Panama City Panama 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the City

Morning

  • 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Start the day with a delicious breakfast at Café del Arte, a local favorite serving traditional Panamanian dishes.
  • 11:00 AM: Visit the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center to learn about the history and operation of the Panama Canal. You can also watch ships passing through the locks.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Head to Casco Viejo, a historic neighborhood filled with colorful colonial-era architecture, trendy bars, and restaurants.
  • 3:00 PM: Explore the Plaza de la Independencia, a picturesque square surrounded by important landmarks like the Catedral Metropolitana and the Palacio Municipal.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Donde José, a modern Panamanian restaurant offering innovative dishes using local ingredients.
  • 10:00 PM: Experience the city’s vibrant nightlife in the El Cangrejo neighborhood, known for its bars and clubs.

Accommodation

Stay at La Concordia Boutique Hotel, a stylish hotel located in the heart of Casco Viejo. Its rooftop pool and bar offer stunning views of the city.

Transportation

  • Take a taxi or Uber from the airport to your accommodation ( approx. $20-30)
  • Use public transportation or taxis to get around the city (approx. $1-5)

Tips & Other Things to Know

  • Be prepared for hot and humid weather; stay hydrated and bring sunscreen.
  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to interact with locals.
  • Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.

Day 2: Nature and Culture

Morning

  • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Visit the Gamboa Rainforest Reserve, a lush tropical forest just outside the city. Take an aerial tram ride or hike to explore the area.
  • 1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Mi Ranchito, a local eatery serving traditional dishes like sancocho (a hearty stew).

Afternoon

  • 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM: Explore the Biomuseo, a modern museum showcasing Panama’s natural and cultural history.
  • 5:00 PM: Visit the Mercado de Abastos, a bustling marketplace offering fresh produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Dine at Maito Panamá, a restaurant serving innovative dishes inspired by Panamanian cuisine.
  • 10:00 PM: Return to your accommodation and relax after an exciting day.

Transportation

  • Take a taxi or Uber from the Gamboa Rainforest Reserve to the city (approx. $20-30)

Other Things to Know

  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting indigenous communities.
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.
  • Be prepared for occasional rain showers during the rainy season (May-November).

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, history, nature, and entertainment, giving you a well-rounded experience of Panama City. Enjoy your trip!