Panama City Panama 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the City

  • Morning: Start your day at the iconic Casco Antiguo (Old Quarter), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through the cobblestone streets and visit the Plaza Bolivar, the heart of the historic neighborhood.
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at Café El Jefe, a local favorite serving delicious Panamanian cuisine. Try their famous " Sancocho" (a hearty stew).
  • 1:30 PM: Visit the Panama Canal Museum to learn about the history and engineering marvel of the canal.
  • 4:00 PM: Take a stroll along the waterfront at Amador Causeway, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city and the bay.
  • 7:00 PM: Dine at La Tasca, a restaurant serving traditional Panamanian cuisine with a modern twist. Try their “Ceviche” (raw fish marinated in citrus juices).

Accommodation: Stay at The Bristol Hotel Panama City, a 5-star hotel located in the heart of the city, within walking distance to Casco Antiguo.

Transportation: Use taxi or ride-sharing services like Uber or Cabify. You can also use public transportation ( buses and metro) but it’s not as efficient for tourists.

Things to Know:

  • Panama is a bilingual country, with both Spanish and English widely spoken.
  • The local currency is the US Dollar, but you’ll also find credit card payments accepted in most places.
  • Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like Casco Antiguo.

Day 2: Nature and Adventure

  • 8:00 AM: Take a day trip to the Amador Islands, located just off the coast of Panama City. Enjoy snorkeling or swimming with sea turtles.
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at El Mariposero, a seafood restaurant on the island.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Panama Rainforest Discovery Center to learn about the country’s rich biodiversity and take a guided tour through the rainforest.
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at La Estación, a restaurant located in the trendy neighborhood of Obarrio.

Accommodation: Stay at The Bristol Hotel Panama City (same as Day 1).

Transportation: Use taxi or ride-sharing services to get to Amador Islands. For the rainforest, take a guided tour that includes transportation.

Things to Know:

  • Be sure to bring sunscreen and insect repellent when visiting the islands.
  • Respect local wildlife and their habitats.
  • Try some of Panama’s unique fruits like Guanabana or Soursop at one of the many fruit stands.

Day 3: History and Culture

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Panama Canal Administration Building, a stunning example of modernist architecture.
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the Museum of Biodiversity, which showcases Panama’s rich cultural heritage and natural history.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at El Chorro, a restaurant serving traditional Panamanian cuisine in the historic neighborhood of Obarrio.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Panama City Cathedral, a beautiful example of colonial architecture.

Accommodation: Stay at The Bristol Hotel Panama City (same as Day 1).

Transportation: Use taxi or ride-sharing services to get around the city.

Things to Know:

  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to interact with locals.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting historic sites.

Day 4: Shopping and Relaxation

  • 10:00 AM: Visit the Albrook Mall, a large shopping center that offers a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at La Taqueria, a restaurant serving delicious tacos and other Mexican cuisine.
  • 3:00 PM: Relax on the beach at Amador Islands or visit the Panama Rainforest Discovery Center for some nature therapy.
  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Casa Del Mar, a seafood restaurant with stunning views of the bay.

Accommodation: Stay at The Bristol Hotel Panama City (same as Day 1).

Transportation: Use taxi or ride-sharing services to get around the city and to Amador Islands.

Things to Know:

  • Don’t forget to try some of Panama’s famous coffee, which is known for its high quality.
  • Consider purchasing a local SIM card or portable Wi-Fi hotspot to stay connected during your trip.