Panama City

The 7 Best Sightseeing Opportunities in Panama City

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  1. Panama Canal

  Visit the Panama Canal to learn how it has connected the world for a century. Best enjoyed with boat tours, but Panama history buffs also shouldn't miss the comprehensive museum.

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  2. Panamá Viejo

  Walk around the ruins and be prepared to read Spanish to enjoy the small museum. An hour or so is long enough to snap great views of the city from here on a clear day.

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  3. Bridge of the Americas

  Proudly spanning the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal is this feat of engineering, completed in 1962 by the U.S. Most impressive at night during a festival, for the fireworks.

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  4. Ancon Hill

  A hike up this lush green hillscape is rewarded with fantastic views across Panama City. Grab a tasty picnic lunch from one of the city's many food stands before you depart.

• 5. Metropolitan Natural Park

  The two hiking trails through this beautiful park may be relatively simple underfoot, but take the heat and humidity into account. Plenty of water and regular rests are a must!

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  6. Biomuseo

  Frank Gehry's Biomuseo is a riot of color you won't be able to resist photographing! Eight galleries explore the biodiversity of the world, in a celebration of all living things.

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  7. Casco Viejo

  This is perhaps the most charming place to see in Panama City, and a great base for exploring, with plenty to do. Walking tours are a great way to enjoy the area.

Frequently asked questions about Panama City

Planning Your Visit

• When should I visit?

  The high season in Panama, when the weather is most pleasant, is December to April. This period has the least rain, but can also be the busiest. Carneval, which takes place 40 days before Easter, is another popular and vibrant time to visit the city. Book accommodation well in advance and come prepared to dance!

• Backpacking Panama

  South America is a popular destination with backpackers, who are well-served in Panama by many hostels, cheap food, and heaps of culture to explore. Visit the islands for total relaxation, and to make those working away back home very jealous.

• Get your groove on

  Can't dance, won't dance? You haven't yet been to Panama City! Take a taxi to the three key areas of Panama City nightlife - the business district, Casca Viejo, and the Amador Causeway.