4-Day Local's Solo Guide: Food, Wine & Shopping in Panama City

Panama City, Panama

4 days

Ruins of Panama Viejo
El Tornillo Building
Historic old town
Skyline showing La Cinta Costera Boulevard
The colorful panoramic skyline

About Panama City, Panama

Discover the vibrant heart of Central America in Panama City, Panama. This bustling metropolis offers a unique blend of old and new, with its modern skyline set against the backdrop of the historic Casco Viejo district. Explore the iconic Panama Canal, a marvel of engineering, or immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of the surrounding rainforests. Enjoy the city's thriving culinary scene, diverse shopping opportunities, and vibrant nightlife. Experience the rich cultural heritage through traditional music, dance, and festivals. With its tropical climate, stunning beaches, and friendly locals, Panama City is a captivating destination that promises an unforgettable journey.

4-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Local Culture and Cuisine

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the vibrant Fish Market, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and try some of the freshest seafood in the city.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Panamanian lunch in a local eatery. Try some of the local delicacies like ceviche or sancocho.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the historic district of Casco Viejo. This UNESCO World Heritage site is filled with beautiful colonial buildings, quaint shops, and local artisans.

Dinner

Have dinner in a restaurant offering Panamanian cuisine with a modern twist. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine.

Evening

End your day with a stroll along the Cinta Costera, a beautiful waterfront promenade offering stunning views of the city skyline.

Morning

Begin your day with a visit to the famous Panama Canal. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and significance.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant. Try some Panamanian comfort food like arroz con pollo or tamales.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon shopping at Albrook Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in Latin America. Here you can find a wide variety of local and international brands.

Dinner

Enjoy a dinner in a trendy restaurant in the city. Try some fusion cuisine and pair it with a local craft beer.

Evening

Spend your evening at a local jazz club, enjoying live music and a relaxing atmosphere.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Metropolitan Natural Park, a tropical rainforest within the city limits. Take a guided tour to learn about the local flora and fauna.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local café. Try some Panamanian pastries and a cup of locally grown coffee.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the Amador Causeway, a narrow land-bridge, lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. It's a great place for shopping and enjoying the sea views.

Dinner

Dine in a restaurant offering international cuisine. Try some seafood dishes and pair it with a glass of local wine.

Evening

End your day with a visit to a local salsa club. Enjoy the vibrant music and dance the night away.

Morning

Begin your day with a visit to the Biomuseo, a museum dedicated to Panama's rich biodiversity. Take a guided tour to learn about the country's unique ecosystems.

Lunch

Enjoy a lunch in a local restaurant. Try some traditional Panamanian dishes like ropa vieja or patacones.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon at Multiplaza Pacific, a high-end shopping center offering a wide range of luxury brands.

Dinner

Have your farewell dinner in a fine dining restaurant. Enjoy a gourmet meal paired with a selection of local wines.

Evening

End your trip with a relaxing walk along the Panama Bay, enjoying the beautiful sunset views.

Attractions in Itinerary (9)

Fish Market

1
Fish Market

A bustling seafood market where you can buy fresh fish or enjoy a meal at one of the many food stalls.

Food and Drink
Shopping
Casco Viejo

2
Casco Viejo

Also known as Casco Antiguo or San Felipe, it is the historic district of Panama City, known for its old-world charm, colonial architecture, and vibrant nightlife.

Attractions
Architecture
Cultural Experiences
Neighborhoods
Cinta Costera

3
Cinta Costera

The Cinta Costera is a 26-hectare land reclamation project in Panama City, Panama, completed in 2009 at a cost of approximately $189 million. It extends from the neighborhood of Punta Paitilla to the Mercado de Mariscos. The project consists of a roadway, pedestrian walkways, bicycle lanes, and recreational parks.

Attractions
Parks
Landmarks
Panama Canal

4
Panama Canal

A 48-mile ship canal connecting the Atlantic Ocean (via the Caribbean Sea) to the Pacific Ocean, a key conduit for international maritime trade.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours
Albrook Mall

5
Albrook Mall

One of the largest shopping malls in Panama City, offering a wide range of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Shopping
Entertainment
Metropolitan Natural Park

6
Metropolitan Natural Park

A large natural park located within Panama City, offering hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and panoramic views of the city.

Parks
Attractions
Amador Causeway

7
Amador Causeway

A narrow land-bridge, built with rocks excavated during the construction of the Panama Canal, that connects the city to the four islands of the Amador.

Attractions
Landmarks
Biomuseo

8
Biomuseo

A museum focused on the natural history of Panama, designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry.

Museums
Attractions
Multiplaza Pacific

9
Multiplaza Pacific

A high-end shopping mall featuring a variety of international brands, dining options, and entertainment facilities.

Shopping
Entertainment

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Sancocho

Sancocho

A traditional Panamanian soup made with chicken, yucca, corn, and culantro, often served with a side of white rice. It's a staple in Panamanian cuisine and a must-try for any visitor.

Ceviche

Ceviche

A popular seafood dish in Panama City, made from fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, and spiced with chili peppers, onions, and cilantro. It's a refreshing dish, perfect for the tropical climate.

Ropa Vieja

Ropa Vieja

A traditional Panamanian dish made from slow-cooked shredded beef in a tomato-based sauce, served with rice and beans. The name translates to 'old clothes' due to the shredded appearance of the meat.

Patacones

Patacones

Fried green plantains, smashed and refried until crispy. They are a popular side dish in Panama City, often served with a variety of dips.

Carimañolas

Carimañolas

A traditional Panamanian snack made from yucca stuffed with meat, cheese, or chicken, then deep-fried. They are a popular street food in Panama City.

Chicheme

Chicheme

A traditional Panamanian drink made from sweet corn and milk, often flavored with vanilla and cinnamon. It's a popular refreshment in Panama City, especially during the hot summer months.

Arroz con Pollo

Arroz con Pollo

A popular Panamanian dish made from chicken and rice, cooked together with vegetables and spices. It's a hearty and flavorful dish, often served at family gatherings and celebrations.

Tamales

Tamales

A traditional Panamanian dish made from masa (corn dough) filled with meats, cheese, fruits, or chilies, then wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed. They are a popular food during holidays and celebrations.

Flan

A popular dessert in Panama City, made from eggs, sugar, and milk, then baked until it has a caramelized top. It's a sweet and creamy treat, perfect for ending a meal.

Empanadas

Empanadas

A popular snack in Panama City, made from pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, then baked or fried. They are a versatile and delicious snack, perfect for on-the-go eating.

Seco Herrerano

The national liquor of Panama, made from sugar cane. It's often mixed with fruit juices or soda for a refreshing cocktail.

Hojaldres

Hojaldres

A traditional Panamanian breakfast food, similar to a fried doughnut. They are often served with a cup of coffee for a sweet start to the day.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Panama City, Panama is during the dry season, which runs from mid-December to mid-April. During this period, you can expect less rainfall and plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, it's also the busiest time for tourism, so it's advisable to book your accommodations and activities in advance.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 9

Tue

Martyr's Day

February 13

Tue

Carnival / Shrove Tuesday / Pancake Day

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

November 3

Sun

Independence Day

November 4

Mon

National Symbols Day

November 5

Tue

Colón Day

November 10

Sun

Shout in Villa de los Santos

November 28

Thu

Independence from Spain

December 8

Sun

Mother's Day

December 20

Fri

National Day of Mourning

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Public buses are a common way to get around in Panama City. They are inexpensive and cover most areas of the city. However, they can be crowded during peak hours and may not be the most comfortable option.

Taxis are plentiful in Panama City and can be hailed from the street. They do not have meters, so it's important to negotiate the fare before starting the trip. They are a convenient way to get around, especially if you're not familiar with the city.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Cabify are available in Panama City. They offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to taxis. You can book a ride using their respective mobile apps, and the fare is calculated based on the distance of the trip.

Renting a car is a good option if you're planning to explore outside of Panama City. However, driving in the city can be challenging due to heavy traffic and difficult parking. It's recommended to have a GPS or a good map.

Panama City has a modern and efficient subway system, known as Metro de Panama. It covers many parts of the city and is a quick and affordable way to get around. However, it can be crowded during peak hours.

Bicycling is becoming more popular in Panama City, with dedicated bike lanes and bike rental services available. It's a healthy and eco-friendly way to explore the city, but may not be suitable for long distances or hilly areas.

Walking is a great way to explore Panama City, especially in areas like Casco Viejo, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, it's not recommended for long distances or in areas with heavy traffic.

Airport shuttles are available from Tocumen International Airport to various parts of Panama City. They are a convenient and reliable way to get to and from the airport, especially if you have a lot of luggage.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency PAB

Time zoneUTC-5

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 269-9778; Fire: 103; Police 104

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type B

Voltage120 V

Things to know about Panama City, Panama as a first time visitor

1

Panama City is the capital and largest city of Panama.

2

The official language is Spanish, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas and by professionals.

3

The currency used is the Panamanian Balboa and the US Dollar, which are used interchangeably.

4

Credit cards are widely accepted in Panama City, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or street vendors.

5

The climate in Panama City is tropical, with high humidity and temperatures ranging from 75°F to 88°F (24°C to 31°C) year-round.

6

Panama City is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it's important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

7

Tipping is customary in Panama City, with 10-15% being the standard at restaurants.

8

Panama City is in the Eastern Standard Time zone, but does not observe daylight saving time.

9

Public transportation in Panama City includes buses and a metro system. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also available.

10

Panama City has a diverse culinary scene, with a mix of traditional Panamanian cuisine and international options.

11

Panama City has a vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues.

12

Panama City has a mix of modern and colonial architecture, with many buildings reflecting its history as a Spanish colony.

13

Panama City is a major international business hub, known for its skyscrapers and high-rise buildings.

14

Panama City has a variety of shopping options, from high-end boutiques to local markets.

15

Panama City's tap water is safe to drink, which is not common in many Latin American countries.

16

Panama City has a strong economy, with a focus on banking, commerce, and tourism.

17

Panama City is home to a diverse population, with a mix of cultures and ethnicities.

18

Panama City is a popular destination for bird watching, with a variety of species found in the city's parks and green spaces.

19

Panama City has a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels.

20

Panama City has a well-developed healthcare system, with many doctors and hospitals available for emergencies.

Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hola

O-la

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Adiós

A-dee-os

Leaving or saying goodbye to someone

Please

Por favor

Por fa-vor

When asking for something

Thank you

Gracias

Gra-see-as

When someone helps you or gives you something

Yes

See

Agreeing with someone or something

No

No

No

Disagreeing with someone or something

Excuse me

Perdón

Per-don

When you want to get someone's attention or apologize

I'm sorry

Lo siento

Lo see-en-to

When you want to apologize

Do you speak English?

¿Hablas inglés?

Ha-blas in-gles

When you want to find out if someone speaks English

I don't understand

No entiendo

No en-tee-en-do

When you don't understand what someone is saying

Where is the bathroom?

¿Dónde está el baño?

Don-de es-ta el ban-yo

When you need to find the bathroom

How much does it cost?

¿Cuánto cuesta?

Cuan-to cues-ta

When you want to find out the price of something

I would like...

Me gustaría...

Me gus-ta-ria

When you want to order something or express a preference

Help!

¡Ayuda!

A-yu-da

When you need help

Call the police!

¡Llame a la policía!

Ya-me a la po-li-see-a

When you need to call the police

I need a doctor

Necesito un médico

Ne-ce-si-to un me-di-co

When you need medical assistance

Can I use my credit card?

¿Puedo usar mi tarjeta de crédito?

Pue-do u-sar mi tar-je-ta de cre-di-to

When you want to pay with a credit card

Where can I find a taxi?

¿Dónde puedo encontrar un taxi?

Don-de pue-do en-con-trar un taxi

When you need to find a taxi

Can I have the menu, please?

¿Puedo tener el menú, por favor?

Pue-do te-ner el me-nu, por fa-vor

When you want to see the menu at a restaurant

Cheers!

¡Salud!

Sa-lud

When you want to toast with someone

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Swimwear

  • Beach cover-up

  • Flip flops

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Sunglasses

  • Light rain jacket

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo

  • Travel-sized conditioner

  • Travel-sized body wash

  • Toothbrush

  • Toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor

  • Shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • First-aid kit

  • Prescription medications

  • Contact lenses and solution (if needed)

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash (in local currency)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contact information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Universal travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs

  • Eye mask

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Books or e-reader for entertainment

  • Travel guidebook for Panama

  • Spanish-English dictionary or phrasebook

  • Umbrella

  • Reusable shopping bag

Weather Conditions

Panama City, Panama, is located in the tropics, which means it experiences a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. Average temperatures typically range from 75°F to 88°F (24°C to 31°C). The city has two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season, from mid-December to April, is the best time to visit if you prefer less rain and more sunshine. During this period, the weather is generally hot and less humid, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The rainy season, from May to mid-December, is characterized by frequent, heavy downpours, usually in the afternoon. However, these showers are typically short-lived, and the sun often comes out afterwards. If you're planning to visit during the rainy season, it's advisable to carry a raincoat or umbrella and plan your outdoor activities for the morning when it's less likely to rain. Regardless of the season, it's recommended to stay hydrated and use sunscreen due to the city's proximity to the equator, which results in strong UV radiation. Lightweight, breathable clothing is also advisable due to the high humidity. Lastly, keep an eye on the weather forecast during your visit. Panama City can occasionally be affected by hurricanes and tropical storms, especially during the rainy season.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

31° / 23°

January is the driest month in Panama City, with very little rainfall and plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to visit for outdoor activities.

February

31° / 23°

February continues the dry season, with warm temperatures and low humidity. It's a perfect time for beach activities and exploring the city.

March

32° / 24°

March is the end of the dry season, with slightly higher temperatures. It's still a good time to visit, especially for water sports.

April

32° / 24°

April marks the start of the rainy season, but showers are usually short and intense. The city is less crowded, making it a good time for sightseeing.

May

32° / 24°

May has more rainfall, but it's also when the city's flora is at its most vibrant. It's a great time for nature lovers and photographers.

June

32° / 24°

June is in the middle of the rainy season, with frequent showers. However, there are still plenty of sunny intervals for outdoor activities.

July

32° / 24°

July is similar to June, with a mix of rain and sunshine. It's a good time to visit for those who don't mind a bit of rain.

August

32° / 24°

August is one of the wettest months, but the rain brings cooler temperatures. It's a good time to visit for those who prefer cooler weather.

September

32° / 24°

September continues the rainy season, but the city is less crowded. It's a good time for indoor activities and exploring the local culture.

October

32° / 24°

October is the wettest month, with heavy rainfall. It's a good time to visit for those who enjoy indoor activities and museums.

November

32° / 24°

November sees the end of the rainy season, with less rainfall. It's a good time to visit for those who enjoy a mix of indoor and outdoor activities.

December

31° / 23°

December marks the start of the dry season, with warm temperatures and little rainfall. It's a great time to visit for beach activities and outdoor exploration.

Did you know?

Did you know that Panama City, Panama is the only capital city that has a rainforest within its city limits?

1 of 10

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