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Panama City

Panama · Coast · PAB · 8.982400, -79.519900
Family friendly 7.2/10 · Rank 607 of 2 709
Best season: December-April (dry season)

Best for

For all types of travellers: history, city life, shopping and nature lovers.

Best season

December-April (dry season)

Daily budget
$131.00 (≈ 10 994 ₽)
For 7 days
$917.00 (≈ 76 955 ₽)
Panama City is the bustling capital of Panama, stretching 10 km along the Pacific coast. It blends futuristic skyscrapers with the historic Casco Viejo district (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and the famous Panama Canal. This dynamic metropolis offers great cuisine, culture, and nightlife.
Summer
33.0°C
Winter
23.0°C
Sea
29.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

active

Pace of life

fast

Local character

Hospitable, friendly, cosmopolitan.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Panama Canal
  • Rich history
  • Developed infrastructure
  • Active nightlife

Cons

  • High cost
  • Traffic jams
  • Pickpocketing
  • Hot and humid climate
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
28.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
32.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
33.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
27.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
31.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
23.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
28.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
29.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
May-November
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand (artificial on the causeway)
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
golden
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
mild
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
moderate (murky near shore)
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Amador Causeway Beach
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
Yes
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
Yes
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
moderate
Note

Main dangers are rip currents, jellyfish and pickpocketing in tourist areas.

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins in the coastal waters of Panama City are represented by species such as Diadema mexicanum and Echinometra viridis. They are part of the region's reef ecosystem
  • Over the past 10 years, sea urchin numbers have declined significantly. Special swimming shoes are recommended

Corals and reefs — details

  • Coral reefs in the Panama City area, including the Pearl Islands and Las Perlas archipelago, are represented by diverse coral species, including Pocillopora, Porites and Pavona
  • Reefs are home to diverse marine life: reef fish, turtles, sharks and invertebrates. In 2024, the box jellyfish Carybdea xaymacana was recorded in Panama

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish occasionally appear along the coast, usually harmless

Sharks — details

  • Various shark species inhabit the waters off Panama City, including the whitetip reef shark (Triaenodon obesus) and bull shark (Carcharhinus leucas). Nurse sharks are also found
  • Sharks do not pose a serious danger to swimmers in the coastal zone, but caution is recommended
Attractions

Panama Canal (Miraflores Locks)

One of the world's wonders, Miraflores Locks with an observation deck.

Casco Viejo

Historic district, UNESCO site, with colonial architecture, restaurants and bars.

Biomuseo

Biodiversity museum designed by Frank Gehry.

Panamá Viejo

Ruins of the old city founded in 1519, UNESCO site.

Amador Causeway

Scenic waterfront with views of the city and Panama Canal.

Cinta Costera

Modern waterfront with parks and cycle paths.

Best areas

Casco Viejo

Historic district with colonial architecture and nightlife.

Obarrio

Modern area with skyscrapers and restaurants.

Amador

Waterfront with views of the canal and city.

San Francisco

Residential area with shops and restaurants.

Must-try food

Sancocho

Traditional chicken soup with vegetables and spices.

Ropa Vieja

Shredded beef with vegetables.

Ceviche

Fresh fish in lime juice.

Patacones

Fried green plantains.

Hojaldres

Sweet fried pastries.

Where to go next

Panama Canal

Miraflores and Gatun Locks, ~30 km.

Pearl Islands (Las Perlas)

Archipelago with beaches and diving, ~60 km by ferry.

Soberanía National Park

Rainforest with trails, ~30 km.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
high
Getting there
Nearest airports
Международный аэропорт Токумен (PTY).
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Visa
Visa requirements
not required for most countries (up to 90 days)
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
December-April (dry season)
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$84.00
≈ 7 049 ₽
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$138.00
≈ 11 581 ₽
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$195.00
≈ 16 364 ₽
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$200.00
≈ 16 784 ₽
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$120.00
≈ 10 070 ₽
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$35.00
≈ 2 937 ₽
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$1.50
≈ 126 ₽
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽
Burger
Average price for a burger
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$0.35
≈ 29 ₽
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$45.00
≈ 3 776 ₽
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$80.00
≈ 6 714 ₽
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽
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Frequently asked questions
Panama City: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is December-April (dry season). At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Panama City: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +33.0°C, during the day — up to +32.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Panama City: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +23.0°C, during the day — up to +31.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Panama City: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +29.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Panama City: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on May-November. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Panama City: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand (artificial on the causeway)" surface, golden sand, moderate (murky near shore) water. The most popular beaches: Amador Causeway Beach. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Panama City: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as high — swimming is only recommended in specially designated areas. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Panama City: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish. Main dangers are rip currents, jellyfish and pickpocketing in tourist areas.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Panama City: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $131.00 (≈ 10 994 ₽) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Panama City: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $30.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $84.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $138.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $195.00 per night, an apartment — $120.00 per night, a villa — $200.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Panama City: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $10.00, dinner at a restaurant — $35.00, a cup of cappuccino — $4.00, a 0.5L beer — $3.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.50. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Panama City: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $30.00, a single public transport ticket — $0.35, a short taxi ride — $6.00, car rental — $45.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Panama City: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Panama Canal (Miraflores Locks) — One of the world's wonders, Miraflores Locks with an observation deck.; Casco Viejo — Historic district, UNESCO site, with colonial architecture, restaurants and bars.; Biomuseo — Biodiversity museum designed by Frank Gehry.; Panamá Viejo — Ruins of the old city founded in 1519, UNESCO site.; Amador Causeway — Scenic waterfront with views of the city and Panama Canal.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Panama City: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Sancocho — Traditional chicken soup with vegetables and spices.; Ropa Vieja — Shredded beef with vegetables.; Ceviche — Fresh fish in lime juice.; Patacones — Fried green plantains.; Hojaldres — Sweet fried pastries.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Panama City: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Casco Viejo — Historic district with colonial architecture and nightlife.; Obarrio — Modern area with skyscrapers and restaurants.; Amador — Waterfront with views of the canal and city.; San Francisco — Residential area with shops and restaurants.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Panama City: is a visa required?
Visa: not required for most countries (up to 90 days). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Panama City: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Международный аэропорт Токумен (code PTY). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $30.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Panama City: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — PAB. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $131.00 (≈ 10 994 ₽). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Panama City: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Panama City: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as high. There are plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants that stay open until morning.
Panama City: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Panama Canal — Miraflores and Gatun Locks, ~30 km.; Pearl Islands (Las Perlas) — Archipelago with beaches and diving, ~60 km by ferry.; Soberanía National Park — Rainforest with trails, ~30 km.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

7.2/10
Overall rank: 607 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 420

Best season

December-April (dry season)

Useful information

Currency: PAB
Coordinates: 8.982400, -79.519900