Travel Hacks for Frequent Flyers in Panama City, Panama
1. Metrobus System
A cost-effective and efficient way to navigate Panama City's traffic. Saves time and money compared to taxis.
- Affordable Fares: Metrobus offers affordable fares for frequent travelers, making it a budget-friendly option.
- Wide Coverage: The Metrobus system covers most of the city, reducing the need for multiple modes of transportation.
- Environmentally Friendly: Using the Metrobus contributes less to air pollution compared to individual cars.
2. Smart Fortunia App
An app that allows you to pay for parking directly from your phone. Saves time and eliminates the need for coins or cards.
- Easy Payment Method: The Smart Fortunia App offers a convenient payment method, saving you the hassle of finding change.
- Remote Control: Extend your parking time remotely without having to return to your vehicle.
- Reduced Parking Tickets: The app notifies you when your parking session is about to expire, reducing the risk of parking tickets.
3. Tocumen Airport Free Shuttle
A free shuttle service that connects Tocumen International Airport with various hotels in the city. Saves money and reduces stress.
- Complimentary Service: The shuttle is a complimentary service, saving you money on transportation from the airport.
- Convenient Timings: Shuttles operate at regular intervals to ensure you don't miss your connection.
- Safe and Reliable: The shuttle service is safe, reliable, and provides a stress-free travel experience.
4. Smart City Card
A reloadable smart card for public transportation in Panama City. Saves time and money by avoiding ticket lines.
- Convenient Payment Method: The Smart City Card offers a convenient payment method for frequent travelers.
- Quick Transit: With the card, you can quickly transit through public transportation systems.
- Discounts and Rewards: The Smart City Card offers discounts on certain services and rewards points for frequent use.
5. BioMuseo
A museum dedicated to biodiversity in Panama. Provides a unique insight into the country's rich flora and fauna.
- Interactive Exhibits: Interactive exhibits make learning about biodiversity fun and engaging.
- Panoramic Views: The museum offers panoramic views of the city and the Pacific Ocean.
- Local Artisans Market: A local artisans market sells handmade crafts, providing an opportunity to take home a piece of Panama.
6. Panama Canal
An engineering marvel connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Witness the transiting of ships from observation points.
- Historical Significance: The Panama Canal is a historic site with significant cultural value.
- Guided Tours: Guided tours provide in-depth knowledge about the canal's construction and operation.
- Unique Photography Opportunities: The Panama Canal offers unique photography opportunities, especially during ship transits.
7. Casco Viejo
A UNESCO World Heritage Site with colonial architecture. Offers a glimpse into Panama's past.
- Architectural Beauty: Casco Viejo showcases beautiful colonial-era architecture.
- Vibrant Nightlife: The district is known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and restaurants.
- Street Art: Casco Viejo features colorful street art that adds to the district's charm.
8. Miraflores Locks Visitor Center
A visitor center overlooking the Miraflores Locks of the Panama Canal. Provides a close-up view of ships passing through.
- Informative Exhibits: Exhibits showcase the history, operation, and importance of the Panama Canal.
- Panoramic Views: The visitor center offers panoramic views of ships passing through the locks.
- Photography Opportunities: The center provides excellent photography opportunities, especially during ship transits.
9. Amador Causeway
A scenic road connecting four islands in the Pacific Ocean. Offers views of the city skyline, ships passing through the Panama Canal, and recreational activities.
- Scenic Views: The Amador Causeway offers breathtaking views of the city, ships passing through the canal, and the Pacific Ocean.
- Recreational Activities: The causeway has parks, restaurants, and a small museum for visitors to enjoy.
- Evening Walks: The causeway is an ideal place for evening walks, offering a peaceful end to the day.
10. Panama Hat Workshop
A workshop where you can learn about and purchase authentic Panama hats. Saves money by buying directly from the source.
- Authentic Products: The workshop sells authentic Panama hats, which are made with Ecuadorian Toquilla straw.
- Craftsmanship Demonstrations: Watch skilled artisans demonstrate the traditional methods of hat-making.
- Customization Options: Design your own Panama hat with various color and weave options.
11. El Mercado de Mariscos
A seafood market offering fresh fish and shellfish. Saves money by buying directly from the source.
- Fresh Seafood: The market offers a wide variety of fresh seafood, including local favorites like red snapper and lobster.
- Affordable Prices: Prices at the market are often lower than in restaurants, making it a cost-effective option.
- Cooking Classes: Take cooking classes to learn how to prepare traditional Panamanian seafood dishes.
12. Panama Viejo Ruins
The ruins of the first city founded in Panama by the Spanish. Offers a glimpse into the country's colonial past.
- Historical Significance: The ruins are a testament to the historical significance of Panama.
- Guided Tours: Guided tours provide insight into the history and architecture of the old city.
- Restored Churches: Some churches have been restored, allowing visitors to explore their architectural beauty.
13. Taboga Island
A picturesque island off the coast of Panama City. Offers relaxation, beach activities, and water sports.
- Beach Activities: Enjoy beach activities like swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
- Water Sports: Try water sports like jet-skiing, parasailing, and kayaking.
- Restaurants and Bars: Find restaurants and bars offering local cuisine and refreshing drinks.
14. Panama City Food Tour
A food tour that takes you through Panama City's culinary highlights. Saves time by visiting multiple restaurants in one go.
- Culinary Variety: The tour showcases a variety of Panamanian dishes, from street food to gourmet cuisine.
- Local Insights: Tour guides share insights into the local food culture and history.
- Sample Delicacies: Try traditional Panamanian delicacies like ceviche, sancocho, and empanadas.
15. Metro Line 3 (Under Construction)
An upcoming metro line that will further improve public transportation in Panama City. Saves time and reduces traffic congestion.
- Improved Connectivity: The new line will connect more areas of the city, improving overall connectivity.
- Faster Travel: With fewer stops, travel time between certain destinations is expected to decrease.
- Reduced Traffic Congestion: The new line will reduce traffic congestion on the roads, making travel smoother.