Ever since I learned about the freshwater Panama Canal that slices through the jungle, I knew Panama City had to be on my list. Add in the Spanish colonial charm of Casco Viejo, the pristine beauty of the San Blas Islands (governed by the Indigenous Guna people), and the surprise of one of Central America’s most modern skylines, and it quickly climbed to the top of my travel wishlist.
I planned the trip about four months in advance after scoring an incredible Aeroplan redemption—just 25,000 points roundtrip. I wanted a destination that could help me celebrate turning 30 with a little of everything: a lively city, a rich and unique culture, gorgeous beaches, and a vibrant food scene—all wrapped in a package that didn’t break the bank.
First Impressions
Arriving in Panama, I was immediately struck by how modern and American-influenced the city felt—even the airport was filled with familiar U.S. brands, and Panama uses the U.S. dollar as its official currency. Customs was fast and smooth, and it only took about 15 minutes to reach downtown Panama City from the airport.
I landed around 10 p.m. on a rainy Saturday night, and my first glimpse of the city skyline—lit up against the clouds—was electric. Skyscrapers shimmered, restaurants were buzzing, and the energy on the streets hinted at the lively city that awaited. The chaotic-but-exciting traffic was a reminder that I had truly arrived in Central America (not as chaotic as other places, but not as refined as North American driving habits).
Weather-wise, I visited during the rainy season (May to December). This time of year is known for its unpredictability—some days bring full sunshine, others a quick storm followed by blue skies, and occasionally, nonstop rain. During my stay in late June, I was caught in several downpours, but honestly? They were refreshing, especially with the high humidity and temperatures hovering around 28-30°C.
If you’re visiting during the wet season, pack for tropical conditions and go with the flow—the weather rarely ruins a day, and often adds its own charm. The dry season (January to April) is more consistent, but don’t be afraid of the clouds. They often pass as quickly as they arrive.
What I Did
City Highlights
I started by exploring the neighborhoods that give Panama City its diverse energy. Downtown, where I stayed at the luxurious W Panama (see my review here), is buzzing with high-rises, global restaurants, and upscale shopping. From there, I ventured into the city’s most charming and historic quarter: Casco Viejo. With its colorful Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and open plazas, it felt like I had been dropped into a quiet corner of Spain. I visited the Panama City Museum inside the city hall (free admission!), toured several churches, and soaked up the old-world vibe that blends so beautifully with modern street art, rooftop bars, and trendy cafés.
I also visited both Multiplaza and Albrook Mall—two of the largest shopping centers in Latin America. Albrook even has its own train station and animal-themed signage to help you navigate the massive footprint. Whether you’re after luxury brands or local fashion, Panama City is a surprising shopping paradise.
Of course, no trip to Panama City is complete without seeing the Panama Canal. I headed to the Miraflores Locks Visitor Centre, where the experience began with an IMAX movie narrated by Morgan Freeman (who would have thought?!) that lays out the canal’s history and impact. Then I made my way to the viewing deck and watched as massive ships passed through the locks, guided by iconic electric locomotives that keep them perfectly centered. It was a wild reminder of the human’s races ingenuity and Panama’s global importance for shipping.
Another great way to take in the city’s skyline is by renting a bike from one of the many local bike rental places (I rented from Moses Bike Rentals) and pedaling along the Amador Causeway—a narrow stretch of land reaching out into Panama Bay. The views of the city’s skyline from out on the water are spectacular, especially at sunset.
Nature & Adventure
One of the highlights of my trip was how easily you can escape the city and step into paradise or jungle with just a short ride. I spent several days chasing both saltwater and waterfalls—and Panama delivered.
I booked a full-day tour to the San Blas Islands, a remote stretch of over 365 islands managed by the Indigenous Guna people. It’s a bit of a trek—three hours each way by van and boat—but absolutely worth it. I visited four different islands, each more breathtaking than the last. I got to swim and snorkel, including at a shipwreck-turned-reef, now teeming with colorful fish and coral just offshore. They also provided us with a delicious lunch with the option of fresh caught fish or chicken. It felt untouched, raw, and a perfect escape from the urban buzz of the city to celebrate my 30th birthday.
If short on time and looking for a great beach escape, but closer to Panama City, just 30 minutes by ferry, Taboga Island is Panama City’s weekend playground. I did a catamaran tour instead of the ferry with RedCat, which came with an open bar, great music, and a stop at the back of the island to swim near a waterfall in a tucked-away bay. Later, I wandered through the island’s tiny town of about 1,600 people, home to one of the oldest churches in the Western Hemisphere, then tackled a self-guided hike to the island’s peak called Cerro de la Cruz. It took about 1.5 hours round trip with some steep, rocky sections—wear better shoes than Birkenstocks, trust me.
One of the most meaningful experiences was visiting an Embera Indigenous village. After a scenic canoe ride through the rainforest on the Chagres River, we hiked to a stunning waterfall, complete with a swimmable basin and that photo-perfect moment under the falls. Back at the village, we shared a meal, learned about their history, and ended the day with dancing and a ride back down the Chagres River. It felt like stepping into another world—and being warmly invited in.
If you’re short on time but still want a taste of Panama’s natural side, head to Metropolitan Natural Park—just minutes from downtown. For $5, you can hike through a lush rainforest with a real chance of spotting sloths, monkeys, toucans, turtles, and more. The trail is well-maintained and ranges from easy to moderate, but the cityscape views from the summit are what make it unforgettable.
Where to Book Your Adventures
If you want a trustworthy place to explore these adventures and other excursion offerings to help plan your adventure, checkout Viator.com to see the list of endless options!
LGBTQ+ Moments
By pure luck and perfect timing, I arrived in Panama City during Panama Pride. The city felt genuinely welcoming, and I got to witness the Pride parade through Casco Viejo, which, while smaller in scale, was filled with drag queens, dancing, colorful floats, and amazing energy. There was such a sense of joy and celebration in the streets, and it made me feel instantly connected to the local queer community.
I didn’t seek out any LGBTQ+ specific bars during my stay, but I never once felt unsafe or unwelcome as a gay traveler. The final day of Pride wrapped with a vibrant festival featuring live performances, vendors, street food, and dancing that spilled well into the evening. Locals were incredibly friendly—cheering people on, inviting everyone to dance, and creating an atmosphere of inclusion and fun.
Throughout Casco Viejo, I saw Pride flags flying proudly, shops selling LGBTQ-themed clothing and accessories, and an overall vibe that said: you belong here. Between the city’s warm culture, inclusive businesses, and a visibly active queer community, Panama City felt like a surprisingly affirming and joyful place to celebrate pride.
Eats & Treats
One of the biggest surprises of my trip? Just how outstanding the food scene is in Panama City. Whether I was dining with a skyline view or grabbing street snacks, this city absolutely delivered. I didn’t have a single bad meal—and a few were genuinely unforgettable.
Let’s start with the showstoppers:
- Gauchos served up one of the best steaks I’ve ever had. It’s a classic Argentinian steakhouse with rich flavors, expert preparation, and a warm, traditional Spanish vibe—an absolute must for any meat lover.
- Lo Que Hoy is ranked as one of the top restaurants in Latin America, and lived up to the hype. The menu is diverse, creative, and shows off Panama’s local ingredients with a modern twist.
- GRILA stole my heart with its beautiful aesthetic—it’s the kind of place that makes you want to photograph your food and your surroundings. Thankfully, the food backs up the visuals, with Mediterranean dishes that are both flavorful and refined.
For breakfast and casual bites, Paul was my go-to. This French-inspired café has multiple locations and offers everything from coffee and pastries to full meals. Think flaky croissants, tartines, and strong espresso—all reliably delicious.
Rooftop spots also played a big role in my food journey. Panaviera, perched on the 66th floor of the Ocean Sun Casino, is ideal for sunset cocktails. Sama Sky Bar brought the cocktails and city views in a slightly more relaxed setting—great for drinks and light bites with a view.
In Casco Viejo, I had a great time at:
- La Rana Dorada, a casual and friendly craft brewery
- Pedro Mandinga Rum Bar, where the cocktails were strong and the rum was local
- Snack Shack, perfect for a quick bite in between exploring.
Panama also offered some delightful local flavors:
I discovered coconut bread, a sweet, fluffy treat that made every meal better. And I swear, the pineapple in Panama is on another level—so juicy and sweet, it put every other pineapple I’ve ever had to shame. Fresh fruit and produce were consistently top-notch everywhere I went.
Although I didn’t try it myself, seafood lovers should head to the Mercado de Mariscos (Fish Market), known for ultra-fresh ceviche and other local catches. Also worth noting: yucca was a common and tasty alternative to potatoes in many dishes.
Panama City proved it’s not just about canal locks and skyscrapers—it’s a culinary destination in its own right.
Solo Travel Vibe
Panama City is a great solo travel destination—especially if you’re comfortable navigating new cities with a bit of common sense and curiosity. I never felt unsafe or overwhelmed exploring on my own, and the affordable Uber rides (usually $2–$10 CAD, even to farther spots like the Panama Canal) made getting around super easy. Honestly, Uber was my go-to for both safety and comfort—and I’d recommend avoiding local taxis unless you can negotiate a price upfront.
That said, not all areas are created equal. Downtown, Casco Viejo, and the Cinta Costera are all very solo-traveler friendly, but there are a few neighborhoods best skipped due to safety concerns. As with most urban destinations, sticking to well-trafficked, popular areas is your best bet. Some parts of the city lack proper sidewalks or have poorly maintained infrastructure, but others are smooth and super walkable.
Language was the biggest adjustment—English isn’t widely spoken outside of hotels and Casco Viejo. Knowing a bit of basic Spanish goes a long way, and in my experience, people were friendly and more than willing to use translation apps to bridge the gap.
I met other travelers mostly during organized tours—especially Americans on vacation—which made for a nice break from solo wandering and allowed for some great conversations in English. I never felt isolated, and the city struck a nice balance between giving me space to do my own thing and opportunities to connect with others.
Pro tip: Use Uber for getting around and airport transfers, learn some Spanish basics or have a translation app, and don’t be afraid to strike up conversations on tours—you never know who you’ll meet.
LGBTQ+ Safety & Inclusion
Before arriving, I did some research and learned that being LGBTQ+ is legal in Panama, though same-sex marriage is still not recognized and there are discrimination protections. While the legal rights aren’t as advanced as some other countries, my experience on the ground was overwhelmingly positive—and honestly more welcoming than I expected.
I was lucky to visit during Panama Pride, which definitely amplified the sense of community and visibility. From the Pride parade in Casco Viejo, to drag performances, dancing, and an open-air festival full of food vendors and performers, the city felt alive and inclusive. I saw Pride flags hanging in shop windows, locals wearing rainbow gear, and vendors selling LGBTQ-themed merchandise throughout the area.
Even beyond the events, I never once felt the need to hide who I was. There were no moments of hesitation or discomfort walking through the city as a gay traveler. While there weren’t visible signs of LGBTQ+ inclusion at every turn, the general atmosphere was friendly, progressive-leaning, and open-minded—especially in areas like Casco Viejo and the downtown core.
I’d absolutely recommend Panama City to other queer travelers, especially solo ones. Just keep in mind that my experience may have been influenced by the timing of my visit during Pride—but even so, the local culture, hospitality, and openness made it feel like a very safe and affirming destination.
Cost & Value
One of the best things about Panama City? It’s a choose-your-own-adventure kind of destination when it comes to cost. Whether you’re a budget traveler or someone chasing a luxury experience without going broke, Panama delivers.
For accommodations, luxury hotels like the W Panama (where I stayed) were around $250 CAD per night—an incredible value compared to what you’d pay for a W Hotel in North America. Mid-range hotels go for $100–200 CAD, and you can even find decent budget options for less if you’re flexible!
Food and drink options follow the same theme: You could find a Wendy’s combo for $4, while my Argentinian steak dinner with wine at Gauchos was under $50. You can grab local beers for $3–6, enjoy cocktails for $6–9, and take advantage of frequent happy hours with 2-for-1 specials. Whether you’re eating street food or dining on rooftops, there’s a way to do it within your price range.
The best value of the entire trip was hands down the Embera tribe tour. For just $55 CAD, I got roundtrip transportation with a bilingual guide, a canoe ride, waterfall hike, a freshly made lunch, and a cultural visit to the tribe’s settlement. (Note: there’s an additional $35 USD fee for the national park entrance—but even with that, the value is unbeatable.)
Total spend for 9 days in Panama, including luxury lodging, daily meals, excursions, and Ubers? Just over $3,000 CAD. That’s roughly $300/day for a full-service, unforgettable adventure—and I’d call that a steal for a luxury holiday, top eats, amazing cultural experiences, and more.
Final Thoughts: Would I Recommend It?
Panama City surprised me in all the best ways. From the modern skyline to the old-world charm of Casco Viejo, the Caribbean beauty of the San Blas Islands to the cultural depth of the Embera tribe — this trip was the perfect mix of urban buzz, historical wonder, and natural escape.
As a solo traveler, I felt safe, welcome, and empowered to explore on my own. And as an LGBTQ+ traveler, visiting during Panama Pride made the city feel especially vibrant and inclusive, with locals genuinely embracing the celebration. Even beyond Pride, Panama had a progressive-leaning and open-minded feel, especially in tourist areas.
The value for money was exceptional — luxury experiences at mid-range prices, world-class food without breaking the bank, and activities that delivered unforgettable memories at accessible costs.
I’d 100% recommend Panama City to:
- Solo adventurers looking for something dynamic but still grounded
- LGBTQ+ travelers seeking a safe, fun, and culturally rich destination
- Travelers with a budget of $200–$350 CAD/day who want luxury without the typical luxury price tag
I’m already dreaming of coming back to explore Bocas del Toro or maybe returning for dry season to experience the city in a new light. Whether you’re there for the canal, the cocktails, or the cultural connection — Panama City delivers.
Top Moments in Photos
Destination Snapshot
| Category | Rating (★ out of 5) |
|---|---|
| Solo Travel Friendly | ★★★★☆ |
| LGBTQ+ Inclusivity | ★★★★☆ |
| Food & Drink | ★★★★★ |
| Adventure & Activities | ★★★★★ |
| Affordability | ★★★★☆ |
| Would I Return? | Definitely |
Interested in Visiting?
If you want some help planning a vacation to Panama, feel free to send me a message to chat more about my experience! I am always happy to chat about people’s travel ambitions and share some recommendations to help you create your own Window Seat memories from 30,000 feet. As an Independent Travel Advisor with Fora Travel, I also have access to some amazing hotel perks to help make affordable luxury travel a reality. Let’s chat!
