Casco Viejo

The historic colonial old town of Panama City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of restored plazas, churches and rooftop bars. Its cobblestone streets blend Spanish, French and colonial architecture with vibrant nightlife and cafes.

Things to do

• Plaza de la Independencia — Stroll the central square where Panama declared independence, framed by the Metropolitan Cathedral and colonial facades.
• Iglesia de San José — Admire the famous Golden Altar, said to have been saved from pirate Henry Morgan by disguising it in black paint.
• Panama Canal Museum — Explore the history of the canal's construction in a restored building on Plaza de la Independencia.
• Rooftop bar sunset — Sip a cocktail at Tántalo or CasaCasco while watching the sun set over the modern skyline and Pacific.
• Iglesia y Convento de Santo Domingo — See the ruined Arco Chato (Flat Arch), whose stability was cited when choosing Panama for the canal.
• Paseo Esteban Huertas walk — Walk the bougainvillea-draped seaside promenade atop the old sea wall with views of the Bridge of the Americas.
• Plaza Francia — Visit the tribute to the French who first attempted the canal, marked by obelisk and marble plaques.
• Cobblestone photo wander — Get lost among restored and crumbling mansions, street art and lively plazas throughout the quarter.

Food to try

• Ceviche — Fresh corvina or shrimp ceviche served in small cups, best sampled at the nearby Mercado de Mariscos.
• Raspao — A shaved-ice treat drenched in fruit syrup and condensed milk, sold by street vendors in the plazas.
• Sancocho — Panama's hearty chicken, yam and culantro soup considered the national comfort dish.
• Ropa vieja — Shredded stewed beef in tomato sauce, a classic served with rice and plantains.
• Geisha coffee — Try world-renowned Panamanian Geisha beans at specialty cafes like Café Unido.
• Carimañolas — Deep-fried yuca fritters stuffed with seasoned ground meat, a popular local snack.

Local customs & good to know

• Watch your step — The uneven cobblestones and open construction sites make flat, sturdy shoes essential.
• Stick to lively streets at night — Casco is safe in busy areas but bordering neighborhoods like El Chorrillo should be avoided after dark.
• Carry small cash — Street vendors, raspao carts and small cafes often prefer cash in US dollars, the local currency.
• Dress modestly for churches — Cover shoulders and knees when entering the cathedral and other active churches.

Nearby

• Biomuseo — 2 km
• Panama City — 4 km
• Amador Causeway — 4 km
• Metropolitan Natural Park — 5 km