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Picture of Panama City, Panama

Travel Guide for
Panama City

Panama

Tropical wet and dry, hot, humid

Introduction

Panama City is a vibrant metropolis nestled at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal. Its modern skyline contrasts with the cobblestone streets of Casco Viejo, the city’s historic heart, which tells stories of pirates and colonial empires.

In mid-February, expect warm, tropical days—ideal for working from open-air cafes or co-working spaces with canal views. The city’s blend of global cuisine, buzzing nightlife, and fast internet makes it perfect for digital nomads seeking inspiration outside the typical office.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleDigital nomad

Dates15-18 February 2026

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHotel, hostel

Interests and Activities:

festivals and eventsgastronomynightlife and entertainmentsightseeing and toursoutdoor adventures

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Picture of Panama City, Panama

Itinerary

Begin your journey with a mix of Panama’s local culture and city energy, soaking in historic sights, creative neighborhoods, and vibrant street scenes.

Stroll Through Casco Viejo & Plaza Mayor

Wander the cobblestone streets of Casco Viejo, Panama City’s historic district, lined with colorful colonial buildings, cafés, and street art. Stop by the vibrant Plaza Mayor for people-watching, photos, and a taste of local life. Great introduction to city culture!

Discover Mercado de Mariscos

Visit the bustling Mercado de Mariscos, Panama’s famous seafood market. Enjoy freshly prepared ceviche and local delicacies at open-air stalls—perfect for lunch or a snack. Arrive hungry and be ready to try something new!

Avenida Central Shopping and Street Art Walk

Explore Avenida Central, a lively pedestrian street packed with shops, street performers, and local vendors. Don’t miss the urban murals and vibrant storefronts—a great spot to snap photos and shop for affordable souvenirs!

Monkey & Sloth Panama Canal Boat Safari with Casco Viejo Brunch

Monkey & Sloth Panama Canal Boat Safari with Casco Viejo Brunch

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Explore the legendary Panama Canal, get up close with wildlife on Gatun Lake, and enjoy a traditional Panamanian brunch in the heart of historic Casco Viejo. Your buffet-style Panamanian brunch includes: • Pollo Guisado (traditional stewed chicken) • Carimañolas (yuca stuffed with cheese or meat) • Empanadas • Hojaldres (Panamanian fry bread) • Local queso blanco (fresh white cheese) • Fresh local tropical fruits • Vegetarian options available • Fresh juices and Panamanian coffee In case of rain, you'll be comfortably seated indoors at Restaurante El Nacional, where the same delicious menu and cultural storytelling will continue in a stylish, colonial-era dining space. This unforgettable day combines nature, culture, history, and cuisine into a seamless, enriching experience—perfect for travelers looking to connect with the true essence of Panama

4.8 (729 reviews)

From $60 USD

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Key Facts

Location

Central America

Currency

Panamanian balboa and US dollar (PAB/USD)

Religion

Roman Catholic

Population

1,500,000

Language

Spanish, English

Electricity

110V, 60Hz, plug types A/B

Time zone

UTCEST (UTC-5)

Country code

+507

Internet access

Widely available, fast speeds, affordable

Climate

Tropical wet and dry, hot, humid

See More Panama Facts

Language:

Spanish

  • hello

    hola (oh-lah)
  • goodbye

    adiós (ah-dee-ohs)
  • yes

    (see)
  • no

    no (noh)
  • how much

    ¿cuánto cuesta esto? (kwan-to kwes-ta ehs-to)
  • please

    por favor (por fah-bor)
  • thank you

    gracias (grah-see-as)
  • excuse me

    perdón (pehr-dohn)

Map

Logistics

The easiest way to reach Panama City, Panama is by air; Tocumen International Airport (PTY) serves many direct international flights from North America, South America, and Europe. Budget-conscious digital nomads can find affordable fares, especially with airlines like Copa, Spirit, and Delta. The airport is a 30-minute taxi or shuttle ride to the city center.

Overland travelers can arrive by long-distance bus from neighboring countries such as Costa Rica, using the well-connected Albrook Bus Terminal. Boats arrive mainly from Colombia via the scenic San Blas Islands, though this route is more adventurous. Trains are not a transit option from outside the country, but the Panama Canal Railway offers a scenic ride between Panama City and Colón.

February weather is typically warm, dry, and ideal for travel—no special considerations needed. Moving around the city is easy and affordable with public buses, the metro, and ride-sharing apps.

Weather

Panama City, Panama, has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, usually between 24°C (75°F) and 32°C (90°F). The year is split into the dry season (mid-December to April) and the rainy season (May to mid-December), with humidity levels remaining high throughout every season.

From February 15 to 18, the weather is typically sunny, hot, and dry, making it perfect for outdoor adventures, sightseeing, and city tours. Extreme weather events are rare during this time, so travelers can expect pleasant conditions for enjoying local festivals, bustling nightlife, and the city’s renowned gastronomy, including seafood and Panamanian specialties.

Food & Drink

Panama City’s cuisine is a flavorful blend of Afro-Caribbean, Spanish, and indigenous influences. Expect dishes like sancocho (hearty chicken stew), patacones (fried plantains), and ceviche. Try local coffee and drinks like seco, a sugarcane spirit. For vegetarians or those with dietary needs, most places are accommodating, but asking ahead is recommended.

For affordable eats and a digital-nomad-friendly vibe, Café Unido and Bajareque offer great Panamanian coffee and Wi-Fi. Mercado de Mariscos is perfect for fresh seafood, especially ceviche stands. Casco Viejo’s Mahalo and Fonda Lo Que Hay serve creative, budget-friendly fusion menus. Panama City bars like CasaCasco or Tantalo Rooftop provide lively atmospheres and great city views.

Tipping around 10% is customary unless service is already included. The city’s food scene is diverse and welcoming, making it easy for travelers to find satisfying options for any palate or preference.

A picture of Ropa Vieja

Ropa Vieja

Ropa Vieja, which means 'old clothes' in Spanish, is a savory and hearty stew made with shredded beef,...

A picture of Sancocho

Sancocho

Sancocho is a comforting and flavorful chicken soup made with a variety of root vegetables like yams, plantains,...

A picture of Empanadas

Empanadas

Empanadas are delectable fried or baked pastries filled with a variety of ingredients such as ground meat, cheese,...

A picture of Arroz con Pollo

Arroz con Pollo

Arroz con Pollo, which translates to 'rice with chicken,' is a classic one-pot dish featuring tender chicken pieces,...

A picture of Ceviche

Ceviche

Ceviche is a refreshing and zesty dish made with marinated raw fish or seafood, mixed with citrus juices,...

Accommodation

For digital nomads visiting Panama City, Casco Viejo is a charming, historic neighborhood with trendy hostels and boutique hotels, perfect for blending work and leisure. The El Cangrejo and Obarrio districts also offer affordable, comfortable hotels with solid Wi-Fi and plenty of cafes nearby. Top hotels such as Hotel Riu Plaza Panama and Selina Casco Viejo provide ideal amenities for remote work and relaxation.

Browse Hotels.com to compare rates and find exclusive deals. During February 15-18, book early as these dates may coincide with Carnaval or national events, leading to higher prices and limited availability. Hostels like Magnolia Inn and Luna’s Castle are excellent budget-friendly bases with communal workspaces and vibrant social scenes.

Attractions

4.7 (151 reviews)
All Inclusive Sunset Panama Bay Catamaran Tour From Panama City

All Inclusive Sunset Panama Bay Catamaran Tour From Panama City

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Panama is a country with fantastic lights due to its geographical position and Panama City is unique in Latin America with its New York style. Mix these two reasons and that’s why you can’t return from Panama without doing this tour. Just look at the pictures and imagine yourself enjoying this show!

From $69 USD

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4.8 (144 reviews)
Private Half-Day Panama City Tour And Panama Canal

Private Half-Day Panama City Tour And Panama Canal

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Enjoy your Half-day Panama City Tour which included Panama Canal, Casco Viejo, Amador Causeway tour. This Private Panama City Layover Tour with certified, bilingual (English/Spanish) guide who will take you to the most interesting parts of Panama City. This private tour offers a personalized experience, ensuring you enjoy the rich culture, history, and natural beauty of Panama City in comfort and style. Ideal for layovers or short stays, this tour guarantees you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of one of Central America’s most dynamic cities.

From $67 USD

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4.9 (144 reviews)
Tour of Panama City and the Panama Canal

Tour of Panama City and the Panama Canal

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Enjoy visiting one of the wonders of the modern world, the Panama Canal, Miraflores locks, immerse yourself in the history of the second ancient city of Panama City and fall in love with the beautiful view of the largest city in Central America, take a tour along the Amador Causeway with its beautiful marinas and the famous Panama sign.

From $65 USD

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4.9 (413 reviews)
Panama Canal and City Tour Experience

Panama Canal and City Tour Experience

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Get a complete overview of Panama city with the Panama Canal and city tour experience with an experienced panamenian bilingual tour guide. This could last up to 6 hours and will cover the Miraflores locks at the panamá canal (Pacífic side) , the magical Streets of old town, the bridge of the Americas, first bridge over the Panamá canal and the Amador coastway (Naos, Perico and Flamenco islands) .

From $67 USD

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4.8 (67 reviews)
Private tour of Panama City and the Panama Canal.

Private tour of Panama City and the Panama Canal.

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Panama in a day! Explore the Panama Canal, the Old Town, the Amador Causeway, the Craft Market and the Bridge of the Americas in one tour. A complete experience to discover the cultural and historical diversity of Panama.

From $70 USD

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4.5 (90 reviews)
Private and Personalized Half Day Panama Canal and City Tour

Private and Personalized Half Day Panama Canal and City Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

In this tour you get exclusivity since the guide will be only for you. Route flexibility, see a spot you like for a special picture? We can stop! Privacy, only friends and/or family members inside the car. Safety, the guide will always be with you. Why us? As a small, family owned tour business, we will povide our best since we want your satisfaction. You give us the opportunity and get ready for a unique experience to actually learn from the places we will visit, have a local insight. As a plus we are not looking for commissions so will provide you with accurate and honest information on where to buy and eat. Minimum 2 passengers as it is a private tour.

From $63 USD

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4.8 (384 reviews)
Panama City and Canal Private Tour

Panama City and Canal Private Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Enjoy a pleasant guided tour to the three most important points of Panama City with excellent attention and vast historical knowledge. We will begin the tour in the famous old town to discover its ancient beauties, followed by a panoramic tour of the Panama Canal, the eighth wonder of the world, then we will take a panoramic tour of the Amador Causeway where you will enjoy a beautiful view of the City and the letters of Panama! We offer you a different and personalized experience tailored to your needs, with flexible schedules and carried out in the order you want. Visits to the most important places within Panama City. Guides authorized and certified by the Panama Tourism Authority. (ATP)

From $95 USD

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4.9 (77 reviews)
Miraflores Canal Locks and Casco Viejo walking all inclusive tour

Miraflores Canal Locks and Casco Viejo walking all inclusive tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

We will start the experience by visiting two of the most popular tourist attractions in the country: the world-famous Panama Canal and the Casco Viejo(Colonial City). Our first or last stop could be the Miraflores visitor center(depending on the transit schedule of the ships), where we will see the Canal in full action and watch up close vessels passing through the locks. We will also enjoy a 3D movie at the IMAX Theater. After that, we'll travel along Balboa Avenue, taking in the sights of modern Panama City, also known as the "Manhattan of Central America," until we reach our final destination, the Colonial Casco Viejo. In Casco Viejo, we'll take a walking tour, visit all its plazas and colonial buildings, and end our experience with a stunning view of the Panama City skyline from the Amador Causeway.

From $99 USD

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5.0 (50 reviews)
Amazing Panama´s Private City Tour

Amazing Panama´s Private City Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Panama City is a very popular tourist destination with a rich history and culture, and a guided tour can help travelers discover the most interesting and emblematic places in the city. Secondly, Panama City tours are designed to adapt to the preferences and needs of tourists, which means that you can customize your itinerary and visit the places that interest you the most, such as the Financial Zone, the Old Town, the Locks of the Panama Canal, or the Mirador de las Américas, to name a few. Additionally, Panama City tours are often led by knowledgeable, bilingual tour guides who can offer a wealth of information and details about the history, culture, gastronomy, and daily life in Panama City.

From $85 USD

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