Panama’s capital has plenty of attractions and outdoor experiences to offer to both visitors and locals. With so much to choose from. We have created a list of the 10 must-visit attractions in Panama City to help you navigate the Central American megalopolis, whether you are planning a short stopover or a longer stay.

THE CANAL

Undoubtedly the most visited place in Panama City, the Canal is a 48-mile (77km) long artificial waterway that connects the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. Following its recent expansion, the Canal has doubled its capacity, and 14,000 ships are transiting every year. Observe the ships passing through at the Miraflores Locks and Visitors Center.

Boat transiting the Panama Canal | © Chalkcroft/ Pixabay

CASCO VIEJO

Casco Viejo is the second most-visited neighborhood of Panama City. Once a dangerous area patrolled by gangs, it is now a UNESCO protected district, made up of renovated colonial houses, boutique hotels, fine-dining restaurants and some of the best coffeehouses in town.

The Cathedral in Casco Viejo, Panama |© Lapping/Pixabay

THE BIOMUSEO

The Biomuseo is Panama City’s most famous museum. Located in Amador, it was designed by the famous architect Frank Gehry. Its eight galleries trace the origins of the Panamanian isthmus and its impact on the planet’s biodiversity.

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PANAMA VIEJO

Panama Viejo is all that remains from the old city of Panama, founded in 1519 by Spanish conquistador Pedro Arias de Ávila. The ruins, today a UNESCO heritage site, are the oldest monument you will find in Panama City.

Panama Viejo, Panama | © Lapping/ Pixabay

EL TORNILLO

The F&F Tower, also known as El Tornillo (“the screw”) is the most remarkable skyscraper of Panama City, located in the financial district of Calle 50. The shape of the building, which is 774 feet (236m) tall, is an innovation in Latin American architecture and was one of the winners of the Emporis Skyscraper Award in 2011.

View over Panama City’s financial district | © Courtesy of Woondu

SOBERANIA NATIONAL PARK

The Soberania National Park is a national park located 15.5 miles (25km) outside Panama City, right by the border with the Colón Province and close to Gamboa Rainforest Resort. A quick drive away from the city center, it offers a spectacular jungle experience, as well as the opportunity to see monkeys, parrots, jaguars and eagles.
Ara ararauna | © Lacie Slezak/Unsplash

THE CATHEDRAL

An absolute must-see when visiting Panama City is the Cathedral of Santa Maria la Antigua of Panama. More simply known as “the Cathedral,” this catholic building is located in the colonial area of Casco Viejo.

A Gothic icon right at the center of Panama City, the Iglesia del Carmen (Church of our Lady of Mount Carmen) stands out as one of the most beautiful buildings in Panama. Though it was built in the 20th century, the architectural style is reminiscent of the Middle Ages. The Church is the most visited in the entire country.

EINSTEIN’S HEAD

Located on Via Argentina, in the vibrant and central neighborhood of El Cangrejo, you will find the statue of Einstein’s head, an icon in Panama City. The monument was created by sculptor Carlos Arboleda.

Statue of Einstein’s head, Via Argentina | © Courtesy of oneweirdglobe.com

THE MIRAFLORES LOCKS

The Visitor Center at the Miraflores Locks  is a unique location to observe the transiting of ships as they cross the Canal and move from the Atlantic to the Pacific oceans. The exhibition hall and 3D movie explain the story of the Panama canal to complement your experience.

Ship transiting the Panama Canal at Miraflores Locks, Panama City | © LisaBMarshall/Pixabay