Legends of Casco Viejo Tour: Uncover Hidden Gems
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Legends of Casco Viejo Tour: Uncover Hidden Gems

Active
(1480 reviews)
2h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Exploring Casco Viejo’s secrets is a must-do when visiting Panama City! On this ¨Legends of Casco Viejo¨ tour, a passionate local guide will lead you through the iconic cobblestone streets of this historic district. Discover hidden gems, admire colonial architecture, and be captivated by stories of love, intrigue, and legendary figures that shaped Panama’s past. Want insider tips? We’ve got you covered, from the best local eats to vibrant nightlife recommendations. Rain or shine, we ensure your comfort with our umbrellas!

Choose to meet us at the starting point or enjoy the convenience of hotel pick-up and drop-off from any location in Panama City.

Available options

Tour with One-Way Pickup

Features: We’ll pick you up from your hotel, Airbnb or cruise port for the tour. Afterward, enjoy exploring Casco Viejo on your own.<br/>Duration: 3 hours<br/>PD: Pickup covers all locations within Panama City and the Playa Bonita area.<br/>Pickup included

Meet Us at the Starting Point

Meet-Up: Head to our easy-to-find starting point in Casco Viejo and join us there – no pickups, just a quick meet-up! <br/>Starting Point: Monument of Tomas Herrera, Herrera Square, Casco Viejo, Panamá.

Tour with Pickup and Return

Features: We'll handle the pickup and drop-off at your hotel, Airbnb, or cruise port. A smooth, no-fuss experience!<br/>PD: Pickup covers all locations within Panama City and the Playa Bonita area.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Explore several alleys and popular points of interest
Umbrella if it rains
Professional and Licensed Local Guide
Stroll through the quaint and charming streets of the historic district
Small-Group for a more personalized experience
Learn about the history and events that shaped Panama
2-3 Hours Hidden Alleyways & Passages Guided Tour of Casco Viejo

Detailed itinerary

1

Regardless of the option you choose when booking this tour, either starting at a meeting point or with the picking up option at your hotel or accommodation in Panama City Downtown. Our guide will welcome you and applying all the biosecurity protocols will guide you to this incredible time full of amazing surprises!

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Stop 2

Casco Viejo (Old Town), also known as San Felipe, is the historic district of Panama City. We will walk around this part of the city visiting the main sites of this area and learning some history by the hand of our expert tour guide.

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Departure Point

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Enjoy a market of artisan products, traditional hats, dresses, souvenirs and discover the most incredible murals with graffiti in Panama City

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Pass by this church destroyed by fire in the year 1854 and was completely renovated only in the twentieth century

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The oldest Panaminian Restaurant in Town

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The Majestic Church of the Religious Order of the Mercedarians, which models the rocks of its original construction in the ancient city invaded by Henry Morgan and his cronies in 1671. Here you will appreciate the once entrance of the new city of Panama, the beautiful architecture that begins to parade before your eyes will captivate you. You will have the opportunity to enter the church and admire the religious art that has survived since the 17th century

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Pass By

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The legendary Golden Altar, which survived the looting perpetrated by Henry Morgan and his men, is today the subject of legends and admiration. Here he discovers one of the greatest Christmas nativity scenes in the republic.

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You could not miss a visit to our Majestic Basilica Cathedral and its Plaza surrounded by History and beautiful buildings.

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Government Ministry

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Old Convent of Santo Domingo that preserves the remains of the most emblematic architectural piece of the Old Town at the end of the 18th century. Believe it or not, this same piece of architecture EL ARCO CHATO (Flat Arch), was the key during the Panama Canal negotiations between the United States and France.

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Plaza Carlos V

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The National Theater was conceived by the Italian architect Genaro Ruggieri in a neoclassical style. It was inaugurated on October 1, 1908. On its facade there are two sculptures that represent the muses of music and lyrics. We also found six medallions, which honor Wagner, Shakespeare, Moliere, Rossini, Cervantes and Lope de Vega.

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The Monumental Ensemble of Las Bóvedas or Las Bóvedas is the name commonly known as the set of works that form the walls that surround the Plaza de Francia. The monumental complex consists of seven vaulted spaces that formed the system city defensive.

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Stop 16

The Palace of Las Garzas, is the seat of the President of the Republic of Panama. It also houses the Ministry of the Presidency and the Institutional Protection Service

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The Plaza de la Independencia (Cathedral Square) is the main public space of the Old Town. It was the space chosen by Panamanians to celebrate the great landmarks of the city's history, such as the independence of Spain and later of Colombia. The Plaza is surrounded by the main historical buildings such as the Cathedral, the Municipal Palace and the Panama Canal Museum. During the summer months she dresses in pink by the flowers of the trees that surround her.

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This small square is surrounded by beautiful old buildings, as well as restaurants and bars. The original name of the square was San Francisco, but in 1883 it was decided to change it in honor of Venezuelan General Simón Bolívar. In the center of the square you will see a sculpture of Bolivar standing under a great Condor with the legend 'The nations of America to the liberator Simón Bolívar.

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You have reached the end of this incredible journey. Before, the Spanish military headquarters, then it belonged to the Colombian armed forces and prisons in our Colombian era, and finally in our republican era, at the beginning of the twentieth century, our nation honors the French effort for its gallantry in being the initiators of such a difficult project. As you walk on the walls facing the sea, enjoying the delicious breeze from the Pacific Ocean and delighting in shopping for handicrafts exhibited by the artisans themselves, we will end this incredible tour. You can decide if you want to return to our starting point, to take you by car to your hotel in the city or simply stay to taste the gastronomy of the area.

Available languages

Guide guide
EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8
784 reviews
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706
4★
46
3★
20
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10
1★
2
Tripadvisor 4.9
696 reviews
5★
640
4★
35
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8
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1★
5

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The meeting point is at monument of Tomas Herrera right in the middle of Herrera Square in Casco Viejo. Just in front of the American Trade Hotel. Your guide will be holding a "PanamaVibes" sign.

Important notes

Starting Point: Plaza Herrera, Ave. A, Casco Viejo, Panama City
https://goo.gl/maps/A4nxvm9sndV5Lnzz9

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

Designed by Frank Gehry, the Biomuseo explores the biodiversity and natural history of Panama.

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
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-110
1
Childs
Age 3-12
0
Infants
Age 0-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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