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Heading to Panama City for a quick getaway? We’ve got you covered!
This bustling capital is a fascinating mix of old and new, with historic neighborhoods, modern skyscrapers, and day trips that show off Panama’s wild side. The challenge is that with only three days, it can be tough to decide what to do first. That’s where this itinerary comes in!
After exploring this city inside and out, we’ve put together the perfect three-day plan that blends history, culture, food, and a bit of adventure—without feeling rushed. From strolling the cobblestone streets of Casco Viejo to cruising the Panama Canal and sipping world-famous Geisha coffee, this itinerary will help you make the most of every moment. Let’s dive in!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this boat trip through the Panama Canal! Not only did we sail from the Atlantic to the Pacific, but this day trip also included a wildlife excursion at Gatun Lake, a picnic lunch, and lots of information from our guide.
Check out the 1,400+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Itinerary Overview
One of the best parts about visiting Panama City is how simple it is to get around. Uber is the easiest and most affordable option for short stays, and while there is a metro and bus system, rideshares will save you time if you only have three days here. Taxis are available too, but they’re usually more expensive. The city itself is quite spread out, but if you’re staying in Casco Viejo, the historic center is compact and very walkable—perfect for exploring on foot between meals, shops, and landmarks.
Over the next three days, you’ll dive into Panama City’s rich history, explore the canal and the jungle, and even get a taste of Caribbean paradise or stay local with food- and culture-focused experiences. It’s the perfect mix of sightseeing, adventure, and flavor.
Here’s what to expect on this three-day Panama City itinerary:
Day 1: Start with breakfast in Casco Viejo before joining a guided walking tour through the historic Old Town. Then, visit the colorful BioMuseo and stroll the scenic Amador Causeway. End the evening back in Casco with drinks at Pedro Mandinga and a tapas-style dinner at La Pulpería.
Day 2: Today is all about adventure with a full-day canal and jungle tour. Cruise Gatun Lake, spot monkeys on Monkey Island, visit the Agua Clara Locks, and explore Fort San Lorenzo. Back in Casco, enjoy dinner at Fonda Lo Que Hay and rooftop drinks with skyline views at Sama Sky Lounge.
Day 3: Choose your adventure—either spend the day on a San Blas Islands tour, snorkeling shipwrecks and relaxing on white-sand beaches, or stay in the city for a bike tour, Panamanian lunch, and Geisha coffee tasting. End the trip with a hands-on cooking class and bottomless drinks as your final dinner in Panama City.
Day 1
Breakfast – Mahalo Cocina y Jardin
Kick off your first morning in Panama City with a hearty breakfast at Mahalo Cocina y Jardin. Tucked away in the heart of Casco Viejo, this spot is as cozy as it is delicious, serving fresh, colorful plates that will keep you full while you explore. The menu leans toward wholesome, vibrant options—think smoothie bowls, avocado toast piled high, and hearty egg dishes.
What makes Mahalo especially convenient is its location. It’s just a four-minute walk to the meeting point for the morning tour, making it the perfect place to fuel up before you set out. If you’d rather take advantage of the 9:30 am hotel pick-up option offered by the tour, you can always save Mahalo for later and stop back in for a leisurely lunch. Either way, it’s a must-visit for good food in a relaxed garden setting.
Morning – Explore Casco Viejo
After breakfast, it’s time to dive into Panama City’s history on this guided walking tour of Casco Viejo. While you could wander these streets on your own, having a local guide brings the neighborhood to life with stories, history, and little details you’d easily miss otherwise.
Casco Viejo was built in 1673 after pirates leveled the original city just two years earlier. You’ll still spot sections of the protective walls that were erected to guard against future attacks. Today, the district is a mix of old and new—colonial-era churches, colorful plazas, boutique cafés, and some of the trendiest restaurants in the city.
We recommend booking the 10 am tour (or 9:30 am if you’re using the convenient hotel pickup), which usually wraps up between noon and 1 pm, leaving you with plenty of time to revisit your favorite stops later in the trip.
Along the way, you’ll explore landmarks like Arco Chato, Independence Square, and the bustling artisan market, where vendors sell handmade crafts, vibrant textiles, and souvenirs worth packing home. Our guide even pointed out a few tucked-away eateries we never would have found otherwise.
This tour is not only affordable but also an unforgettable way to understand Panama’s past while experiencing the energy of its coolest neighborhood. We loved every minute of it! And clearly we aren’t the only ones—check out the glowing five-star reviews here to see why this tour consistently ranks among the best in the city!
Book this walking tour here and see why it’s a must-do in Panama City!
Afternoon – BioMuseo and Amador Causeway
After soaking up Casco Viejo’s history, it’s time to switch gears and see a different side of Panama City. Just a 10-minute Uber ride from Old Town, the BioMuseo and Amador Causeway make for the perfect afternoon pairing.
We were still full from our big breakfast, but if you’re hungry, you could grab a quick bite in Casco Viejo before heading out. Between the museum’s colorful design and the sweeping coastal views from the causeway, this is a great way to spend the rest of the day while staying cool and relaxed.
BioMuseo
BioMuseo is hard to miss—it’s the rainbow-colored building designed by world-famous architect Frank Gehry, sitting right at the entrance of the Amador Causeway. Inside, you’ll find fascinating displays about Panama’s biodiversity, including its unique geology, flora, and fauna. Interactive exhibits explain how the Isthmus of Panama reshaped the world’s oceans and climate, with displays of native species, large-scale animal models, and colorful art that make the science easy to enjoy.
It’s a refreshing break from the mid-afternoon heat and a chance to learn why Panama is considered one of the most biologically diverse countries in the world. The museum closes at 3 pm, and you’ll want about 1.5–2 hours to explore, so it’s best to head here directly after your morning tour. Just keep in mind BioMuseo is closed on Mondays.
Amador Causeway
Once you finish at the museum, step outside and enjoy a walk along the Amador Causeway. This 6-km (3.7-mile) stretch connects four small islands with the mainland, built from rocks excavated during the construction of the Panama Canal.
The path is scenic and breezy, with views of the Pacific Ocean on one side and Panama City’s skyline on the other. You’ll also see ships lining up to enter the canal, which is pretty spectacular. You don’t need to walk the whole thing—just stroll as far as you like. If you’re short on time (or energy), you can always hop in an Uber to the end of the causeway, where shops and cafés await.
Happy Hour – Pedro Mandinga Rum Bar
After enjoying the ocean views along the Amador Causeway, grab an Uber back to Casco Viejo for a well-earned drink at Pedro Mandinga Rum Bar. The ride takes about 15 minutes, dropping you right in the heart of the Old City.
Panama is world-renowned for its rum, and Pedro Mandinga is one of the country’s most celebrated local brands. Their Casco Viejo bar has a cozy, welcoming vibe that feels equal parts trendy and authentic—perfect for winding down after a day of sightseeing. From 4 to 6 pm daily, you can take advantage of their happy hour, which makes it the ideal stop before dinner.
Sip on a classic cocktail, or go all in with a tasting flight to sample their different blends. The bartenders are more than happy to share the story behind each variety, making it as much an experience as a drink stop. Whether you’re a rum aficionado or just curious to try something local, this is the place to do it.
Dinner – La Pulpería
Just a short walk from Pedro Mandinga Rum Bar, you’ll find La Pulpería, one of Casco Viejo’s most popular dinner spots. This cozy restaurant is known for its creative tapas-style dishes, perfect for sharing and sampling a little bit of everything. The menu changes seasonally, but you can usually expect fresh seafood, flavorful meats, and inventive small plates that pair wonderfully with a glass of red.
After dinner, take a stroll through Casco Viejo one more time. The Old City has a different charm at night, with softly lit streets, live music drifting from the plazas, and the skyline glowing across the bay. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your first day in Panama City.
Just keep in mind that you’ll want to be well-rested for tomorrow’s adventures—so enjoy the evening atmosphere, but don’t stay out too late!
Day 2
Full day – Tour the Panama Canal and sail from the Atlantic to the Pacific
Get ready for an early start today! With a 6:30 am hotel pick-up, you’ll spend the day experiencing the Panama Canal in a way few visitors do—by actually traveling on it. Most people only see the canal from a viewing platform, but this full-day tour lets you cruise alongside massive cargo ships as they make their way between the Atlantic and Pacific.
The boat ride takes you out onto Gatun Lake, the huge man-made lake created during the canal’s construction. Along the way, you’ll stop at Monkey Island, home to capuchins, howlers, tamarins, and the elusive lemurine owl monkeys. It’s a wild, unforgettable experience to watch them swinging through the trees—or hear the howler monkeys roaring in the distance!
From there, the tour continues to the Agua Clara Visitors Center, where you can step onto an observation deck and watch the locks closest to the Caribbean Sea in action. Afterward, you’ll head into the rainforest of San Lorenzo National Park, exploring a remote corner of Panama before ending with a picnic and guided walk through the dramatic cliffside ruins of Fort San Lorenzo.
You’ll return in the late afternoon or early evening with a whole new appreciation for the canal’s history and Panama’s natural beauty. Just note this tour doesn’t run on Sundays, so plan your days accordingly. With lunch, bottled water, and transport included, it’s well worth the price tag, and over 1,000 glowing reviews from past travelers prove just how memorable the day really is!
Reserve your spot on this Panama Canal and Jungle Tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Dinner – Fonda Lo Que Hay
After a full day exploring the canal and jungle, head back to Casco Viejo for dinner at Fonda Lo Que Hay (closed Mondays), one of the neighborhood’s top-rated restaurants. Inspired by Panama’s traditional fondas—local, no-frills eateries—this lively spot gives classic dishes a modern twist with bold flavors and creative small plates that are perfect for sharing. The menu changes often, but you can usually count on fresh seafood, playful spins on Panamanian staples, and vibrant drinks to match.
Once you’re finished, take a short stroll through Casco Viejo to enjoy its nighttime charm. The softly lit plazas, live music spilling out from tucked-away bars, and glowing skyline across the bay make for the perfect way to wind down the day.
Evening – Grab drinks with a view!
Cap off your day at Sama Sky Lounge, a stylish rooftop bar just a three-minute walk from Fonda Lo Que Hay. With sweeping views of Panama City’s skyline and the ocean beyond, it’s the perfect place to relax with a drink in hand while taking in the glittering city lights.
The lounge has a laid-back yet upscale vibe, offering everything from craft specialties to local brews. Whether you want to sip slowly and chat or enjoy a couple of rounds to celebrate the day’s adventures, this is a fantastic spot to soak up Casco Viejo’s nightlife and toast to another unforgettable day in Panama.
Day 3
For day three, you get to choose your adventure! Many travelers head out to the San Blas Islands for a full-day Caribbean escape, but if you’d rather stick around Panama City, or already have San Blas planned later in your trip, cycling through the city and joining a cooking class is another fantastic way to spend the day.
Option 1 – Full-day tour to the San Blas Islands
Few places feel as untouched as the San Blas Islands, and this full-day tour is your chance to soak up their beauty without needing to commit several nights. With early pickup, a scenic drive, and boat rides out to picture-perfect islets, the day is packed with snorkeling, swimming, and pure relaxation on white-sand beaches.
It’s a big day starting with a 5 am hotel pick-up, so expect to return in the evening around 7 pm and plan for a quick dinner near your hotel once you’re back. After the scenic 2.5-hour drive, you’ll hop on a boat and head out to a handful of the most beautiful islands in San Blas.
Stops usually include Isla Pelicano, where you can sip a drink at the beach bar or grab those perfect hammock-over-the-water photos for Instagram. Then it’s off to Perro Chico, a small island famous for its shipwreck just offshore. Snorkeling here is unforgettable—the water is clear, the coral is colorful, and fish dart all around you.
A freshly prepared local lunch is included (plus snacks, water activities, and one drink), and you’ll still have plenty of time to simply relax on the sand with a cold brew in hand.
Bring some cash since there are no ATMs in San Blas, and there are small entrance and port fees. There’s also a quick stop at a supermarket before leaving, which is the perfect chance to grab a disposable cooler and stock up on extra drinks.
It’s a long day, but the chance to experience this Caribbean paradise makes this tour an unforgettable finale to your Panama City itinerary!
Book this day trip here and spend the day in a Caribbean paradise!
Option 2 – Bicycle around the city and take a cooking class
Morning – Explore more of Panama City on a bicycle
If you’d rather spend a full day exploring Panama City’s sights, this small-group bike tour will be more your speed. It’s a fun way to cover more ground while still soaking in the city’s history and culture.
Starting and ending in Casco Viejo, the tour runs from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm, making it easy to fit into your day without feeling rushed. Some of the route winds through Casco Viejo itself, but what makes this tour extra special is the chance to ride out to two areas just beyond the Old Town: the Cinta Costera and the Mercado Público del Marisco.
Cycling along Cinta Costera puts you right on the waterfront, where you’ll have stunning views of the bay and Panama City’s ultra-modern skyline—perfect for snapping photos. Then it’s off to the bustling fish market, a lively spot to watch locals shop for the day’s catch or grab a fresh ceviche snack.
Of course, you’ll still spend time exploring Casco Viejo, stopping at colorful plazas, colonial churches, and historic landmarks while your guide shares stories and tips for where to eat and shop. Our guide, Mib, kept the pace relaxed and made sure everyone felt included—something we really appreciated in a small-group setting!
This tour is the perfect mix of sightseeing and light activity, giving you a fresh perspective on Panama City while keeping things easy and fun. It’s easy to see why travelers rate this tour among the best in Panama City—read HUNDREDS of glowing five-star reviews here!
Book this bike tour here and see Panama City from a whole new perspective!
Lunch – Diablicos
After a busy morning exploring, head to Diablicos, a vibrant restaurant in Casco Viejo that’s all about showcasing authentic Central American flavors. This is the best place to sample traditional Panamanian dishes in a lively setting filled with colorful masks and décor that nods to the country’s folklore.
The menu highlights hearty local favorites like sancocho (a rich chicken soup), tamales, and perfectly seasoned seafood plates. Portions are generous, so come hungry! If you’re traveling with friends, it’s a fun spot to order a few dishes to share and taste a little bit of everything.
Afternoon – Giesha coffee and souvenir shopping
No trip to Panama is complete without trying its world-famous Geisha coffee. Known for its delicate floral aroma, tea-like body, and hints of fruit and jasmine, Geisha consistently ranks among the most expensive and sought-after coffees in the world. Head to the Geisha Experience in Casco Viejo to taste it for yourself while learning about Panama’s coffee culture.
They offer a variety of tasting flights and even coffee-and-dessert pairings, so how long you stay depends on just how deep you want to dive into the world of specialty coffee. Once you’ve had your caffeine fix, spend the rest of the afternoon wandering through Old Town at your own pace. Casco Viejo is filled with boutique shops and street vendors, making it the perfect place to pick up souvenirs. Panama is also known for producing high-quality chocolate, so grab a bar or two to take home.
Be sure to stroll along Paseo Esteban Huertas, a bougainvillea-covered walkway that curves around the edge of the Old City. From here you’ll get sweeping ocean views, spot ships lining up to enter the canal, and find plenty of vendors selling handmade textiles, artwork, and the iconic “Panama hat.” It’s a relaxing, colorful way to wrap up your afternoon before the evening ahead.
Evening – Learn how to cook Panamanian food
For your final evening in Panama City, skip the restaurants and head to this hands-on cooking class where you’ll learn to make some of the country’s most beloved dishes yourself. This experience goes far beyond just eating—it’s about sipping, chopping, stirring, and tasting your way through a full Panamanian menu.
We recommend booking the 6 pm class, which doubles as your dinner. The meeting point is about a 20-minute drive from Casco Viejo, so grab an Uber and give yourself a little extra time since traffic can be heavy at rush hour. Just note that the 6 pm class isn’t available on Tuesdays unless you book a private session, and the experience is not offered at all on Wednesdays—so plan your itinerary accordingly.
Once you’re there, you’ll dive into 10 different recipes, starting with bottomless drinks (yes, they’re unlimited!) and moving on to an array of appetizers like ceviche, cassava with herbs, and carimañolas (yucca fritters filled with beef).
The main dish is the classic arroz con pollo, and you’ll finish with two sweet desserts like pineapple rice pudding and chicheme, a creamy corn-based drink. Throughout the evening, your chef keeps the atmosphere fun and social, sprinkling in stories about Panamanian food and culture while guiding you step by step.
It’s lively, filling without being overwhelming, and a wonderful way to wrap up your time in Panama City. You’ll leave not only satisfied, but also with new recipes, new friends, and great memories from your trip!
Book this cooking class and end your Panama trip with a feast to remember!
Related Read: Looking for a few more things to do? Check out our favorite activities in Panama City – all are epic additions to this itinerary!
Where to Stay in Panama City, Panama
Now that you have a full itinerary, you can pick out the perfect place to stay! We loved staying in Casco Viejo, as it’s incredibly charming and puts you in the heart of the action. If these hotels are still available when you’re ready to book, they will be your best options for a luxury, mid-range, or budget stay!
Luxury – $$$
The American Trade Hotel is the most famous and luxurious hotel in Panama City. It perfectly blends the historic and colonial style charm with modern and sleek amenities, making for an upscale stay. The rooms are spacious and have large windows overlooking the city, and you can enjoy the rooftop pool, restaurant, jazz bar, and on-site gym.
Rooms here start around $250 USD per night and can be reserved on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
We personally loved staying at the Amarla Boutique Hotel Casco Viejo. It’s a quaint boho-style hotel with unique furnishings that make it unlike any other place in Old Town! You can enjoy the sun terrace, hot tub, and yoga classes, as well as the top-rated restaurant on site. The rooms are large and come with a work desk, comfy beds, and a homey feel.
Prices start around $200 USD per night and can be reserved on Booking.com.
Budget – $
If you’re on a budget, then the Magnolia Inn is the best option available within Casco Viejo. The hotel has really good reviews, and the location is perfect. Not to mention, the building is a restored French-style manor that’s a great example of stunning colonial architecture!
Private rooms start at under $100 USD per night, and they also offer dorm-style rooms. Check availability and book on Booking.com.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Panama City is full of surprises! From the charming old town to the scenic views from the Amador Causeway and the amazing food, we loved our time here. Oh, I can’t forget about the once-in-a-lifetime day trips! This is the same itinerary we used on our last visit and found it to be the perfect intro to Panama City.
If you need help planning the rest of your trip, check out all of our Central America blogs here! We have traveled this area extensively and have plenty of resources to help you out. Here are a few related reads to get you started – cheers!
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