Panama city is all about beaches. Panama is a famous city in Florida located at USA Route 98. It is placed between the two most populated cities Pensacola and Tallahassee.A city with a population of nearly 35,000. Panama is a tourist attraction for its 20-mile long clean beach with a peaceful view of the water. The coastline is surrounded by many Instagram-worthy hotels. You will be confused about where to stay in Panama due to the number of best accommodations. It is hot and humid in summer with rains and thunderstorms. In winter it is quite chilly.
Fall and spring are pleasant seasons. Panama is a perfect city to visit if you want to enjoy all water activities like fishing, diving, and snorkeling. Besides beaches, you can play golf, visit maritime museums, shops, art galleries, and beautiful parks. All these things make it a tourist’s favorite spot. Panama is a tourist-friendly city. In this article, I will cover where to stay in Panama City for all budgets and the best neighborhood areas to visit. As we are facing COVID-19 so it is necessary to travel safely
This list will be suitable for all kinds of travelers whether they are on a budget, with family, or want to live in luxury hotels.
Now let us get right to it.
Table of Contents
If you are in a hurry
Here is a list of accommodations in case you have no time to research where to stay in during the Panama city tour. There are all kinds of hotels in Panama City. You will find this list very helpful. All these are located at the best locations of Panama city.
Marriott’s legends edge at the bay point. Panama best luxury Hotel
The Pelican’s Nest A perfect and private Airbnb
Shores of Panama Resort Affordable and comfortable hotel
Selina Casco Viejo Panama city Pocket-friendly accommodation at the heart of Panama
Casco Viejo-where to stay for the best historical views
Casco Viejo is known as the most fascinating Panama neighborhood. It is one of the most historic districts of Panama City. This old place is located on the southern side of the capital. Casco Viejo has seen many rough times till the end of 20 century.
This area is best for those who want to explore the historical side of Panama. It is a worthwhile experience for history lover’s travelers.
In 2017 UNESCO declared Casco Viejo as a World Heritage site. This place still has sixteen and seventeen-century Spanish colonial architecture. This city has a mixed vibe of vintage, international, and locals.
If you are not fond of overcrowded tourist places then this is for you. As it is not crowded with many tourists.
I have rounded up the best options for where to stay in Casco Viejo.
Best options to stay in Casco Viejo
Luxury: American Trade Hotel
This luxury hotel promises the best services. Situated at the best location in Casco Viejo. Rooms have every luxury to make your stay more comfortable. Some rooms have access to balconies so you can relax and enjoy your time.
- Airbnb: Gorgeous Apartment Stay– This apartment is a fusion of vintage and modern aesthetics. You will enjoy all the beautiful views from this cozy place.
- Midrange: La Isabela Suites– spacious and clean rooms with perfect location. Their friendly staff is present to make your experience more amazing.
- Budget: Bodhi Panama City– Best affordable accommodations having clean rooms and washrooms. A bonus point is having a garden to enjoy the calmness of nature.
Top things to do in Casco Viejo
- Visit famous plazas like Plaza de Catedral,Plaza de Francia ,Plaza Herra and historical ones.
- Eat the best hand-shaved ice cream called Raspo.
- If you are a fish lover then it is good to visit the local fish market named El Mercado del Meriscos. You will be amazed to see a variety of different fishes.
- Panama canal museum is a must-have to visit.
- Other attractions to watch in Casco Viejo are the national theater, Peso Esteban Huertas, presidential palace, and many other ancient buildings and churches.
EL Cangrejo-where to stay for good entertainment and nightlife
El Cangrejo got its name due to its streets that spread like crab claws. Cangrejo meaning is crab. It is known as the most European-style palace. It is one of the most charming areas as it features mid-century modern architecture.
This Panama neighborhood is popular for entertainment and nightlife. A perfect spot for vacation who love nightlife. It has plenty of casinos where you can gamble. Bars and clubs where you will enjoy drinks and cocktails.
Other than bars and clubs it has the best cafes and restaurants both indoor and outdoor.Best local food at EL Cangrejo is Jap Jap,sancocho, Bistec picado, chicken and yucca soup.
Perfect local Panamanian food points are El Trapiche, Del Prado,Manolo’s and El Caribe
Aside from local food they have many restaurants that provide Indian, Mexican, Chinese, Japanese, French, and many more cuisines.
For pastry and coffee lovers El Venezolano, New York Bagel, and La Duree are must-have places.
El Cangrejo shop provides the best local and international products. You can easily avail yourself of daily life products from its grocery stores. It is considered one of the safest places in Panama City.
Now wondering where to stay in EL Cangrejo. Here are the best hotels in El Cangrejo.
Best places to stay in El Cangrejo
Luxury: The Santa Maria, Luxury Collection Hotel & Golf Resort–
This place is 9km away from the airport. This resort features, restaurant, swimming pool, and terrace. They also offer breakfast. This site is good for family stays.
Best for couples. This is one of the best resorts in EL Cangrejo.
- Airbnb: Cosy and Unique One Bedroom Apartment–This cozy apartment hosts four guests. They have access to free wifi, a gym, and parking. From the balcony can view incredible views of the city. It is at a perfect location that is near to shopping centers and all main tourist sites.
- Midrange: AC Hotel by Marriott Panama City– This affordable hotel has a private bathroom with a room. The nearby airport is 3 km away from the hotel. After a day of sightseeing come and relax at its terrace.
- Budget: Global Hotel Panama–One of the best hotels in Panama is Global Hotel Panama.As it has all services that any guest needs at convenient prices. The number of amenities includes free Wifi, a minibar, gym, air-conditioned rooms, and parking.
Things to do In El Cangrejo
- If you are a lover of sun views. Then view the sunset from rooftop bars.
- El Cangerjo is heaven for Karaoke and music fans. You can listen to live music and participate in Karaoke in many bars.
- Take incredible Instagram pictures at Albert Einstein Sculpture head that is located in front of New York Bagel.
- Enjoy at Parque Andres Bello park.This is the most family-friendly place in El Cangrejo.
Marbella-where to stay for high-end shopping
If you are a high-end shopping lover and you like luxurious places then you must stay at Marbella. This is a small and affluent district of Panama City.
Marbella is all about luxury. It is the hub of international banks and foreign embassies. You will find high-quality fashion boutiques and lavish hotels.
This place is always full of many foreigners. So you will hear several languages, especially at malls.
Its famous Balboa Boutiques Panama Strip mall is full of spas, beauty parlors, and fashion boutiques. Marbella is specially dedicated to fashion lovers.
Transportation is good here. Transportation options include metro, public bus service, and cabs.
As this is an expensive place so nightlife is also expensive but trendy.
Due to its luxurious vibe, it looks like an expensive South bay of Miami.
Now discuss accommodations in Marbella
Best places to stay in Marbella
Luxury: Waldorf Astoria Panama–This property satisfies all standards you need for a luxurious stay. It has two restaurants, one serves American and French food.
The second one offers Sushi. Other features are a spa, massage center, fitness center, and Peacock alley where cocktails are available.
The airport is just a 20-minute drive. This modern hotel is located in the business district of Panama City.
- Airbnb: Apartment with a Beach View–A clean and chic apartment with fully equipped amenities like gym, wifi, pool, hot tub, free parking kitchen, Tv, and air conditioner that any traveler can wish.
- Midrange: W Panama–Affordable hotel that provides a relaxing stay.A 24/7 hotel service to cater all any issues. You can relax on a sunny balcony and outdoor pool. It has a nearby park, bars, and restaurants.
- Budget: Hilton Panama–Located at the heart of the city.Comfy and private rooms at a pocket-friendly price for an amazing stay experience.
Things to do in Marbella
- Enjoy ocean views from the tall buildings of Marbella.
- Do shopping from famous malls like Albrok and Multi plaza.
- Go to the movie theater Cinemark.
- Experience best dining at Segundo Muelle.
Obarrio-where to stay with a limited budget
Obarrio is the best option to stay in Panama if you are on a limited budget. Panama neighborhood that is at the center is Obarrio. It is suited downtown. This place is more residential and modern.
Its safety score is better than the rest of the city. So it is the best option if you want to travel with your family. It has several shops, restaurants, pubs, and cafes. Popular Soho Mall is present in Obarrio. Revolution tower that is also known as F&F tower having screw-shaped is the main charm of Obarrio.
Now it is time to discuss where to stay in Ontario.
Best places to stay in Obarrio
Luxury: Sortis Hotel Spa & Casino Autograph Collection–Enjoy beautiful views of the city from the stylish rooms of Saris Hotel. This hotel will fulfill all your travel hopes. As they provide everything needed for a fabulous holiday. Have a sound sleep after a busy day as their beds are known as the comfiest beds. You just need to relax at their place and the rest of the things are their responsibility.
- Airbnb: Nomada Guesthouse– A cozy one-bedroom apartment that promises the best stay in Obarrio.
- Midrange: Holiday Inn Express -Situated at the best location of Obarrio this pocket-friendly hotel will be an ideal place for an incredible stay.
- Budget: Global Hotel Panama– One of the finest accommodations if you are on a budget.Suitable for solo travelers as well as couples.
Things to do in Obarrio
- At Cafe Mediro, enjoy the world’s best breakfast including Waffles eggs, and many more.
- Panama is the hub of Seafood. Taste local Panam’s seafood at Makoto restaurant.
- Mesmerized yourself by the architect of Parroquia Santuario Nacional del Corazón de María.
- If you have the mood to eat Italian food like pizza and pasta then you should go to
San Francisco-where to stay for creative cuisine
On the eastern side of Panama City, San Francisco is located. It is Panama’s chicest neighborhood.
As you can explore the trendiest shopping malls, theaters, affordable restaurants.
San Francisco has the best educational institutes and child daycare centers.
You can say San Francisco is for everyone.
Especially for creative cuisine lovers. You don’t have to pay a million bucks to taste delicious food. Its food points are the city’s best attraction. This place is all about good food. Center of cheap and tasty food. The yummy food is available at local high-end restaurants to food trucks.
Here is a list of the best places to stay in San Francisco.
Best places to stay in San Francisco
Luxury: Sheraton Grand Panama– This is the finest hotel to stay in San Francisco. Aside from its highest facilities, this is also famous for its delicious food. Best for those who are In San Francisco to attend any event.As it is located in front of Atlapa Convention Center and every major event is held at Atlapa Convention Center.
- Airbnb: San Francisco Apartment– A spacious and clean apartment at the main location of the city. This apartment has everything for a perfect stay. Ideal for those with family or a group of friends.
- Midrange: Courtyard by Marriott Panama–If you want to stay in the city but search for a quiet place. You must stay at Courtyard by Marriot as they have noise-proof rooms. Enjoy a calm and affordable tour by staying at this accommodation.
- Budget: Ramada Plaza by Wyndham -Located a few minute drives from Panama canal. At an inexpensive rate enjoy sea views from your hotel rooms.
Things to do in San Francisco
- If you are a coffee lover then the first thing you should do is to taste the world’s best coffee at Leto Brew coffee bar. Here you will find a perfect cup of coffee. They provide every type of coffee.
- Shop from a thrift shop. They have a charity-based shop named Promises. Its means whenever someone purchases an item then this money is donated to a charity organization.
- From Athanasiou, pick the most delicious snacks.
- Participate in the Art of living full moon meditation event. This will be a memorable yet peaceful event of your whole trip.
- Feel America vintage dining vibe at Roadsters.
- To all food truck lovers you should check these food trucks Esa Flaca Rica, Anti burger, The smoke truck and What Da Fork
- It’s good to check the Atlapa convention center as all major events are hosted there.
Bonus (tourist attraction to visit in Panama City)
- If you are in Panama and have some extra time. Then it is good to take a tour to one of its best neighborhoods tampa.
- Panama city’s major attraction is its beautiful beaches. There are several types of beaches where families and kids can enjoy. If you are quite a person you can feel the serenity in less crowded beaches. If you want to play volleyball and to collect shells there are beaches where you can enjoy all these activities.
- Pier Park is a major tourist attraction. If you want to take a break from beach life then it is the best spot to enjoy your time. It’s shopping center provides everything from beach products to high-end products. Its restaurants serve the best food most of the restaurants are outdoors. So you can enjoy your, meal with wonderful views of the beach. It has also an amusement section where you can ride.
- Gulf World Marine is Panama’s favorite family park. There is a show where you can see different marine life creatures. You can experience amazing adventures here. Like you can swim in a pool where you can see different fishes. Other interesting programs include diving with dolphins
- St Andrews State Park is a classic beach area. Where you can relax, swim, view water waves and beach life. Its main attraction is Shell Island.
- At the beach, the activity is boating. Sunset Catamaran Sail provides the best boat tours. Equally good for families and couples.
- Never miss the opportunity to enjoy Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
- Take a tour to Zooworld. Zoos are always kids’ favorite place. They will spend quality time in the zoo.
- If you want to stay outside Panama then Airbnb in Florida is a good option.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Which is the best area to stay in Panama City?
These are best areas to stay in Panama city
Bella vista
Calidonia
Costa del Esta
Punta Pacifica
Tocumen Airport Area
San Francisco
Obarrio
Marbella
El Cangrejo
Casco Viejo
Where should I not go in Panama?
Do not go to neighborhoods that you don’t know and that are famous as danger zones. It is dangerous to go to areas like El Chorillo, Santa Ana, Curundu, and San Miguel. El Chorillo is famous for gang violence. But tourists are rarely affected by any violence. But for safety avoid going to EL Chorillo. It is good to visit only those areas where there is Police patrol.
Is Panama City safe for tourists?
Panama has robbery issues. But still, it is safe for tourists. You should be careful during your trip. Do not wear expensive jewelry. Try to remain in the tourist circuit as they are safe.
The best safe places are San Blas, Las Perlas are the safest areas. Most tourists have reviewed Panama city as safe and friendly.
Is Panama City a party town?
Yes, it is. As it has some bars, pubs where you enjoy the nightlife. People enjoy its beaches. All these are quite affordable.
Why is Panama City famous?
It is famous for its beautiful beaches, clean and fresh water. It is the best holiday spot for beach lovers. Enjoy seafood as well as any kind of food in Panama. Besides this, it offers a great dining, shopping, clubbing experience.
Conclusion
In this article, I have covered all the best neighborhoods of Panama city and where to stay no matter what is your budget. Additionally, I have also guided you about favorite tourist attractions in Panama. Activities to do at beaches to make your vacations more exciting. I have mentioned in detail all the best dining places in these neighborhoods. So you can enjoy the best food on your whole trip.
Now you know about all luxury hotels, Airbnb, suites, hostels, and pocket-friendly hotels for your stay in Panama.
Enjoy your stay whether at a luxury hotel like American Trade Hotel or enjoy the company of other people at Global Hotel Panama.
If you want to stay with your family at apartment then San Francisco Apartment
is a good option.
I am hopeful that this article will help you to where to stay in Panama. Just go, explore and enjoy your whole tour in Panama City.
Stay safe and happy traveling.