How to Plan Your Walking Tour of Panama City

Panama City is a vibrant and bustling metropolis with a rich cultural history. If you want to experience the heart and soul of the city, the best way is to take a walking tour. In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan your walking tour of Panama City and make the most of your time.

Experience

This full-day walking tour of Panama City will take you off the beaten path and into the heart of the city. You’ll experience the chaos of Panama City’s public transport by riding in a “chicken bus.” You’ll see Panamanian daily life at Central Avenue, where locals shop and sell everything from fresh fruits to cheap watches. You’ll try freshly pressed sugar cane juice at a street stall, admire the Colonial architecture in the Casco Antiguo district, and have a seafood lunch at Panama City’s Fishmarket.

Highlights

– Ride in a chicken bus and experience the chaos of Panama City’s public transport
– See Panamanian daily life at Central Avenue
– Try freshly pressed sugar cane juice at a street stall
– Admire the Colonial architecture in the Casco Antiguo district
– Have a seafood lunch at Panama City’s Fishmarket

Booking Your Tour

To book your walking tour of Panama City, visit the following website:

Book your tour here

Planning Your Tour

To make the most of your tour, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Dress comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as you’ll be walking for a full day.
2. Bring cash: Though the tour includes some meals and activities, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for extra expenses.
3. Bring a water bottle: Panama City can get hot and humid, so it’s important to stay hydrated.
4. Bring a camera: There will be plenty of photo opportunities throughout your tour.

The Tour Itinerary

The walking tour of Panama City begins with a pickup from your hotel in the morning. From there, you’ll take a bus ride to the 5 de Mayo Square.

Central Avenue

Central Avenue is a pedestrian area with local shops, restaurants, and vendors selling everything from fresh fruits to cheap watches. Visit the Café Coca Cola, a historical café where politicians used to meet to make important decisions.

Casco Antiguo

From Central Avenue, you’ll walk to Casco Antiguo, Panama City’s colonial district. The district features stunning Colonial architecture, and you’ll have the opportunity to admire it up close.

Panama City’s Fishmarket

After exploring Casco Antiguo, you’ll head to Panama City’s Fishmarket for a seafood lunch. The market offers fresh seafood and an authentic Panamanian dining experience.

Via Argentina

After lunch, you’ll take a bus to Via Argentina, an up-and-coming neighborhood in Panama City known for its trendy bars and restaurants.

Amador Causeway

Finally, you’ll visit the Amador Causeway, a man-made peninsula that offers stunning views of the city skyline.

Conclusion

If you want to experience the heart and soul of Panama City, a walking tour is the perfect way to do it. With this guide, you can plan your tour with ease and have an unforgettable experience that showcases the best of what the city has to offer. Book your tour today and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget!

Insider’s Guide: Exploring Panama City on Foot

Panama City, the capital of Panama, located on the Pacific coast, is one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in Central America. This city offers a unique blend of modern high-rises, ancient ruins, and a vibrant cultural scene. With the city’s well-connected streets and fascinating landmarks, there’s no better way to explore this charming destination than on a walking tour. In this insider’s guide, we’ll help you plan your perfect walking tour of Panama City and discover the city’s highlights from a local’s perspective.

Local Attractions

Casco Viejo: The Old Town of Panama City, declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a charming neighborhood that features a mix of Spanish, French, and Italian architectural styles. It is home to many iconic landmarks like the Panama Canal Museum, the Presidential Palace, and the Metropolitan Cathedral. Take a walk through these streets with a guide and learn about the fascinating history of this part of the city.

Panama Canal: This awe-inspiring engineering marvel is a significant attraction in Panama City that is worth a visit. The Miraflores Visitor Center offers an excellent opportunity to witness the impressive ships as they move through the canal and learn about the history of this vital transportation route.

Ancon Hill: This hill offers spectacular panoramic views of Panama City and is the perfect spot for taking pictures. The area is famous for its diverse flora and fauna, with sightings of monkeys, sloths, and other wildlife.

Dining Spots

Panama City is a melting pot of different cultures, so it’s no surprise that its culinary scene is incredibly diverse. Some of the must-try local dishes include sancocho (chicken soup), arroz con pollo (chicken and rice), and ceviche (raw fish marinated in citrus juice).

Mercado de Mariscos: A vibrant fish market located close to the Casco Viejo, Mercado de Mariscos is the best place to enjoy fresh seafood. Try local dishes like corvina (sea bass) or octopus ceviche.

Lung Fung: This affordable Chinese restaurant is located in the heart of Panama City and serves some of the best dim sum in town. The menu also includes delicious Chinese dishes that are perfect for a quick grab-and-go lunch.

Cultural Experiences

Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC): The MAC is a must-visit for lovers of art and culture. The museum features works by local and international artists and often hosts exhibitions and events throughout the year.

Biomuseo: This unique museum is dedicated entirely to Panama’s biodiversity and natural history. With its interactive exhibits and stunning architecture, it’s an exciting place for individuals of all ages.

Teatro Nacional de Panama: The Teatro Nacional is a stunning opera house located close to the Casco Viejo. Visitors can take a guided tour of the theatre, learn about its fascinating history, and discover the world-class performances it hosts.

Local History

Panama Viejo: The ruins of Panama Viejo are a testament to the city’s first settlement, founded in 1519. The site is home to a set of mesmerizing ruins, including a cathedral, a convent, and a bell tower.

Museo del Canal Interoceanico: The Panama Canal Museum is an excellent destination for visitors interested in the history and engineering of the canal. The museum offers hands-on exhibits and multimedia displays that bring the canal’s history to life.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Amador Causeway: The Amador Causeway is located on a narrow strip of land that connects three islands with the city. It’s a great spot to ride a bicycle, walk, or unwind at one of the many restaurants or bars that offer stunning vistas of the Panama Canal.

Cerro Azul: Located just a short drive from Panama City is Cerro Azul, a quiet mountain community in the heart of a protected national park. Here you can enjoy scenic hikes in the lush flora, swim in waterfalls and rivers, and spot exotic birds and animals.

In conclusion, Panama City provides an exciting mix of cultural and historic attractions, dining spots, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions. With the city’s walkability, exhilarating experiences await those who lace up their sneakers and set out to explore it on foot. By following this insider’s guide, you’re sure to have a brilliant time uncovering the city’s charm.