Panama Viejo

Panama City, Central America

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DESTINATIONS panama panamacity Do & See Panama Viejo

Panama Viejo

UNESCO World Heritage Site Panama La Vieja, commonly known as Panama Viejo, is the site where Pedro Arias de Dávila originally founded the old Panama City, back in 1519. This was the first Spanish settlement on the Pacific coast of the Americas. Nowadays you can visit all that remains of the ancient settlement, which was burned down in 1671, by going in the eastern side of Panama City. Since most of the original city was made of wood, the ruins are not that extensive, but they are well-preserved and make for an interesting visit. The Visitor Center at Panama La Vieja has a collection of archaeological findings and information about the history of this invaluable place.

Do & See

Panama City is a vibrant and dynamic capital, permeated by ancient indigenous traditions, surrounded by breathtaking tropical nature and buzzing with underground parties. Enjoy metropolitan living or explore the unspoiled natural environment.

The Panama Canal

The Panama Canal

The Panama Canal is definitely the most important part of the country's infrastructure, both from a strategical and economic point of view. The Miraflores Visitor’s Center is just a 30 minutes ride from downtown: it has a museum, gift shop, restaurant and observation deck where you can watch the massive ships pass through the locks. …

Casco Antiguo

The historic district of Panama City, keeper of the city's traditions and history, is characterized by charming narrow streets, colorful buildings, exciting cultural attractions and an array of hotels, cafes, bars, nightclubs, restaurants and art galleries. No wonder people are coming from all over the world to visit this evocative little corner of …

Panama Viejo

UNESCO World Heritage Site Panama La Vieja, commonly known as Panama Viejo, is the site where Pedro Arias de Dávila originally founded the old Panama City, back in 1519. This was the first Spanish settlement on the Pacific coast of the Americas. Nowadays you can visit all that remains of the ancient settlement, which was …

The Biomuseo

Eight distinctive pavilions, eight permanent exhibitions designed to narrate the origins of the Panamanian isthmus and its huge impact on the planet's biodiversity. The Biomuseo is designed to lead visitors on an amazing journey of discovery and the interactive exhibits created by "Bruce Mau Design" make this museum even more astonishing. Once inside you can …

The Fish Market

The Fish Market

Come try the local seafood excellence at the Panama City Fish Market: lobsters, king crabs, octopuses, shrimps and many other products at excellent prices. Here you can also try different kind of ceviche (fish or seafood cooked in lime juice) together with a fresh beer, the perfect beverage to go with it. What are you …

Jungle Land Panama

Jungle Land Panama

Eco Tours and Overnight Adventures: Discover the most unique and complete all-inclusive experience at the only floating lodge in Panama City! Explore the Canal from within and live the real Jungle …

Panama Rainforest Discovery Center

Panama Rainforest Discovery Center

With almost 1000 birds species and a unique natural diversity, Panama is the perfect spot for bird-watching and wild nature enthusiasts. The Soberania National Park, 30 minutes away from Panama City, offers a great opportunity for discovering the country's flora and fauna. The Panama Rainforest Discovery Center, located inside the National park, offers a …

Inter-Oceanic Canal Muesum

Inter-Oceanic Canal Muesum

Still undecided about which museums to visit while in Panama City? Worry no more, because you have found the one you can't miss. With 10 permanent exhibitions that trace the construction of the Panama Canal and its impact on Panamanian history and society, the museum deserves at least a couple of hours in order …

Museo Antropologico Reina Torres De Arauz

Museo Antropologico Reina Torres De Arauz

Its collection of 15,000 pre-Columbian ceramic, sandstone and ethnographic pieces is by far the largest grouping of anthropocentric historical artifacts in Panama City. The M.A.R.T.A. is one of the most important museum in the country, keeper of its most ancient history and traditions. Come visit to admire pre-Columbian treasures and indigenous artifacts, as well …

Visit an Indigenous Tribe

Visit an Indigenous Tribe

Discover the fascinating, timeless lifestyle of the Embera indigenous tribe, an ethnic minority who survived the arrival of the conquistadors and continues to exist today. Embark on a canoe trip along the Chagres river, through the lush tropical rain forest and learn about their culture, everyday life and traditions. The Embera people are famous …

Ancon Hill

A scenic overlook in Panama City, 654 feet above sea level. Enjoy a pleasant hike to the top of the hill, along a paved road and escorted by exotic birds and wildlife. You can also reach the top by car and take amazing shots of the Panama Canal, the modern city and the Casco …

Amador Causeway

Amador Causeway

The causeway is a long stretch of land uniting the mainland with four small islands. It was created using the materials removed during the construction of the canal. The Amador Causeway is now developing into a great tourist spot, both during the day and the night, thanks to a lively scene of street cafes, restaurants …

Shopping

Panama is a paradise for shopping lovers, home to the largest malls in Central America. The smallest of them is the MultiPlaza Pacifica, located in Punta Pacifica: it is home to many chic designer stores as well as facilities such as banks, making this a convenient one-stop shopping location. MultiCentro mall on Avenida Balboa is also …

Nightlife

Panama City has everything you are looking for when it comes to nightlife. Whether you are here on business, for leisure, with the family, or just exploring the city by yourself, you can’t miss out on Panama’s nightlife. You will find everything from dress-down breweries to stylish nightclubs in the heart of the city …

Bird Watching

Panama City is one of the few modern cities in the world that lie less than 30 minutes away from the tropical virgin jungle. The Pipeline Road has earned the Audubon Society's World Record for most bird species spotted in 24 hours! Among the species, you can see Passerini’s Tanager and Resplendent Quetzals, as …