I’ve been to Panama City twice, spending a whole week there, so I might be able to help you figure out if it’s worth a visit and for how long. I ended up staying longer than planned because I was waiting to sail to Colombia, giving me a chance to explore the city more thoroughly. Overall, I’d say Panama City is worth visiting, but it didn’t strike me as the most exciting place in Panama. While there are some cool things to do, I saw it more as a stopover on the way to other parts of the country.
Panama City surprised me with how well-organized and developed it is, especially compared to other Central American capitals. It has a modern, business-like vibe with lots of high-rises and office buildings. The downtown area is bustling with trade and finance, giving it a somewhat Americanized feel. However, I felt like it lacked a bit of charm or soul, which I later learned was partly due to many empty skyscrapers built for questionable reasons.
Despite its business-centric atmosphere, Panama City does have some cultural gems, like the historic district of Casco Viejo. This area is full of beautifully restored colonial buildings that now house boutique hotels and trendy restaurants. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and worth exploring, even though it feels a bit separate from the rest of the city.
One thing that sets Panama City apart is its safety compared to other Central American capitals. It feels clean, organized, and relatively safe, making it a good introduction to the region. The city is also manageable in size, making it easy to get around and explore. While it’s not the cheapest place, it’s more budget-friendly than neighboring Costa Rica.
When it comes to things to see and do in Panama City, don’t miss the Panama Canal, Ancon Hill for city views, the Mercado De Marisco for seafood, and the Biomuseo designed by Frank Gehry. These highlights can be covered in about a day. But what really excited me was exploring beyond the city, especially the San Blas Islands to the north, which are stunning.
If you’re short on time, I’d recommend spending just a day in Panama City to see the main sights before venturing out to other parts of Panama like Boquete or Bocas del Toro. However, if you have more time, staying for three days allows you to dig deeper into what the city has to offer and take some day trips.
Ultimately, my experience in Panama City was mixed, but it’s all subjective. I met someone who adored the city, so it really depends on your preferences. Check out my other article on the best places to visit in Panama for more travel inspiration.
