Panama Visitor

Panama Canal

One of the wonders of the modern world, a visit to the Panama Canal cannot be missed. For many, the Panama Canal is the main reason for visiting this city. However, it must be said that the city has a lot more to offer. The canal is an awesome engineering feat and you can see the ships pass through from the Miraflores Visitor Center, where you will hear a commentary of the ships. Facts such as their size, the fee they have paid and some interesting snippets of the canal's past. The Center also has a museum of the canal and a bar/restaurant overlooking the action. For outside seating, reservations are required (232-3120 or 232-31222). For an alternative view of the canal, maybe take a cruise through the canal. Many tour operators offer both full and half-day cruises.

Casco Viejo

Casco Viejo, for many, is the jewel in Panama City's crown. Perched on the edge of the Ocean on the western side of the city, Casco Antiguo as it is also known is ripe with historical monuments dating back to the 1500s from when the French were attempting to construct the canal. It is now undergoing a huge revamp, with many buildings being restored to their original glory. Wander round the area by day, immersing yourself in the rich history and enjoy the tranquility of the pavement cafés. By night, enjoy great cuisine and music in the flavorful bars and restaurants.

Casco Antiguo

One of the real up-and-coming areas in Panama for real estate development, the old part of the city is gradually returning to its original glory. The area, characterized by narrow streets and colorful buildings, is the true cultural and historical center of the city. The San José Church is home to an impressive altar made of solid gold. Another highlight is the National Theater, featuring breathtaking ceiling decorations by Panamanian artist Roberto Lewis.

Panama Viejo

Also known as Panamá La Vieja, the ruins of the old city, which was discovered in 1519 by Pedrarias Dávila are now beautifully maintained by 'Patronato Panamá Viejo'. The old city was burned down in 1691 by Henry Morgan.

Amador Causeway

The Calzado de Amador is a great example of the cosmopolitan nature of the panama city people. A great getaway from the hustle and bustle of downtown. Created from some of the earth excavated for the canal, the Causeway stretches out 1 mile into the Pacific Ocean, linking the mainland to the islands of Naos, Culebra, Perico and Flamenco. A marine exhibition center of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute makes an interesting visit, with detailed information about Panama's waters and regular video showings. On the weekends, the causeway is frequented by people who come in their droves to stroll, cycle, skate and jog along this palm-fronded promenade. Lined with countless bars, restaurants and cafés, the Causeway ends with the Fuerte Amador Marina and the Flamenco Shopping Center. Some of the coolest bars and best renowned restaurants of the city are located here, and you can enjoy the food and drink while ogling the super yachts of the rich and famous.

Shopping

Those familiar with Central American cities will be blown away with the shopping on offer in Panama City. Most anything you could hope to buy you will find. Those looking for tax-free shopping, will want to head straight for the free zone in Colón.

Vía España (close to the financial district) offers a high-street environment with plenty of clothes and shoe stores for everyone. Cheap day-to-day goods, as well as many electronic stores are found on the Avenida Central, around the Plaza 5 de Mayo.

If it's malls you're after, there are many to choose from:

Multi Plaza Pacific with its pavement cafés and designer stores, offers the most high-end mall experience in the city. Peaceful and uncrowded, you can even put the kids on the toy train as you go about your shopping in this relaxed atmosphere.

Multicentro Paitilla A good selection of clothes, shoes, jewelers, bookstores, and numerous services such as cell phone stores and pharmacies. Multicentro also has a nice outdoor restaurant / bar area.

Mall El Dorado boasts the only bowling alley in the city. It has a variety of shops, but the setting and quality do not compare to the city's other malls.

Albrook Mall

Located next to the International/National Bus terminal in Albrook, this mall is full of the cheaper shops in Panama. Guided by the life-size models of cool animals marking the different entrances, you can find most anything here, including a good food court.

As for Panamanian handicrafts and souvenirs, there are several options. The Mercado Nacional de Artesanía, located next to the ruins of Panamá Viejo, offers indoor shops with artesanía from around the country. Also Mi Pueblitos, next to Cerro Ancón, ..?? and the Mercado de Buhonerías y Artesanías behind the anthropological museum in Calidonia also sells many handicrafts.

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Marinas

Marinas

PLACES OF INTEREST

Marinas

Movie theaters

Handicraft

Shopping