Panama City

Panama City, the capital of Panama and the most modern metropolis in Central America, is a city defined by its dual role as a historical gateway and a global commercial hub. Established on August 15, 1519, by the Spanish crown, it was the first European settlement on the Pacific coast of the Americas. The city's history is layered: from the 16th-century ruins of Panamá Viejo to the 17th-century walled city of Casco Viejo, and finally to the gleaming 21st-century skyline of Punta Pacifica. This skyline is often compared to Dubai or Miami, featuring architectural marvels like the corkscrew-shaped F&F Tower. The city's growth is inextricably linked to the Panama Canal, which remains one of the world's most vital maritime passages, handling roughly 5% of global trade and serving as a massive economic engine for the capital. The city's economy is heavily service-oriented, with international banking, insurance, and maritime services taking center stage. Its demographic makeup is a rich tapestry of mestizo, Afro-Panamanian, and significant minority groups from China and Europe, creating a diverse cultural environment. Panama City is also a leader in regional logistics, supported by Tocumen International Airport, the 'Hub of the Americas.' Despite its rapid urbanization, the city is remarkably green; the Ancon Hill stands as a symbol of sovereignty, while the BioMuseo, designed by Frank Gehry, celebrates the unique natural history of the isthmus. Cultural life is lively, with the annual Panama Jazz Festival and the lively seafood markets (Mercado de Mariscos) being local staples. The city's infrastructure has seen massive investments, including the expansion of the Cinta Costera waterfront and a state-of-the-art metro system. Panama City continues to evolve as a bridge between tradition and progress, maintaining its status as a critical node in the global network of trade and finance.

Nearby cities

David

Major city in the west, near the border with Costa Rica.

Colón

Port city at the Caribbean entrance to the Panama Canal.

Santiago de Veraguas

A major agricultural and commercial center.

Chitré

Capital of Herrera province, known for its local festivals.

Soná

A historic agricultural hub and the gateway to the world-renowned surfing and diving spots of Veraguas.

Playa Blanca

A premium resort destination on the Pacific coast featuring giant pools and white sand beaches.

Pedasí

A charming fishing village on the Azuero Peninsula, famous for its beaches, whale watching, and surfing.

Bocas Isla Bastimentos

A wild island in Bocas del Toro known for its marine national park, red frogs, and Afro-Caribbean heritage.

Santa Fé

A charming mountain village in Veraguas, famous for its orchids, coffee culture, and countless waterfalls.

Farallón / Río Hato

A premier Pacific beach destination featuring luxury resorts and expansive golden sand beaches.

Santa Catalina

A once-remote fishing village, now famous as one of Central America's premier surf spots and the gateway to Coiba National Park.

Playa Venao

A world-class surfing destination featuring black sand beaches and a vibrant, laid-back atmosphere.

Aguadulce

An industrial city known for salt production, sugar cane plantations, and shrimp farming.

History & landmarks

Las Tablas

The cultural heart of the Azuero Peninsula, known for its magnificent carnival celebrations and traditional Panamanian folklore.

Amador Causeway

A causeway linking islands, offering great views of the city skyline.

Biomuseo

A colorful biodiversity museum designed by architect Frank Gehry.

Taboga Island

Taboga Island, also known as the "Island of Flowers," is a picturesque volcanic island situated in the Gulf of Panama.

Panama Canal

A world-famous artificial waterway that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

Pearl Islands

An archipelago in the Gulf of Panama, famous for its beaches and clear waters.

El Valle de Anton

A village located inside one of the world's largest inhabited volcanic craters.

Darien National Park

A wild and remote area on the border with Colombia with incredible biodiversity.

Nature

Chagres River

The river that provides the water essential for the operation of the Panama Canal.

Gatun Lake

A massive artificial lake that forms a major part of the Panama Canal.

More places

Casco Viejo

The historic district of Panama City featuring colonial architecture.

Panamá Viejo

The archaeological ruins of the first Spanish city in Panama.

Fortifications of Portobelo

Major Spanish colonial defenses located on the Caribbean coast.

Soberania National Park

A world-renowned destination for birdwatching in the tropical rainforest.

Fort San Lorenzo

A historic fortress situated at the mouth of the Chagres River.

San Blas Islands

Archipelago owned and governed by the indigenous Guna people.

Coiba National Park

A large Pacific island with rich marine life, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Volcan Baru National Park

The protected area surrounding the country's highest peak.