Casco Viejo, also known as Casco Antiguo, offers a journey through Panama City's beautifully preserved colonial past, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One discovers a vibrant district where historic architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and significant cultural sites meet a dynamic modern scene of dining and entertainment.
The district is a hub for socializing, especially through its extensive nightlife. Numerous rooftop bars, lounges, and nightclubs, such as Tantalo Rooftop, CasaCasco, and Selina Rooftop, provide lively settings to mingle with fellow travelers and locals alike, often with panoramic city views. Plazas within Casco Viejo also serve as popular gathering spots.
Top 6 Things to do in Casco Viejo (Panama City)
In Casco Viejo, one can explore historic sites, savor local cuisine, enjoy vibrant nightlife, and immerse oneself in Panamanian culture.
1. Stroll the Historic Streets and Plazas
Wandering through Casco Viejo's cobblestone streets is an essential part of the experience. Each turn reveals a blend of beautifully restored colonial buildings and structures awaiting a fresh restoration. Visitors will discover the district's main squares, including Plaza de la Independencia, Plaza Herrera, Plaza Bolívar, and Plaza de Francia, each offering unique architecture, vibrant atmospheres, and opportunities for people-watching. The area is highly walkable, allowing for a relaxed pace to soak in the surroundings.
Cost: Free to explore. Guided walking tours are available, starting from approximately $35 USD for shared tours, or free tip-based options with a suggested tip around $15 USD per person.
Transport: Casco Viejo is a compact, pedestrian-friendly district. It is best explored on foot. Taxis or ride-sharing services are readily available to reach the area from other parts of Panama City.
2. Visit the Panama Canal Museum (Museo del Canal Interoceánico)
Delve into the fascinating history of the Panama Canal at this museum, housed in a handsome historic building in Casco Viejo. The exhibits feature photographs, documents, and artifacts that vividly narrate the canal's construction and its profound impact on Panama and global commerce. It offers an insightful complement to a visit to the actual canal locks. Allowing approximately 1-2 hours provides ample time to explore the various rooms.
Cost: Admission for non-residents is $15.00 USD for adults, and $7.50 USD for students or seniors.
Transport: The museum is centrally located within Casco Viejo, near Plaza de la Independencia, and is easily accessible on foot from anywhere in the district.
3. Explore Historic Churches: Metropolitan Cathedral and Iglesia de San José
Casco Viejo is home to several historic churches, each with its own story. The Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral Basílica Santa María la Antigua), located in Plaza de la Independencia, is a grand example of Spanish colonial architecture with intricate details and bell towers adorned with mother of pearl. Further exploration leads to the Iglesia de San José, renowned for its magnificent Golden Altar, a treasure reputedly hidden from pirates in the 17th century. The simple exterior of Iglesia de San José belies its dazzling interior.
Cost: Entry to both the Metropolitan Cathedral and Iglesia de San José is free.
Transport: Both churches are within easy walking distance of each other and other major plazas in Casco Viejo.
4. Experience Casco Viejo's Rooftop Bar Scene
As evening approaches, the district's rooftop bars come alive, offering panoramic views of the Panama City skyline, the Pacific Ocean, and the historic rooftops of Casco Viejo. Establishments such as Tantalo, Lazotea, and CasaCasco provide a lively atmosphere with cocktails, music, and a chance to mingle. Visiting around sunset offers breathtaking vistas.
Cost: Costs vary by establishment; expect prices typical for cocktails and drinks in a popular tourist area. Happy hour specials may be available.
Transport: Rooftop bars are located within the walkable core of Casco Viejo.
5. Savor Fresh Ceviche at Mercado de Mariscos
Just at the edge of Casco Viejo, the bustling Mercado de Mariscos (Fish Market) is a must-visit for seafood lovers. One can indulge in fresh ceviche prepared by local vendors, offering a true taste of Panamanian flavors. The atmosphere is vibrant and authentic, providing a glimpse into daily local life.
Cost: Prices for ceviche are generally affordable, offering a budget-friendly culinary experience.
Transport: The Mercado de Mariscos is located adjacent to Casco Viejo and can be reached with a short walk from the historic center. Taxis or ride-sharing services are also an option.
6. Stroll along Paseo Esteban Huertas and Plaza de Francia
Paseo Esteban Huertas offers a scenic waterfront promenade lined with vibrant bougainvillea, providing excellent views of the modern Panama City skyline and the Amador Causeway. At its end lies Plaza de Francia, a grand plaza dedicated to the French engineers who attempted the Panama Canal. Here, one will find monuments and a series of arcades that often house local artisans selling indigenous crafts, including colorful molas made by the Guna people.
Cost: Free to walk around and enjoy the views. Costs apply for any souvenirs purchased from vendors.
Transport: This promenade and plaza are located at the southern tip of Casco Viejo, easily reachable on foot from any point within the district.
Check out our other pages on Casco Viejo (Panama City)
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
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