Panama City, Panama, is one of the most popular departure ports in Central America for Cruise vacations. It is a vibrant city that boasts of numerous tourist attractions, cultural and historical landmarks, natural wonders, and a bustling nightlife. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through everything you need to know about the departure port, Panama City, Panama, including the history of the city, cruise lines departing from the port, tourist attractions, tips for cruise travel, shopping, things to do before your Panama City cruise, eateries and restaurants, the best time to visit the city, transportation, costs and expenses, and much more.
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History of Panama City
Panama City is the capital city of Panama and is known for its rich history dating back to the 16th century. The city was founded in 1519 by the Spanish colonizers, and in 1671, it was destroyed by the pirate Henry Morgan. It was then rebuilt a few kilometers away, in a location which is now known as Casco Viejo, or the Old Quarter. Today, Panama City is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Panama Canal, which was completed in 1914 after ten years of construction.
Cruise Lines Departing from Panama City
Panama City, Panama, is home to several major and smaller cruise lines that offer fantastic itineraries to some of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean, Central, and South America. The cruise lines departing from the port include:
Major Cruise Lines
- Royal Caribbean International
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- Princess Cruises
- Carnival Cruise Line
- Holland America Line
Smaller Cruise Lines
- Windstar Cruises
- Star Clippers
- Silversea Cruises
- Azamara
- SeaDream Yacht Club
Tourist Attractions in Panama City
Panama City is a fascinating destination for tourists, with many attractions to suit all interests. Tourists can explore cultural and historical landmarks, natural wonders, and a thriving nightlife. Listed below are some of the top tourist attractions in Panama City.
Cultural Attractions
- The Panama Canal
- Casco Viejo, or the Old Quarter
- The Panama Viejo Archaeological Site
- The National Theater of Panama
- The Biomuseo
Historical Attractions
- The San Jose Church
- The Cathedral Basilica of Santa Maria la Antigua
- The Presidential Palace
- The Panama Canal Museum
- The Bridge of the Americas
Natural Attractions
- The Metropolitan Natural Park
- The Summit Botanical Gardens and Zoo
- The Amador Causeway
- The Taboga Island
- The Chagres National Park
Tips for Cruise Travel from Panama City
If you are planning to take a cruise from Panama City, there are several things you should keep in mind. These tips will help you make the most of your trip and ensure that you have a great time on board.
Packing Tips
- Carry comfortable clothes and shoes for shore excursions.
- Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for the tropical weather.
- Do not forget your travel documents, including passports, visas, and cruise tickets.
- Pack a light jacket or sweater as the evenings can be cool.
Planning Tips
- Book your shore excursions in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
- Research the places you will be visiting to make the most of your time on shore.
- Familiarize yourself with the ship’s itinerary and schedule.
- Purchase travel insurance to cover any unforeseen events.
Safety Tips
- Keep your valuables in a safe place on the ship.
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid venturing into unfamiliar areas.
- Follow the ship’s safety guidelines and instructions.
- Do not drink too much alcohol and avoid going out alone at night.
Shopping in Panama City
Panama City is a shopper’s paradise, with many popular shopping destinations offering a wide range of products. Here are some of the top shopping destinations in Panama City.
Popular Shopping Destinations
- Albrook Mall
- Multiplaza Pacific Mall
- Avenida Balboa
- El Cangrejo Neighborhood
- Casco Viejo
Souvenirs to Buy
- Panama hats
- Handmade jewelry
- Local handicrafts
- Coffee and chocolates
- Rum and cigars
Things to do Before Your Panama City Cruise
If you are arriving in Panama City a few days before your cruise, there are several things you can do to make the most of your time in the city.
Pre-Cruise Accommodation
- Stay in a hotel in the Casco Viejo neighborhood for a taste of the city’s colonial charm.
- Book a room in the financial district for easy access to the city’s shopping and dining areas.
- Consider staying in a hotel near the Panama Canal for a unique experience.
Getting to the Port
- Take a taxi or shuttle from the airport to the port.
- Hire a private car or limousine service for a more comfortable ride.
- Use public transportation, such as buses or trains, to get to the port.
Nearby Attractions
- Visit the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center for a closer look at the Panama Canal.
- Explore the Casco Viejo neighborhood for its colonial architecture and picturesque streets.
- Take a day trip to one of the nearby islands, such as Taboga Island or Contadora Island.
Eateries and Restaurants in Panama City
Panama City offers a wide range of dining options, from local cuisine to fine dining restaurants. Here are some of the best places to eat in Panama City.
Local Cuisine
- Mercado de Mariscos for fresh seafood dishes
- La Rana Dorada for craft beers and pub food
- Mi Ranchito for traditional Panamanian dishes
- El Trapiche for hearty meat-based dishes
- Restaurante Intimo for fusion cuisine
Fine Dining Places
- Maito for contemporary Panamanian cuisine
- Las Clementinas for French-inspired dishes
- Donde Jose for innovative tasting menus
- La Posta for Italian cuisine
- Manolo Caracol for modern Panamanian dishes
Budget-Friendly Options
- El Buen Sabor for healthy vegetarian and vegan meals
- Super Gourmet Deli for sandwiches and salads
- Konditori for fresh pastries and coffee
- Niko’s Cafe for Panamanian-style breakfast and brunch
- El Rey supermarket for affordable snacks and drinks
Best Time to Visit Panama City
Panama City enjoys a tropical climate with warm weather throughout the year. However, the best time to visit the city is during the dry season, which runs from late December to April. During this time, the weather is dry, and there is less humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Weather Conditions
- The average temperature in Panama City is around 27°C (81°F).
- The rainy season runs from May to December, with heavy rainfall in September and October.
- The dry season runs from late December to April.
Peak Season Vs. Off-Season
- The peak tourist season in Panama City is from December to April.
- The off-season, which is also known as the rainy season, runs from May to November.
- The off-season can be a good time to visit as there are fewer crowds, and prices are lower.
Things to do Near the Panama City Port
If you have a few hours to spare before or after your cruise, there are several tourist attractions, shopping spots, and restaurants near the Panama City port.
Tourist Attractions
- The Biomuseo
- The Panama Canal Museum
- The Casco Viejo neighborhood
- The Amador Causeway
- The Metropolitan Natural Park
Shopping Spots
- Multiplaza Pacific Mall
- Albrook Mall
- Avenida Balboa
- El Cangrejo Neighborhood
- Casco Viejo
Restaurants
- Restaurante Mercado de Mariscos for fresh seafood dishes.
- Tantalo Kitchen for rooftop dining.
- The Fish Market for casual seafood dining.
- El Pavo Real for traditional Panamanian dishes.
- Maito for contemporary Panamanian cuisine.
Shore Excursions from Panama City
Panama City has several shore excursions that you can book to explore the nearby areas or enjoy the beaches. Some of the most popular shore excursions are:
Popular Shore Excursions
- Panama Canal Tour
- Embera Indian Village Tour
- City Tour of Panama City
- Beach Day at Taboga Island
- Rainforest Hike and Canopy Tour
Best Beaches to Visit
- Taboga Island
- Contadora Island
- San Blas Islands
- Playa Coronado
- Punta Chame
Transportation in Panama City
Panama City has several transportation options for tourists, including taxis, buses, and trains.
Getting Around the City
- Taxis are widely available and are reasonably priced.
- Buses are a cheap and convenient way to get around the city.
- Trains are limited but can be used to reach some tourist attractions.
Public Transportation Options
- The Metrobus system is efficient and covers most parts of the city.
- The Metro system has two lines and is an excellent way to avoid traffic.
Costs and Expenses
Panama City is an affordable destination for Cruise vacationers. However, the costs and expenses can vary depending on several factors, such as the cruise line, the itinerary, and the time of year.
Cruise Costs
The cost of a Panama Canal Cruise can range from $500 to $3000, depending on the cruise line and itinerary.
Accommodation Costs
The cost of accommodation in Panama City can range from $30 to $300 per night, depending on the location and the type of accommodation.
Food and Drink Costs
The cost of food and drink in Panama City can range from $5 to $50, depending on the restaurant and the type of cuisine.
In conclusion, Panama City, Panama, is an excellent departure port for Cruise vacations, with numerous tourist attractions, cultural and historical landmarks, natural wonders, and a bustling nightlife. This comprehensive guide has covered everything you need to know about the departure port, including the history of the city, cruise lines departing from the port, tourist attractions, tips for cruise travel, shopping, things to do before your Panama City cruise, eateries and restaurants, the best time to visit the city, transportation, costs and expenses, and much more. Plan your trip well in advance, and you are sure to have a fantastic time exploring Panama City and its surroundings.
