Private express cultural excursion in Panama City

Panama City , Panama

Private express cultural excursion in Panama City

Active

(7 reviews)

4h - 5h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover Panama City in all its splendor with our exciting City Tour by vehicle. On this 4 to 5 hour tour, you will visit the most iconic sites of the city, including the famous Panama Canal, Casco Viejo and the Amador area.

We will begin our tour with a visit to the Panama Canal, an impressive work of modern engineering that has been fundamental to world trade for more than a century. You will learn the fascinating history behind its construction while enjoying spectacular panoramic views of the locks.

Next, we'll head to Casco Viejo, the historic heart of Panama City. Here, you will discover Panama's rich culture and history through its 17th century churches, plazas and government buildings.

Finally, we will head to the Amador area, one of the most picturesque areas of the city. Here, you will enjoy breathtaking views of the Bay of Panama and the city as you stroll along the Causeway, a set of man-made islands connected by a long causeway. Children from 2 to 10 years free.

Available options

Metropolitan area pick-up/drop

Duration: 4 hours<br/>Panam city only: This option only picks up at locations within the metropolitan sector of Panama City. <br/>Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Professional guide

water bottle

Detailed itinerary

Pick up within the metropolitan area of Panama City.

Stop 2

You will be picked up in a mobile car and taken to the Panama Canal Visitor Center (entrance fee is not included in the tour price, $17.22 per person). At the Canal Visitor Center, you will have the opportunity to see the passage of ships through the locks and learn about the operation and history of the Panama Canal, the piece of architecture that connects the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. You will also be able to see the Panama Canal movie in IMAX 3D.

Stop 3

Later we will move to the Casco Viejo of Panama, here you can walk with our guide for 1 hour, by this historic and wonderful place where we will visit monuments among ruins, churches and many more, so we want to recommend what are the must-sees during a visit to Panama.

Stop 4

This is the perfect place to cool off with the fresh breeze of the Pacific Ocean, take the best pictures of the city from the sea and enjoy a delicious homemade ice cream or an exquisite ceviche offered by the local restaurants. If you like shopping, you can go crazy with the products offered by Duty Free Amphora. You must bring identification to enter.

What's not included

lunch

Entry/Admission - Casco Viejo

Westin Playa Bonita /Dream Playa Bonita, there is an additional charge of 35 USD to cover transfers.

Does not include entrance fee to the Panama Canal ,Children between 6 and 12 years old $7.22

Tocumen Airport, Gamboa there is an additional charge of 25 USD to cover transfers.

Miraflores Visitor Center

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children from 2 to 10 years old free of charge

About Panama City

Panama City, the capital and largest city of Panama, is a vibrant metropolis where modern skyscrapers meet historic colonial architecture. Situated at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal, it offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and tropical charm, making it a compelling destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Panama Canal

One of the most significant engineering feats in history, the Panama Canal connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

Historical Half-day to full day Free to visit locks, tours vary

Casco Viejo

The historic district of Panama City, Casco Viejo is a UNESCO World Heritage site with colonial architecture, vibrant nightlife, and cultural landmarks.

Historical Half-day to full day Free to explore, entry fees for museums

Biomuseo

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate

Ancon Hill

A popular hiking spot offering panoramic views of the city and the Panama Canal.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Panama Viejo

The ruins of the original Panama City, founded in 1519, offering a glimpse into the city's colonial past.

Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore, entry fee for museum

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sancocho

A hearty chicken and root vegetable soup, often served with rice and corn.

Soup Contains meat, can be made vegetarian

Ceviche

Fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, peppers, and cilantro.

Appetizer Contains seafood, can be made with various types of fish

Ropa Vieja

Shredded beef stew with vegetables, served with rice and beans.

Main Course Contains meat

Hojaldres

Fried dough pastries, often served with cheese or jam.

Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Soberanía National Park Kayaking in the San Blas Islands Beach day at Playa Blanca Spa day in a luxury hotel Exploring Casco Viejo Visiting the Biomuseo Snorkeling in the San Blas Islands Boat tours through the Panama Canal

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season with sunny days and minimal rainfall, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

24°C to 32°C 75°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Panamanian Balboa (PAB)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Panama City is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious in crowded areas

Getting there

By air

Tocumen International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from city center

By bus

Albrook Terminal, Panama Viejo Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Modern, efficient, and air-conditioned. A convenient way to travel within the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Casco Viejo El Cangrejo Bella Vista San Francisco

Day trips

San Blas Islands

300 km (186 miles) from Panama City • Full day to overnight

A group of islands known for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and Guna Yala culture.

El Valle de Antón

80 km (50 miles) from Panama City • Full day

A picturesque mountain town surrounded by lush forests and waterfalls.

Soberanía National Park

30 km (19 miles) from Panama City • Half day to full day

A lush rainforest offering a variety of wildlife and hiking trails.

Festivals

Panama Carnival • February (4 days before Ash Wednesday) Panama Jazz Festival • January Festival de las Mil Polleras • July

Pro tips

Visit the Panama Canal early in the morning to see ships pass through the locks
Explore Casco Viejo on foot to discover its hidden gems and vibrant street life
Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience
Use the metro for efficient and affordable travel within the city
Book tours and activities in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment