On either end of your visit to Cambutal, we always recommend a stop in Panama City so that you can get to know a little more of this beautiful country and have a day to rest either before you come to visit us or before you head back home.
Panama City, the capital of Panama, is a vibrant and bustling city located at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal. It is a city of contrasts, where modern skyscrapers sit alongside colonial-era buildings, and a vibrant nightlife scene meets historic landmarks. Here are some top things to do when visiting Panama City:
1. Explore the Historic Casco Viejo: Casco Viejo is the historic district of Panama City, known for its charming colonial-era buildings, quaint plazas, and cobbled streets. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into Panama's history and culture, with beautifully restored buildings, galleries, and cafes. Our friends at Trip de Jenny have a free walking tour of the historic district that is 100% worth checking out.
2. Visit the Panama Canal: A trip to Panama City is incomplete without visiting the Panama Canal. You can take a tour of the canal to witness the enormous ships pass through the locks, learn about its history, and see the massive infrastructure that makes this engineering marvel work. Make sure to check out the transit time at the Miraflores visitors center so you can see a ship passing through the locks. If you’re traveling with kids, don't miss out on our friend Tereza’s tour of Monkey Island located in the Panama Canal’s waterways.
3. Enjoy the Nightlife: Panama City's nightlife is known to be one of the most vibrant and diverse in Central America. You can find everything from rooftop bars to underground clubs, salsa dancing to live music performances. Some popular spots include Casco Viejo, the Amador Causeway, and the Calle Uruguay.
4. Visit the Museums: Panama City has a range of museums that provide insights into its history and culture. The Panama Canal Museum offers a detailed history of the canal, the Biomuseo showcases the country's biodiversity, and the Museum of Contemporary Art is perfect for art lovers.
5. If you’d like to get a little hike in before you head out to the country side, visiting Ancon Hill (Cerro Ancon) is a great way to get your heart rate up and view Panama City from a different perspective. A beautiful combination of nature and city, you’ll get to see of local flora and fauna as you walk to the top of the hill for birds eye views of the Panama City Skyline. Approximately a 30 minute walk, the incline is a bit steep but gradual and on a pedestrian only paved road. The road is sometimes used by official government vehicles but there is no heavy traffic. Suitable for adults, children and dogs.
6. Enjoy the Food: Panama City is a foodie's paradise, with a diverse range of cuisines that reflect its multicultural history. From street food to fine dining, the city offers a range of culinary experiences that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. A couple of our favorites are Fonda Lo Que Hay, Intimo and always a must, Panama’s Dim Sim for breakfast at Lung Fung.
In conclusion, Panama City is a city of contrasts, where history, culture, and modernity meet. With so many things to do and see, it's no wonder why it's becoming an increasingly popular destination for travelers. Whether you're interested in history, nightlife, beaches, or food, Panama City has something for everyone.
