Panama-2-day-itinerary

2-Day Itinerary for Traveling in Panama

Day 1: Panama City

Morning

  • 8:00 AM: Start the day with a visit to the iconic Panama Canal. Take a guided tour or simply walk along the canal and enjoy the views.
  • 10:00 AM: Head to the nearby Miraflores Locks Visitor Center, which offers stunning views of the canal’s operations.

Afternoon

  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at one of the many restaurants in the trendy Casco Viejo neighborhood. Try some traditional Panamanian cuisine like sancocho or empanadas.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Assumption, a beautiful church that’s home to Panama’s patron saint.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city, such as El Acapulquito or La Estación.
  • 9:00 PM: Explore the vibrant nightlife in Casco Viejo, where you can find bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Day 2: Panama City to Bocas del Toro

Morning

  • 8:00 AM: Pick up your bags and head to the bus station for a scenic drive to Bocas del Toro (approx. 4 hours).
  • 12:00 PM: Arrive in Bocas del Toro, a stunning archipelago of islands and waterways.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at a local restaurant, like El Faro, which serves fresh seafood.

Afternoon

  • 2:30 PM: Take a boat tour to explore the islands and snorkel or swim in the crystal-clear waters.
  • 5:00 PM: Visit the Bocas del Toro National Marine Park, which protects the area’s incredible marine biodiversity.

Things to Know

  • Visa Requirements: U.S. citizens can enter Panama with a valid passport and no visa is required for stays up to 180 days.
  • Transportation:
    • Flights: From Tocumen International Airport (PTY) to Bocas del Toro’s airport or from Panama City to other destinations.
    • Bus: Scenic bus rides available from Panama City to Bocas del Toro (approx. $10-$20 USD).
    • Taxi/Uber: Reliable transportation services in both cities.
  • Language: Spanish and English are widely spoken, but it’s always a good idea to learn some basic Spanish phrases.
  • Currency: The Panamanian Balboa is pegged to the U.S. dollar, so you can use dollars or balboas interchangeably.

Tips and Recommendations

  • Be sure to try local cuisine, such as ceviche, fried plantains, and coconut rice.
  • Don’t forget your sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat for outdoor activities.
  • If you’re interested in surfing, Bocas del Toro is a top destination with world-class waves.
  • Respect the local environment and communities by taking responsible tourism practices.

Places to Stay

  • Panama City:
    • Hotel Centroamérica (mid-range)
    • The Bristol Panama (luxury)
  • Bocas del Toro:
    • Hotel Bocas del Toro (mid-range)
    • Bahía del Sol Eco-Lodge (eco-friendly and rustic)

Have a wonderful trip to Panama!