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Panama City Holidays

Unleash your wanderlust and let the jewel of Central America's paradise be your passport to blissful indulgence and vibrant adventure.

This glittering city sits proudly between the bright blue waters of the Pacific Ocean and the lush rainforests of Central America and gloats in culture, history and natural beauty. Start your day with a spectacular visit to the iconic Panama Canal, where you can witness colossal ships passing through this engineering marvel. Pop to the historic district of Casco Viejo, with its charming colonial architecture, vibrant plazas and eclectic art galleries. Then grab the chance to wander along the Amador Causeway, a scenic waterfront promenade offering gorgeous views of the modern “Manhattan Skyline” and the Bridge of the Americas, before hitting the myriad of buzzing shops and fantastic eateries on offer.

Holidaymakers also flock to The Metropolitan Natural Park, where hiking through tropical forests teeming with exotic wildlife becomes second nature. And of course, adore basking in the sun-kissed glory of Panama City's gorgeous beaches, like the tranquil Isla Taboga or the vibrant Santa Clara Beach. With its rich heritage, warm-hearted locals, cosmopolitan flavour and steamy, tropical surroundings, this is your sophisticated cityscape with a rainforest twist!

General Information

Time Difference
Time zones difference between Panama City and the UK is -6 hours.

Currency
Panamanian balboa
Currency can be changed at currency exchange offices, banks, as well as at the post office. In the resort areas both Visa and Mastercard cards and PAB in cash are accepted for payment.
When exchanging money, please note that currency exchange offices may charge a commission for each transaction.

Population
1,086,990

Language
Spanish

Flight duration
14 hours and 25 minutes from Gatwick

Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Panama City is during the dry season, from December to April. This period offers warm temperatures between 24-32°C (75-90°F) with little to no rainfall, making it perfect for exploring the city, visiting the Panama Canal, and enjoying outdoor activities like hiking in nearby national parks. With clear skies and sunny days, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher hotel prices and larger crowds, especially around popular attractions and during festivals like Carnival in February or early March.
For those looking to avoid crowds and get better deals, the shoulder months of November and May can be a great alternative, with occasional rain but still enjoyable weather. The rainy season (May to November) sees frequent downpours, high humidity, and the risk of tropical storms, but it also brings lush greenery and fewer tourists. While beach trips may be less ideal, this is a great time for nature lovers to explore the Soberanía National Park or take advantage of lower prices on accommodations and tours.

Top 5 Things To Do

Old-World Charm Meets Modern Excitement

Step into the charming neighborhood of Casco Viejo, where history and vibrant culture blend in perfect harmony. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets lined with colourful colonial buildings, each one telling its own story. Explore boutique shops, quaint cafes and art galleries showcasing the creativity of local artisans. Indulge in delicious cuisine at lively restaurants and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Sojourn To The Panama Canal

Embark on a mesmerising journey as you set sail on a sojourn to the iconic Panama Canal. Witness engineering marvels unfold before your eyes as colossal ships navigate through the locks, connecting the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. Feel the excitement as you cruise alongside the massive vessels, taking in the awe-inspiring vistas and lush tropical landscapes that surround the canal. Engage with knowledgeable guides who will share fascinating stories and insights about this incredible feat of human ingenuity.

Gain A Panama Perspective

Stopver at the Ancon Hill! This lush, forested hill is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. You can hike to the top for stunning views of the city and the Panama Canal, or simply relax in the shade of the trees and watch for wildlife.

Pop Into The Metropolitan Natural Park

This park is a hidden gem in the heart of the city! You can hike its many trails, birdwatch, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet. The park also has a visitor centre with educational exhibits and a playground for children!

Discover The Panama Viejo

This archaeological site is a fascinating glimpse into Panama's colonial past. You can explore the ruins of the original city, which was destroyed by pirates in the 17th century, and learn about its history at the museum. There's even a re-enactment of the pirate attack on weekends!

Weather

The climate of the country isn’t the same in different regions and varies depending on the location. In winter the tourists tend to flock to the Canary Islands , where the temperatures remain high or take in the culture of Barcelona and Madrid on a short city break. The beach season on the sunny coast of Spain lasts from May to October, with the temperature staying at about 28°C during the summer.