3 Days in Panama City Itinerary 🇵🇦: Casco Viejo, San Blas Islands & More

👩‍🏫 Top-Rated Panama City Guided Tours:

• Monkey and Sloth Jungle Habitat Panama Tour from $85 (⭐ 4.8/5)
• Panama City to Taboga Island All-Inclusive Catamaran Day Trip from $135 (⭐ 4.9/5)
• Panama City to San Blas Islands Tour: Kayaks, Meals, Transport from $155 (⭐ 4.7/5)
• Panama Canal Partial Tour - Southbound Direction from $125 (⭐ 4.6/5)
• Gatun Lake Wildlife Tour from Panama City from $95 (⭐ 4.8/5)
• Five-Hour Group Tour of Panama City's Highlights from $75 (⭐ 4.9/5)

3 Day in Panama City Itinerary: Quick Overview

• Day 1 – Cultural Heritage: Start at the UNESCO-listed Casco Viejo with its colonial architecture and vibrant streets. Visit the Panama Canal Museum for historical insights, then experience the engineering marvel of Miraflores Locks. End your day with innovative Panamanian cuisine and rooftop drinks in the historic district.
• Day 2 – Nature & Design: Begin at Parque Natural Metropolitano to spot wildlife in an urban rainforest setting. Visit the Frank Gehry-designed Biomuseo to learn about Panama’s biodiversity, then explore the Amador Causeway for city views and fresh seafood dining.
• Day 3 – Island & Shopping: Choose between a San Blas Islands paradise experience with crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches, or explore the Gatun Lake rainforest. Return to the city for modern mall shopping, concluding with either a sunset harbor cruise or a final night of entertainment in vibrant Casco Viejo.

Day 1: Exploring Historic and Cultural Highlights

Recommended Tours for Day 1:

• Group Walking Tour of Panama City's Casco Viejo Neighborhood: Discover the rich history of Casco Viejo on this guided walking tour. Stroll through its cobblestone streets, admire colonial architecture, and learn about the stories behind this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Walking Tour Through the Hidden Treasures and Gems of Casco Viejo: Uncover the hidden corners of Casco Viejo with a knowledgeable guide. This intimate walking tour takes you beyond the main sights to explore lesser-known landmarks and local secrets.
• Casco Viejo One-Hour Small-Group Salsa Dancing Class: Add some rhythm to your Panama City trip with a fun salsa class in vibrant Casco Viejo. Learn basic steps from expert instructors and enjoy a lively cultural experience in the heart of the old town.
• Colom Small-Group Panama City, Canal Shore Excursion: Perfect for cruise passengers, this small-group tour covers Panama City’s highlights, including the Miraflores Locks. Enjoy a comprehensive introduction to the city’s culture, history, and iconic canal system.

Morning: Casco Viejo and Paseo de Las Bóvedas

Morning Magic. I started my first day in Panama City’s historic district, where colonial architecture meets vibrant street life. The UNESCO-listed Casco Viejo instantly captivated me with its charm. Walking through the cobblestone streets, I discovered colorful buildings adorned with flowering balconies and street art that tells stories of the city’s past.

Cultural Immersion. The Canal Museum (Museo del Canal) proved to be an unexpected highlight, charging $15/5 PAB for entry. Here’s what made it special:

• Interactive exhibits showing Panama Canal construction
• Original artifacts from the French and American canal periods
• Stunning rooftop views of the modern city skyline

Local Flavors. For lunch, I stumbled upon Fonda Lo Que Hay, where traditional Panamanian cuisine gets a modern twist. The corvina ceviche (18 PAB/$18) burst with citrus flavors, while the local craft beer selection perfectly complemented the meal.

Afternoon at Miraflores. The highlight of my afternoon was watching massive ships navigate the Miraflores Locks. Pro tip: Visit between 9-11 AM or 3-5 PM to catch the most ship crossings. The visitor center’s entrance fee (25 PAB/$25) includes access to all four floors of exhibits and the observation deck.

Practical Tips:

• Wear comfortable walking shoes for Casco Viejo’s uneven streets
• Carry cash as some smaller establishments don’t accept cards
• Book the Miraflores visit online to skip the queues
• Stay hydrated – Panama’s humidity can be intense

Evening Atmosphere. As the sun sets, Casco Viejo transforms into a buzzing nightlife hub. I found the perfect spot at Tantalo Rooftop Bar, where craft cocktails (12 PAB/$12) come with panoramic views of the illuminated city skyline.

Afternoon: Miraflores Locks Visitor Center

Engineering Marvel. The Miraflores Locks showcase the Panama Canal’s engineering brilliance. I arrived at the perfect time – between 15:45 and 23:00 when ships travel from the Atlantic toward the Pacific, offering the most dramatic views of massive vessels navigating the locks.

Visitor Center Experience. The entrance fee is $17.22 for adults, and it’s worth every penny. While some areas are under renovation, the second-floor viewing platform provides spectacular views just 150-200 feet from the canal. The highlight was watching ships being lifted 54 feet in two stages through the lock system.

Interactive Learning. The center’s crown jewel is the IMAX theater experience – a 40-minute 3D documentary narrated by Morgan Freeman that brings the canal’s history to life. The immersive presentation on the world’s second-largest screen made complex engineering concepts easily digestible.

Practical Tips:

• Visit between 9-11 AM or 3-5 PM for peak ship traffic
• Bring binoculars to spot ships at Pedro Miguel locks
• The center closes at 18:00
• Book online to avoid queues
• Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights

Evening: Dining and Nightlife in Casco Viejo

Vibrant Evening Scene. As the sun sets, Casco Viejo transforms into Panama City’s most dynamic nightlife district. I discovered that the historic district offers everything from sophisticated rooftop lounges to energetic dance clubs, all within walking distance of each other.

Dining Highlights. La Pulpería stands out as a must-visit spot for creative tapas-style dining, with an impressive 4.9 rating. Their weekday lunch special at $6 offers incredible value. For an upscale experience, Kaandela Restaurant provides an intimate setting with prices starting from PAB 50+.

Rooftop Experience. Tantalo Rooftop Bar emerges as the evening hotspot, hosting Latin Nights on Wednesdays and Ladies’ Nights on Thursdays. The stringed lights and city skyline views create an enchanting atmosphere perfect for enjoying craft cocktails.

Practical Tips:

• Most venues accept credit cards and mobile payments
• Make dinner reservations, especially on weekends
• Peak nightlife hours start around 10 PM
• Dress code tends to be smart casual
• Many venues offer outdoor seating options

Late Night Options. For those seeking more excitement, Casa Casco offers multiple levels of entertainment in a restored colonial mansion. La Tana keeps the energy high with reggaeton and electronic music until early morning, complete with exclusive bottle service options.

Day 2: Nature and Adventure

Recommended Tours for Day 2:

• Panama Private or Shared City Tour & Canal Visit: This flexible tour offers a private or shared experience of Panama City’s iconic sights, including the Panama Canal Visitor Center. Perfect for those who want a personalized or group exploration of the city’s highlights.
• City Sightseeing Panama City Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: Explore Panama City at your own pace with this convenient hop-on, hop-off bus tour. Visit major attractions like Casco Viejo, Amador Causeway, and the Miraflores Locks with ease.
• Panama: Day Tour Old Town and Panama Canal in German: Ideal for German-speaking travelers, this guided tour covers the historic Old Town and the world-famous Panama Canal. Enjoy a deep dive into the city’s history and culture with expert commentary in German.

Morning: Parque Natural Metropolitano

Nature’s Urban Escape. I started my morning at Panama City’s remarkable wilderness sanctuary, just minutes from downtown. The 265-hectare Parque Natural Metropolitano offers an authentic rainforest experience right in the heart of the metropolis, making it a perfect morning adventure.

Wildlife Encounters. The park buzzes with life as dawn breaks. During my visit, I spotted several of the 227 bird species that call this urban jungle home. The real treasures are the resident mammals – tití monkeys, sloths, and anteaters roam freely through the canopy. Entry fees are budget-friendly at $5 for foreigners and $2 for locals.

Practical Tips

• Arrive at 7:00 AM when the park opens for the best wildlife viewing
• Book guided tours in advance for $6 per person
• Visit the visitor center first for trail maps and guidance
• Plan 2-3 hours for a complete experience

Viewpoint Victory. The highlight of my morning was reaching the 160-meter lookout point on Cerro Cedro, offering breathtaking panoramas of Panama City, the bay, and the canal stretching all the way to Miraflores Locks. The morning light makes this spot particularly photogenic.

Afternoon: Biomuseo and Amador Causeway

Architectural Wonder. The Frank Gehry-designed Biomuseo stands as a striking landmark on the Amador Causeway, its bold colors and deconstructed form impossible to miss. Entry costs vary seasonally, but expect to pay around $18 for adults. The museum’s 4,000 square meters house eight fascinating galleries that tell Panama’s biodiversity story.

Gallery Experience. My favorite exhibits include the immersive Panamarama with its 10 screens and the Living Web’s impressive 15-meter living sculpture. The Oceans Divided gallery features two stunning aquariums that demonstrate how the Pacific and Caribbean evolved separately.

Causeway Adventures. After the museum, I explored the 6-kilometer Amador Causeway, built from rocks excavated during the Canal’s construction. The promenade offers spectacular views of Panama City’s skyline and ships entering the Canal. You can rent bikes or electric scooters to cruise along the palm-lined path.

Practical Tips:

• Visit Biomuseo early afternoon to avoid crowds
• Allow 2 hours for museum exploration
• Bring water for the Causeway walk
• Best photo spots are near the Panama sign
• Several restaurants offer outdoor seating with bay views

Evening: Seafood Dinner at Amador Causeway

Sunset Dining Experience. The Amador Causeway transforms into a magical dining destination as the sun sets over Panama City’s skyline. I discovered several exceptional seafood restaurants, each offering unique waterfront views of the marina and city lights.

Top Restaurant Picks. Fish Lovers Ceviche Y Bar stands out with its fresh seafood and rooftop seating, offering meals in the PAB 20-25 range. La Fisheria Seafood provides a more upscale experience with Mediterranean-influenced dishes in a private marina setting.

Must-Try Dishes. The local corvina (sea bass) is prepared in various styles, from traditional al ajillo (garlic sauce) to modern fusion interpretations. For the best value, try the fresh ceviche or whole fried snapper, both Panama seafood classics.

Practical Tips:

• Request marina-view seating when booking
• Peak dining hours start at 7 PM

Day 3: Day Trips and Relaxation

Recommended Tours for Day 3:

• Full-Day Tour with Snorkeling at Two Spots in San Blas Islands: Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the San Blas Islands on this full-day snorkeling adventure. Explore two stunning snorkeling spots, relax on white-sand beaches, and enjoy a traditional Guna Yala lunch.
• Panama City: San Blas Island Day Tour & New Paradise Island: Escape to the tropical paradise of San Blas Islands with this day tour from Panama City. Discover New Paradise Island, swim in turquoise waters, and experience authentic Guna Yala culture.
• From Panama City: San Blas Island Hopping Day Tour: Visit multiple islands in the San Blas archipelago on this island-hopping adventure. Enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and a freshly prepared local lunch during this unforgettable day trip.
• From Panama City: 4 San Blas Islands Day Trip with Lunch: Explore four breathtaking islands in the San Blas region on this guided day trip. Includes transportation, lunch, and plenty of time to relax or snorkel in pristine Caribbean waters.

Morning: San Blas Islands or Rainforest Tour

San Blas Paradise. The day begins early with hotel pickup between 5:00-5:45 AM for the 2.5-3 hour journey to Port of Carti. The scenic drive through jungle highlands often reveals wildlife like monkeys and sloths along the way. A quick grocery store stop lets you stock up on snacks and water before reaching the port.

Island Hopping Adventure. Once at Port of Carti, a lancha boat takes you to pristine islands where crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches await. The tour typically includes visits to:

• Isla Perro for the famous sunken ship snorkeling
• Natural Pool for starfish spotting
• Isla Diablo for beach relaxation

Alternative: Rainforest Discovery. If you prefer jungle exploration, the Gatun Lake rainforest tour offers wildlife spotting on a 2-hour boat ride through Chagres River, followed by a 2.5-hour walk on Pipeline Road. The tour starts early morning for optimal wildlife viewing, with chances to spot toucans, monkeys, and sloths in their natural habitat.

Practical Tips:

• Book tours at least 2 days in advance
• Carry cash for local purchases
• Pack a light breakfast for early departure
• Bring passport for San Blas entry

Afternoon: Return to the City for Shopping

Shopping Paradise. The city’s modern malls offer a perfect escape from the afternoon heat. Multiplaza Mall stands as the premier shopping destination with over 200 international designer stores. Albrook Mall impresses with its 350 stores and three food courts, making it Panama’s largest shopping complex.

Sunset Finale. For the perfect farewell to Panama City, a 2-hour sunset catamaran cruise offers breathtaking views of the skyline. The cruise typically starts in the calm waters of the bay before heading toward the Pacific, where you can spot dolphins playing in the waves.

Practical Tips:

• Shopping malls operate from 10 AM to 8 PM
• Sunset cruises require advance booking
• Most sunset cruises include complimentary drinks

Evening Alternative. If you prefer a land-based finale, Casco Viejo’s nightlife scene comes alive after dark. Calle Dragones offers live music and cabaret shows in a speakeasy setting, while Cangrejo Radio pumps electronic beats until 1 AM. For a more relaxed vibe, Biergarten provides an open-air tropical atmosphere with DJ sets starting around midnight.

Evening: Sunset Cruise or Final Night Out

Unforgettable Sunset Cruise. End your visit to Panama with a serene and adventurous sunset cruise. As you sail along the calm waters, you’ll meet fellow travelers and enjoy stunning views of the illuminated skyline, a perfect way to reflect on your trip to this Central American country. Highly recommend spending this time soaking in the vibrant atmosphere while enjoying food and drinks onboard.

Night Out. For those who want to explore more nightlife, Panama offers lively options throughout the country. Head to Calle Uruguay, known as the “golden mile” of nightlife in the Americas, where you’ll find trendy bars and restaurants offering everything from patacones to international cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed courtyard vibe or an energetic dance floor, Panama’s nightlife guarantees a memorable end to your adventure-packed day itineraries.

FAQ ❓

When is the best time to see ships at the Panama Canal?

Visit between 9-11 AM or 3-5 PM for optimal ship viewing at Miraflores Locks. The afternoon transit from Atlantic to Pacific occurs between 15:45 and 23:00, offering dramatic views of massive vessels navigating the locks.

How much time should I spend in Casco Viejo?

A minimum of half a day is needed to explore the vibrant Casco Viejo neighborhood and its UNESCO World Heritage sites. The old town comes alive in the evening with amazing food scenes and traditional Panamanian restaurants, making it worth staying until sunset.

What’s special about Panama’s Geisha coffee?

Panama’s expensive coffee, particularly the Geisha variety, is among the most sought-after in Latin America. The traditional cafes in Casco Viejo offer unique tasting experiences of this premium coffee variety.

How do I get to San Blas Islands?

The journey to San Blas requires an early morning departure (5:00-5:45 AM) with a 2.5-3 hour drive from Panama City. You can take a boat to explore crystal clear waters and multiple Caribbean islands once you reach Port of Carti.

What should I expect at the Miraflores Visitor Center?

The center offers four levels of exhibitions about the Panama Canal’s history and operations. Entrance fees are $17.22 for adults, including access to an IMAX theater experience narrated by Morgan Freeman.

Is Casco Viejo safe at night?

The walled city of Casco Viejo is generally safe and well-patrolled, especially in the center of Casco Viejo. The area transforms into a vibrant nightlife destination with modern skyscrapers as your backdrop.

How long does a Panama Canal boat tour take?

Partial transits take 5-6 hours through the Pacific locks. Full transits require 10-11 hours for a complete ocean-to-ocean adventure-packed experience.

What’s unique about the Biomuseo?

Designed by architect Frank Gehry, the Biomuseo showcases Panama’s biodiversity through interactive exhibits. The museum offers spectacular views along the Amador Causeway of the Panama City skyline.

How can I support local communities during my visit?

Visit the Guna Yala communities in San Blas or explore traditional Panamanian food markets. Shopping at local artisan markets in Casco Viejo is a great way to support local craftspeople.

What’s the best way to get around Panama City?

Short drives between attractions are possible by taxi or ride-share, while the Amador Causeway offers a scenic walkway. Downtown Panama is easily accessible from Tocumen airport via a 45-minute drive.