Until I had to visit Panama I didn’t realize the city had so many things to do !

My recommendations:

1. Visit Casco Viejo – This was my favourite place in the city !

• This is where the city of Panama was located prior to its current location.
• The area consist of buildings close together with narrow streets . Very similar to Gothic Quarter in Barcelona . The architecture is similar to the buildings in New Orleans.
• It is full of nice restaurants, rooftop bars and stores of all sorts .
• The best place to hang out and explore.

2. A true engineering marvel – The Panama Canal ! The most unique attraction the city has to offer ! This is a canal that connects the Pacific and Atlantic Ocean in Central America . One of the narrowest places between North and South America! People have tried digging a canal to connect the two oceans for over 500 years before it was successful! It works on a system of locks that shows what human mind can achieve! You can read my detailed posting here for more information.

3. Panama Viejo – This was the original location of Panama City . The city was moved a lot !

• This location consists of old buildings similar to the Mayan ruins but not as old or as grand .

• I learned a lot about the history of Panama while visiting these ruins .

• The area is large and there is a shuttle that takes you around .

• If you are short on time and not a history bluff you can skip this attraction!

The following attractions I didn’t have time to visit that I am keeping for next trip :

• Amador Causeway

• Visiting a rain forest (Soberania National Park) near the city or going to Baru Volcano ( near the highlands). Requires you to fly there . Need 2 to 3 days .

• Visit San Blas Island

• Visit Pearl Island

There are a lot restaurants to sample in the city ! Shopping is expensive so not a city for that .

Definitely worth visiting!