Panama 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Panama City

Morning

  • 8:00 am: Start the day with a delicious breakfast at Café del Arte, a local favorite in the trendy El Cangrejo neighborhood.
  • 9:00 am: Visit the Miraflores Locks, one of the most impressive sights in Panama City. Watch ships passing through the locks and learn about the history of the canal at the on-site museum.

Afternoon

  • 12:00 pm: Head to Casco Viejo, the historic old town, for lunch and exploration. Try some traditional Panamanian cuisine like sancocho or empanadas.
  • 1:30 pm: Visit the Panama Canal Museum to learn more about the history of the canal and its significance in world trade.
  • 3:00 pm: Explore the colorful streets of Casco Viejo, admiring the mix of colonial and modern architecture. Be sure to visit the iconic Plaza Independencia.

Evening

  • 6:00 pm: Enjoy a sunset cocktail at one of the rooftop bars in El Cangrejo, like the Hotel Riu Plaza Panama’s Sky Lounge.
  • 8:00 pm: For dinner, head to La Posta, a popular restaurant serving international cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.

Day 2: Soaking up the Sun and Nature

Morning

  • 8:00 am: Depart for Gamboa Rainforest Reserve, about an hour outside of Panama City. Take a scenic hike through the rainforest, spotting exotic birds and monkeys.
  • 11:00 am: Visit the Soberanía National Park for more hiking opportunities or take a boat tour along the Chagres River.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 pm: Head to Playa Kobbe, a picturesque beach on the Pacific coast, for some relaxation and lunch.
  • 3:30 pm: Visit the nearby Portobelo, a charming coastal town with a rich history. Explore the colorful streets, visit the famous Customs House, and enjoy the ocean views.

Evening

  • 6:00 pm: Return to Panama City and enjoy a farewell dinner at Donde José, a popular restaurant serving creative Panamanian cuisine.
  • 8:30 pm: End the night with a stroll along the waterfront promenade, enjoying the city lights and canal views.

Things to Know

  • Visa Requirements: Citizens of many countries don’t need a visa for tourism or business stays up to 180 days. Check with the Panamanian embassy or consulate in your country for specific requirements.
  • Transportation: Taxis are widely available, but you can also use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Cabify. For longer trips, consider renting a car or booking a shuttle service.
  • Currency: The US dollar is widely accepted, and you’ll often receive change in Panamanian balboas (B/). You can exchange currency at banks or currency exchange offices.
  • Safety: Panama City is generally safe, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Avoid traveling alone at night and use reputable transportation services.

Other Tips and Recommendations

  • Try some local fruits like mangoes, pineapples, or plantains.
  • Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to show respect for the culture and people.
  • Consider purchasing a Panama Tourist Card, which grants discounts and benefits at various attractions and businesses.
  • If you have time, visit the Bocas del Toro archipelago or Boquete in Chiriqui Province for more outdoor adventures.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Panama!