
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.

Itinerary for Panama City · February 2026
Itinerary
Panama City · February 2026
Viewing Day 1 · Mon 16 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.
- 1Wander 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
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
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!
Recommended experience

Black History: Shadows & Lights- Afro Panama heritage experience
5.0 (190 reviews)
Step back more than 500 years and explore the rich — and often overlooked — history of African ancestry in Panama. This walking journey unfolds through two defining chapters: the colonial era, marked by the harsh realities of slavery and powerful acts of resistance, and the West Indian migrations — a period of labor, resilience, and cultural legacy that helped shape Panama’s identity. • Our walk begins in Casco Antiguo, moving beyond the former walls that once divided the elite from the working-class community of Santa Ana. • We continue along Central Avenue, a vibrant area filled with stories and local life. • Then we visit the Afro-Antillean Museum to explore the lives and contributions of West Indian migrants who helped build the nation. Optional: Lunch at San Felipe Neri Market for local comfort food and a refreshing natural juice. Book the Walking Experience + Lunch option. This experience invites you to discover the shadows and lights that shape Afro-Panamanian heritage.
From $60 USD
per person
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
Language:
Spanish
hello
hola (oh-lah)goodbye
adiós (ah-dee-ohs)yes
sí (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.

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

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

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

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

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

Full Day - Panama Canal Coast to Coast - By Land
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

Unique Pineapple Farm Tour on 4 wheels
We have the coolest options in 4 wheels and we ride with a purpose: to visit the most amazing pineapple farm in Panama. This is a Private Farm, non touristy and we will be the only ones there with the panamanian influencer of the pineapple scene . You will see the real panamanian life on the West side. You will witness, how pineapples are grown by hard working individuals and taste our sweet and juicy pineapples. During rainy season (May thru Dec) it will be muddy, Hills, panamanian farms in the boondocks and an insanely beautiful pineapple “finca” will be your reward. Have you ever picture yourself riding a 4 wheel and going up a hill and all of the sudden: the stunning view of 1.over 2 million pineapples? Adrenaline + Fun +Learning how we grow the most delicious Pineapples in the world???…. Simply awesome!
From $400 USD

Panama City Night Tour: 360 Views & Folklore Show
Embark on a vibrant and unforgettable night out in Panama City! Begin your adventure with breathtaking 360° panoramic views of the city skyline from a stunning rooftop vantage point, where you’ll truly appreciate Panama’s blend of modernity and tradition. Take advantage of great photo spots, and then enjoy a traditional drink as you immerse yourself in the city’s charm before moving on to the next stop. Next, you'll enjoy an enchanting traditional dance show. Be captivated by dancers in exquisite folkloric costumes, moving to the rhythm of Panama’s music—and if you’re feeling adventurous, you might even be invited to join the dance floor! Here you’ll also have the opportunity to savor authentic local cuisine if you're curious about our trying our delicious food. Book now to experience Panama’s city lights and cultural vibrance all in one unforgettable night.
From $85 USD

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

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

Panama Canal Tour
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

Private Whale Watching Tour – 27ft Proline | Pearl Islands
Join a private whale watching tour aboard our 27ft Proline between June and November, when humpback whales migrate over 5,000 miles from both hemispheres to Panama’s Pacific coast to breed and give birth. Depart from Flamenco Marina and cruise 1.5 hours to the Pearl Islands, one of the best spots to see these giants in calm tropical waters. This private charter offers the chance to watch whales and enjoy fishing, snorkeling, and island hopping. Visit beaches and islands like Contadora, Mogo Mogo, Chapera, and Saboga. You may also spot dolphins, rays, and sea turtles. The Proline is agile and compact, ideal for closer whale encounters. It features a shaded area, cushioned bow, marine stereo, freshwater rinse, and private bathroom. Includes fishing gear, snorkeling gear, drinks, and optional BBQ setup. A fast, flexible tour for wildlife lovers seeking a close-up experience in Panama’s marine paradise.
From $750 USD

Panamanian Drinks and Appetizers Workshop in Panama City
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 $65 USD

Private City Tour: Old Town, Canal & Modern Skyline
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

Hiking Tour at Panama City
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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