10 best things to do in Panama City, Panama

Panama City is one of Latin America’s most fascinating capitals — a place where shimmering skyscrapers rise next to colonial plazas, rainforest stretches into the city limits and the legendary Panama Canal remains one of the world’s greatest engineering achievements. Whether you’re here for history, nature, nightlife or views that sweep across two oceans, Panama City offers something special for every traveller.

Base yourself in Casco Viejo for old-world charm, explore modern neighbourhoods along the waterfront, venture into tropical national parks, and dedicate time to understanding how the canal transformed global trade forever. These are the 10 best things to do in Panama City, Panama.

1. Wander the historic streets of Casco Viejo

Casco Viejo — the city’s UNESCO-listed old quarter — is the cultural heart of Panama City. Founded in 1673 after pirates destroyed the original settlement, today it is a beautifully restored neighborhood of pastel buildings, tiled roofs, boutique cafés, rooftop bars, churches and leafy plazas. The mix of Spanish, French and Caribbean architecture makes it one of the most photogenic places in the country.

Visit landmarks like Plaza de la Independencia, the Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Theatre and the elegant French-style Plaza de Francia. As the sun sets, Casco Viejo transforms into one of the city’s best nightlife hubs, with cocktail bars, jazz lounges and rooftop terraces overlooking the skyline.

Local tip: Explore early in the morning for cooler temperatures and the softest light for photography.

2. Experience the Panama Canal at Miraflores Locks

No trip to Panama City is complete without witnessing the Panama Canal — one of the greatest engineering achievements of the 20th century. The Miraflores Visitor Center offers the best vantage point to watch enormous cargo ships rise and descend through the locks as they make their way between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.

Interactive exhibits explain how the canal was built, the challenges engineers faced, and how the waterway continues to power global trade today. Time your visit to coincide with a ship transit for the full experience — watching vessels slowly glide through the chambers is surprisingly captivating.

Planning tip: Mornings and late afternoons often have the most ship activity.

3. Explore the ruins of Panamá Viejo

Before Casco Viejo, Panama City stood at Panamá Viejo — founded in 1519 and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These sprawling ruins are all that remain after the infamous pirate Henry Morgan attacked and burned the city in 1671. Walking among the stone walls, convents and the landmark cathedral tower feels like stepping into the earliest chapter of Panama’s colonial history.

Climb the restored tower for sweeping views of the archaeological site set against modern Panama City’s skyline — a striking contrast between past and present.

Local tip: Visit the small museum near the entrance before walking the grounds so you understand the layout and stories of the ruins.

4. Walk or cycle the Cinta Costera waterfront

The Cinta Costera is Panama City’s scenic waterfront boulevard — perfect for walking, cycling, jogging or simply enjoying the tropical breeze. The path curves along the bay with uninterrupted views of the ocean, the modern skyline and Casco Viejo rising in the distance.

Locals use the area for recreational sports, food stalls appear in the evenings, and sunset is particularly beautiful as the skyscrapers turn golden. It’s one of the safest, cleanest and most pleasant urban walks in Central America.

Local tip: Rent a bike for the full loop, including the stretch opposite Casco Viejo for the best skyline photos.

5. Visit the Biomuseo on the Amador Causeway

Designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry, the Biomuseo is one of the most striking buildings in Panama — a colourful, angular structure celebrating the biodiversity of the country. Inside, interactive exhibits explain how the formation of the isthmus changed the world’s climate, wildlife and ecosystems.

The museum sits on the Amador Causeway, a long peninsula with marinas, restaurants, ocean views and a path linking three small islands. It’s one of the best places in Panama City for an easy afternoon stroll or a sunset drink overlooking the water.

Local tip: Combine a museum visit with bike rental to explore the full causeway.

6. Immerse yourself in rainforest at Metropolitan Natural Park

Few capitals in the world have a tropical rainforest inside city limits — but Panama City does. Metropolitan Natural Park is a protected jungle filled with sloths, monkeys, toucans and coatis, all just minutes from downtown. Well-marked trails lead to viewpoints like Cerro Cedro, offering panoramic views of the forest merging with the skyline.

The park is a peaceful escape from traffic and humidity, and the combination of wildlife and city vistas makes it one of Panama City’s most memorable experiences.

Best time: Early mornings offer the highest wildlife activity and the coolest temperatures.

7. Take a day trip to the Emberá Indigenous Village

Panama’s Indigenous cultures are an essential part of the country’s identity, and visiting an Emberá village is one of the most meaningful cultural experiences near Panama City. After a canoe ride up forested rivers, visitors are welcomed with traditional music, dances, handicrafts and explanations about village life, medicinal plants and community traditions.

The experience offers an authentic look at an Indigenous group preserving centuries-old customs while balancing modern realities.

Local tip: Buy handicrafts directly from artisans — the woven baskets and carvings are among Panama’s finest.

8. Spend an evening in modern Punta Pacifica

Punta Pacifica is Panama City’s sleek, futuristic district — home to high-end shopping malls, luxury apartment towers, fine dining restaurants and some of the city’s best rooftop bars. It offers a very different vibe from Casco Viejo: polished, modern and energetic.

Visit the Multiplaza Mall for international brands, enjoy cocktails at a high-rise lounge, or book dinner at one of the city’s acclaimed modern restaurants serving innovative Panamanian fusion cuisine.

Nightlife tip: Thursdays to Saturdays are the liveliest, especially in bars overlooking the bay.

9. Escape to Taboga Island

Just 30 minutes by ferry from Panama City, Taboga Island — the “Island of Flowers” — is a quick tropical escape with beaches, hilltop hikes and colourful village streets. It’s quieter than the Caribbean side of the country, making it ideal for a relaxed day trip.

Swim in calm waters, enjoy fresh seafood on the beach or hike Cerro de la Cruz for a beautiful view over the Pacific Ocean and the city skyline in the distance.

Local tip: Weekdays are quieter; weekends fill up with locals.

10. Enjoy nightlife, jazz and rooftop bars

Panama City’s nightlife is among the best in Central America. Casco Viejo hosts rooftop lounges, live jazz venues and al fresco bars that fill with energy after sunset. Modern areas like Calle Uruguay and Costa del Este offer clubs, cocktail bars and lounges frequented by young professionals.

For a more refined experience, head to the American Trade Hotel’s jazz bar, one of the most atmospheric music venues in the region. Wherever you go, expect warm nights, lively crowds and skyline views.

Local tip: Dress smart-casual for most high-end venues; many rooftops have dress codes.