5 Must See Cities and Places in Panama - 2023 Guide

About Panama 

Panama is an ideal and popular destination for tourists, expats and digital nomads, boasting a beautiful climate year-round and an incredibly diverse culture. The country is home to both modern cities and breathtaking landscapes, making it a perfect option for those looking for the comforts of a metropolis and the thrills of the outdoors. 

Panama has some of the most stunning beaches in the world, with white, sandy shores stretching into crystal clear turquoise waters. Panama also offers a wide range of cultural attractions and activities, from historical museums and galleries to premium shopping, fine dining, and nightlife. It’s, therefore, no surprise that the country has been a magnet for decades for tourists and expats.

Most know Panama because of the country’s renowned Panama Canal that connects the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. But Panama has much more to offer visitors and literally has something for every taste. From picturesque mountain towns and villages to skyscraper metropolitan cities to coffee fields and island archipelagos. 

Here is a list of the Best Cities and Towns that you should  visit during your time in Panama:

1. Panama City  – Map

Panama City is the vibrant, bustling capital of Panama that is located at the very heart of the Panama Canal. Panama City is a modern metropolis with stunning skyline along with a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages to explore.

From Panama’s colonial and historical sites such as Panama Viejo, Casco Antiguo and Panama La Vieja to its vibrant music and arts culture, Panama City has something for everyone. The capital is also home to one of the world’s most famous natural landmarks… drumroll… Panama Canal. The Panama Canal stretches across the Isthmus of Panama, connecting the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean and allowing ships to cross between the two oceans in just a little bit over eight hours! 

2. Boquete – Map

Boquete is a small, peaceful town in Panama’s Chiriqui province. The town is surrounded by a gorgeous coffee fields, with amazing views, plenty of fresh mountain air, and a very very pleasant climate with temperatures in the low 70s all year. The town is also home to a sizable, increasing, and very active expat community. Over the years Boquete has also become a destination for health tourism, through the development of a large number of luxury spas and hotels.

For thrill-seekers, Boquete offers many amazing outdoor activities for you to enjoy. From Zip-lining over the dense forest to white-water rafting, hiking trails to the Baru volcano, and trekking next to howler monkeys and dazzling quetzals, these are just some of the many ways to explore the neighboring rainforest. The town is also known as “the Valley of Flowers,” and it’s a lesser-known alternative to Costa Rica. 

If you are looking for something more relaxed, just meander around the region’s beautiful coffee plantations while sipping some of the world’s best coffee brews.

3. El Valle de Anton – Map

El Valle de Anton, commonly known as simply El Valle, is  one of Panama’s most popular tourist destinations. Just an hour and a half drive from Panama City, El Valle is nestled within the majestic forest of Chiriqui Highlands mountain range.

El Valle is becoming increasingly popular with visitors from around the world for its temperate and mild climate, stunning forest scenery, rich biodiversity, and variety of outdoor activities. El Valle is also home to many other attractions and sites such as El Nispero Zoo, El Macho Waterfall, and El Chorro El Macho natural spring. Visitors can enjoy trekking through the beautiful and endless forest trails or take part in the many thrilling canopy tour that are organized by local tour operators.

In short, El Valle is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the metropolis of Panama City and its many and diverse attractions and activities will for sure keep you entertained whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want a relaxing holiday! 

4. Bocas del Toro – Map

Panama’s Bocas del Toro archipelago is a truly magnificent and unique destination full of amazing experiences and stunning views. Bocas del Toro Province consists of nine distinct small islands, each offering its own unique attractions and activities. Bocas del Toro has something for everyone. From unspoiled beaches and incredible wildlife to relaxed days at the beach, snorkeling and kayaking, beachcombing and birdwatching, great food, and unexpectedly intense nightlife; Bocas del Toro is sure to have something for you.

If you’re seeking an unforgettable trip and vacation in Panama, then Bocas del Toro should definitely be on your list.  From .

5. Las Tablas – Map

Las Tablas is a city in Panama that is known for its rich history, vibrant culture and festivals, and beautiful scenery. Located in the province of Los Santos, Las Tablas lush green hills and valleys are home to a  population of around 45,000 people. The city has long served as an important center for commerce, and business through its large port and thriving agricultural sector. 

Las Tablas is a great destination for expats looking to experience the best of Panama, with plenty of shopping, fine dining, and rich festivals and cultural attractions.