Tour of Panama City’s Greatest Sites: Explore the Best Sights of Panama City

Are you planning a trip to Panama City? One of the top things to do on your itinerary should be to explore the city’s greatest sites. But with so many sights to see and things to do, it can be overwhelming to plan the perfect tour. That’s where the Tour of Panama City’s Greatest Sites comes in. Let’s explore further!

What is the Tour of Panama City’s Greatest Sites?

The Tour of Panama City’s Greatest Sites is a city motorized tour in Panama City, Republic of, Panama. It takes you on a half-day adventure to explore the best sights of Panama City. It offers a hassle-free way to visit the city’s top attractions with a knowledgeable local guide leading the way.

What Sights are Included in the Tour?

The tour includes a visit to Panama Canal Miraflores Locks, Ancon Hill, Cinta Costera, Casco Viejo, Fish Market, and Causeway. The guide will take you through the history, architecture, and culture of each location, making sure you get all the information you need to appreciate what you are seeing.

What are the Highlights of the Tour?

One of the main highlights of the tour is the visit to the Panama Canal Miraflores Locks, where you can watch the ships pass through the locks from a viewing platform. Another highlight is the visit to Ancon Hill, which offers panoramic views of the city skyline and the surrounding rainforest.

What is the Duration and Cost of the Tour?

The tour is approximately 4 hours long and costs are $78 per person. This fee includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel, transportation, and the guide’s services.

What Should I Bring on the Tour?

It is recommended that you bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat since the tour involves some walking and time outdoors. It is also advisable to bring some cash if you wish to purchase souvenirs or food.

Why Should I Book the Tour of Panama City’s Greatest Sites?

By booking this tour, you can save time and money. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you can explore the top attractions while learning about the history and culture of Panama City. Transport is included, so you don’t have to worry about navigating the city on your own. It is also an opportunity to meet new people and make memories that will last a lifetime.

How Can I Book the Tour?

You can book the Tour of Panama City’s Greatest Sites through the GetYourGuide.com website, which offers the best deals and customer service to ensure that you have a memorable experience.

Conclusion

Panama City is a vibrant destination filled with amazing sites and history. If you want to make the most out of your trip, be sure to book the Tour of Panama City’s Greatest Sites. This tour offers a comprehensive way to explore the city’s best attractions with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. So what are you waiting for? Book your spot today and get ready for a memorable adventure!

Insider’s Guide to Panama City’s Greatest Sites

Panama City is the vibrant and cosmopolitan capital of Panama, a country in Central America that is known for its natural beauty and rich history. The city is situated on the Pacific coast, and it is a popular destination for tourists who want to explore its colonial architecture, world-class museums, and buzzing nightlife. In this guide, we will take you on a tour of the best sights of Panama City, including local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

One of the iconic attractions in Panama City is the Panama Canal, a feat of engineering that connects the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic. The Miraflores Visitor Center offers a great view of the canal and its operations through a museum, movie, and access to a balcony for close observation of the passing ships.

Another popular attraction is the Casco Viejo, Panama City’s historic district, which dates back to the 17th century. The neighborhood is filled with colorful colonial buildings, cute cafes, art galleries, and trendy boutiques. From Casco Viejo, you can also visit the famous Fish Market, or Mercado de Mariscos- a popular place to enjoy fresh seafood and mingle with the locals.

For those who prefer museums, Panama City has a lot to offer. The Biomuseo is a must-visit museum designed by Frank Gehry, showcasing biodiversity, history, and the cultural heritage of Panama. Other museums worth visiting include the Panama Canal Museum, located in an early 20th-century building that pays homage to the workers that built the canal, and the Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC), which boasts modern galleries with permanent and rotating exhibitions.

Dining Spots

Panama City offers a culinary journey that won’t disappoint. With over 25,000 restaurants available, it’s safe to say that Panama has a diverse food scene. Typical Panamanian dishes include Sancocho and Arroz con Pollo, with fresh seafood as the main highlight.

Several restaurants in the city cater to all types of foodies- from locals to tourists. One popular spot is Mercado del Marisco, a seafood market which not only sells fresh fish but turns it into delicious and affordable local ceviches. The historic district of Casco Viejo also features various hotspots for dining, such as Los Del Patio for its craft beers and Barrio Pizza for its thin-crust wood-fired pizzas.

For those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss Casa Sucre, located in the heart of Casco Viejo, famous for its artisanal ice cream flavors, such as malple, soursop, and passion fruit.

Cultural Experiences

The culture of Panama is a fascinating mix of Spanish, Indigenous, and African influences. One of the best ways to experience this culture is through its annual festivals, like the Carnaval in February/March and the parade of the Pollera dresses in July.

However, if you’re in Panama City outside of that time, you can still enjoy music, dance, and theater performances at the National Theater and the Anita Villalaz Theater. There are also various art galleries open to public viewing, such as Diablo Rosso and Casa 22, showcasing vibrant displays of contemporary art by local and Latin American artists.

For an immersive experience, consider taking a traditional African dance class at Danilo Pérez’s Foundation for the Development of Jazz, or visit the Emberá Quera community in Parara Puru for a guide through their customs, culture, and folklore.

Local History

Panama has a rich history that includes the stories behind the canal, its conflicts, and its role in the Spanish empire and pirate era. Panama Viejo, the ruins of the original Panama City, is located in the city center, where guides take you through the remains of the first permanent European settlement on the Pacific coast of the Americas.

Another must-visit historical site is the San Lorenzo Fort, built by the Spanish in the 17th century to defend against pirate attacks. This fort is in a natural reserve close to the Caribbean coast, providing visitors with an idyllic landscape that mixes views of the forest with the fort’s canons.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

For those seeking something different, Panama City has incredible outdoors spaces and hidden treasures perfect for an excursion. Volcan Baru, located close to Boquete, offers volcanic trekking for more adventurous visitors. Closer to the city center is the Metropolitan Natural Park, which hosts abundant wildlife, nature trails, and breathtaking views of Panama City’s skyline.

For those who prefer the sea, the Pearl Islands have it all. These idyllic islands in the Gulf of Panama are known for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and underwater scenery, perfect for snorkeling or diving. Come and enjoy the adventure!

Final Thoughts

Panama City is a city of contrasts, sophistication & modern glamor blended with colonial architecture and a fascinating history. We hope our insider’s guide of the best sights in Panama City helps you plan your trip to enjoy the city’s culture, traditions, and unique sites. Follow our guide to explore the city’s local attractions, museums, and dining spots, walk into the past through the historic district or remote ruins, or venture outdoors to the parks and beautiful island escapes.