What To Do in Casco Viejo, Panama (Travel Guide)

When I first started exploring Latin America, Casco Viejo quickly became a travel favorite! We even had a “let’s move here” moment because I was so in love with it. Here’s what to do while visiting Casco Viejo Panama (also referred to as Casco Antiguo) and other trip-planning tips based on those wonderful experiences. I’ve been to Panama multiple times and it is definitely worth a visit!

Where to Stay in Casco Viejo

It is totally possible to visit Casco Viejo while staying in Panama City (here are some places to stay in Panama City), but we wanted to be within walking distance from our cousin’s temporary apartment.

During the visit to Casco Viejo, we chose to live somewhat like a local and stay in a central apartment by the Arco Chato. My airbnb stay, directly across from Arco Chato, far exceeded my expectations and allowed me to experience the historical town just steps away from my front door. 

The Arco Chato Inn is a 2 bedroom loft-style apartment with a common room and kitchen to die for! Rich dark wood gives the space a sophisticated touch, and the ornate decor really made me feel at home – as opposed to a bare apartment trying to make money off of Airbnb renters.

Darren and Alex really went out of their way to ensure our stay was comfortable and inviting, and it didn’t hurt that our second-floor balcony wrapped around the apartment with a front-and-center view of artists, locals, and historical landmarks!

To book the apartment or learn more, check out the Airbnb listing here. 

Where to Eat in Casco Viejo

For a quick bite, we spent our mornings grabbing desayuno (breakfast) at the Unido Café, attached to the American Trade Hotel.

Unido Café

They have an array of fresh baked goods that they heat upon request. I enjoyed oversized croissants while Alex drank cappuccinos with thoughtfully designed milk in the shape of a heart.

Il Carpaccio

For dinner, we enjoyed an Italian date night outdoors on the Plaza Catedral at Il Carpaccio. With great service, bistro-style seating, and a heavy wine menu, the appetizing food seems to be a lucky add-on. 

Lastly, don’t forget about local restaurants serving comida tipica (standard local meals). On every other block, you’ll find a hole in the wall with food ten times better than anything you’ll find on Trip Advisor! And if you run into an Asian chef running his own Panamanian restaurant, don’t be alarmed by his yells or pushiness: the food and $4.00 price is totally worth it.

Where to Drink in Casco Viejo

Finca del Mar swing bar is a must!

Finca del Mar Swing Bar

Not just because I like swings but because they make great drinks with a heavy hand… and also because I like swings. The bar is right next to the waterfront too, so it’s a scenic walk there and back. If you are day drinking – no judgment zone – the waterfront market will still be open as well.

Tantalo Restaurant + Rooftop

Tantalo Restaurant + Rooftop should’ve been on the “where to eat” list because their food is awesome! But their rooftop bar takes the cake with spectacular night views of the city. Head there for dinner and then go upstairs to the bar. Expect overdressed women, pricier drinks, bumping music, and an all-around good time.

La Rana Dorada microbrewery

La Rana Dorada microbrewery is essential for craft beer lovers, as you’ll learn there’s not much beer to choose from in Latin America. I stopped in once after Alex’s 3rd visit. They make great sandwiches to pair with your beer.

What to do in Casco Viejo

The Canal Museum is right on the square and the easiest attraction to spot. It is $2.00 to enter and costs $4.00 to receive an English audio tour.

The Arco Chato and Iglesia Santo Domingo, just a few blocks away (and directly across from the Airbnb I stayed at) have artists painting during the day and friendly locals in traditional clothing waiting for a photo op or to give you directions.

La Cinta Costera

Step outside of the quaint town and walk along the water towards downtown Panama City via La Cinta Costera. You’ll come across women selling frozen ice, playgrounds, fish markets, and a running/bike lane.

City Sightseeing Bus

And if you don’t have much time to see everything outside of Casco Viejo, don’t be ashamed: I took the leap and did it too. Yes, I went on my first City Sightseeing Bus and it was AWESOME. Minus the touristy-ness, the $30 all-day hop-on hop-off bus was key in helping us see the far-away attractions!

Panama Canal Miraflores Locks and more

We visited parts of Panama City we hadn’t heard of, toured the Panama Canal Miraflores Locks (a must-see), Flamenco Island, Frank Gehry’s Biomuseo, and more. I will never mock those buses again.

How to get to Casco Viejo Panama

We took a bus from Costa Rica (Puerto Viejo) to Panama City which was a journey in itself! Then we took a taxi from the bus station straight to Casco Viejo.

If you are coming by plane, you can fly right into Panama City, which is a very popular airport so lots of flight option.

Have fun!

xx, O.

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