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Picture of Panama City, Panama

Travel Guide for
Panama City

Panama

Tropical wet and dry, hot, humid

Introduction

Panama City is a vibrant metropolis nestled at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal. Its modern skyline contrasts with the cobblestone streets of Casco Viejo, the city’s historic heart, which tells stories of pirates and colonial empires.

In mid-February, expect warm, tropical days—ideal for working from open-air cafes or co-working spaces with canal views. The city’s blend of global cuisine, buzzing nightlife, and fast internet makes it perfect for digital nomads seeking inspiration outside the typical office.

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Digital nomad · 15–18 Feb · Average budget · Hotel, hostel

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Picture of Panama City, Panama

Itinerary for Panama City · February 2026

Itinerary

Panama City · February 2026

Viewing Day 1 · Sun 15 Feb. Numbered pins match today's itinerary stops; purple markers are recommended experiences. Click a pin for details.Pins match today's stops. Purple pins are experiences.

  1. 1
    Stroll Through Casco Viejo & Plaza Mayor
    Wander the cobblestone streets of Casco Viejo, Panama City’s historic district, lined with colorful colonial buildings, cafés, and street art. Stop by the vibrant Plaza Mayor for people-watching, photos, and a taste of local life. Great introduction to city culture!
  2. 2
    Discover Mercado de Mariscos
    Visit the bustling Mercado de Mariscos, Panama’s famous seafood market. Enjoy freshly prepared ceviche and local delicacies at open-air stalls—perfect for lunch or a snack. Arrive hungry and be ready to try something new!
  3. 3
    Avenida Central Shopping and Street Art Walk
    Explore Avenida Central, a lively pedestrian street packed with shops, street performers, and local vendors. Don’t miss the urban murals and vibrant storefronts—a great spot to snap photos and shop for affordable souvenirs!
Private Fishing in the Panama Canal, Gatun Lake

Private Fishing in the Panama Canal, Gatun Lake

5.0 (61 reviews)

5.5 hours

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Free cancellation

If you are a sports fisherman and a lover of fishing is your activity, I have been a fisherman all my life, very passionate, the best views and hundreds of scenarios to fish, along with more than 1000 different types of baits, will make it a day unforgettable in the waters of the second largest artificial lake in the world that crosses the great Panama Canal.

From $250 USD

per person

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Key Facts

Location

Central America

Currency

Panamanian balboa and US dollar (PAB/USD)

Religion

Roman Catholic

Population

1,500,000

Language

Spanish, English

Electricity

110V, 60Hz, plug types A/B

Time zone

UTCEST (UTC-5)

Country code

+507

Internet access

Widely available, fast speeds, affordable

Climate

Tropical wet and dry, hot, humid

See More Panama Facts

Language:

Spanish

  • hello

    hola (oh-lah)
  • goodbye

    adiós (ah-dee-ohs)
  • yes

    (see)
  • no

    no (noh)
  • how much

    ¿cuánto cuesta esto? (kwan-to kwes-ta ehs-to)
  • please

    por favor (por fah-bor)
  • thank you

    gracias (grah-see-as)
  • excuse me

    perdón (pehr-dohn)

Logistics

The easiest way to reach Panama City, Panama is by air; Tocumen International Airport (PTY) serves many direct international flights from North America, South America, and Europe. Budget-conscious digital nomads can find affordable fares, especially with airlines like Copa, Spirit, and Delta. The airport is a 30-minute taxi or shuttle ride to the city center.

Overland travelers can arrive by long-distance bus from neighboring countries such as Costa Rica, using the well-connected Albrook Bus Terminal. Boats arrive mainly from Colombia via the scenic San Blas Islands, though this route is more adventurous. Trains are not a transit option from outside the country, but the Panama Canal Railway offers a scenic ride between Panama City and Colón.

February weather is typically warm, dry, and ideal for travel—no special considerations needed. Moving around the city is easy and affordable with public buses, the metro, and ride-sharing apps.

Weather

Panama City, Panama, has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, usually between 24°C (75°F) and 32°C (90°F). The year is split into the dry season (mid-December to April) and the rainy season (May to mid-December), with humidity levels remaining high throughout every season.

From February 15 to 18, the weather is typically sunny, hot, and dry, making it perfect for outdoor adventures, sightseeing, and city tours. Extreme weather events are rare during this time, so travelers can expect pleasant conditions for enjoying local festivals, bustling nightlife, and the city’s renowned gastronomy, including seafood and Panamanian specialties.

Food & Drink

Panama City’s cuisine is a flavorful blend of Afro-Caribbean, Spanish, and indigenous influences. Expect dishes like sancocho (hearty chicken stew), patacones (fried plantains), and ceviche. Try local coffee and drinks like seco, a sugarcane spirit. For vegetarians or those with dietary needs, most places are accommodating, but asking ahead is recommended.

For affordable eats and a digital-nomad-friendly vibe, Café Unido and Bajareque offer great Panamanian coffee and Wi-Fi. Mercado de Mariscos is perfect for fresh seafood, especially ceviche stands. Casco Viejo’s Mahalo and Fonda Lo Que Hay serve creative, budget-friendly fusion menus. Panama City bars like CasaCasco or Tantalo Rooftop provide lively atmospheres and great city views.

Tipping around 10% is customary unless service is already included. The city’s food scene is diverse and welcoming, making it easy for travelers to find satisfying options for any palate or preference.

A picture of Ropa Vieja

Ropa Vieja

Ropa Vieja, which means 'old clothes' in Spanish, is a savory and hearty stew made with shredded beef,...

A picture of Sancocho

Sancocho

Sancocho is a comforting and flavorful chicken soup made with a variety of root vegetables like yams, plantains,...

A picture of Empanadas

Empanadas

Empanadas are delectable fried or baked pastries filled with a variety of ingredients such as ground meat, cheese,...

A picture of Arroz con Pollo

Arroz con Pollo

Arroz con Pollo, which translates to 'rice with chicken,' is a classic one-pot dish featuring tender chicken pieces,...

A picture of Ceviche

Ceviche

Ceviche is a refreshing and zesty dish made with marinated raw fish or seafood, mixed with citrus juices,...

Accommodation

For digital nomads visiting Panama City, Casco Viejo is a charming, historic neighborhood with trendy hostels and boutique hotels, perfect for blending work and leisure. The El Cangrejo and Obarrio districts also offer affordable, comfortable hotels with solid Wi-Fi and plenty of cafes nearby. Top hotels such as Hotel Riu Plaza Panama and Selina Casco Viejo provide ideal amenities for remote work and relaxation.

Browse Hotels.com to compare rates and find exclusive deals. During February 15-18, book early as these dates may coincide with Carnaval or national events, leading to higher prices and limited availability. Hostels like Magnolia Inn and Luna’s Castle are excellent budget-friendly bases with communal workspaces and vibrant social scenes.

Attractions

5.0 (41 reviews)
Full Day - Panama Canal Coast to Coast - By Land

Full Day - Panama Canal Coast to Coast - By Land

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This tour takes you through the locks of Miraflores, Pedro Miguel, Gatún and Agua Clara, to understand its history, its engineering and its impact on the world. ✅ THE ONLY TOUR COVERING THE ENTIRE CANAL Travel from Pacific to Atlantic by land in one day. Exploring the Panama Canal from Coast to Coast. ✅ PRIVATE AND EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE No crowds or hard schedules. Just your group, at your own pace, on a VIP tour. ✅ DISCOVER THE PROVINCE OF COLÓN Time to appreciate your history and daily life. Optional lunch/snack—we recommend local food to learn about your culture. ✅ FOLLOW THE TRANSCONTINENTAL ROUTE Learn about the historic path linking two oceans and understand the Channel’s impact on global trade. Excludes : tickets to Miraflores and Agua Clara Visitor Centers. Ideal for : families, couples, friends, seniors and travelers in stopover. Ready to go coast to coast?

From $200 USD

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5.0 (40 reviews)
Panama City by Night: Rooftop Skyline, Dinner & Folklore Show

Panama City by Night: Rooftop Skyline, Dinner & Folklore Show

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Free cancellation

Experience Panama City after dark on a relaxed evening that combines spectacular skyline views, authentic culture, and delicious local cuisine. Begin with breathtaking rooftop panoramas overlooking one of Latin America's most impressive skylines before enjoying a traditional folklore performance in the heart of historic Casco Viejo. Along the way, I'll share stories about Panama's culture, history, and modern transformation, creating an evening that feels less like a tour and more like spending time with a knowledgeable local friend. Hosted by a licensed local guide who has welcomed thousands of travelers from more than 40 countries.

From $85 USD

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5.0 (40 reviews)
Shuttle to Riu Playa Blanca Hotel: Round Trip or One Way

Shuttle to Riu Playa Blanca Hotel: Round Trip or One Way

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Free cancellation

Concerned about our passengers and collaborators, we provide you confidence and guarantee that we are complying with the highest quality standards in road and health safety.

From $75 USD

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5.0 (36 reviews)
Full Day Private Birding and Nature Sightseeing Tour, Pipe Line.

Full Day Private Birding and Nature Sightseeing Tour, Pipe Line.

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Free cancellation

Experience Panama's rainforest and biodiversity just a short distance from the city. A great experience for birdwatcher, nature lover and wildlife photographer. Panama has more than 1000 reported species of birds and Pipeline Road on The Soberania National Park has reported 400 of those species.

From $120 USD

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5.0 (33 reviews)
Panama Canal Tour

Panama Canal Tour

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Free cancellation

This tour features visits to the Amador Causeway, the Goethal's Monument and the Panama Canal Miraflores Locks Visitor Center. We will visit the Amador Causeway, a road that connects four small islands on the Pacific, and offers stunning views of Panama City skyline and the entrance of the Canal. Then, we will stop at the Goethals Monument, a beautiful white Vermont marble structure built to honor George Washington Goethals for his achievements during the Canal construction. Behind the Goethals Monument, you will see the Panama Canal Administration Building. Our next stop is at the Panama Canal Miraflores Locks Visitor Center, where you may see the ships while they pass through the Canal. At the Panama Canal IMAX Theater, we will watch the 45-minute 3D movie "Panama Canal, a Land Divided, a World United".

From $68 USD

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5.0 (30 reviews)
Panamanian Drinks and Appetizers Workshop in Panama City

Panamanian Drinks and Appetizers Workshop in Panama City

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Free cancellation

Forget crowded bars and tourist menus, this is Panama the way locals experience it. You’ll step inside a real Panamanian home, where our local host will guide you through the entire experience. You’ll prepare 4 classic Panamanian cocktails - each one paired with a small dish you’ll make and taste on the spot, turning the class into a relaxed gathering in a friend’s kitchen than a formal class. As you mix and cook, your host shares stories, techniques, and everyday traditions that connect each recipe to Panama’s Caribbean roots. Everything is taught step by step, making it easy to follow whether you’ve mixed cocktails before or not. By the end, you’ll leave with simple recipes you can recreate anywhere, new skills to impress friends back home, and the memory of one of Panama City’s most vibrant nights in an authentic local setting. Guests often call this the unexpected highlight of their trip - and if it’s not the highlight of yours, you’ll get your money back, no questions asked.

From $59 USD

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5.0 (27 reviews)
Private City Tour: Old Town, Canal & Modern Skyline

Private City Tour: Old Town, Canal & Modern Skyline

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Free cancellation

This is a private tour on a confortable car, taste our local snacks, coconut water, and pick some fruits on a local market then embark on a thrilling adventure through Panama's most captivating attractions! The visit to the Panama Canal is a must, you will marvel at the colossal ships and ingenious engineering behind one of the world's greatest waterways. Then, step back in time in Casco Viejo, where colonial charm meets vibrant street life, offering everything from golden altars to lively plazas and hidden treasures. Finally, unwind at the Amador Causeway, a scenic route with stunning ocean views, lush gardens, and the fascinating Biomuseo. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking a picturesque getaway, this tour promises an unforgettable experience where you can admire animals such as the sloth, colorful fishes, birds and panamanian biodiversity. Book now and discover the heart and soul of Panama!

From $62 USD

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5.0 (27 reviews)
Airport TRANSFER 1 way Tocumen Howard BLB Albrook Rio Hato Colon

Airport TRANSFER 1 way Tocumen Howard BLB Albrook Rio Hato Colon

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Our drivers speak fluent English. We provide the friends and family experience with a safe and comfortable environment. We contribute useful recommendations and information about the country and neighboring areas of your destination and / or hotel. We make sure you have arrived safely at your destination and assist in any way possible to make your trip an enjoyable experience.

From $29 USD

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5.0 (22 reviews)
Hiking Tour at Panama City

Hiking Tour at Panama City

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Free cancellation

The capital city of Panama, is the only city with access to Rainforest and Nationals park with 10 to 15 min from the downtown in Central America; and currently most of the visitor have no idea they can this amazing hikes is such a short period of time, see unique wildlife and learn a lot about the rainforest and its importance for the country, the canal and the people of Panama. As a Nature lover that we are, we can provided a unique experience to the travelers and allow them to connect deeply with the incredible nature that we have.

From $75 USD

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5.0 (21 reviews)
Panama Canal and Monkey Island Tour

Panama Canal and Monkey Island Tour

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Free cancellation

During the Panama Canal tour, you will have the opportunity to witness up close the operation of the impressive locks that allow the passage of large vessels through this globally significant waterway. You will learn about the fascinating history of its construction, the engineering behind this monumental project, and its impact on global trade. Regarding the boat tour on Gatun Lake, you will delve into a fascinating natural environment where wildlife is abundant. You may spot howler monkeys and capuchins playing in the treetops. Furthermore, you will have the opportunity to observe up close crocodiles basking in the sun on the lake's shores and turtles swimming in its tranquil waters, allowing you to connect with the unique biodiversity of this region and enjoy an unforgettable experience in harmony with nature.

From $89 USD

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