Panama City's glass towers rise from the jungle-lined coast, creating a skyline that rivals Miami. But ten minutes away, Casco Viejo's colonial streets and crumbling buildings feel like Havana. It's a city of contrasts: ultra-modern and historically layered, business-focused and surprisingly fun. The Panama Canal remains the main draw, and watching massive ships navigate the locks is genuinely impressive. But Panama City offers more: excellent restaurants, easy day trips to beaches and rainforest, and a growing nightlife scene. Flight deals appear as Copa Airlines hub connections, making Panama City an increasingly popular destination and gateway.
Best Time to Fly to Panama City
Peak Season
December through April is dry season with sunny weather and peak prices. Christmas, New Year's, and Carnival (February) are busiest. January-March is ideal.
Off Season (Best Deals)
May through November is rainy season with lower prices. September-October is wettest. Rain typically falls in afternoon; mornings are often clear.
Dry season (December to April) brings sunny weather at 80-90°F. Rainy season (May to November) has daily afternoon showers at similar temperatures. Humidity is high year-round. Mountains are cooler.
💡Book 2-3 months ahead for peak season. Copa Airlines makes Panama a hub; connections are frequent. Green season offers 20-30% savings.
Cheapest Months to Fly to Panama City
Cheapest Months
September, October, May
Most Expensive
Christmas/New Year, Carnival (February), Easter week
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Must-Try Foods in Panama City
Sancocho
Panama's national soup: chicken stew with vegetables, cilantro, and corn. It's comfort food served for special occasions and regular meals alike. Every family has their recipe. Restaurants in Casco Viejo and local fondas serve excellent versions.
$8-15
Ceviche
Panama's ceviche is distinct: fresh corvina marinated in lime with onion, peppers, and celery. The Mercado de Mariscos (seafood market) in Casco Viejo serves the freshest, cheapest ceviche in the city. It's a must-visit.
$5-15
Modern Panamanian Cuisine
Panama City's restaurant scene has exploded. Maito (Latin America's best restaurant lists) and Intimo lead a creative movement. Casco Viejo concentrates excellent options. International influences meet local ingredients; reservations essential.
$40-80
Top Attractions in Panama City
Panama Canal (Miraflores Locks)
Watching ships transit the canal remains fascinating. The Miraflores Visitor Center has viewing platforms, museum, and film. Timing matters: check ship transit schedules online. The engineering scale is impressive; morning visits avoid afternoon heat.
Casco Viejo
The historic colonial district has crumbling buildings alongside restored boutique hotels, rooftop bars, and excellent restaurants. UNESCO-listed, it's Panama City's most walkable area. Evening visits are best for atmosphere and dining.
San Blas Islands Day Trip
These Caribbean islands (Guna Yala) have white sand, clear water, and indigenous Guna culture. Day trips from Panama City take all day but reach pristine beaches. Overnight stays offer more immersion. Boats depart from the coast.
Daily Costs in Panama City
Panama City is moderate. Modern areas cost more; Casco Viejo offers range. Excellent food exists at every price point. The USD is the currency (no exchange needed). Budget $80-120 daily for comfortable travel.
Accommodation (per night, pick one)
Budget
$40-70
Mid-Range
$100-180
Airbnb
$60-120
Food (per day)
Street Meal
$5-10
Restaurant
$20-50
Coffee
$2-5
Transport
Local Transport
$1-15/ride
Comfortable Daily Budget
(excluding flights)
$80-150
Getting Around Panama City
From the Airport
Tocumen Airport (PTY) is 30 minutes from downtown. Metro line 2 reaches the airport ($0.35). Uber costs $25-35. Taxis charge $30-40. The metro is cheap and efficient.
Getting Around
Panama City has a modern metro that reaches the canal and downtown. Uber works throughout the city. Taxis are plentiful; negotiate prices. Walking works in Casco Viejo and downtown. Traffic can be severe; metro is faster for covered routes.
Tips
- •Use the metro for canal visits and downtown travel. It's modern, cheap, and avoids traffic.
- •Uber is reliable and avoids taxi negotiation. Yellow taxis are safe but agree on price before riding.
Where to Stay in Panama City
Casco Viejo
The historic district has the best restaurants, rooftop bars, and colonial atmosphere. Boutique hotels cluster here. It's walkable and atmospheric; evenings are especially pleasant. The best base for first-time visitors.
Casco Viejo / Calle Uruguay
Casco Viejo has rooftop bars and restaurants. Calle Uruguay (outside downtown) has the city's club scene. Panama City's nightlife has grown significantly. Tantalo rooftop in Casco Viejo is iconic.
Casco Viejo / Panama Viejo
Casco Viejo has colonial architecture, churches, and plazas. Panama Viejo (the original city, now ruins) offers archaeological interest. The BioMuseo by Gehry adds modern architecture. Together they span Panama's history.
Smart Travel Tips for Panama City
FAQs About Flights to Panama City
Panama City is moderate. Hotels cost $100-180, meals $10-50, and the canal visit is $20. The USD is the currency. Budget $80-120 daily for comfortable travel. It's more affordable than Costa Rica.
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