5 Days in Panama City, Panama – The Perfect Itinerary
From the old-world charm of Casco Viejo to the modern marvel of the Panama Canal, this city has it all. It instantly captured my heart, and I know it’ll do the same for you. Whether you’re a foodie, history geek, adventure seeker, or city explorer, Panama City offers something for everyone.
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Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Casco Viejo
Arrive, check into your hotel, then rest. Start your adventure with a leisurely walk through Casco Viejo, the city’s historic district. Enjoy a cozy seafood dinner at La Pulperia, a hidden gem with an intimate ambiance.
Day 2: Brunch, Chocolate, & Walking Tour
Start the day with brunch at the iconic American Trade Hotel. Take a Chocolate-Making Class at Nome Chocolate, where you’ll learn about Panamanian cacao, taste some, and make your own handcrafted treat. End the day with dinner at Nazca 21, a must-visit for seafood lovers.
Day 3: Panama Canal & Amador Causeway
Start with breakfast at Cafe Sucre to try the world-famous Geisha coffee! Then visit the Panama Canal, one of the greatest engineering marvels in the world. Make a quick photo stop at the colorful Panama sign at Amador Causeway, then enjoy dinner and live entertainment at Sabroso.
Day 4: Island Hopping in San Blas
Start your day early for a full day tour of the San Blas Islands. Travel to the dock with your guide and then take a boat ride to see some of the most beautiful Caribbean islands in Panama. You can swim, snorkel, or simply relax on white-sand beaches with the clearest of waters. You also get to experience the Guna Yala indigenous culture, who are the people who have carefully taken care of these islands for years. Lunch & drinks are included in the tour.
Dinner at El Caribe to enjoy delicious Caribbean flavors is the only way to end an island day!
Day 5: Wildlife or a Chill Day
Option 1: Monkey Island Tour – Explore the Panamanian rainforest and cruise along Gatun Lake to see capuchin, howler, and tamarin monkeys up close.
Option 2: Relax & Explore Casually – Sleep in, wander the city at your own pace, and soak in the last bits of your time in Panama City.
Try out lunch at a local Fonda. These small eateries serve authentic Panamanian dishes at budget-friendly prices. Then, select any option from here for dinner.
Day 6: Fly back home with memories to last a lifetime!
Check out of your hotel & fly back home with memories to last a lifetime!
Essential Travel Tips for Your Panama City Trip
Best Time to Visit Panama
Panama has a tropical climate, meaning it’s warm year-round. The best time to visit is during the dry season (December to April) to avoid heavy rains.
How to Get to Panama City
Fly into Tocumen International Airport (PTY). It’s about 25-30 minutes from the city center.
Where to Stay in Panama City
Depending on your travel style, here are some great areas to stay, you can choose between Casco Viejo for historical & “old-town” vibes, the City Center for a more modern feel, or Amador Causeway for ocean views and a generally quieter stay.
Currency and Payment Tips for Panama City
Panama’s official currency is the USD. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always good to have cash for local vendors & emergencies.
How to Get Around Panama City Easily
Walking is great in Casco Viejo, but for longer distances, take Uber. Uber is very affordable in Panama City – rides can be as low as $2 USD! It’s trusted and convenient to get all around the city. Also, most tours include hotel pick up and drop off.
Communication Tips for Panama
Spanish is Panama’s official language, but English is widely spoken in most tourist areas. Still, I suggest you learn a few basic Spanish phrases and having a translation app.
Extend Your Trip – Panama City & Cartagena Combo
Panama City is a vibrant and diverse destination that truly offers something for everyone. So, whether you’re exploring Casco Viejo, marveling at the Panama Canal, or relaxing in the San Blas Islands, this 5-day itinerary ensures you experience the best of the city. Check out my Eat, See & Do guide for Panama City here.
I hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip. Save this post, share it with fellow travelers, and let me know your favorite part of Panama City!
Until next time, Panama!
Safe travels,
Joba