Things to do in  Panama City

Panama City, the largest financial and banking hub in Central America, is best known for the Panama Canal shipping channel. The thriving city offers a high-rise studded city skyline and colonial-era architecture in Casco Viejo, popular for its artful ruins, churches, restaurants, plazas, museums and shopping.

Don't miss the colonial-era architecture of Panama City's Casco Viejo. Visit the colorful Frank Gehry-designed Biomuseo, focused on Panama's natural history, and walk up Ancon Hill for views of the entire city. Head to the Miraflores Locks at the Panama Canal to observe the ships in action.

One day in Panama City lets you visit natural, cultural, and culinary attractions. Begin with an early trip up Ancon Hill for the views, then check out the natural exhibits at Biomuseo. Spend the afternoon and evening in Casco Viejo, wandering the cobbled streets and dining at top restaurants.

You'll find some of the city’s best restaurants and shops in downtown Panama City, which is the area northeast of Casco Viejo. Wander amidst the city's modern high-rise office and apartment buildings and try fare from the restaurants dotting El Cangrejo and the Financial District (Area Bancária).

Panama City’s nightlife scene is vibrant, whether you’re looking for Latin dance clubs, late-night restaurants and cocktail bars, or somewhere with a city view. Most nightlife is concentrated in the downtown business district and Casco Viejo, and each provides a different atmosphere. Many places stay open until 2am or 3am.

Yes. Panama is generally a safe tourist destination. Violent crime against foreigners is not common, but it does occur occasionally. Petty crime and theft is more common, so take normal safety precautions. The least safe areas are in the east, near the Colombia border, due to gang-related and political violence.