Panama City

Skyline metropolis beside a colonial gem

Curated by Vinod Kumar Jain & Amit Jain · All Frontier Global · free, no login · reviewed 2026-07-05

The journal

From my hotel window in Casco Viejo I could see container ships queued for the canal, waiting their turn like the world's slowest theater line. A doorman told me some wait two days. I thought about that improbable patience the whole time I walked the seawall eating a raspado that melted faster than I could finish it.

Things to do

Panama Canal (Miraflores) · Engineering marvel

Watch giant ships transit the historic locks from the Miraflores viewing decks. Best: Dec–Apr

Casco Viejo · Old town

Restored colonial quarter of plazas, churches, rooftop bars and sea views. Best: Dec–Apr

Amador Causeway · Scenic promenade

Palm-lined causeway linking islands with skyline views, cycling and dining. Best: Dec–Apr

Biomuseo · Museum

Frank Gehry's vivid museum on how Panama's isthmus reshaped the planet. Best: Year-round

Ancon Hill · Viewpoint

Highest point in Panama City with trails, views of canal and cityscape. Best: Year-round

Arrival

Airport

Tocumen International (PTY) — 25–30 min to the city centre by taxi.

SIM / data

Digicel/Movistar/Claro SIM at airport kiosks, quick.

Money on arrival

USD (called balboa); ATMs and cards widely used.

Daily costs

Backpacker/day

$45

Mid/day

$90

Comfort/day

$160

Rent (1BR)

$800–1400

Modern, USD currency

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