Top reasons to visit Panama City
- Stunning Urban Life: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Panama City with its bustling streets, urban parks, and stunning architecture.
- Diverse Dining Scene: Indulge in a variety of culinary delights at the city's numerous restaurants, showcasing both local and international flavours.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy exciting watersports and relax at nearby beaches, perfect for adventure seekers and sunbathers alike.
- Rich Culture: Immerse yourself in the local culture through historical sites, stunning churches, and lively neighbourhoods.
- Variety of Accommodations: Choose from a range of hotels and hostels that cater to all budgets and preferences.
Find great hotels in Panama City
Discover a variety of accommodation options in Panama City, from bustling hotels to charming hostels, catering to every traveller's needs. Whether you're visiting for business or a family vacation, you'll find well-equipped facilities and city-themed experiences. Explore the best hotels in Panama City, ensuring a comfortable stay while you enjoy the vibrant culture and stunning sights of this remarkable destination.
- Hotel Riu Plaza Panama: Nestled in the heart of Panama City, Hotel Riu Plaza Panama is a sophisticated 4-star hotel that caters to those seeking an adventurous and luxurious urban getaway. With a commendable guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, this property offers a range of onsite and nearby recreational activities, perfect for thrill-seekers. The hotel’s modern amenities include a fitness centre, multiple dining options, and a lively bar, ensuring guests enjoy a vibrant stay in the city centre.
- Novotel Panama City: Boasting a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, Novotel Panama City is an ideal choice for families and couples alike, offering a welcoming atmosphere for a romantic or family-focused holiday. This 4-star accommodation provides a variety of child-friendly amenities, such as a playground and complimentary cribs, making it a convenient option for families travelling with children. Additionally, guests can indulge in romantic packages and enjoy in-room dining during limited hours for a memorable stay.
- Plaza Paitilla Inn Hotel: A charming 3.5-star hotel with a guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, Plaza Paitilla Inn Hotel is perfect for couples and business travellers looking for a blend of romance and city convenience. Located centrally, the hotel features enticing romance packages, along with relaxing amenities like an outdoor pool and spa services, including body treatments and reflexology. Guests can enjoy a serene retreat while being in close proximity to Panama City's vibrant attractions, making it a well-rounded choice for your visit.
Where to stay in Panama City
Panama City offers an exciting blend of vibrant urban life and stunning scenery, making it perfect for family holidays or business trips. Explore the bustling city views, relax at nearby beaches, and enjoy the friendly atmosphere of its diverse neighbourhoods. Whether you're seeking luxury or a family-friendly vibe, you'll find prime locations that cater to all your needs during your upcoming trip to this captivating destination.
- Casco Viejo: Nestled within the heart of Panama City, Casco Viejo offers a vibrant blend of history and modernity. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its charming colonial architecture, cobblestone streets and lively atmosphere. Visitors can explore a variety of cultural landmarks, including the iconic Metropolitan Cathedral and the picturesque Plaza Francia. The neighbourhood bustles with a mix of local shops and restaurants, making it an ideal spot for family outings or business meetings. With a peak in tourist arrivals during January and March to April, Casco Viejo guarantees a lively experience filled with shopping, beach access, and scenic parks.
- Bella Vista: As one of Panama City's most dynamic neighbourhoods, Bella Vista is a hub of urban life characterised by its eclectic mix of modern skyscrapers and lush green spaces. Perfect for families and business travellers alike, Bella Vista offers a range of shopping centres and malls, alongside charming parks and beach access. Visitors can enjoy the local culture and cuisine, especially during peak seasons in February to March and December. The vibrant streets are alive with activity, making it an excellent area to explore local attractions and enjoy leisurely strolls.
- El Cangrejo: Known for its welcoming atmosphere, El Cangrejo is a lively neighbourhood that combines the best of city life with a sense of community. This area is popular among families and business visitors, thanks to its variety of shopping venues and nearby monuments. Visitors flock here during its peak months of July and September to October to enjoy its vibrant streets, beach access, and rich cultural offerings. El Cangrejo is an excellent choice for those looking to immerse themselves in local life while enjoying the conveniences of urban living.
Things to do near Panama City
Shopping
For a vibrant shopping experience, visit Albrook Mall, one of the largest in Central America, featuring a wide range of shops and eateries. If you're up for a drive, Multiplaza Pacific Mall offers upscale brands and a luxurious atmosphere about 16.1km away.
Recreation
In Panama City, the Bliss Spa at the JW Marriott offers rejuvenating treatments with stunning views of the city skyline. The Panama Wellness Retreat provides yoga classes and holistic therapies amidst lush greenery, creating a tranquil environment for relaxation and self-discovery.
Adventure
At Gatun Eco Adventures, located 46.7km from Panama City, you can soar through the treetops on a thrilling zipline and tackle a challenging ropes course. Surrounded by lush jungle, the venue offers an exhilarating outdoor experience that immerses you in Panama's natural beauty.
Nightlife
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Casa Jaguar in Casco Viejo, known for its lively atmosphere and exotic cocktails. For a local twist, visit La Tana, where you can enjoy a selection of fine wines and tapas while soaking in the energetic vibe of Panama City.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Panama City
Panama City provides numerous free attractions, such as Cinta Costera and Avenida Balboa, perfect for budget-conscious travellers. For transport, the Metrobus is an economical option. Consider visiting from September to November for lower prices on accommodation, particularly on Tuesdays, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to find the best hotel deals, refine searches by budget and eco-friendly options, and even bundle flights and activities for extra savings. Enjoying Panama City can be both enriching and affordable with these tips.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Panama City are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January and March to April, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Panama City is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Panama City is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can make your trip more budget-friendly by combining your hotel stay in Panama City with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in Panama City
Panama City is an ideal destination for families, business travellers, and city explorers alike. With its vibrant streets, urban parks, and stunning churches, there's plenty to discover. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and enjoy outdoor experiences, particularly around Panama Bay. Whether you’re keen on sightseeing or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Panama City has something for everyone.
- Avenida Balboa: This vibrant street runs alongside the waterfront, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. It's a bustling area, ideal for leisurely strolls, cycling, or simply soaking up the lively atmosphere of Panama City.
- Amador Causeway: A picturesque monument connecting several islands, the Amador Causeway is steeped in culture. Enjoy scenic views of the city skyline and the Panama Canal while exploring local shops, restaurants, and historical sites.
- Cinta Costera: This urban park is a family-friendly area perfect for outdoor activities. With its walking paths, playgrounds, and green spaces, it provides a peaceful retreat amidst the city's hustle and bustle, making it great for picnics and relaxation.
Best time to go to Panama City
The best time to visit Panama City is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. November is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Panama City
Flying into Panama City is easy with three major airports. Balboa (BLB-Panama Pacifico Intl.) is situated 9.7km from the city, with nearby 5-star hotels such as The Westin Playa Bonita Panama and Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, both offering various airport shuttle services. Tocumen Intl. (PTY) is 17.7km away, with luxurious options like The Santa Maria, A Luxury Collection Hotel, and JW Marriott Panama. Lastly, Marcos A. Gelabert Intl. (PAC), just 3.2km from the city, features the Waldorf Astoria Panama and American Trade Hotel, providing convenient transportation services as well. Each airport has excellent hotel options to ensure a comfortable stay while exploring Panama City.