Hotels in Panama City

Unveiling Panama City: Where Urban Majesty Meets Lush Tropical Wonders

Discover the vibrant charm of Panama City, where towering skyscrapers meet rich cultural heritage. Stroll through the historic Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and immerse yourself in its colonial architecture and lively plazas. Marvel at the Panama Canal, an engineering marvel that connects two oceans, and explore the lush biodiversity of nearby Parque Natural Metropolitano. With a dynamic culinary scene, buzzing nightlife, and stunning coastal views, Panama City offers a perfect blend of modern luxury and authentic experiences. Whether you're an adventurer or a culture enthusiast, this captivating city promises unforgettable memories. For our best hotel rates in Panama City and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Panama City

Some of the best places to stay in Panama City are Casco Viejo, Bella Vista and Calidonia. Panama City offers vibrant neighbourhoods like Casco Viejo, Bella Vista, and Calidonia, each with unique charms. Casco Viejo is perfect for first-time visitors, showcasing historic architecture and lively culture. Bella Vista boasts modern amenities and proximity to parks, while Calidonia offers a local experience with bustling markets. Accommodations in these areas range from boutique hotels to mid-range options, providing a variety of choices for all travellers seeking the best hotels in Panama City or near the Panama Canal. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Panama City:

1. Casco ViejoOpens in a new window: Casco Viejo is a vibrant area rich in history and culture, making it a delightful destination for families and culture enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore attractions like the Metropolitan Cathedral of Panama, the Interoceanic Canal Museum, and the historic Palacio de las Garzas. For accommodations, consider American Trade HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel offering adventure sports and family-friendly amenities. Another option is Hotel La CompaniaOpens in a new window, also a 4.5-star hotel, which is perfect for business travellers and couples seeking a romantic getaway, featuring a full-service spa and pool. Lastly, Sofitel Legend Casco ViejoOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel, caters to those looking for a business and spa experience with extensive facilities.
2. Bella VistaOpens in a new window: Bella Vista is an ideal location for families, romantic getaways, and business trips, featuring attractions such as Cinta Costera and Avenida Balboa. It’s an urban park and a lively street that offers a mix of outdoor activities and city life. Bristol PanamaOpens in a new window, a 5-star hotel, provides top-notch business amenities and family-friendly services, while W PanamaOpens in a new window and Waldorf Astoria PanamaOpens in a new window, both 5-star hotels, offer romantic packages and extensive spa services, making them perfect for couples looking to unwind and relax.
3. CalidoniaOpens in a new window: Calidonia is a family-friendly destination known for its central location and proximity to attractions like Cinta Costera and Avenida Balboa. It's an excellent choice for city vacations. Hotel Bahia SuitesOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, is well-suited for business and family travellers, featuring meeting rooms and a children’s pool. Hotel Casa MillerOpens in a new window, another 3.5-star hotel, provides a comfortable base for exploring the city, while Hotel Ojos del RioOpens in a new window, also 3.5-star, offers family-friendly amenities, ensuring a pleasant stay for all.

Things to do in Panama City for first times

Three days in Panama City offers travellers a vibrant mix of stunning coastal views, lush green parks, and mountainous landscapes. Enjoy activities like boating, sea diving, and hiking, alongside shopping, lively casinos, and pulsating dance scenes, making it a diverse destination for adventure and relaxation. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Panama City:

• Day 1: Begin your exploration of Panama City at the Cinta Costera, a picturesque waterfront promenade perfect for a leisurely walk and soaking in views of the skyline. After enjoying the refreshing breeze, head to the Museum of Contemporary Art Panama, where you can appreciate impressive local and international artworks. Conclude your day at the Museum of Natural Science, where fascinating exhibits about Panama’s biodiversity await, providing an enriching experience about the region's unique flora and fauna.
• Day 2: Your adventure continues at the Amador Causeway, a scenic road linking several small islands. It's ideal for cycling or walking while enjoying the bay views. Next, visit Plaza de Francia, a historical site commemorating the French effort in building the Panama Canal. Finally, immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural heritage at the Mola Museum, where the stunning textiles and art of the indigenous Guna people will captivate your imagination.
• Day 3: Start your day with a stroll along Avenida Balboa, a bustling avenue with stunning ocean views and greenery. Continue your journey to Via Espana, one of the city’s main thoroughfares, lined with shops and cafés—perfect for some local snacks and souvenirs. Wrap up your day at the Miraflores Locks, where you can witness the impressive operations of the Panama Canal and learn about its significance through an engaging visitor centre experience.

4 tips to find a great Panama City hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to explore Panama City is from September to November, when hotel rates are significantly lower. For domestic travellers, booking your flight at least 2 months in advance can lead to more affordable options, while international travellers should aim to book at least 3 months ahead to secure the best prices. To truly experience the city's highlights, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended. Notable attractions in Panama City include its impressive skyscrapers, which offer a glimpse into the city’s modern architecture and vibrant atmosphere, making it a great value for money destination for those on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you’re searching for last-minute deals to Panama City, you could find great savings on Hotels.com. Simply navigate to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you may discover discounted rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances of snagging the best hotel deal, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you can stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers, helping you secure cheap hotels for your getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could mean you may save on hotel expenses in Panama City.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account, as accommodations closer to major attractions or city centres may offer convenience but usually tend to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and the ease of getting to the sites you wish to visit.

Best time to go to Panama City

Panama City experiences its lowest average temperature in November, at 78.3°F (25.7°C), while April is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 80.4°F (26.9°C). July is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Panama City, January, July, and September are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by no to frequent rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, May, October, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light to frequent rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.