Gastronomy, Nature and Historical Heritage
Panama City is much more than a modern financial center. Contemporary skyscrapers stand alongside historic neighborhoods, world-class museums, tropical national parks and one of Latin America’s most diverse culinary scenes. Just minutes apart, these attractions allow visitors to experience the country’s history, nature and the vibrant atmosphere of a cosmopolitan capital.
Explore Via Argentina and Its Culinary Scene
Located in the Bella Vista district, Via Argentina has become one of Panama City’s leading dining destinations. The avenue is home to Panamanian and international restaurants, specialty coffee shops, bars, dessert shops and local businesses surrounding the renovated Andres Bello Park, a popular gathering place for residents and visitors.
How to Get There: About 10 minutes from Casco Antiguo by car or a short walk from Via Argentina Station on Metro Line 1.
Cost: Free access. Restaurants and cafes offer options for every budget.
Enjoy the Nature Discovery Center at Soberania National Park
Located about 25 kilometers from downtown Panama City, Soberania National Park protects more than 22,000 hectares of tropical rainforest within the Panama Canal watershed. Inside the park, the Nature Discovery Center, operated by the Eugene Eisenmann Avifauna Foundation, features an observation tower overlooking the forest canopy, where visitors can spot more than 500 bird species recorded in the park, including toucans, trogons, motmots and numerous hummingbirds.
How to Get There: Approximately 35 minutes from Panama City via the Gamboa Road.
Cost: Admission to Soberania National Park is free. Some guided activities organized by the Nature Discovery Center have additional fees.
Walk Along Central Avenue, Discover Its History and Shops
Avenida Central is Panama City’s main pedestrian shopping street. Since the early twentieth century, it has served as one of the capital’s most important commercial corridors, connecting the historic plazas of 5 de Mayo and Santa Ana while providing access to Casco Antiguo. Along the route visitors will find historic buildings, traditional stores and a vibrant local atmosphere.
How to Get There: Easily accessible from 5 de Mayo Metro Station.
Cost: Free.
Discover the Panama Sports Hall of Fame and Museum
Opened in 2025 and located at the Amador Convention Center, the Panama Sports Hall of Fame and Museum showcases the nation’s sporting history through photographs, medals, uniforms, trophies and memorabilia celebrating athletes who have represented Panama in national and international competitions.
How to Get There: Around 15 minutes from Casco Antiguo via the Amador Causeway.
Cost: Free admission.
Visit Casco Antiguo, its History, Gastronomy and Culture
Founded in 1673 after the destruction of Panama Viejo by the pirate Henry Morgan in 1671, Casco Antiguo was built to better protect the city and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its cobblestone streets feature colonial churches, historic plazas, museums, boutique hotels, renowned restaurants, cafes, bars and art galleries, making it one of Panama’s most iconic cultural destinations.
How to Get There: Less than 10 minutes from downtown Panama City by car or public transportation.
Cost: Access to the historic district is free. Some museums, churches and monuments charge admission.
Also Enjoy These Experiences:
- Cinta Costera: Walk or cycle along this scenic waterfront boulevard stretching around Panama Bay, featuring parks, sports facilities and panoramic skyline views.
- Biomuseo: Designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry, this interactive museum explains how the formation of the Isthmus of Panama transformed global biodiversity and altered ocean currents.
- Ride the Panama Metro: Opened in 2014 as Central America’s first metro system, it provides a fast, affordable and convenient way to reach many of Panama City’s most important attractions.
