefore many vacationers. I imply, watching huge ships glide by this man-made marvel at one among 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 by 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 Previous 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 immediately it’s a cool mixture of old-world appeal and trendy aptitude. With cobblestone streets, colourful facades, and hidden courtyards, it’s the form 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-compulsory, however come on, how might you not?)

The village itself? Pure magic. We had been welcomed with music, dance, and a tilapia feast that tasted as contemporary because it will get. Between the beadwork, basket weaving, and carvings, I left wishing I had some severe crafting abilities. PS: We took Viator’s Embera Village tour and cherished it.

Go to BioMuseo

In the event you’re into quirky structure and studying cool stuff, be certain the BioMuseo is in your Panama Metropolis hit checklist. 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 showcase 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

In the event you’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 vivid and early with a lodge pickup, whisking us out of Panama Metropolis earlier than the 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, holding our eyes peeled for the native wildlife—monkeys swinging from branches, colourful birds, and possibly even a crocodile lurking close by. With a bit 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 straightforward rainforest stroll that took us deeper into the jungle, the place we had been surrounded by howling monkeys, obtained a glimpse of some lazy sloths and noticed numerous tropical birds. 

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

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

I’ve obtained much more enjoyable exercise concepts for you: Greatest 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 stylish connoisseur experiences. And I cherished them each! Right here’s my prime 5 picks of locations not-to-miss, but when your nonetheless hungry, see my checklist of all my favourite Panama Metropolis Eating places.

La Pulpería

La Pulpería is a cool spot that appears like a hidden gem, and so they’ve obtained some killer plates. Begin with their rooster lollipops, then dive into their grilled octopus. The empanadas are crispy excellent, and their mac and cheese topped with popcorn rooster? Life-changing. You possibly can share some tapas too, however truthfully, you’ll need every part 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 subsequent degree (the tuna tataki was palms down my favourite), and their rotating wine checklist retains issues thrilling. Plus, their charcuterie recreation? On level. 

The workers 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 sizzling—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 Greatest Eating places checklist. Attempt their pulpo al coco (stewed octopus with coconut milk) or fresas con crema dessert (strawberries with cream). Oh, and critically, ebook forward—this place fills up quick!

El Trapiche

In terms of genuine Panamanian dishes and flavors, the El Trapiches is the place you need to go. Their menu is filled with conventional favorites—suppose hearty stews, fried meat platters, and attractive rice-and-chicken dishes. I went for the Fiesta Panameña (extremely really useful!) which provides you a bit little bit of every part: 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

In the event you’re a lover of seafood, then Mercado de Mariscos is your go-to spot. This bustling fish market serves up a number of the freshest catches on the town. Not solely can locals purchase fish to cook dinner at house, however they’ve a complete part on eateries cooking proper on web site.  

You possibly can’t go away with out making an attempt 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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