Planning a trip to Panama and wondering what’s actually worth doing and how much it costs? You’re in the right place.
Panama offers a little bit of everything: tropical islands, vibrant city life, rainforests, beaches, mountains, culture, and one of the most important engineering wonders in the world.
In this guide, I’m breaking down the top things to do in Panama, including realistic prices, so you can plan your itinerary and your budget with confidence.
Panama City: Culture, History & Iconic Sights
Visit the Panama Canal (Miraflores Locks)
No trip to Panama is complete without seeing the Panama Canal in action. The most popular place to experience it is the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center, where you can watch massive ships pass through the locks right in front of you.
Cost: $15–$17 per adult.
This includes access to the observation decks, iMax movie and museum (under construction at the time of this post).
Panama Canal Partial Transit (By Boat)
If you want the full experience, book a partial canal transit by boat, where you actually ride through the locks.
Cost: $105–$155 per person (adults)
This is one of the most unique experiences in Panama and well worth it if your budget allows.
Ride the Panama Canal Railway
The Panama Canal Railway travels across the Isthmus of Panama alongside the Panama Canal, offering beautiful views of lush rainforests, the Canal’s locks, the historic Gaillard Cut, and Gatun Lake.
The railway connects the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, linking Colón and Panama City along a lesser-known but stunning travel route.
Passengers arriving at the Colón 2000 Cruise Terminal, Gatun Yacht Club, or Pier 6 in Cristóbal can easily step off the train and take part in a variety of shore excursions throughout Panama.
Cost: $40–$50 one way for adults
Availability can be limited, so check schedules in advance.
Explore Historic & Scenic Panama City
Casco Viejo (Old city)
Casco Viejo is Panama City’s historic heart filled with colonial architecture, rooftop bars, museums, and cafes.
Cost: Free to explore
Cater to spend on souvenirs, food, drinks, church visits and museum.
Cinta Costera & the Panama Sign
The Cinta Costera is a waterfront promenade perfect for walking, biking, and sunset views. It’s also home to the iconic Panama sign, making it a popular photo stop.
Cost: Free
Amador Causeway
The Amador Causeway connects several small islands and offers incredible views of the city skyline and canal entrance. There is also a Panama sign, near the docks, making it another popular photo stop.
Cost: Free
Bike rentals: $5–$10 per hour
Poin Panama
POIN Panamá is one of Panama City’s most exciting attractions, offering unbeatable panoramic views from high above the skyline.
Located atop a skyscraper, it’s perfect for thrill-seekers, with experiences like The Edge, where you lean out over the city, as well as swings, a glass floor walk, and even a zip line.
With cultural exhibits and souvenir shops also on site, POIN Panamá is a must-visit for travelers looking to see the city from a whole new perspective.
Cost: Varies depending on activity
Islands & Beaches Near Panama City
San Blas Islands
The San Blas Islands are some of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean, known for crystal-clear water and white sand.
Cost: $120–$160 per person (day trip)
Most tours include 4×4 transport, boat transfers, and lunch.
Taboga Island
Just a short ferry ride away, Taboga Island is perfect for a quick beach escape.
Cost: $24–$30 round trip ferry for adults (30 mins)
Children under 12 cost around $14 round trip
You can also purchase day passes for $80-$150 or $45 for an excursion around the island.
Booking: Book online ahead of your trip, especially for weekends.
Cash: Walk with cash (USD) as there aren’t any ATMs on the island.
Alcohol: Is prohibited on the beach and will be confiscated.
Beach chair rentals may cost extra.
Colón Beaches (Isla Grande & Portobelo)
Many locals agree that Colón has some of the best beaches in the country, especially Isla Grande and Portobelo.
Cost: $70–$110 for day tours
Local entrance fees may apply.
Nature, Wildlife & Adventure
Monkey Island Tour (Gatún Lake)
The Monkey Island tour takes you through Gatún Lake to see monkeys and tropical wildlife.
Cost: $70–$95 per person
Ancon Hill
Ancon Hill is a free hike with panoramic views of Panama City and the canal.
Cost: Free
Metropolitan Natural Park
Located right in the city, Metropolitan Natural Park offers rainforest trails and wildlife sightings.
Cost: $5 for foreign adults
Soberanía National Park
Soberanía National Park is famous for birdwatching and rainforest hikes.
Cost: $3–$5 entrance fee
Food & Local Experiences
Mercado de Mariscos (Seafood Market)
The Mercado de Mariscos is the best place to try fresh ceviche and local seafood.
Cost: $12–$15 per plate. The price could be a bit more depending on what you order.
Ride the Panama Metro
The Panama Metro is clean, modern, and affordable and worth riding at least once.
Cost: $0.35-$0.60 per ride
Metro card: $2
Chiriquí Province: Boquete & the Highlands
Boquete Coffee Tours
Boquete is known for its cool climate and world-class coffee.
There are several coffee farms in Boquete where you can book a coffee tour.
Cost: $30–$45 per tour.
Volcán Barú Sunrise Tour
A Sunrise Tour to Volcán Barú is a popular adventure in Panama that allows visitors to watch the sun rise over both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.
The experience involves either a hike or a 4×4 (8 hour) ride to the summit (3,474 meters), where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views and rich biodiversity.
Tours typically depart early from Boquete and may include breakfast.
Cost: $175-$250 per person.
Boquete Hanging Bridges
The Boquete Hanging Bridges, often included as part of the Tree Trek Boquete experience (also known as Boquete Tree Trekkers), offer an exciting way to explore the cloud forest from above.
Visitors walk across a series of suspension bridges high in the jungle canopy, with beautiful views of rivers, lush greenery, nearby volcanoes, and even zip-liners passing by.
Some bridges are wobbly and partially see-through, adding a bit of adventure to the experience. Guided tours are available and typically cost between $30–$50, making this a great nature activity to explore Boquete’s scenery.
El Valle de Antón
El Valle de Antón is a beautiful mountain town located inside the crater of an extinct volcano. Known for its cooler climate and lush scenery, it’s a popular getaway from Panama City and offers a mix of nature, wellness, and small-town vibes.
Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, waterfalls, hot springs, local markets, and scenic viewpoints, making El Valle a relaxing yet adventurous destination for a day trip or weekend escape.
Costs:
- Hot springs: $3–$5
- Ziplining: $55–$65
Bocas del Toro
The Bocas del Toro region is known for its laid-back Caribbean atmosphere, colorful island towns, and crystal-clear waters. Made up of several islands, it’s a top destination for island hopping, snorkeling, and beach lovers, with coral reefs, mangroves, and marine life just offshore.
Visitors can also enjoy surf spots, boat tours, fresh seafood, and vibrant nightlife, making Bocas del Toro a favorite for both relaxed escapes and adventure-filled trips.
Cost:
- Boat tours: $30–$60
- Some beaches charge small entrance fees
Final Thoughts: Is Panama Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. Panama offers world-class experiences at a wide range of price points, making it perfect for budget travelers, luxury travelers, retirees, and digital nomads alike.
From islands and rainforests to modern city life and cultural heritage, Panama truly has something for everyone.
Want help planning your trip to Panama? Or perhaps you want to book a tourist tour with me? Reach out here.