Panama City's Must-Experience Activities and Attractions!

Discover the best of Panama City – from its historic treasures like Panama Viejo and Casco Viejo to its stunning views atop Ancon Hill. Join guided food tours, delve into the past, and capture the city’s beauty in this exciting adventure.

1. Explore Panama City, the Capital of Panama

Panama City is a cool and modern capital. Getting to the main airport is easy because many airlines have flights here from different places. The city is a mix of old and new, with tall buildings in the business area, old Panama Viejo as a UNESCO site, and the newer colonial area, Casco Viejo. You can have yummy seafood at Mercado Mariscos (seafood market) and take a nice walk along the Malecon by the bay. For more fun things to do, check out my list of 15 great activities in Panama City.

2. Eat Delicious Seafood at Mercado de Mariscos

If you want a fun place to eat with a view of the bay, go to Mercado de Mariscos – the seafood market. It’s right by the water and has colorful stalls selling seafood. There are also seafood restaurants with fresh local catch. People like coming here during the day and night, and sometimes there are live acts to enjoy. Don’t miss the ceviche – it’s really good and comes in different flavors.

3. Explore the Old Part of the City at Casco Antiguo

Casco Antiguo or Casco Viejo is the old Spanish part of Panama City. You can take a nice walk around its old walls and streets. It feels like colonial times, but now there are colorful restaurants, rum bars, art galleries, and lively nightlife. There are cool shops, craft markets, and great views of the city and coastline, even up to the Panama Canal.

4. Try a Guided Food Tour in Casco Viejo

If you’d rather not plan everything yourself, you can join a fun food tour of Casco Viejo. This tour includes tasting local drinks and food while you explore this amazing part of the city. And if you’re interested in more history, there’s another tour that covers the area’s past and its ancient treasures.

5. Experience Panama Viejo, a UNESCO Heritage Site

Panama Viejo is where the Spanish settlers first started building Panama. The UNESCO site holds the remains of the main old buildings that are still standing in the certified zone. This place was founded in 1519, making it one of the earliest European settlements in the New World. Pirates burned down the city, and a new one, Casco Viejo, was formed. You can still see parts of the Plaza Mayor and the cathedral’s bell tower. There’s a visitor center displaying items and art from that time, plus a craft market nearby with affordable souvenirs.

6. Capture Panama City’s Skyline from Ancon Hill

Ancon Hill, above Panama City, is a refreshing spot with forests and stunning city views. When you’re craving a break from the busy city, head to this rainforest just beyond the historic area. A quick cab or Uber ride takes you to Ancon Hill for exploring and taking photos of the beautiful skyline from up high.

For directions to Ancon Hill and the main staircase, visit this site. You can also consider a local tour of the Ancon Hill area and Mi Pueblito for more information and ideas about visiting this region.

Panama City offers a blend of modern and historic attractions. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant Casco Viejo on a guided food tour, discovering the remnants of Panama Viejo’s rich past, or capturing breathtaking city views from Ancon Hill, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this captivating destination.