Panama City Travel Guide for First Time Visitors
A practical Panama City travel guide: when to visit, where to stay, how to move around, what things cost and what to know before you land.
Panama City is one of the easiest capitals in Latin America to visit: the dollar is the currency, the airport is a regional hub, and the distances are short. What catches people out is the weather and the traffic, so here is the practical version.
When to go
The dry season runs roughly from mid December to April: less rain, more heat, higher prices. The green season, May to November, brings afternoon showers that usually last an hour, cheaper hotels and a much emptier old town. Rain rarely ruins a day here; it reorganizes it.
Where to stay
- Casco Viejo for atmosphere, walkability and dinner within a five minute stroll.
- Marbella and Obarrio for business travel, banks and shopping.
- Costa del Este for a quieter, modern base with wide avenues and easy parking.
Getting around
Rideshare apps work well and are the simplest option. The metro is clean and cheap but covers only part of the city. Avoid moving between 7 and 9 in the morning and 5 and 7 in the evening, when the corridors clog. From the airport to Casco Viejo is about forty minutes outside rush hour.
What things cost
Panama is not the cheapest country in Central America. A casual lunch runs a few dollars at a fonda and considerably more at a restaurant in the old town; a proper dinner with wine sits in line with a mid sized US city. Tipping is around ten percent, and many restaurants add it to the bill, so check before doubling it.
Practical notes
- Power is 110V with US style plugs.
- Spanish is the language, but English is widely spoken in hotels and in Casco Viejo.
- Book restaurants for Friday and Saturday nights; the good tables in the old town fill up.
- Carry a light layer: restaurants and taxis run the air conditioning cold.
Frequently asked questions
What currency is used in Panama?
The US dollar. Local coins are called balboas and are the same size and value as US coins.
Do I need a visa?
Most visitors from North America and Europe enter without a visa for tourism. Check the requirement for your passport before booking.
Is tap water safe in Panama City?
Yes, it is drinkable in the city. Outside the capital, ask locally.
Santa Rita in Casco Viejo
Spanish kitchen and Argentine grill on Avenida Eloy Alfaro and Calle 11, in the heart of Casco Viejo. Open Monday to Thursday 5:00 to 11:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday 1:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., Sunday 12:00 to 8:00 p.m. Phone +507 303-0991 · WhatsApp +507 6629-6315.
Keep reading
Book a table at Santa Rita
Spanish kitchen and Argentine grill in the Casco Antiguo of Panama City, Avenida Eloy Alfaro and Calle 11. Live music Thursday to Saturday.