If you want to relax while in Panama City, there’s the Amador Causeway. This two mile causeway connects collection of four small islands, Naos, Culebra, Perico, and Flamenco, to the mainland.
Mi Pueblito is a very touristy park with replica traditional towns from Panama’s main ethnic groups. It’s located at the base of Ancón Hill. If you can’t make it out of Panama City, this is an interesting way to see how Panamanians live rural areas and the construction styles each ethnic group uses.
If you’re into history, especially Panama Canal history or American history, the Balboa area of Panama City has some interesting sites.
If you’re looking for an escape from the city and want to get back to nature, head to Ancón Hill (Cerro Ancón)! It’s one of the best nature parks within Panama City.
The old town of Panama City, Casco Viejo, is, of course, old. But it’s not the original site of Panama City. The older old town, Panamá Viejo, is located a few kilometers away. It was founded in 1519 as Nuestra Señora de la Asunción de Panamá, making Panama City the oldest European settlement on the Pacific coast.
There are several interesting churches in Casco Viejo, the historic center of Panama City. Some of them are still in service while others are completely ruined.
Panama City’s old town, Casco Viejo, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It was built after the sack of the original site of Panama City by legendary pirate Henry Morgan in 1671. It features many important historic sites, a few museums, and some churches.
A good place to start exploring the small peninsula that is occupied by Casco Viejo is at Plaza de Francia. It sits at the very end of Casco Viejo.
Take the metro to Plaza 5 de Mayo and take a walk down Avenida Central for an authentic look at life in Panama City. Many tourists only see the two historic districts and the modern parts of town, but this is a good look at the REAL Panama City.
Panama City has great nightlife for all kinds of tastes and budgets. Whether you’re just looking for a few beers with friends or want to dance all night, you’ll find what you’re looking for. During a bachelor party, my friends and I had the chance to visit several places around the city. For my entry on restaurants in Panama City, click here.