Panamá City Uncovered: Top 20 Experiences in the Heart of Central America

Panamá City, Panamá

Having celebrated my birthday in Panamá City in January 2024, I can confidently say that this Central American gem has earned a spot on my personal list of favorite countries. It's no exaggeration when I recall my first day there, thinking to myself, "Wow, I could definitely live here," and I meant it 100%. In this blog, I'll be sharing the top 20 experiences you should consider if you're headed to this beautiful destination!

Must Try Food Spots

1. En La Fonda, Panamá [Link] - The food is absolutely amazing and the drinks are hands down the best drinks I had during my stay. This restaurant serves authentic Panamanian food, and offers a unique experience with great dancing & music

2. Maito Restaurante [Link] - This is known as one of the top restaurants in the city and currently ranks #6 on Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants list

3. Cantina del Tigre [Link] - The restaurant offers a range of traditional Panamanian dishes, finding its way on Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants list as #25

4. El Trapiche [Link] - Offers traditional Panamanian Dishes

Top Activities / Excursions

5. Monkey and Sloth Jungle Panama Tour [Link]

6. Day Tour to San Blas Islands [Link]

• One thing I wish I knew in advance: Panamá City is not directly situated on a beach. It is a coastal city with access to the Pacific Ocean.
  

7. Poin Panamá [Link] - Offering a range of restaurants and activities

8. Casco Viejo - This is a historic district in Panama City

9. Bridge of the Americas

10. Explore the Panama Canal - The waterway in Panama that connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific Ocean

11. Trip to Taboga Island, also known as the "Island of Flowers" - You can easily take a ferry to Taboga Island. The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes, and you can enjoy various beaches once on the island. If you are looking to go to a beach, try to book in advance!

Top Bars / Night-life

12. Panama City's Casco Viejo [Link] - There are tons of bars / nightlife options in this area

13. Panaviera Sky Bar - The highest rooftop bar in Central America

14. Chupitos 507 - One of the most extraordinary bars I've ever experienced

15. Tantalo

16. Selina Rooftop

17. Sama Sky Lounge Rooftop

Top Hotel Choices

18. Hotel Riu Plaza Panama - I stayed here and absolutely loved it! They offered a complimentary buffet-style breakfast, and it was delicious!

19. JW Marriott Panama

20. W Panama