Panama City Panama 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the City

Morning

  • 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Start your day at Café del Arte, a charming coffee shop in the heart of El Cangrejo neighborhood. Try their delicious coffee and enjoy the local art exhibitions.
  • 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM: Visit the Panama Canal Museum (Museo del Canal de Panamá) to learn about the history and significance of the Panama Canal.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Head to Casco Viejo, a historic neighborhood with colorful colonial-era architecture. Explore the streets, take in the vibrant atmosphere, and visit the Catedral Metropolitana.
  • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Take a stroll along the Paseo de las Bóvedas, a scenic waterfront promenade with great views of the city skyline.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Donde José, a popular restaurant serving modern Panamanian cuisine. Try their signature dish, “Arroz con Pollo” (Chicken and Rice).
  • 10:00 PM - 12:00 AM: Experience the city’s nightlife in the El Cangrejo neighborhood, with its many bars, clubs, and lounges.

Accommodation

Stay at Hotel Casa Panama, a boutique hotel in the heart of Casco Viejo. Enjoy their rooftop pool and bar with stunning views of the city.

Transportation

Use taxis or ride-hailing services like Uber or Cabify to get around the city.

Tips

  • Be prepared for traffic congestion, especially during rush hour.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking in Casco Viejo’s cobblestone streets.
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.

Day 2: Nature and Adventure

Morning

  • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Take a guided hike at Soberanía National Park, just outside the city. Explore the lush rainforest, spot monkeys and birds, and enjoy the scenic views.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Visit the Gamboa Rainforest Reserve for an aerial tram ride or a zip-lining adventure.
  • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Relax at Lake Gatun, a popular spot for boating and fishing.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Mesa 77, a restaurant serving farm-to-table cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  • 10:00 PM - 12:00 AM: Return to your hotel or explore the nearby neighborhoods for more nightlife options.

Accommodation

Stay at Hotel Casa Panama (same as Day 1).

Transportation

Use taxis, ride-hailing services, or book a guided tour that includes transportation.

Tips

  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes and clothes, and bring sunscreen and insect repellent.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings in the rainforest; stay on marked trails and follow guide instructions.

Day 3: Modern Panama City

Morning

  • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM: Visit the Biomuseo, a futuristic museum designed by Frank Gehry, showcasing Panama’s natural history and biodiversity.
  • 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM: Explore the Costa del Este neighborhood, known for its modern architecture, upscale shops, and restaurants.

Afternoon

  • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Take a stroll along the Amador Causeway, a scenic waterfront promenade with great views of the city skyline.
  • 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Visit the Mercado de Abastos, a bustling marketplace offering local handicrafts, food, and souvenirs.

Evening

  • 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Maito Panamá, a restaurant serving innovative, farm-to-table cuisine.
  • 11:00 PM - 1:00 AM: End your trip with a visit to the Hard Rock Hotel Panama’s rooftop bar, offering stunning views of the city.

Accommodation

Stay at Hotel Casa Panama (same as Day 1 and 2).

Transportation

Use taxis or ride-hailing services to get around the city.

Tips

  • Be prepared for modern Panama City’s traffic congestion.
  • Don’t miss the stunning sunsets from the Amador Causeway.
  • Try some local street food, like empanadas or churros, at the Mercado de Abastos.