Meilleure Période pour Visiter
December to April
Devise
US Dollar (USD) / Balboa (PAB)
Langue
Spanish
Fuseau Horaire
EST (UTC-5)
Discover Panama City
Panama City isn't just a capital; it's a living timeline where engineering marvels meet colonial ghosts and rainforests touch skyscrapers. Forget generic cityscapes—here, you can watch a 100,000-ton ship climb through the Miraflores Locks of the Panama Canal at breakfast, wander the cobblestone streets and vibrant plazas of Casco Viejo by lunch, and spot a toucan in the Metropolitan Natural Park, a tropical forest reserve within the city limits, by sunset.
The energy is uniquely Panamanian: a sophisticated, fast-paced metropolis fueled by global finance and maritime trade, yet deeply rooted in a crossroads culture. This is a city where you'll find world-class cevicherías next to historic ruins, rooftop bars overlooking the Pacific entrance to the Canal, and a palpable sense of being at the precise center of the Americas, where everything and everyone seems to be just passing through, yet leaving a permanent mark.
Why Visit Panama City?
Witness a Modern Wonder: Experience the awe-inspiring Panama Canal, a feat of human ingenuity. Visit the Miraflores Visitor Center to watch massive ships transit the locks from an observation deck, or take a partial transit boat tour for an up-close perspective.
Explore a Living History Book: Walk through centuries in a single day. From the 16th-century ruins of Panama Viejo, the original city sacked by pirates, to the restored Spanish colonial architecture and bohemian vibe of the UNESCO-listed Casco Viejo district.
Discover Urban Biodiversity: Encounter nature without leaving the city. Hike the trails of the Metropolitan Natural Park for skyline views and monkey sightings, or visit the BioMuseo, designed by Frank Gehry, to understand Panama's incredible role as a bridge for life.
Indulge in a Culinary Crossroads: Savor a fusion of flavors shaped by the sea and global influences. From fresh ceviche and sancocho stew at a fonda to innovative Nikkei cuisine at a high-end restaurant in the financial district.
Experience Cosmopolitan Energy: Feel the pulse of Central America's most international hub. Stroll the Amador Causeway with its marinas, bike paths, and museums, or explore the gleaming skyscrapers of the banking district, a testament to the city's modern economic power.
Use it as a Launchpad: Panama City is the perfect gateway to the rest of the country. Its central location and Tocumen International Airport make day trips to tropical islands, mountain highlands, and Caribbean beaches remarkably accessible.
Panama City est Connue Pour
Prêt à explorer Panama City?
Panama City Neighborhoods
Casco Viejo
The historic heart and soul of the city, a UNESCO World Heritage site of colorful colonial buildings, charming plazas, and cobblestone streets. It's a vibrant mix of restored luxury, local life, bohemian cafes, and rooftop bars with stunning views.
Highlights:
Best for:
Punta Pacifica & Punta Paitilla
The city's modern, affluent waterfront districts, dominated by sleek skyscrapers, luxury condos, and high-end shopping malls like Multiplaza Pacific. This is the glittering 'Dubai of the Americas' skyline you see in photos.
Highlights:
Best for:
El Cangrejo & Bella Vista
A bustling, central commercial and residential area known for its dense grid of streets, diverse dining, nightlife, and more local, lived-in feel. It's a hub for expats, students, and a great place to experience everyday city life.
Highlights:
Best for:
Amador (Calzada de Amador)
A scenic causeway connecting three small islands to the mainland, built with rocks excavated from the Canal. It offers panoramic views of the city skyline and the Bridge of the Americas, with a relaxed, recreational vibe.
Highlights:
Best for:
Principales Attractions
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •Carry both small US Dollar bills and coins (Balboas). While USD is used interchangeably, change is often given in Balboa coins, and small bills are essential for taxis and markets.
- •For the best Panama Canal viewing, check the ship transit schedule online for the Miraflores Locks before you go. Early morning or late afternoon transits are most active and avoid the midday heat.
- •Use the 'Metrobus' card for city buses. It's a rechargeable card (sold at metro stations and kiosks) required for the modern public bus system; drivers do not accept cash.
- •When hailing a taxi, always negotiate the fare BEFORE getting in. Taxis don't use meters. Ask your hotel for standard rates to your destination to have a reference point.
- •Visit the Mercado de Mariscos (Fish Market) for incredibly fresh and affordable ceviche. Eat at the casual stalls upstairs for the authentic experience, but be mindful of your belongings.
- •Dress for the humidity. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are essential. Always carry a reusable water bottle and a compact umbrella or rain jacket, as tropical showers can appear suddenly.
- •Learn a few basic Spanish phrases. While English is common in tourist areas and businesses, a simple 'buenas' (hello), 'gracias' (thank you), and 'la cuenta, por favor' (the bill, please) goes a long way.
- •Sunday is for the 'Cinta Costera'. Join locals for biking, jogging, or strolling along this waterfront park, which is closed to through traffic on Sundays, creating a fantastic public space.
- •For a unique cultural experience, try a 'chiva parrandera'—a colorfully decorated party bus that tours the city with live music, dancing, and drinks. It's a quintessential Panamanian night out.
- •Beach days are better on the islands. The city's nearby beaches (like Playa Veracruz) are often muddy. For clear water and sand, take a short ferry to Taboga Island or the Pearl Islands.
Panama City Food Scene
Panamanian cuisine is a hearty, flavorful fusion of Afro-Caribbean, Spanish, and Indigenous influences, centered around rice, beans, tropical fruits, and supremely fresh seafood. Dining ranges from humble 'fondas' (local eateries) to world-class innovative restaurants.
Must-Try Dishes
Traditional Fonda
- • El Trapiche for sancocho & carimañolas
- • El Rincón de la Leña for ropa vieja
- • Las Clementinas (Casco) for elevated Panamanian
Look for places packed with locals at lunchtime for the best, most authentic daily specials ('plato del día').
Ceviche & Seafood
- • Mercado de Mariscos stalls for cheap & cheerful
- • Cevichería La Pelota in El Cangrejo
- • Donde José (Casco) for a gourmet tasting menu
The classic 'ceviche mixto' includes fish, octopus, and shrimp. Always squeeze fresh lime on top.
International & Fine Dining
- • Maito (Asian-Panamanian fusion)
- • Intimo (Mediterranean in Casco)
- • Madame Chang (renowned Chinese)
Reservations are essential for top fine dining restaurants, especially on weekends. Dress is generally smart-casual.
Coffee & Sweet Treats
- • Café Unido for specialty Panamanian geisha coffee
- • Granclement for artisanal gelato
- • Super Gourmet for pastries and breakfast
Panama produces some of the world's best coffee. Ask for a 'café de altura' (highland coffee) at specialty shops.
Populaire Auprès
Best Time to Visit Panama City
Spring
Spring (March-May) marks the end of the dry season and the beginning of the rainy season. March and April are still hot and dry, while May sees increasing humidity and afternoon showers.
Pros:
- + Dry, sunny weather in early spring
- + Less crowded than peak December-January
- + Good for outdoor activities and beach trips
Cons:
- - Extreme heat and humidity in April
- - Rainfall increases significantly in May
- - Higher prices around Easter (Semana Santa)
Summer
Summer (June-August) is the heart of the rainy or 'green' season. Expect high humidity, lush vegetation, and predictable afternoon thunderstorms, usually lasting a few hours.
Pros:
- + Lush, vibrant green landscapes
- + Lower hotel rates and fewer tourists
- + Rain often cools down the evenings
Cons:
- - Daily heavy rainfall can disrupt outdoor plans
- - High humidity can be oppressive
- - Some rural day-trip roads may be less accessible
Autumn
Autumn (September-November) is the wettest period, with October being the peak of the rainy season. Rainfall is frequent and can be prolonged, though mornings often start clear.
Pros:
- + The lowest tourist crowds of the year
- + Deep discounts on accommodation
- + Perfect for museum and indoor activities
Cons:
- - Highest chance of all-day rain
- - Potential for flooding in some areas
- - Some tours or attractions may be closed
Winter
Winter (December-February) is the peak dry season, with plenty of sunshine, lower humidity, and minimal rain. This is the most popular and pleasant time to visit.
Pros:
- + Ideal weather: sunny, warm, and less humid
- + Perfect for all outdoor exploration and beaches
- + Festive atmosphere in December
Cons:
- - Peak tourist season: highest prices and crowds
- - Need to book accommodation and tours far in advance
- - Christmas/New Year's is exceptionally busy and expensive
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Day Trips from Panama City
Panama Canal & Gamboa Rainforest
30-45 min by car/taxi
Go beyond the Miraflores visitor center for a deeper immersion into the Canal's ecosystem. Explore the rainforest corridor that runs alongside it, offering wildlife spotting and river adventures.
Taboga Island
30 min by ferry from Amador
Escape to the 'Island of Flowers' for a classic Caribbean beach day just a short ferry ride from the city. Enjoy sandy beaches, clear water, seafood shacks, and a charming, car-free village.
Portobelo & San Lorenzo (Caribside)
1.5-2 hours by car
Journey to Panama's Caribbean coast to explore dramatic Spanish colonial fortresses, a key hub of the treasure route, now UNESCO sites shrouded in jungle.
Panama City Budget Guide
Panama City is moderately priced for a major capital, cheaper than the US or Europe but more expensive than neighboring Central American countries. Costs vary widely between local establishments and tourist-focused venues.
Budget
$40-70 USD for budget travelers (hostel, street food, buses)
per day
Mid-Range
$100-200 USD for mid-range (3-star hotel, mix of local & nice meals, occasional taxis, tours)
per day
Luxury
$300+ USD for luxury (5-star hotels, fine dining, private tours, premium experiences)
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •Eat at 'fondas' for lunch—massive 'plato del día' can cost $5-7.
- •Use the Metrobus system; a ride costs $0.35-0.75.
- •Stay in neighborhoods like El Cangrejo for better value than the waterfront.
- •Many museums have free admission on Sundays.
- •Bargain at artisan markets (like in Casco Viejo), but prices in shops are fixed.
Panama City Hidden Gems
Cementerio Amador (Amador Cemetery)
A historic cemetery on a small peninsula near Casco Viejo, with elaborate tombs and stunning views of the bay and skyline.
It's a peaceful, atmospheric spot with incredible photography opportunities and a unique perspective on the city's history, largely overlooked by tourists.
Mercado de Abastos
The city's massive, bustling wholesale fruit and vegetable market, located near Albrook.
An authentic sensory overload of colors and smells where locals shop. It offers a raw, unfiltered look at daily life and incredible tropical produce you won't see in supermarkets.
Sendero del Mono Tití (Titi Monkey Trail)
A specific trail within the Metropolitan Natural Park, less traveled than the main Sendero Los Caobos.
It offers a higher chance of spotting the park's namesake Geoffroy's tamarin monkeys (mono tití) in a quieter, more secluded section of the urban forest.
Café Coca Cola
A legendary, no-frills diner in the Santa Ana district, operating since the 1870s.
It's a living piece of Panama City's social history, frequented by everyone from politicians to laborers. It serves cheap, classic Panamanian breakfasts and lunches in a timeless atmosphere.
Mi Pueblito
A cultural park on Ancon Hill featuring replica villages showcasing Panama's three main cultural heritages: Indigenous, Colonial, and Afro-Antillean.
It provides a compact, educational overview of the country's diverse cultures in one scenic location with great city views, often missed by visitors focused solely on Casco Viejo.
Panama City Culture & Customs
Panamanian culture is a proud 'crisol de razas' (melting pot), blending Indigenous, Spanish, Afro-Caribbean, and more recent immigrant influences. It's relaxed yet formal in business, family-oriented, and deeply connected to its history as a global crossroads. The concept of 'tranquilo' (take it easy) is a common attitude.
Cultural Etiquette
- •Greet with a handshake or a single kiss on the cheek among women and mixed company.
- •Politeness is valued; use 'buenos días/tardes/noches' and 'por favor'/'gracias'.
- •Dress is generally conservative and neat; beachwear is for the beach only.
- •Punctuality is flexible for social events ('hora panameña') but more expected for business.
- •It's polite to say 'buen provecho' (enjoy your meal) to others when entering or leaving a restaurant.
Useful Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions about Panama City
Is Panama City safe for tourists?
The main tourist areas like Casco Viejo, Amador, and the financial district are generally safe during the day and evening. Like any major city, practice common sense: be aware of your surroundings, don't flash valuables, use Uber or official taxis at night, and avoid deserted areas. Petty theft is the primary concern.
Do I need to speak Spanish?
No, but it helps immensely. English is widely spoken in hotels, tourist attractions, and upscale restaurants. However, in local markets, taxis, and fondas, Spanish is essential. Learning a few basic phrases will significantly enhance your experience and is appreciated by locals.
Can I drink the tap water?
Yes, the tap water in Panama City is generally safe to drink and is of good quality. It is treated and potable. Many locals and some travelers still prefer bottled water, but you can safely brush your teeth and drink from the tap in hotels and restaurants within the city.
What's the best way to see the Panama Canal?
For a first-time visitor, the Miraflores Visitor Center is the most accessible option, with a museum, film, and observation deck. For a more immersive experience, book a partial transit boat tour that goes through the locks. The newer Agua Clara Locks on the Atlantic side offer a less crowded alternative.
What is the local currency? Should I bring USD?
Panama uses the US Dollar (USD) as its official paper currency. The Balboa (PAB) is the local coin, which is pegged 1:1 to the USD. You only need to bring US Dollars. Coins in circulation are a mix of US and Panamanian Balboa coins, which are interchangeable.
Is Panama City expensive?
It can be, but it doesn't have to be. Luxury hotels, fine dining, and tours are priced similarly to other world capitals. However, you can travel affordably by staying in guesthouses, eating at local fondas, using public transport, and enjoying free activities like walking the Cinta Costera or exploring parks.
What is the voltage and plug type?
Panama uses 110V/60Hz electricity, the same as in the United States and Canada. The plug types are also identical: two flat parallel pins (Type A) or two flat pins with a round grounding pin (Type B). Travelers from Europe will need an adapter.
How many days do I need in Panama City?
We recommend a minimum of 3 full days. This allows one day for the Panama Canal and Amador, one day to explore Casco Viejo and Panama Viejo, and one day for a nature activity like Metropolitan Park or a day trip. With 4-5 days, you can comfortably add a beach island escape or a deeper cultural day trip.
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