Why Panama City, Panama Should Be Your Next Long Weekend Getaway or Stopover
Looking for a vibrant, quick getaway in Central America? Or a culturally rich stopover on your way to South America? Panama City, Panama might be the perfect answer. With direct flights from major U.S. cities, excellent food, and a unique blend of history, this Latin American capital delivers far more than most travelers expect.
Getting to and Around Panama City
Copa Airlines offers an enticing stopover program that makes Panama City an easy bonus destination. Travelers can add a free stopover of 24 hours up to 7 days either on their outbound or return flight, without paying extra airfare. Plus, Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport (PTY) is one of the most efficient hubs in the region. If you're connecting through Panama on the same ticket, you won't have to go through customs, which makes it a convenient gateway to other Central and South American destinations like Colombia, Costa Rica, or Ecuador.
Once you’re in Panama City, don’t plan to explore on foot—the city isn’t very walkable. But don’t worry, Ubers are plentiful and cheap. A ride to or from the airport costs around $20 USD, and trips within the city usually run about $5 USD, depending on distance.
Where to Eat and Drink in Panama City
One of Panama City's biggest surprises is its thriving food scene, especially in Casco Viejo, the city’s charming historic quarter. Here’s a guide to some must-try spots:
Celia Bar de Vinos y Restaurant - Start your food journey at this cozy wine bar. Sip on a Calmato mezcal martini and browse the thoughtfully curated wine list. Don’t miss the roasted chicken, which just might be one of the best dishes in town.
Casa Sucre Coffeehouse - In the heart of Casco Viejo, this local favorite serves up a $9 cup of Geisha coffee, one of the most exclusive and aromatic coffees in the world. Grown high in Panama’s Boquete region, Geisha beans are prized for their floral, tea-like notes and limited production. If you're a coffee lover, this is a must.
Luna Rooftop - End your evening with a nightcap on the 31st floor at Luna Rooftop. The vibe is casual, the cocktails are solid, and the city views are unbeatable.
Corcho - A charming wine bar and restaurant also tucked into Casco Viejo. Great for a glass of something special before dinner—or a full meal if you’re lingering.
La Tapa del Coco - Recently featured in 50 Best Discovery, this unassuming spot feels like a hidden gem. Set up in what’s essentially a parking lot, it serves excellent ceviche, top-tier margaritas, and delivers a super casual, laid-back vibe. While the service can be hit or miss, the flavors are worth it.
Fonda Lo Que Hay - A favorite among locals and visitors alike. Highlights include the tuna tostada, tamarind margarita, and a queso fundido that tastes like a cross between French onion soup and melty cheese heaven. Don’t skip the “sexy clams.”
Cantina del Tigre - The rainforest-themed entrance is kitschy, but the ossobuco is incredibly tender and flavorful. It’s worth the trip if you’re exploring beyond Casco Viejo.
What to Do in Panama City
Explore Casco Viejo
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is full of life—historic buildings, cool boutiques, artisan shops, and trendy cafes. Don’t miss:
Monsters Showroom – funky local fashion and gifts
I Love Panama Chocolate – handmade chocolates and cacao-based treats
Kindly Shop – a great stop for ethical souvenirs and gifts
The Panama Canal Museum
Located right in Casco Viejo, this museum walks you through the history, politics, and engineering marvel of the Panama Canal. If you want a deeper understanding of the country’s identity, this is the place to start.
Biomuseo
This colorful, angular building is impossible to miss. Designed by Frank Gehry, it’s his only project in Latin America and houses engaging exhibits about Panama’s natural history and biodiversity.
Coco Spa
Need a break from sightseeing? Treat yourself to a wellness experience at Coco Spa, one of the top-rated spas in Panama City. Whether you opt for a deep tissue massage or a full spa ritual, it’s the perfect reset during your stay.
Taboga Island
Just 30 minutes by ferry, Taboga Island makes for a convenient day trip. The beach is a bit rough around the edges—think Coney Island with palm trees—but the water is great for swimming. If you book a catamaran tour, you can jump off and swim in open water, which is a highlight.
Add-On Adventures: San Blas Islands or Bocas del Toro
If you have more time, consider hopping over to one of Panama’s stunning coastal escapes:
San Blas Islands – Remote, pristine, and indigenous-run. You can get there via a bumpy 3-hour drive or a short charter flight from the domestic airport.
Bocas del Toro – A colorful Caribbean archipelago known for overwater bungalows, laid-back vibes, and great snorkeling. It’s accessible via a domestic flight or a long bus-and-boat combo.
Panama City is perfect for a long weekend or an extended stopover. Whether you’re sipping world-class coffee, taking in views from a rooftop bar, or exploring its rich history and biodiversity, Panama’s capital has more than enough to keep you curious for a few days. With Copa Airlines’ stopover program, there’s no reason not to make a quick detour here—and maybe even come back for more. Ready to plan your trip? Reach out today.
