Panama City offers an ideal destination for urban leisure, seamlessly blending modern conveniences with cultural charm. Its excellent air connectivity makes it easy to explore its diverse attractions, allowing visitors to discover multiple points of interest in just one day. The city’s striking contrast of old-world heritage and modern skyscrapers adds to its allure.
Begin your day at Panamá Viejo, home to the remnants of Panama’s first city. After a morning of exploration, enjoy lunch in the historic Casco Viejo district, then spend the afternoon watching ships traverse the iconic Panama Canal. The city offers a wealth of museums and green spaces to explore, ensuring a variety of activities for visitors.
Golf in Stunning Landscapes
Golf enthusiasts visiting Panama will find exceptional courses in both urban and coastal settings. Panama boasts two renowned golf courses designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus, providing top-tier playing conditions with breathtaking scenery. Near Tocumen International Airport, The Santa María, a Luxury Collection Hotel & Golf Resort, features an impressive course with panoramic views of Panama City’s skyline. Early morning or late afternoon tee times are recommended due to the tropical weather, and the resort’s on-site golf shop is perfect for those traveling light.
Further afield, about two hours from the city on the Pacific Riviera, The Buenaventura Golf & Beach Resort Panama, Autograph Collection, welcomes visitors with a lush golf course set amidst verdant trees, lakes, and local wildlife. Golfers might even spot colorful birds or iguanas while enjoying the serene landscape.
Soak in Panoramic Views
A defining feature of Panama City’s skyline is the sail-shaped JW Marriott Panama, the tallest building in Central America. From here, guests can enjoy sweeping views of Panama Bay, the city’s skyscrapers, and the Panama Canal. The hotel’s infinity pools offer the perfect backdrop for photos, capturing the vibrant skyline and the maritime activity below.
Explore Local Design
Panama’s unique blend of tradition and modernity is reflected in its creative designs. The W Panama Hotel, a luxury property in the heart of the city, tells a captivating story through its carefully curated design elements. From the lobby’s green tapestry representing the tropical rainforest to the graffiti-adorned food truck in La Cajita, each detail reflects a piece of Panama’s cultural heritage. The hotel even honors Cecil Haynes, the longest-serving worker of the Panama Canal, in its design.
Shop in Style
Panama City is a premier shopping destination in Central America, featuring vast malls with a wide selection of local and international brands. Albrook Mall, one of the largest in the region, remains a favorite for its variety and proximity to popular attractions like the Panama Canal and Ancon Hill. The Marriott Panama Hotel, located within the mall complex, offers a relaxing retreat after a day of shopping, complete with a pool overlooking the city’s iconic flag atop Ancon Hill.