On account of its key location as a land bridge between North and South America, Panama City has become not only an important trade hub, but a fascinating modern city with soaring skyscrapers and a vibrant social and business infrastructure.
Panama City
Why visit Panama City ?
- Follow in the footsteps of pirates in the ruins of 16th Century Panama Viejo
- Head out to the Canal Zone to see the vast ocean going ships glide past
- Wander around UNESCO designated San Felipe, an historic part of the city
- Marvel at the beautiful cathedral with its mother-of-pearl inlay
- Hang out in the bars and cafes of Casco Viejo (San Felipe)
However what makes this city even more compelling is its intriguing colonial history dating back to 1519 when it was founded by the conquistador Pedrarias Davila. Known as Panama Viejo, this is the oldest European settlement on the Pacific coast of the Americas, established by the Spanish and then conquered and plundered by the renowned pirate Henry Morgan in 1671. It is still possible to see some of these 16th Century ruins in the heart of modern Panama City today.
Casco Antiguo (known as San Felipe) with its French plazas and surrounding monuments is another unique part of the city dating back to the 17th & 18th Centuries and many of these sumptuous mansions are slowing being restored to their former glory as delightful boutique hotels, shops and restaurants.
The other key aspect of the city is the Panama Canal, located close the the city (see the Canal Zone highlight).
LOCATION
PANAMA INFO
Visa
No visa is required for UK passport holders.
Health Requirements
No mandatory vaccinations are required.
Time Difference
GMT - 6 Hours
Flight Time
13 hours with one stop
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