Panama City

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The skyline of Panama City with its skyscrapers in the financial district at sunset, Panama.
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Overview

One of the most cosmopolitan capitals in Central America, Panama City is both a vibrant metropolis and a gateway to incredible tropical escapes.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

BioMuseo
Panama City
Celebrating Panama as the land bridge that has permitted astonishing biodiversity in the region, this world-class museum is a visual feast. Exhibits tell…
Museo de Arte Contemporáneo
Panama City
This wonderful privately owned museum features the best collection of Panamanian art anywhere, an excellent collection of works on paper by Latin American…
Panamá Viejo
Panama City
Founded on August 15, 1519, by Spanish conquistador Pedro Arias de Ávila, the city of Panamá was the first European settlement along the Pacific. For 150…
Parque Natural Metropolitano
Panama City
On a hill north of downtown, this 265-hectare park protects vast expanses of tropical semideciduous forest within the city limits, and serves as an…
Centro Natural Punta Culebra
Panama City
Ideal for families, CEM is operated by the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI). This informative marine museum features two small aquariums and…
Plaza de Francia
Panama City
At the tip of the southern point of Casco Viejo, this beautiful plaza pays homage to the French role in the construction of the canal. Its large stone…
Iglesia de San José
Panama City
This Casco Viejo church protects the famous Altar de Oro (Golden Altar), the sole relic salvaged after privateer Henry Morgan sacked Panamá Viejo.
Museo de Arte Religioso Colonial
Panama City
Housed beside the ruins of the Iglesia y Convento de Santo Domingo, the Museo de Arte Religioso Colonial has a collection of colonial-era religious…

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Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip

Best Things to Do

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or coming back for more, here’s our guide to the top things to do in Panama City, Panama.

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Best Time to Visit

There’s always something exciting happening in cosmopolitan Panama City. Here’s our guide to what's happening in every season.

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Things to Know

From staying safe and avoiding scams to local etiquette and how to stay on budget, here are 16 top tips you need before visiting Panama City.

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Transportation

Thanks to billions of dollars and years of hard work, Panama City now boasts the finest mass-transit system in Central America.

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Free Things to Do

These free (and almost free) experiences in Panama City will make your stay unforgettable without breaking the bank.

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Best Neighborhoods

From the cobbled streets of Casco Viejo to the sleek skyscrapers of downtown, there is a neighborhood in Panama City to suit you no matter what you want.

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Money and Costs

Budget-conscious travelers looking to visit Panama City will love these money-saving tips.

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