Panama City is famous for its vibrant mix of different styles. From the colonial charm of Casco Viejo (Old Town) to the Miami-like skyline of the financial district and the nearby paradisiac tropical escapes, Panama has something for all tastes. You'll find plenty of elegant and modern vacation rentals in the city centre. For a more secluded atmosphere, opt for a beach condo overlooking the Panama Canal or the Pacific Ocean.
Panama’s Mix of Cultures on a Plate
Casco Viejo and La Exposition are the best neighbourhoods for international fine dining – choose from Italian, French, Mexican, and Panamanian restaurants.
Don't forget to try Panama's famous fresh fish at the local fish market, Mercado de Mariscos, located between the new city centre and Casco Viejo. Arrive early and pick the best catches of the day. You can then cook your fish at your beach rental home. Alternatively, you can head to the market’s upper floor, where a no-frills restaurant will cook it for you.
In the city centre, you'll find lots of restaurants serving typical Panamanian dishes. Look for sancocho, a chicken, plantain, and yucca soup, or corn tortilla cakes, usually eaten for breakfast. Local ceviche – marinated raw fish – is also a must-try.
Colonial and Contemporary Art in Panama City
A cultural and artistic exploration of Panama City should start in Casco Viejo. About 5km from the city centre, it's where Spanish conquerors first settled. Stroll past decadent colonial buildings and visit the Canal Museum and the Church of San Jose, famous for its spectacular golden altar. At night, enjoy the neighbourhood’s fine restaurants and cocktail bars.
For modern art, head to the Museum of Contemporary Art, which showcases an impressive collection of works by Panamanian and Latin American artists.
If you fancy a cultural night out, book a ticket for a performance at the National Theatre and gape at its gold decorations and impressive chandelier.
Panama City Day Trips: From Tropical Beaches to Lush Forests
It's easy to take a quick break from city life in Panama: just head to the Amador Causeway along the Panama Canal, or to Cerro Ancon hill, both perfect for a walk. Cerro Ancon hill is also great for hiking and animal spotting.
To see stretches of jungle, you can either visit the Metropolitan Natural Park north of the city centre or join a boat tour of the Panama Canal’s islands. Both day trips give you the opportunity to see animals in the wild: expect to see monkeys, iguanas, and exotic birds.
If your idea of a holiday includes a tropical beach, spend a day in the Panama Riviera. Only an hour from Panama City, it's perfect for swimming, relaxing, and eating fresh fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical availability of vacation rentals in Panama City?
At the moment, there are 5,520 vacation homes from 13 different providers in Panama City.
What are the most popular vacation home amenities in Panama City?
When looking to book a vacation home in Panama City, the most requested amenities include Pool, Internet, and Pets allowed.
Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Panama City?
Yes, there are 1,744 pet-friendly vacation rentals in Panama City, with an average nightly price of $241.
What's the best month to book a vacation rental in Panama City?
If you're looking for balmy weather, February and March are typically the hottest months in Panama City with temperatures around 33 °C. January and February in Panama City are the coldest, with 23 °C on average.