How to make the most out of your layover in Panama City

Panama City might look sleek and modern with its shiny skyscrapers, but it’s got some serious history packed into it. As a key city in Central America, it serves as a bridge to South America, blending cultures and histories. Here’s a fun twist: the city actually contains two older cities, both recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

First, there’s Panama Viejo, an archaeological site where you can wander through the ruins of the original city founded in 1519! But, pirates destroyed it, which adds a touch of drama to its past.

Then there’s Casco Antiguo, a charming, walled colonial city full of color, history, and flavor. Stroll the streets of this historic district, and you’ll stumble upon cool museums, cozy hotels, and some of the city’s best nightlife.

Most international layovers will be at Tocumen International Airport (PTY), but the city also has Albrook "Marcos A. Gelabert" International Airport (PAC) for domestic flights and Panama Pacifico International Airport (BLB) for certain international and regional routes.

Things to keep in mind before leaving the airport

Before you dash out of Tocumen International Airport to enjoy Panama City, you should know a few things to make your trip smooth and stress-free.

Visa requirements in Panama

For most travelers, visiting Panama City during a layover is straightforward. Citizens from the U.S., EU, and many other countries do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. Always double-check the current entry requirements for your nationality so there are no surprises at Tocumen International Airport.

If you’re staying within the airport’s international transit area, you won’t need a visa. But, check if your nationality needs a tourist visa to head out and explore. Thinking about extending your visit? You can apply for a visa extension at Panama’s immigration office.

Minimum layover times in Panama City

How much time do you have between flights? Here’s a quick guide to help you plan:

• In-airport short layover (up to four hours)
• Domestic flights (45 minutes): If you’re passing through the Tocumen International Airport (PTY) for a domestic flight, you’re in luck! These are typically pretty quick. A 45-minute layover should be enough, as you won’t need to go through immigration or lengthy security checks. PTY's clear layout makes it easy to move between gates without any fuss. Just keep an eye on your boarding pass and any gate updates to stay on schedule for your next flight.
• International flights (2 hours): Plan for at least a 2-hour layover. You’ll need to pass through security and possibly passport control, so make sure your documents are in order and ready to show.
  Pro tip: PTY is known for its organized flow, but if you want to breeze through even faster during your short stopover, apply for Global Entry or similar programs to skip long security lines.
• In-airport long layover (4-7 hours): You can easily keep yourself entertained. Start with a meal at Tierra Firma or Air Margaritaville for sit-down dining (meals range around USD 15-25), or grab a quick snack from spots like Cinnabon or Subway. Most eateries close by 10:00 PM, so plan beforehand if you’re there overnight. Relax in the Tocumen Royal Saloon for a fee of around USD 40, which gets you access to food, drinks, WiFi, and comfortable seating. Visit the Copa Club if you’re flying with Copa Airlines (they have showers available).
• Overnight layover (7+ hours): You get to explore Panama City! Congratulations! A taxi or rideshare is the most convenient option for getting to the city centre. This costs around USD 25-30 and takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. For a more budget-friendly option, hop on the Metro Bus that will run you less than USD 3, but the trip will be longer (60-90 minutes). Plan ahead and have some cash on hand for buses, since not all of them accept cards.

What to do in Panama City during a layover

Before heading out, use Bounce luggage storage to stow your bags. Wandering around town is much more enjoyable when you’re hands-free and focused on soaking up the sights. Juggling your luggage while trying to swipe through Google Maps or read up on the history of Casco Viejo is a struggle no one needs.

Morning layover in Panama City

Got an early start? Panama City’s morning energy is unmatched. Kick off at the Miraflores Locks at the Panama Canal. The Miraflores Visitor Center gives you a front-row seat to see the ships passing through and an informative museum. Entry is about USD 15 and it’s worth every cent.

Breakfast spots:

• Mentiritas Blancas: Known for their specialty coffee and big breakfast options.
• Cafe Unido: A local favorite where you can try traditional Panamanian breakfast like hojaldre (fried dough) with a cup of freshly brewed coffee. You'll probably spend about USD 10-15.

Afternoon layover in Panama City

An afternoon layover gives you time to learn more about Casco Viejo, the old town brimming with Spanish colonial architecture, boutique shops, and street art. Wander its narrow streets, visit the Plaza de la Independencia, and snap photos of the Presidential Palace.

Lunch recommendations:

• Donde José: A culinary adventure that has a tasting menu with local flavors. Meals here range from USD 30 to 50.
• Diablicos: Perfect for trying authentic Panamanian dishes, with lunch plates around USD 15-20.

If you’re after a more scenic option, take a trip to the Amador Causeway. This strip connects the mainland to four small islands with great views of both the city and the canal. Grab an ice cream and enjoy the sea breeze as you walk! Or, rent a bike for a more active afternoon.

Evening layover in Panama City

If your layover extends into the evening, Panama City’s nightlife is ready to impress. Head back to Casco Viejo for its rooftop bars and live music spots. Need something a bit different? Visit the Biomuseo, designed by Frank Gehry, which shows Panama’s biodiversity and history.

Dinner spots:

• Maito: A top-tier dining experience where local ingredients meet modern culinary techniques. Meals typically cost USD 40-60.
• Nazca 21: For those who enjoy Peruvian flavors with a twist, expect to spend around USD 20-30 per person.

Overnight layover in Panama City

This means you can experience Panama City under the stars. Store your luggage with Bounce and head out to explore. Enjoy the lights and energy of Casco Viejo, where salsa clubs and rooftop bars keep the party going. For a more chill experience, book a night tour of the Panama Canal.

Hotels for an overnight stay:

• Hotel Central: Set in Casco Viejo, it offers comfort and a touch of history. Rooms start at USD 120.
• Crowne Plaza Panama Airport: Convenient for staying close to Tocumen Airport. Rates are around USD 100 per night.

Tips to make the most out of your time in Panama City

• Language: Spanish is the main language here. But don’t worry, you won’t need to break out your high school Spanish in panic. English is pretty common in tourist areas, so you’ll get by with a smile and a friendly “Hola!”
• Currency: The U.S. dollar is widely accepted. Just remember, cash is king in some spots, so keep some small bills on you.
• Safety: Panama City is generally safe, especially in the main tourist areas, but keep an eye on your belongings in crowded spots. Think of it as city smarts 101!
• Transportation: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are reliable. They will run you around USD 25-30 from Tocumen Airport to the city center, so plan ahead for your return trip to the airport. The metro system is budget-friendly, and tickets cost less than USD 1.
• Weather: Panama’s tropical climate can make it feel like summer all year round. Expect warm, humid air, so dress light, pack a water bottle, and maybe throw in a hat to keep your cool.

Panama City’s mix of history and modern flair makes it a standout destination during any layover. To truly enjoy your time, let Bounce take care of your luggage. Imagine wandering through the streets of Casco Viejo, diving into the city’s best coffee shops, or strolling the city with both hands free to snap pictures and savor local treats.