Neighborhood guide
Where to Stay in Panama City
The 4 areas worth basing yourself in Panama City, Panama — ranked by our editors, with walking distances from the center. First-timers: start with Casco Viejo.
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We’ll match Panama City’s neighborhoods to how you travel — and show you why.
Top pick
Casco Viejo
The colonial old town — cobblestones, boutique hotels, rooftop bars, Sunday markets.
3.8 km from center
#2
El Cangrejo
Restaurant-and-hotel zone — a walkable strip of international restaurants and mid-range hotels.
9 min walk from center
#3
Punta Pacifica
Modern skyscraper district — luxury hotels, malls, safest area after dark.
23 min walk from center
#4
Amador Causeway
A 3km causeway of islands connected to the city — bike, run, or watch canal ships.
7.9 km from center
Getting around
Metro (2 lines) reaches most tourist zones; Uber is cheap and safe; taxis negotiate first — no meters.
Tocumen Airport is 45 minutes from Casco Viejo — Uber $30–40. Panama City buses (Metrobus) require a RapiPass card.