3-days itinerary for Panama City allows for a comprehensive exploration of its vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and stunning natural landscapes. Panama City serves as a fascinating crossroads of the modern and historical, the urban and the natural. Here’s how to maximize your visit:
Day 1: Discover the Old and the New
- Morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Casco Viejo
- Start your visit in Casco Viejo, the historic district of Panama City, with its beautifully preserved colonial buildings, plazas, and churches. Don’t miss the Metropolitan Cathedral, Plaza de Francia, and the National Theatre.
- Time Allocation: 3 hours
- Cost: Free to roam; museum/attraction entries vary
- Afternoon (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM): Panama Canal – Miraflores Locks
- A visit to the Miraflores Visitor Center offers an up-close view of the Panama Canal’s operation. The museum and a short film provide insights into the canal’s history and engineering marvel.
- Time Allocation: 3 hours
- Cost: Approximately $15-20 USD for adults
- Evening (5:00 PM onwards): Amador Causeway
- Wind down your day with a stroll or bike ride along the Amador Causeway, enjoying panoramic views of the Panama City skyline and the canal. There are plenty of dining options for a relaxing dinner.
- Time Allocation: 2-3 hours
- Cost: Free; dinner costs vary
Day 2: Nature and Culture
- Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Metropolitan Natural Park
- Begin your day with a hike in the Metropolitan Natural Park, a tropical forest reserve within the city limits. It’s a great spot for birdwatching and enjoying nature.
- Time Allocation: 4 hours
- Cost: Approximately $5 USD for adults
- Afternoon (1:00 PM – 5:00 PM): Biomuseo and Punta Culebra
- Visit the Biomuseo, designed by Frank Gehry, to learn about Panama’s biodiversity. Then, head to Punta Culebra Nature Center, managed by the Smithsonian, for its marine exhibits and outdoor trails.
- Time Allocation: 4 hours (2 hours each)
- Cost: Biomuseo around $18 USD for adults; Punta Culebra around $7 USD
- Evening (6:00 PM onwards): Dinner in Casco Viejo
- Return to Casco Viejo for dinner. The area offers a variety of dining experiences, from street food to gourmet restaurants, amidst the backdrop of historic buildings.
- Time Allocation: 2-3 hours
- Cost: Varies
Day 3: Panamanian Lifestyle and Shopping
- Morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Cinta Costera
- Take a leisurely morning walk or bike ride along the Cinta Costera, a waterfront promenade offering scenic views, outdoor exercise equipment, and green spaces.
- Time Allocation: 3 hours
- Cost: Free
- Afternoon (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM): Albrook Mall or Multiplaza Pacific
- Spend your afternoon shopping or window-shopping at one of Panama City’s large malls. Both offer a wide range of local and international brands.
- Time Allocation: 3 hours
- Cost: Depends on personal spending
- Evening (5:00 PM onwards): Panama Viejo
- For your final evening, explore the ruins of Panama Viejo, the original site of Panama City before it was moved to its current location. The site offers a glimpse into the city’s early history.
- Time Allocation: 2-3 hours
- Cost: Approximately $15 USD for a comprehensive ticket
Additional Tips
- Transportation: Panama City’s Metro and MetroBus system are efficient and inexpensive options for getting around. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also widely available.
- Safety: While Panama City is generally safe, standard precautions should be taken, especially at night.
- Climate: The city is tropical, with a chance of rain. It’s wise to carry sunscreen and a rain jacket.
This itinerary blends the historical and modern aspects of Panama City with its natural beauty and vibrant culture, providing a well-rounded experience of what the city has to offer. Enjoy your trip!
