5 days in Panama City- Your Ultimate Solo Travel Guide
If you’re dreaming of a trip that combines skyline views, nature, beach, and history, this 5-day itinerary to Panama City has you covered!
It started as a layover on my way to Costa Rica with Copa Airlines, and I thought, why not make the most of it!? So I signed up for their stopover program, the best decision I made! The layover program allows you to stay in Panama for up to 7 days at no extra airfare cost, which means you could easily combine your trip with any other destination. Whether heading out to Costa Rica, Colombia, Peru, or beyond, this is an easy way to add another country to your itinerary. Great travel hack if you are visiting countries in Central or South America!
This post is my honest day-by-day account of what I did, what worked, what I’d change, and everything you need to plan your own 5-day Panama trip. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or just taking a week off with your limited PTO, this might just convince you to finally explore Panama.
Before we get into the day 5-day breakdown, here are a few practical tips that will help you plan your trip.
What to Know Before You Plan 5 days in Panama City & Beyond
Now let’s dive into the itinerary!
Day 1: Arrive in Panama City+Explore Old Town (Casco Viejo)
Start your journey in Casco Viejo, this historic district is filled with cobblestone streets lined with colonial architecture, restaurants, cafes, and shops. Once you land, take an Uber from the airport, head over to the city’s charming old town, and check into a boutique hotel. Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport (PTY) is modern and easy to navigate. Baggage claim is straightforward, and Uber picks up from designated spots outside arrivals.
My Uber to Casco Viejo ran me about $18-25 and took roughly 30 minutes. Depending on traffic, it can creep a bit during peak hours, so budget accordingly if you have a late-afternoon flight. I stayed in Casco Viejo for the first half of my trip, and I’d recommend this for first-time visitors without hesitation. I stayed at a charming boutique hotel with a pool and a rooftop terrace, perfect for solo travelers!
After dropping my bags, I did what I always do in a new city on day one: I walked. No plan, no agenda, just orientation. Casco Viejo rewards this completely.
The best way to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Old Town is to take a free walking tour. These tours are often led by passionate local guides who provide insights into the city and share excellent tips, including the best restaurants to try. I book most of my free walking tours using the Guru Walk App; the tours are free, but don’t forget to tip your awesome guides!
If structured tours aren’t your thing, no worries. Casco Viejo is perfect if you want to wander around on your own. Explore the charming streets, pop into some artisan shops, and visit the historical sites around Casco Viejo.
Casco Viejo is super walkable and generally feels safe. I would, however,avoid walking late at night. I also recommend walking particularly in the main squares and along the renovated streets, at night. I covered this in much more detail in my Is Panama City Safe for Travelers? A First Timer’s Guide (From My Experience)
Wandering through the cobblestone streets of Casco Viejo, I found colorful colonial buildings, cute coffee shops, and rooftop bars with incredible views. Get yourself up to a rooftop bar for sunset.
Day 2: A visit to the Historic Panama Canal
A trip to Panama City would not be complete without visiting the Historic Panama Canal. I initially did not have this planned out as part of my itinerary, but I am so glad I didn’t miss out on this. Head out to Miraflore Visitor Center to catch the ships passing through. It is such an impressive engineering marvel! The MiraFlores Visitor Center is about 15/20 minutes from Panama City.
Opening hours & ticket price
The ticket office is open every day from 8 am to 5 pm. Non-residents pay $17.22, and this includes entrance to the IMAX movie narrated by Morgan Freeman. The observation deck gives you a front seat as you watch the massive ships pass through the locks.
How do I get to the Panama Canal? I used an Uber to and from my hotel, but there are also taxis available.
Day 3: Whale Watching- Experience the Humpback Whales in the Pearl Islands
Your day starts early for an adventure of whale watching. If you’re visiting Panama between July and October, you get to watch humpback whales in the Pacific waters off the coast of Panama. Humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of the Gulf of Panama during this time, making it one of the best times to see them up close. This was one of the biggest highlights of my trip. I booked an eco-friendly tour with Joshua of Whale Watching Panama. The tour includes lunch on one of the Pearl Islands, making it the best mix of adventure and beachside relaxation.
Day 3: (Alternative) Day trip to the San Blas Islands
If you’re visiting outside of whale-watching season, you could swap this for a day trip to the San Blas Islands. These stunning Caribbean islands are home to the indigenous Guna Yala people, and the beaches here are straight out of a postcard. You can book a day trip from Panama City, explore the white sandy beach, and enjoy the crystal clear waters. Visiting the islands is perfect if you are looking to relax, swim, or snorkel.
Day 4: Picachos De Ola Sunrise Hike
Ready to swap the city streets for a sunrise hiking adventure? For this adventure, you get to start your day with a scenic hike up Pichachos Del Ola, a hidden gem about two hours from Panama City. This hike, though of intermediate difficulty, offers breathtaking sunrise views. Pack good hiking shoes, water, and prepare for some lovely panoramic views.
Day 5: Explore the city and Sky Views at Panaviera Skybar.
End your trip with a relaxed day in the city. End the day watching the sunset at the Panaviera Skybar, the highest rooftop bar in Panama, which is located in the JW Marriott. I enjoyed the golden hour while soaking up the skyline views. Panama has many solo-friendly rooftop restaurants and bars, so your preference will depend on the vibe you are going for.
Solo travel tips for your trip to Panama:
- Uber is your travel bestie- It’s reasonable and the easiest way to get around.
- Weather: Panama is hot and humid, pack light and include breathable clothing.
- Travel Insurance: As a solo traveller, you want to ensure peace of mind whilst travelling.
- Staying in Casco Viejo: A solo traveller, Casco Viejo is a walkable area with plenty of restaurants and bars.
- Spanish: Knowing basic Spanish phrases will make your trip smoother while in Panama or any other Latin American destination.
Whether you’re shopping in the city, sipping rooftop drinks, whale watching, or relaxing by the beach, Panama City gives a lovely dream mix for your next trip! So, when are you booking your next flight? (Need help planning your first solo trip? Here’s a guide for you as a first-time solo traveller.
