Panama City

Capital of Panama, key financial and logistics center with a unique mix of modernity, history and cultural diversity.

PanamaPanama City
3 days

About Panama City

About Panama City - Culture, History & Character

City Description

Panama City is the capital of the Republic of Panama and the largest and most populous city in the country, located on the shores of the Pacific Ocean, in the Gulf of Panama, just east of the mouth of the Panama Canal. This city is a global nerve center due to its strategic geographical position that connects North and South America, in addition to being a key point for international trade thanks to the Panama Canal. The city combines modern architecture with historical remains, including two UNESCO World Heritage sites. It is known for its impressive skyline with numerous skyscrapers, which has earned it the nickname of the "Dubai of the Americas." In addition, it is an important financial and logistics center, with a banking area of ​​great global influence. The metropolitan population exceeds one and a half million inhabitants, with great cultural diversity that includes descendants of Amerindians, Europeans, Afro-Antilleans, Asians and other groups. The city also stands out for its development in technology, scientific research and environmental conservation, being a benchmark in biodiversity and marine ecology in the region.
Country
Panama
Region
Panama City
Highlights
15+ Attractions

Population

Panama City has approximately 880,691 inhabitants in its municipality and around 1,446,792 inhabitants in its metropolitan area, being the most populated city in the country and an important urban center in Central America.

Languages

Spanish

The official and predominant language is Spanish. English is widely spoken in financial, tourism and commercial sectors due to the city's international importance. There are also communities that speak indigenous languages ​​and other languages ​​due to cultural diversity.

History of Panama City

Explore the fascinating past of Panama City and discover how it has developed over the centuries.

Historical Journey

Ancient Period

The region where Panama City is located was originally inhabited by indigenous Amerindian people before the arrival of the Spanish. It was officially founded on August 15, 1519 by Pedro Arias Dávila, becoming a strategic point for the exploration and conquest of America due to its location near the isthmus that connects two oceans.

Development Period

During the colonial era and the Modern Age, the city grew as an important port and commercial center, especially for its role in the gold and silver transportation route to Panama. It was attacked and destroyed on several occasions by pirates, leading to its reconstruction in a safer location. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the city experienced significant urban growth, driven by the construction of the Panama Canal and the arrival of immigrants from various parts of the world.

Modern Period

In the 20th and 21st centuries, Panama City has established itself as a global financial and logistics center, with accelerated urban development marked by the construction of skyscrapers and modernization of infrastructure. Recent events include the expansion of the Panama Canal and the promotion of the city as a technological and tourist hub in Latin America, maintaining its geopolitical and economic relevance worldwide.

Historical Timeline

The historical timeline shows the key moments that have defined the development of Panama City through the centuries.

City Scores

City Scores

Discover what makes this city special with our comprehensive scoring system

Safety

Good
68100

Safety in Panama City varies by area, with tourist areas generally safe but some residential areas with crime rates.

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Safety in Panama City varies by area, with tourist areas generally safe but some residential areas with crime rates.

Advantages:
  • Police presence in tourist areas.
  • Citizen security programs in development.
Challenges:
  • Theft and petty crime in certain areas.
  • Necessary precautions in less touristy neighborhoods.

Walkability

Good
70100

Walking is comfortable in central and tourist areas, but in residential neighborhoods and peripheral areas the pedestrian infrastructure is limited.

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Walking is comfortable in central and tourist areas, but in residential neighborhoods and peripheral areas the pedestrian infrastructure is limited.

Advantages:
  • Pedestrian streets and squares in the Old Town.
  • Urban areas with wide and safe sidewalks.
Challenges:
  • Lack of continuity on sidewalks in some areas.
  • Intense traffic makes mobility on foot difficult.

Public Transport

Good
65100

Public transportation has improved with the subway and buses, but is still limited in coverage and frequency for some areas of the city.

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Public transportation has improved with the subway and buses, but is still limited in coverage and frequency for some areas of the city.

Advantages:
  • Efficient and economical metro for central areas.
  • Wide and accessible bus network.
Challenges:
  • Insufficient coverage in peripheral neighborhoods.
  • Lack of integration and irregular schedules.

Affordability

Good
68100

Mid-range prices: plan lodging and meals carefully in tourist areas.

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Mid-range prices: plan lodging and meals carefully in tourist areas.

Advantages:
  • Reasonable rents in neighborhoods like El Cangrejo and Bella Vista.
  • Relatively affordable cost of food and basic products.
Challenges:
  • Exclusive neighborhoods like Punta Pacifica have high rents.
  • The cost of private transportation can be high.

Nightlife

Good
78100

Nightlife in Panama City is lively, with a good range of bars, clubs and restaurants, especially in El Cangrejo and Casco Viejo.

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Nightlife in Panama City is lively, with a good range of bars, clubs and restaurants, especially in El Cangrejo and Casco Viejo.

Advantages:
  • Variety of options for all tastes.
  • Safe environment in nightlife areas.
Challenges:
  • High prices in exclusive locations.
  • Noise and crowds can be a problem.

Art & Culture

Good
78100

The city has a vibrant cultural scene with museums, festivals and a mix of Latin American and Caribbean influences.

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The city has a vibrant cultural scene with museums, festivals and a mix of Latin American and Caribbean influences.

Advantages:
  • Frequent cultural events and traditional festivals.
  • Museums and galleries in the Old Town.
Challenges:
  • Less cultural offering compared to large Latin American capitals.
  • Some cultural spaces need more promotion.

Food Scene

Excellent
80100

Gastronomy in Panama City is diverse, with a mix of local and international cuisine and gourmet options in neighborhoods like El Cangrejo.

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Gastronomy in Panama City is diverse, with a mix of local and international cuisine and gourmet options in neighborhoods like El Cangrejo.

Advantages:
  • Great variety of restaurants and street food.
  • Multicultural and fresh gastronomic offer.
Challenges:
  • High prices in luxury restaurants.
  • Variable quality in some less touristy areas.

Shopping

Good
75100

The city offers a good variety of shopping centres, markets and local shops, with options for all budgets.

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The city offers a good variety of shopping centres, markets and local shops, with options for all budgets.

Advantages:
  • Modern shopping centers such as Multiplaza Pacific.
  • Traditional markets with local products.
Challenges:
  • High prices on imported products.
  • Lack of specialized stores in some categories.

Weather

Excellent
85100

Panama City has a warm tropical climate year-round, with well-defined rainy and dry seasons, ideal for those who enjoy the heat.

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Panama City has a warm tropical climate year-round, with well-defined rainy and dry seasons, ideal for those who enjoy the heat.

Advantages:
  • Constant warm temperatures between 24°C and 32°C.
  • Pleasant dry season between December and April.
Challenges:
  • High humidity and intense rains in the wet season.
  • Heat can be intense for sensitive people.

Tourist Friendly

Excellent
80100

The city is tourist-friendly, with good infrastructure, guides and services, although language can be a barrier for some visitors.

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The city is tourist-friendly, with good infrastructure, guides and services, although language can be a barrier for some visitors.

Advantages:
  • Wide offer of tours and tourist activities.
  • Developed hotel and gastronomic infrastructure.
Challenges:
  • Caution is recommended in less touristy areas.
  • Tourist information not always available in several languages.

Family Friendly

Good
72100

The city has parks and family-friendly amenities, but safety and traffic can be concerns in certain areas.

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The city has parks and family-friendly amenities, but safety and traffic can be concerns in certain areas.

Advantages:
  • Parks and green areas in neighborhoods like Bella Vista.
  • Adequate educational and health offer.
Challenges:
  • Intense traffic during peak hours.
  • Some areas with security problems.

LGBTQ+ Friendly

Good
70100

The city shows an increasingly open and tolerant environment towards the LGBTQ+ community, with dedicated events and spaces, although social challenges persist.

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The city shows an increasingly open and tolerant environment towards the LGBTQ+ community, with dedicated events and spaces, although social challenges persist.

Advantages:
  • Growing LGBTQ+ events and festivals.
  • Inclusive bars and clubs in central areas.
Challenges:
  • Social discrimination still present in certain sectors.
  • Lack of specific laws for full protection.

Local Friendly

Good
75100

Panamanians are generally friendly and hospitable, especially to tourists and foreigners, although the language barrier can be a challenge for some visitors.

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Panamanians are generally friendly and hospitable, especially to tourists and foreigners, although the language barrier can be a challenge for some visitors.

Advantages:
  • Culture of welcome and cordiality.
  • Active and collaborative local communities.
Challenges:
  • Cultural differences can generate misunderstandings.
  • In tourist areas, sometimes you perceive more commercial treatment.

Natural Beauty

Good
73100

The city is surrounded by natural beauty, with sea views and proximity to jungles and beaches, although the urban environment limits the direct natural experience.

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The city is surrounded by natural beauty, with sea views and proximity to jungles and beaches, although the urban environment limits the direct natural experience.

Advantages:
  • Panoramic views of the Pacific and Atlantic Ocean.
  • Proximity to natural parks and beaches.
Challenges:
  • Urban pollution affects environmental quality.
  • Natural spaces within the city are limited.

Architecture

Excellent
80100

Panama City combines modern architecture with colonial buildings in Casco Viejo, offering an interesting contrast between the historic and the contemporary.

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Panama City combines modern architecture with colonial buildings in Casco Viejo, offering an interesting contrast between the historic and the contemporary.

Advantages:
  • Old Town with well-preserved colonial architecture.
  • Skyscrapers and modern buildings in areas like Costa del Este.
Challenges:
  • Some areas lack architectural maintenance.
  • Rapid development can affect urban harmony.

Historical Significance

Excellent
85100

Panama City has an important historical value, especially in the Casco Viejo, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

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Panama City has an important historical value, especially in the Casco Viejo, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Advantages:
  • Old Town with well-preserved colonial buildings and monuments.
  • Historical importance on the trade route and the Panama Canal.
Challenges:
  • Some historic sites need further conservation.
  • Mass tourism can affect authenticity.

Green Spaces

Good
68100

Although there are parks and green areas, the city could improve the quantity and maintenance of these spaces for public enjoyment.

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Although there are parks and green areas, the city could improve the quantity and maintenance of these spaces for public enjoyment.

Advantages:
  • Featured parks such as Parque Omar and green areas in Bella Vista.
  • Initiatives to increase urban green spaces.
Challenges:
  • Limited green spaces in densely urbanized areas.
  • Irregular maintenance in some parks.

Cleanliness

Good
70100

Cleanliness in Panama City is variable, with well-maintained tourist areas but residential areas that can present garbage problems.

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Cleanliness in Panama City is variable, with well-maintained tourist areas but residential areas that can present garbage problems.

Advantages:
  • Clean and tidy tourist and commercial areas.
  • Municipal efforts to improve waste management.
Challenges:
  • Visible garbage in peripheral neighborhoods.
  • Occasional problems with urban maintenance.

Startup Scene

Good
70100

Panama City is emerging as a hub for startups, with incentives and coworking spaces, although the ecosystem is still developing.

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Panama City is emerging as a hub for startups, with incentives and coworking spaces, although the ecosystem is still developing.

Advantages:
  • Growing entrepreneurial and technological community.
  • Government support for innovation.
Challenges:
  • Lack of significant private investment.
  • Limited network of mentors and accelerators.

Digital Nomad Friendly

Good
77100

Panama City offers good connectivity and coworking spaces, although the cost of living can be a challenge for some digital nomads.

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Panama City offers good connectivity and coworking spaces, although the cost of living can be a challenge for some digital nomads.

Advantages:
  • Good internet infrastructure and shared work spaces.
  • Multicultural environment and international services.
Challenges:
  • Rental cost can be high for long stays.
  • Limited public transportation for some neighborhoods.

Overall City Score

Comprehensive assessment of this destination

75/ 100

Weather & Climate

Descubre las mejores épocas para visitar Panama City y qué esperar durante todo el año.

Monthly Temperatures

January

Max31°
Min24°

February

Max32°
Min24°

March

Max32°
Min24°

April

Max31°
Min24°

May

Max31°
Min24°

June

Max30°
Min24°

July

Max30°
Min24°

August

Max30°
Min24°

September

Max30°
Min24°

October

Max30°
Min24°

November

Max30°
Min24°

December

Max30°
Min24°

Legend

Best Months
Hot Months
Cold Months
Rainy Periods

Weather Summary

Panama City has a warm tropical climate year-round, with well-defined rainy and dry seasons, ideal for those who enjoy the heat.

Weather Tips

Constant warm temperatures between 24°C and 32°C.

Pleasant dry season between December and April.

High humidity and intense rains in the wet season.

Heat can be intense for sensitive people.

The city has a dry season from December to April, considered the best time for tourism.

The rainy season runs from May to November, with greater intensity in June and July.

Overview

Spring

Spring in Panama City is warm and relatively dry, with temperatures ranging between 24 and 32 degrees Celsius, ideal for outdoor activities.

More Information

Summer

Summer coincides with the rainy season, characterized by high temperatures, high humidity and frequent rainfall, especially in June and July.

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Autumn

Autumn features a gradual decrease in rainfall and consistently warm temperatures, with sunny days and cool nights.

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Winter

Winter is mild and dry, with stable and pleasant temperatures, making it one of the best times to visit the city.

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Presupuesto y Compras

Plan your expenses and discover the best shopping areas

Budget Planning

Daily spending per person

The budget to visit Panama City is moderate compared to other Latin American capitals. It offers affordable options for backpackers, as well as luxury services for discerning travelers, with affordable costs for accommodation, food and transportation.

Budget Travel

25-40€

per day

Mid-Range Travel

50-100€

per day

Luxury Travel

€150+

per day

Guía de Compras

Best Areas

Mega Shopping Center

1 area

Albrook Mall

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luxury shopping

2 areas

Multiplaza Mall

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Soho Mall

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Local shopping and crafts

3 areas

Central Avenue

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Old Town

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Old Panama

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Liquor and wine stores

3 areas

The Bottega

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Felipe Motta Wine Store & Deli

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Beermarkt

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Pet stores

2 areas

Pets

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Pet Supermarket Panama City

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Second-hand and ecological stores

2 areas

The Attic

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The Closet

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Health food stores

2 areas

Organic Store

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Riba Smith

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furniture stores

3 areas

Furniture City

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Suarez House

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Homecenter Panama

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Airport shopping

1 area

Tocumen International Airport

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Points of Interest

Explore the most fascinating places this city has to offer

Cathedral Basilica of Saint Mary the Ancient

First cathedral built on the continental mainland of America, located in the Casco Viejo, historical and religious symbol of Panama with Spanish colonial architecture.

Religious

National theater

Emblematic building of Panamanian culture, inaugurated in 1908, which houses plays, concerts and cultural events in a neoclassical architectural environment.

Cultural

Ruins of the Convent of Santo Domingo

Remains of the convent destroyed by two fires in the 17th century, located in the Old Town, which offer a vision of the city's colonial and religious past.

Historical

Coastal Ribbon

Pedestrian path and bicycle path of almost 3 km that borders the Bay of Panama, ideal for walking, cycling and enjoying panoramic views of the horizon and the Old Town.

Park

Amador Causeway

Corridor that connects four islands in front of the city, famous for its panoramic views of the ocean and the city, especially at sunset, and for the Biomuseo located on one of its islands.

Landmark

Biomuseum

Museum designed by Frank Gehry that showcases Panama's biodiversity and its importance as a biological bridge between North and South America, with interactive and educational exhibits.

Museum

Metropolitan Natural Reserve

Nature park within the city offering hiking trails and the opportunity to observe local flora and fauna in a protected and accessible environment.

Nature

Choori Waterfall

Impressive waterfall located near the city, ideal for day trips and direct contact with nature and lush landscapes.

Nature

Old Panama

Archaeological site of the first city founded on the Pacific coast in 1519, with emblematic ruins such as the cathedral tower, declared World Heritage by UNESCO.

Historical

Panama Canal

World-renowned engineering work that connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific, essential for global maritime trade, with visitor centers to observe the passage of ships.

Landmark

Miraflores Locks

Panama Canal Visitor Center where you can observe the operation of the locks and the passage of large ships, with educational exhibits on the history and operation of the canal.

Landmark

Ancon Hill

Iconic hill that offers a panoramic view of the city and the canal, with hiking trails and a historical symbol of Panamanian sovereignty.

Nature

Multiplaza Pacific Shopping Center

One of the largest and most modern shopping centers in the city, with international brand stores, restaurants and entertainment options.

Shopping

Balboa Avenue

Coastal avenue that offers a promenade with sea views, green areas and access to restaurants and recreational spaces, very popular among locals and tourists for outdoor activities.

Landmark

Marina Fuerte Amador

Nautical area with marina, restaurants and shops, located on the Amador Causeway, ideal for recreational activities, boat trips and nightlife.

Entertainment

Discover every corner of Panama City!

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Day Trips

Discover fascinating destinations near Panama City perfect for day getaways

2-3 hours by boat

San Blas Islands

Nature, Beach

Enjoy a day exploring the stunning San Blas Islands. Snorkel on a shipwreck reef on Isla Perro and swim among colorful fish in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean.

30 minutes by car

Panama Canal and Miraflores

History, Engineering

Visit the famous Panama Canal and the Miraflores Visitor Center. Watch ships pass through the locks and enjoy a 3D IMAX movie.

1-2 hours by car and boat

Embera Indian Village and Waterfall

Culture, Nature

Learn about the ancestral culture of the Emberá and enjoy a traditional lunch. Visit an impressive waterfall in the heart of the jungle.

1 hour by ferry

Taboga Island

Beach, Nature

Enjoy a cruise to Taboga Island, known as the 'Flower Island'. Relax on its beaches and enjoy lunch on board.

30 minutes by car

Soberanía Park and Sloth Sanctuary

Nature

Explore Soberanía Park and visit a sloth sanctuary. Discover the rich biodiversity of Panama on this ecological tour.

1 hour by train or car

Colon

History, Culture

Visit the city of Colón, known for its rich history and its craft market. Explore the Panama Canal from a different perspective.

10 minutes by car

Ancon Hill

Nature, Mountain

Take a hike to the top of Cerro Ancón for stunning views of the city. Spot local wildlife such as monkeys and toucans.

1 hour by car and boat

Monkey Island

Nature

Enjoy an eco-tour on Monkey Island, where you can interact with monkeys and other animals in their natural habitat.

Explore Neighborhoods

Discover the unique character and charm of each city district.

Beautiful View

Central and vibrant neighborhood with a mix of residences, shops and active cultural life. Popular among young people and tourists for its dynamic atmosphere and access to services.

Highlights

  • Proximity to the Coastal Belt
  • Variety of restaurants and bars
  • Access to public transportation

Best For

Young peopleTouristsNightlifeShoppingHistory
8.9731, -79.5339

San Francisco

Residential neighborhood with a mix of small and medium-sized businesses, ideal for families and professionals. Quiet environment with green areas and nearby services.

Highlights

  • Green areas
  • Nearby shopping centers
  • Quiet residential environment

Best For

FamiliesProfessionalsShopping
8.9833, -79.5167

Marbella

Residential and commercial area with a modern atmosphere, known for its restaurants and nightlife. Popular with young professionals and tourists.

Highlights

  • High-end restaurants
  • active nightlife
  • Proximity to the financial center

Best For

Young peopleTouristsNightlife
8.9750, -79.5250

Obarrio

Business and residential neighborhood with modern buildings, ideal for professionals and executives. Urban environment with access to services and commerce.

Highlights

  • Business centers
  • Restaurants and cafes
  • Proximity to commercial areas

Best For

ProfessionalsShoppingNightlife
8.9830, -79.5160

East Coast

Modern and planned neighborhood with luxury infrastructure, ideal for families and expatriates. Large green areas and sea views, with all services available.

Highlights

  • Modern infrastructure
  • Large green areas
  • John Hopkins Institute Hospital

Best For

FamiliesExpatsShoppingNightlife
8.9510, -79.4920

Seasonal Experiences

Discover the best experiences and activities for each time of year

Flower and Coffee Festival

Spring

Enjoy the Flower and Coffee Festival in Boquete, near Panama City, where spring is celebrated with flower shows, coffee tastings and cultural events.

Visit to the Panama Canal and its locks

Summer

During the summer, take the opportunity to visit the Panama Canal and watch the ships pass through the Miraflores locks, enjoying the warm weather and outdoor activities.

Tour of the Old Town and its cultural festivals

Autumn

In the fall, explore Panama City's World Heritage-listed Casco Viejo, participating in cultural festivals and enjoying colonial architecture and local cuisine.

Bird watching in the Metropolitan Natural Park

Winter

Winter is ideal for bird watching in the Metropolitan Natural Park, a green lung within the city, where you can observe tropical species and enjoy natural trails.

Panama Carnival

Spring

Take part in the vibrant Panama Carnival in spring, with colorful parades, live music and traditional dances that fill the streets of Panama City with joy and culture.

Excursion to the Taboga Islands

Summer

During the summer, take an excursion to the Taboga Islands, known as the 'Flower Island', to enjoy beaches, snorkeling, and nature trails just a short distance from Panama City.

Festivals & Local Celebrations

Experience the vibrant culture and traditions of this city through its unique festivals

August

Panama Sea Festival

Cultural and musical event that celebrates Panama's maritime identity with concerts, art exhibitions, activities for the whole family and local cuisine.

February or March (variable date according to liturgical calendar)

Panama Carnival

Traditional celebration with parades, music, dances and costumes that marks the beginning of Lent, highlighting Panamanian joy and popular culture.

January

Panama Jazz Festival

International jazz festival founded by Danilo Pérez that brings together world-renowned artists for concerts, workshops and educational activities in the city.

July

Pollera Festival

Event that celebrates the traditional Panamanian clothing, the pollera, with parades, contests and cultural presentations that highlight the national identity.

April - May

Azuero International Fair

Fair that combines agriculture, music, crafts and regional culture, with exhibitions, concerts and activities for the whole family, highlighting Panamanian tradition.

November

Panama Film Festival

Event dedicated to the promotion of national and international cinema with screenings, talks, workshops and awards at different venues in the city.

October

Marjoram Festival

Folkloric festival that celebrates traditional Panamanian music, especially marjoram, with performances by folk groups, dances and cultural activities.

Traveler Tips

Essential advice and local insights to make your trip memorable and safe

Safety Tips

  1. General Security

    Panama is relatively safe, but in Panama City it is recommended to be careful in poorly lit areas and avoid displaying valuables to prevent theft.

  2. Areas to avoid

    Avoid walking alone in the Old Town and surrounding areas at night, as well as in neighborhoods such as Calidonia and Plaza del 5 de Mayo due to frequent thefts.

  3. Emergencies

    National emergency number: 911. For medical assistance, hospitals in Punta Pacifica and Costa del Este are recommended for their safety and quality.

Before you go

Quick answers to plan your trip with confidence

About 3 days covers the essentials. Add 1–2 days for neighborhoods or day trips.
Mid-range is around 50-100€ per person per day (stay, food, local transport). See the budget section for ranges.
A solid starting area is Beautiful View. Compare neighborhoods and hotels on this page.
The Panama Metro is modern and safe, connecting key points of the city; The buses are economical but less recommended for tourists due to safety.
Family-friendliness rated 72/100. It usually works well for family trips.
Safety rated 68/100. Panama is relatively safe, but in Panama City it is recommended to be careful in poorly lit areas and avoid displaying valuables to prevent theft.

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