Panama City, Panama

Panama City, Panama

Biomuseo

Biomuseo

Mi Pueblito

Mi Pueblito

Albrook Mall

Albrook Mall

Via España

Via España

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Top Places to Visit in Panama City, Panama

Panama City is a dynamic metropolis, serving as Panama's capital and a fascinating blend of modern skyscrapers, historic colonial charm, and a vibrant cultural scene. This bustling city offers a captivating journey from the iconic Panama Canal to its meticulously restored Old Quarter and lush rainforests. Explore its engineering marvels, charming streets, and immerse yourself in its unique blend of Caribbean and Latin American influences.

Panama Canal (Miraflores Locks)
#1

Panama Canal (Miraflores Locks)

1.5-2.5 hours
$20 adult

Witness the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal at the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center. Watch massive ships traverse the locks, and learn about the canal's history and operation through interactive exhibits.

Updated June 23, 2025
Casco Viejo (Old Quarter)
#2

Casco Viejo (Old Quarter)

3-5 hours
Free

Explore the charming and meticulously restored Casco Viejo, Panama City's historic Old Quarter and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander its cobblestone streets, admire colonial architecture, and discover hidden plazas.

Updated June 23, 2025
Ancon Hill (Cerro Ancón)
#3

Ancon Hill (Cerro Ancón)

1.5-2 hours
Free

Hike or drive up Ancon Hill, the highest point in Panama City, for breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, the Panama Canal, and the Bridge of the Americas. It's a great spot for sunrise or sunset.

Updated June 23, 2025
Amador Causeway
#4

Amador Causeway

1.5-2.5 hours
Free

Stroll or cycle along the Amador Causeway, a scenic strip of land connecting the mainland with four islands in Panama Bay. Enjoy views of the city skyline, the Bridge of the Americas, and the Biomuseo.

Updated June 23, 2025
Biomuseo
#5

Biomuseo

1.5-2.5 hours
$20 adult

Explore the colorful and unique Biomuseo, designed by Frank Gehry, telling the story of Panama's biodiversity and how the Isthmus of Panama changed the world. Its interactive exhibits are engaging and informative.

Updated June 23, 2025
Metropolitan Natural Park (Parque Natural Metropolitano)
#6

Metropolitan Natural Park (Parque Natural Metropolitano)

2-3 hours
$5 adult

Escape to the Metropolitan Natural Park, a tropical rainforest located within Panama City. Hike its trails, spot diverse wildlife like sloths, monkeys, and birds, and enjoy city views from its viewpoints.

Updated June 23, 2025
Panama Viejo
#7

Panama Viejo

1.5-2 hours
$15 adult

Explore the ruins of Panama Viejo, the original site of Panama City, destroyed by pirates in 1671. Wander through its historic remnants, including the cathedral tower, and learn about its colonial past.

Updated June 23, 2025
Mercado de Mariscos (Fish Market)
#8

Mercado de Mariscos (Fish Market)

1 hour
Free

Immerse yourself in the bustling Mercado de Mariscos, Panama City's vibrant fish market. Sample fresh ceviche from the street stalls, observe local fishermen, and experience a slice of authentic Panamanian life.

Updated June 23, 2025
Causeway Islands (Isla Flamenco, Isla Perico, Isla Naos, Isla Culebra)
#9

Causeway Islands (Isla Flamenco, Isla Perico, Isla Naos, Isla Culebra)

1-2 hours
Free

Explore the four islands connected by the Amador Causeway: Flamenco, Perico, Naos, and Culebra. Each offers unique attractions, from duty-free shops to research facilities and restaurants with great views.

Updated June 23, 2025
Mi Pueblito
#10

Mi Pueblito

1 hour
$3 adult

Visit Mi Pueblito, a small cultural village showcasing traditional Panamanian architecture and customs. Explore replicas of indigenous, Afro-Caribbean, and colonial-era homes, with cultural performances sometimes available.

Updated June 23, 2025
Panama Canal Museum (Museo del Canal Interoceánico de Panamá)
#11

Panama Canal Museum (Museo del Canal Interoceánico de Panamá)

1.5-2 hours
$20 adult

Learn about the fascinating history of the Panama Canal, from its conception to its construction and operation, at this museum located in Casco Viejo. Its exhibits cover the human and engineering aspects of this monumental project.

Updated June 23, 2025
Bridge of the Americas (Puente de las Américas)
#12

Bridge of the Americas (Puente de las Américas)

15 minutes (viewing)
Free

Admire the impressive Bridge of the Americas, a major landmark spanning the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal. It connects North and South America, offering a significant visual statement.

Updated June 23, 2025
Summit Botanical Gardens and Zoo
#13

Summit Botanical Gardens and Zoo

2-3 hours
$20 adult

Explore Summit Botanical Gardens and Zoo, home to a variety of native and exotic plants and animals. It's known for its harpy eagle exhibit, Panama's national bird.

Updated June 23, 2025
Presidential Palace (Palacio de las Garzas)
#14

Presidential Palace (Palacio de las Garzas)

15 minutes (exterior view)
Free

Admire the Presidential Palace, also known as the Palace of the Herons (Palacio de las Garzas), due to the herons kept in its courtyard. It's the official residence and office of the President of Panama.

Updated June 23, 2025
Albrook Mall
#15

Albrook Mall

2-4 hours
Free

Explore Albrook Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in Latin America. It offers a vast array of shops, restaurants, entertainment options, and a convenient location near the Albrook Bus Terminal.

Updated June 23, 2025
Panama La Vieja (Panama Viejo)
#16

Panama La Vieja (Panama Viejo)

1.5-2 hours
$15 adult

The archaeological remains of the original Panama City, founded in 1519 and destroyed by pirates. Explore the ruins, including the old cathedral tower, for a glimpse into colonial history.

Updated June 23, 2025
Coastal Beltway (Cinta Costera)
#17

Coastal Beltway (Cinta Costera)

1-2 hours
Free

Enjoy a stroll or run along the Cinta Costera, a scenic urban park and walkway along Panama City's waterfront. It offers great views of the skyline and is popular for outdoor recreation.

Updated June 23, 2025
Fish Market (Mercado de Mariscos)
#18

Fish Market (Mercado de Mariscos)

1 hour
Free

A vibrant and bustling market where you can find the freshest seafood in Panama City. Many outdoor stalls serve delicious and affordable ceviche and fried fish.

Updated June 23, 2025
BioMuseo (Biodiversity Museum)
#19

BioMuseo (Biodiversity Museum)

1.5-2.5 hours
$20 adult

Designed by Frank Gehry, this striking museum tells the story of Panama's natural history and its pivotal role in the world's biodiversity. Interactive exhibits are engaging for all ages.

Updated June 23, 2025
Via España
#20

Via España

1-2 hours
Free

Explore Via España, one of Panama City's main commercial arteries, lined with shops, banks, and businesses. It offers a glimpse into the city's modern commercial life.

Updated June 23, 2025

Frequently Asked Questions About Panama City, Panama

Get answers to common questions about visiting Panama City, Panama