Boquete, Panama, is a picturesque mountain town known for its cool climate, lush coffee farms, breathtaking cloud forests, and adventure activities like hiking, zip-lining, and river rafting.
Panama: Panama City – A visitor’s guide
CONTENTS
1. About Panama City
2. Things to do
– Explore Casco Viejo (Old Quarter)
– Visit the Panama Canal (Miraflores Locks)
– Walk or Bike Along the Amador Causeway
– Hike in Metropolitan Natural Park
– Take a Day Trip to the San Blas Islands
3. Getting to and around Panama City
4. Vegan dining options in Panama City
5. Best time to visit
6. Where to stay
About Panama City
Panama City, the vibrant capital of Panama, is a dynamic metropolis that serves as a crucial hub for commerce, finance, and international trade. Nestled along the Pacific coast, the city is renowned for its modern skyline, which features an array of high-rise buildings, luxury hotels, and corporate headquarters. At the heart of its global significance is the Panama Canal, a key maritime passage connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, facilitating global trade. The city seamlessly blends the old with the new, offering visitors a mix of contemporary architecture, colonial-era landmarks, and lush green spaces. Historic Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts well-preserved Spanish colonial buildings, charming cobblestone streets, and vibrant nightlife, providing a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Beyond its economic and historical importance, Panama City is a gateway to stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures. Just a short drive from the bustling urban center, visitors can explore the Metropolitan Natural Park, home to diverse wildlife and scenic hiking trails. The nearby Amador Causeway, a popular recreational area, offers stunning views of the city skyline and access to museums, restaurants, and marinas. The city’s coastal location also provides opportunities for water-based activities, from sailing in the Panama Bay to visiting the Pearl Islands. With a rich blend of modern development, historic charm, and natural wonders, Panama City stands as one of the most dynamic and culturally significant capitals in Latin America.
Things to do
Explore Casco Viejo (Old Quarter)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic district is full of charming colonial architecture, boutique hotels, trendy bars, and excellent restaurants. Highlights include Plaza de la Independencia, San José Church (famous for its golden altar), and rooftop bars with stunning city views.
Visit the Panama Canal (Miraflores Locks)
One of the most iconic engineering marvels in the world, the Panama Canal is a must-visit. The Miraflores Visitor Center offers an up-close look at massive ships passing through, an interactive museum, and a short film detailing the canal’s history.
Walk or Bike Along the Amador Causeway
A scenic causeway connecting four small islands, it offers breathtaking views of the Panama City skyline and the Pacific Ocean. You’ll find bike rentals, waterfront restaurants, and the Biomuseo, designed by Frank Gehry, which showcases Panama’s biodiversity.
Hike in Metropolitan Natural Park
A lush rainforest escape within the city, this park offers several hiking trails with opportunities to see sloths, toucans, and monkeys. The Cerro Cedro lookout point provides panoramic views of the city and the canal.
Make a Day Trip to the San Blas Islands
If you have time for an excursion, the San Blas Islands (Guna Yala) offer pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Managed by the indigenous Guna people, the islands provide an authentic and tranquil Caribbean experience.
Getting around Panama City
Getting around Panama City, Panama, is relatively easy, as the city has a mix of modern public transportation and affordable private options. Here are the best ways to navigate the city:
Public Transportation
Metro 🚇
- Fast & Affordable: The Panama Metro is clean, efficient, and one of the best ways to avoid traffic.
- Lines: There are currently 2 lines (Line 1 and Line 2), with expansions planned.
- Cost: ~$0.35 per ride (using a Metro Card).
- Best Use: Travel between downtown areas and key locations like Albrook Mall.
Metro Buses 🚌
- Extensive Coverage: Covers nearly all of Panama City.
- Cost: ~$0.25 to $1.25 (Metro Card required).
- Tip: Check Google Maps for routes, as signage can be unclear.
Private Transportation
Taxis 🚕
- Cheap but Unregulated: Always negotiate fares in advance or insist on using a meter.
- Ride-sharing Alternative: Uber and DiDi are safer and offer transparent pricing.
Uber & DiDi 🚗
- Best Choice for Tourists: More reliable than taxis and usually cheaper.
- Availability: Widely available in central areas but may have longer wait times in suburban parts.
Rental Cars 🚗
- Recommended for Exploring Beyond the City: Good for trips to the beaches, mountains, or countryside.
- Challenges: Traffic congestion, aggressive driving culture, and limited parking.
Walking 🚶
- Best in Certain Areas: Casco Viejo, Cinta Costera, and Avenida Balboa are walkable.
- Caution: Some areas lack sidewalks or can be unsafe at night.
Biking 🚴
- Limited Infrastructure: While Cinta Costera is great for cycling, the city lacks dedicated bike lanes elsewhere.
Eating out for vegans in Panama City
- El Trapiche is a renowned restaurant in Panama City, established in 1983, celebrated for its authentic Panamanian cuisine. The restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring traditional dishes such as sancocho (a hearty chicken soup), arroz con pollo (chicken with rice), and a variety of empanadas. For those seeking a comprehensive tasting experience, the “Fiesta Panameña” platter provides a sampler of local specialties.
- Mahalo isn’t an entirely plant-based restaurant, but they do feature a decent selection of vegan and vegetarian options. There are not a ton of plant-based options in Casco Viejo, so just having a restaurant that has more than 1 or 2 options is nice.
Rock and Rolls Vegan Sushi is a 100% plant-based sushi restaurant located in Panama City, Panama. Their mission is to offer sustainable, cruelty-free cuisine. The chef crafts a variety of original-style rolls using ingredients like hearts of palm, artichoke, mushrooms, avocado, tofu, and other plant-based components.
Location: The Plaza, Calle 72 Este, Planticeria, Panama City, Panama.
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Closed on Mondays
Planticería is a plant-based deli and bakery located in Panama City, Panama. They offer a variety of vegan options, including brunch, lunch, sandwiches, and baked goods like cookies and cakes. Their menu features creative plant-based meats, such as “Plantiramy” with a smoky flavour, “Plantironi” as a pepperoni substitute, and “Plantillopo” as a chicken alternative. They also provide a selection of dips, desserts, and vegan meat alternatives in their deli section.
As of the latest information, Planticería operates at the following location:
- San Francisco: Calle 72 Este, Local 8, Ciudad de Panamá. Open Monday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Contact: +507 398-4482 / +507 6103-2644
The best time to visit Panama City
The best time to visit Panama City, Panama is during the dry season, which lasts from December to mid-April. This period offers sunny skies, warm temperatures, and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and exploring the city’s vibrant culture.
Seasonal Breakdown:
Dry Season (December – Mid-April) 🌞
- Best time for travel and tourism
- Warm temperatures (75-90°F / 24-32°C)
- Little to no rain, perfect for outdoor activities
- Peak tourist season—higher hotel prices and crowds
Rainy Season (Mid-April – November) 🌧️
- Frequent heavy rains, but short-lived showers
- Lush green landscapes
- Fewer tourists, lower hotel rates
- Best for budget travelers and nature lovers
Shoulder Season (Late November – Early December)
- Transition from rainy to dry season
- Fewer crowds, moderate prices
- Some rain, but also sunny days
Where to stay in Panama City
1. Mid Range: Hotel Terranova
Hotel Terranova is a modern 3-star hotel located in the elegant Bella Vista district of Panama City. The hotel offers an outdoor pool, a restaurant, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary private parking. Each air-conditioned room is equipped with a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a work desk, a sofa, and a private bathroom with free toiletries.
The hotel’s location provides easy access to the seafront, situated just 600 meters away. The surrounding streets are filled with restaurants and shops, making it a convenient choice for travellers. Additionally, the Iglesia del Carmen Metro Station is only a 5-minute walk from the hotel, offering excellent connectivity to various parts of the city.
2. Luxury – Bristol Panama
The Bristol Panama, a Registry Collection Hotel, is a luxury establishment situated in the heart of Panama City’s vibrant financial district. This prime location offers guests convenient access to shopping centres, cultural attractions, and nightlife.
Accommodations: The hotel features 130 sophisticated rooms and suites, each designed with plush bedding, Italian marble bathrooms, and modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay.
Dining: Guests can indulge in gourmet Panamanian fusion cuisine at the on-site restaurant, Salsipuedes. Additionally, the hotel offers a lobby bar and terrace for cocktails and tapas, as well as 24/7 room service for in-room dining
3. Budget – Hotel Lisboa
Hotel Lisboa is a 3-star hotel located in Panama City, Panama, at Avenida Cuba and Calle 31 Este in the Bellavista District. The hotel offers 55 comfortable rooms equipped with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and cable television. Guests can enjoy amenities such as free Wi-Fi throughout the property, a 24-hour reception desk, and complimentary private parking. An on-site restaurant is also available for dining.
The hotel’s central location provides easy access to various attractions, including the historic Casco Antiguo, which is just a 5-minute drive away. Public transportation is conveniently accessible, with a metro station located 50 meters from the hotel.
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