Food
Savor the blend of cultural influences in Panama City's diverse cuisine. Dishes here are a gastronomic fusion of indigenous, Spanish, and African influences, reflecting the city's rich cultural history.
Start your culinary journey with Sancocho, a hearty traditional soup with chicken, corn, and vegetables, and is often touted as Panama's national dish. Also, try Ceviche, raw fish marinated in citrus juices, a staple in the city's food markets. Dessert lovers must attend Tres Leches, sponge cake drenched in a trio of milk varieties.
Culture
Panama City, a cultural melting pot, stands as the cosmopolitan heart of Central America. Its culture blends indigenous, Spanish, and African traditions, reflected in the city's music, art, and festivals.
The city is famous for its vibrant music scene, especially salsa, reggae, and tipico. Visit the city during the Carnival, held annually before Lent, to see Panama's culture in its full vibrancy, complete with parades, floats, and music.
Travel Tips
- Currency: The official currency is the Panamanian Balboa, but the U.S. dollar is widely accepted.
- Safety: Panama City is generally safe for tourists, but as with any major city, it's always essential to take precautions, particularly in crowded areas.
- Weather: Panama City has a tropical rainforest climate. The dry season (mid-December to mid-April) is the best time to visit.
- Transportation: Public transportation in Panama City includes buses and a metro system. Taxis are also available, and Uber operates in the city.
Interesting Facts
- Panama City is the only capital city in the world with a rainforest within its city limits.
- The city is located at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal, one of the seven wonders of the modern world.
- Panama City is home to the second-largest duty-free zone in the world, the Colon Free Zone.
Top Places
- Panama Canal: A visit to the Miraflores Locks Museum will offer a deep understanding of the engineering marvel that is the Panama Canal.
- Casco Viejo: This historic district is a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to colonial-era landmarks, quaint shops, and vibrant nightlife.
- Biomuseo: Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, this museum showcases Panama's rich biodiversity.
- Metropolitan Natural Park: Offering fresh air within the city, this is a haven for nature lovers and bird watchers.
- Amador Causeway: This walkway offers stunning views of the city skyline, the Panama Canal, and the Bridge of the Americas.
Panama City, with its mix of modern skyscrapers, historic sites, and natural beauty, offers a captivating blend of experiences for every traveler. This dynamic city offers plenty, whether you're into history, nature, or food. From its mouthwatering cuisine to its vibrant cultural scene, Panama City is a place that demands to be explored.
