Where to Stay in Panamá
Panama
|Pop. 408K
|4 neighbourhoods covered
|Updated March 2026
Photo: Avel Chuklanov / Unsplash
Quick Answer: Best Area to Stay
For most visitors, Casco Viejo is the best neighbourhood to stay in Panamá. Historic colonial charm meets buzzing nightlife and culinary exploration. Ideal for first-timers, couples, nightlife. Budget travellers can get by on USD 50/day.
Areas to Avoid in Panamá
Safety rated "Moderate". See which areas need extra caution and where to stay instead.
Best Neighbourhoods at a Glance
| Neighbourhood | Vibe | Budget | Best For | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Casco Viejo | Historic colonial charm meets buzzing nightlife and culinary exploration. | Luxury | first-timers, couples | Generally safe during the day with touri... |
| Obarrio | Modern, upscale financial district with chic hotels, shopping, and dining. | Luxury | business travelers, luxury | Generally very safe due to its commercia... |
| Bella Vista | A mix of residential high-rises, local eateries, and a lively waterfront promenade. | Mid-range | families, couples | Generally safe during the day, especiall... |
| Punta Pacifica | Exclusive, modern residential area with luxury shopping and dining. | Luxury | luxury, families | Extremely safe due to its exclusivity an... |
Casco Viejo
LuxuryHistoric colonial charm meets buzzing nightlife and culinary exploration.
Generally safe during the day with tourist police presence, but be aware of pick...
Obarrio
LuxuryModern, upscale financial district with chic hotels, shopping, and dining.
Generally very safe due to its commercial nature and higher police presence. Sta...
Bella Vista
Mid-rangeA mix of residential high-rises, local eateries, and a lively waterfront promenade.
Generally safe during the day, especially along Balboa Avenue. Be cautious in qu...
Punta Pacifica
LuxuryExclusive, modern residential area with luxury shopping and dining.
Extremely safe due to its exclusivity and private security. Primarily residentia...
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Panamá
Liveliest areas for nightlife, culture, and entertainment
Casco Viejo
Historic colonial charm meets buzzing nightlife and culinary exploration.
Our top picks in Casco Viejo
Bella Vista
A mix of residential high-rises, local eateries, and a lively waterfront promenade.
Our top picks in Bella Vista
Obarrio
Modern, upscale financial district with chic hotels, shopping, and dining.
Our top picks in Obarrio
Luxurious resort experience with golf, pools, and fine dining, though slightly outside the core of Obarrio.
Book NowIconic skyscraper hotel offering stunning city and ocean views and high-end amenities.
Book NowModern hotel with a popular rooftop pool and bar, often hosting events.
Book NowWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Things to Do in Panamá
Popular tours, activities, and experiences you can book in advance
🚶Walking Tour
Explore the city on foot with a local guide
🍽️Food Tour
Taste the best local dishes and street food
🚐Day Trip
Discover stunning destinations just outside the city
🏛️Museum & Culture
Skip-the-line access to top museums and galleries
🚌Hop-on Hop-off Bus
See all the highlights from an open-top bus
⛵Boat Tour
See the city skyline from the water
👨🍳Cooking Class
Learn to cook authentic local recipes
🌙Night Tour
Experience the city after dark with a guided tour
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Panamá at a Glance
4 categories
Top Tips for Panamá
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Take advantage of the 'happy hour' deals in Casco Viejo, which often extend beyond just drinks to include appetizers at many restaurants.
Getting Around
Use the Metro for longer distances within its coverage area; it's fast, cheap, and avoids traffic.
Watch Out For
Overcharging by unlicensed taxis
Solo Female Travel
Generally safe, especially in tourist areas like Casco Viejo and Obarrio during the day. Exercise heightened awareness at night and stick to well-lit, populated areas. Avoid walking alone in quiet streets after dark.
Hidden Gems in Panamá
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Mercado de Abastos de Panamá
FREEThis bustling market is where local chefs and families get their fresh produce. It's a vibrant sensory experience with an incredible array of tropical fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies.
Cerro Ancón
FREEHike or drive up this iconic hill for panoramic views of Panama City, the Panama Canal, and the Casco Viejo. It's a peaceful escape with abundant wildlife and historical significance.
Biomuseo
Designed by Frank Gehry, this colorful museum focuses on Panama's biodiversity and its role in connecting the Americas. The architecture itself is a marvel, and the exhibits are incredibly engaging.
Plaza de Francia
FREELocated at the Pacific entrance of the Canal, this charming square offers stunning views and historical monuments dedicated to Ferdinand de Lesseps. It's a great spot to relax and watch ships pass.
Avenida B
FREEWhile Casco Viejo gets all the attention, Avenida B offers a more authentic glimpse into local life with its vibrant street art, local shops, and diverse eateries.
La Posta
A local favorite for delicious Panamanian cuisine with a modern twist, set in a beautifully restored colonial building. Their cocktails are also highly recommended by residents.
Things to Do in Panamá
Popular tours, activities, and experiences you can book in advance
🚶Walking Tour
Explore the city on foot with a local guide
🍽️Food Tour
Taste the best local dishes and street food
🚐Day Trip
Discover stunning destinations just outside the city
🏛️Museum & Culture
Skip-the-line access to top museums and galleries
🚌Hop-on Hop-off Bus
See all the highlights from an open-top bus
⛵Boat Tour
See the city skyline from the water
👨🍳Cooking Class
Learn to cook authentic local recipes
🌙Night Tour
Experience the city after dark with a guided tour
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Top-rated Panamá tours and activities
Skip-the-line tickets, guided walking tours, food experiences, and day trips. Reserve now, pay later; free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
What It Costs in Panamá
Daily budget per person in USD
💡72% cheaper than London
USD 50/day
USD 150/day
USD 400/day
Where to Stay in Panamá
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Plaza de Francia5 min
- Panama Canal Museum10 min
- Mercado de Mariscos15 min
Pros
- +Beautiful architecture and history
- +Excellent restaurants and bars
- +Vibrant atmosphere
Cons
- -Can be noisy at night
- -Some streets are poorly maintained
Top stays in Casco Viejo
American Trade Hotel
$$$A beautifully restored historic building offering a luxurious and stylish stay.
The Zsa Zsa Hostel
$A social and vibrant hostel with a great rooftop bar and friendly atmosphere.
Casa Nuratti
$$Charming boutique hotel with a focus on art and design in a colonial setting.
La Concordia Boutique Hotel
$$Offers stylish rooms and a prime location within the heart of Casco Viejo.
Best for
Walk to
- Multiplaza Pacific Mall10 min
- Parque Omar20 min
Pros
- +Excellent dining and shopping options
- +Modern infrastructure
- +Good public transport links
Cons
- -Lacks historic charm
- -Can feel a bit sterile
Top stays in Obarrio
The Santa Maria, a Luxury Collection Hotel & Golf Resort
$$$Luxurious resort experience with golf, pools, and fine dining, though slightly outside the core of Obarrio.
JW Marriott Panama
$$$Iconic skyscraper hotel offering stunning city and ocean views and high-end amenities.
Sortis Hotel, Spa & Casino
$$Modern hotel with a popular rooftop pool and bar, often hosting events.
Courtyard by Marriott Panama at Multiplaza Mall
$$Conveniently located attached to a major shopping mall, ideal for shoppers and business travelers.
Best for
Walk to
- Balboa Avenue5 min
- Parque Urracá10 min
- Casco Viejo (edge)25 min
Pros
- +Affordable dining options
- +Good for walking and cycling along the coast
- +More local feel than Obarrio
Cons
- -Less tourist-oriented amenities
- -Can be noisy due to traffic
Top stays in Bella Vista
Best for
Walk to
- Multiplaza Pacific Mall15 min
- Punta Pacifica Hospital10 min
Pros
- +Very safe and clean
- +High-end amenities and services
- +Access to upscale shopping
Cons
- -Expensive
- -Limited public transport access
- -Very residential, lacks distinct tourist attractions
Areas to be cautious
- Certain areas of San Miguelito: This is a large district with significant poverty and higher crime rates. While not all areas are dangerous, it's generally advised for tourists to avoid it unless with a local guide.
- Remote, unlit streets in any neighborhood after dark: Even in generally safe areas, poorly lit or deserted streets can attract petty crime. Always opt for well-trafficked and illuminated routes, or take a taxi/rideshare at night.
Insider tip: Take advantage of the 'happy hour' deals in Casco Viejo, which often extend beyond just drinks to include appetizers at many restaurants.
Where to Stay in Panamá
Compare hotel deals across the best neighbourhoods on Expedia.
Stay in Casco Viejo
Historic colonial charm meets buzzing nightlife and culinary exploration.
Stay in Obarrio
Modern, upscale financial district with chic hotels, shopping, and dining.
Stay in Bella Vista
A mix of residential high-rises, local eateries, and a lively waterfront promenade.
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Places to Stay in Panamá
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List Your PropertySafety in Panamá
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Generally safe, especially in tourist areas like Casco Viejo and Obarrio during the day. Exercise heightened awareness at night and stick to well-lit, populated areas. Avoid walking alone in quiet streets after dark.
At Night
Stick to main streets in popular areas like Casco Viejo and Obarrio. Taxis or rideshares are recommended for getting around between neighborhoods or to/from accommodations after dark.
Emergency
911
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overcharging by unlicensed taxis
- 2Distraction theft (pickpocketing) in crowded areas
- 3Fake police officers requesting money
Compare hotel deals in Panamá
See today's prices across hundreds of hotels. Free cancellation on most bookings, so you can lock in a great rate risk-free.
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Travel Insurance for Panamá
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Stay Connected in Panama
Skip expensive roaming. Get an eSIM for Panama and have data the moment you land.
Get an eSIMGetting Around Panamá
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
Taxi: ~45-60 mins, $30-40 USD. Uber/Rideshare: ~45-60 mins, $25-35 USD. Bus: Not a direct or convenient option for tourists.
🎫
Day Pass
A Metro card costs $2 and can be loaded with credit. No specific day pass, pay per ride.
Single: Metro: $0.35 - $1.25 depending on distance. Metrobús: $0.25.
🚶
Walkability
Good TransitUber, Didi
📶
WiFi
Good25-50 Mbps
Public Transport
Metro: Two lines (Line 1 and Line 2) are efficient and clean for getting around key areas. Metrobús: Extensive bus network, can be crowded and confusing for tourists.
Ride-share
Uber and DiDi are widely available and generally reliable. Expect prices to be lower than taxis for comparable distances.
Transport Tip
Use the Metro for longer distances within its coverage area; it's fast, cheap, and avoids traffic.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Hotels, many restaurants and cafes, some public plazas.
Coworking
Punto (various locations, $15-25/day), Co-Work-Latam ($20-30/day), Selina Cowork ($15-20/day).
Rent a Car in Panamá
Compare prices from top rental companies. Free cancellation on most bookings.
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Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Jan, Feb, Mar
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Hotels & Accommodation in Panamá
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Who Is Panamá Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-Time Visitors
Offers the most concentrated dose of Panama's history, culture, and vibrant nightlife in a visually stunning setting.
Luxury Travelers
Provides access to high-end shopping, fine dining, and modern, upscale hotels.
Budget Backpackers
Offers more affordable accommodation and local food options, with decent access to transport.
Couples
The romantic colonial architecture, rooftop bars, and excellent restaurants create an ideal atmosphere.
Foodies
This area boasts the highest concentration of innovative and traditional Panamanian cuisine.
Digital Nomads
Good infrastructure, reliable internet, coworking spaces, and proximity to amenities make it a practical base.
About Panamá
Panama, officially the Republic of Panama, is a country located at the southern end of Central America, bordering South America. It is bordered by Costa Rica to the west, Colombia to the southeast, the Caribbean Sea to the north, and the Pacific Ocean to the south. Its capital and largest city is Panama City, whose metropolitan area is home to nearly half of the country's over 4 million inhabitants.
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