Trip Planning Guide: Why Panama Belongs on Your Couples Travel Bucket List
Panama is one of Central America’s most underrated destinations. In this episode, Lisa is joined by Mandy Williams to discuss the best time to visit, where to stay, how to get around, the top things to do in Panama City, and memorable day trips to add to your itinerary. Whether you're planning a couples getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Panama offers an incredible mix of lush landscapes, Caribbean beaches, and unforgettable wildlife experiences — all within one compact, easy-to-explore country.
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Panama is an amazing country with a wide variety of landscapes and activities to offer!
When Is the Best Time to Visit Panama?
One of the most common Panama travel questions is about weather.
Panama has two main seasons:
Dry Season (December – April)
This is widely considered the best time to visit Panama.
Why travelers love it:
Mostly sunny days
Lower humidity
Ideal for sightseeing and tours
Easier travel conditions
Why April Is an Ideal Month
Early April sits in Panama’s shoulder season, offering excellent weather, fewer crowds, better hotel availability, and great balance of value and experience.
For many visitors, April is a sweet spot.
Where to Fly Into Panama
For most international travelers, the entry point is Panama City, Tocumen International Airport (PTY).
Why this airport is convenient:
Major Central American hub
Served by Delta, American, United, Copa Airlines
Modern, easy-to-navigate layout
Often competitive airfare
Pro tip: Confirm you’re booking Panama City (PTY) — not Panama City, Florida.
Is Panama Safe for Tourists?
Safety is often a top concern for first-time visitors to Central America.
Panama generally feels modern, well-developed, comfortable for international travelers, and easy to navigate in tourist areas. It's a similar vibe to Costa Rica if you’ve been there.
Ride-share services like Uber are widely available, which adds another layer of convenience and comfort.
As with any destination, basic precautions apply:
Stay aware of surroundings
Avoid poorly lit areas late at night
Use reputable transportation
Many travelers report feeling very safe throughout their trip.
Language Tips for Visiting Panama
Spanish is the primary language, but English is commonly spoken in many travel-friendly areas.
What helps:
English-speaking hotel staff
Tourist-facing businesses often bilingual
Google Translate bridges gaps
Basic Spanish phrases go far
Even limited Spanish is typically enough to navigate comfortably.
Where to Stay in Panama City
Panama City makes an excellent base for exploring the country.
Why stay in Panama City:
Central location for day trips
Wide range of hotels and restaurants
Easy transportation options
Blend of history and modern amenities
Many travelers prefer branded hotels as they typically have an English-speaking staff, reliable standards, on-site conveniences, and loyalty program benefits
Since most days are spent exploring, room size often matters less than location and comfort.
Getting Around Panama City
Panama City is large, so transportation planning matters.
Reliable ways to get around:
Uber – widely available and affordable
Private drivers – convenient and often cost-effective
Guided tours – easy for first-time visits
Walking – best within specific neighborhoods
Private drivers are especially popular for their door-to-door simplicity.
Best Things to Do in Panama City
Panama City offers far more than many visitors expect. The city blends historic charm, waterfront views, and globally significant landmarks.
1. Visit Casco Viejo (Historic District)
Casco Viejo is one of the most popular attractions in Panama City.
Why it’s a must-see:
Beautiful colonial architecture
Colorful streets and plazas
Excellent photography spots
Walkable and lively atmosphere
Great dining options
It’s ideal for slow wandering and soaking in the city’s character.
2. Walk the Amador Causeway
For relaxed sightseeing and ocean views:
Scenic waterfront promenade
Local vendors and cafés
Popular with families and cyclists
Easy, low-effort activity
It’s perfect for a laid-back afternoon.
3. Tour the Panama Canal
No Panama itinerary is complete without visiting the Panama Canal.
Why it’s worth your time:
Fascinating global history
Excellent visitor center exhibits
Informative film presentation
Incredible engineering spectacle
If possible, plan your visit around ship transit times! Getting to watch massive ships pass through is unforgettable.
4. Explore Local Markets
Local markets offer a glimpse into everyday Panamanian life.
Expect to find:
Fresh seafood and produce
Local snacks and ingredients
Handmade crafts
Vibrant, authentic energy
Markets are a cultural experience as much as a shopping one.
5. Experience Panama’s Food Scene
Panama City is surprisingly strong for food lovers.
Local favorites include:
Sancocho – traditional chicken stew
Ceviche – exceptionally fresh seafood
Octopus ceviche – standout dish for many visitors
Fresh fruit juices – widely available and delicious
Local bakeries – pastries and desserts
Seafood is particularly impressive thanks to Panama’s coastal geography.
6. Take a Scenic Hilltop Hike
Panama City even offers wildlife-friendly hikes.
Why travelers love it:
Short, manageable trail
Panoramic city views
Frequent wildlife sightings
Unique urban-meets-nature experience
Seeing sloths near a capital city is not unusual.
Best Day Trips from Panama City
One of Panama’s biggest advantages is how easily you can experience wildly different environments.
El Valle de Antón Day Trip
Located about 90 minutes from Panama City, El Valle de Antón offers:
Lush mountain scenery
Farm and nature experiences
Traditional foods
Cultural encounters
Cooler temperatures
It’s a dramatic change from the cityscape.
Caribbean Coast & Portobelo
For beach lovers and water activities:
Caribbean cultural influences
Excellent snorkeling opportunities
Relaxed beach atmosphere
Incredible marine life
Fresh seafood experiences
This region feels completely different from Panama City.
Chagres River & Emberá Village
One of the most memorable excursions:
Canoe rides through jungle-lined rivers
Wildlife spotting
Visits to Emberá communities
Cultural demonstrations
Local crafts and traditions
It’s immersive, educational, and visually stunning.
Is Panama an Affordable Destination?
A common misconception is that Panama is extremely budget-friendly.
Reality:
Currency roughly equivalent to USD
Pricing closer to Costa Rica or Belize
Wide range of budget options still available
Costs vary heavily by travel style
Strategic choices (points, tours, dining) can significantly shape expenses.
Why Panama Is Worth Visiting
Panama stands out for its diversity and accessibility.
Few destinations offer:
Modern city experiences
Historic districts
Caribbean beaches
Countryside escapes
Wildlife encounters
Short travel distances
It’s an ideal destination for travelers who want variety without complicated logistics.
If you’re planning a trip to Panama, Panama City provides the perfect launch point for discovering everything this remarkably diverse country offers.
Meet our guest
Mandy Williams @wayfaringmandy is a travel writer with decades of travel experience.
You can find her blogs at wayfaringmandy.com.