First off, we know what you’re already thinking… (1) we are not talking about Panama City Beach in Florida and (2) Is there that much to do in Panama? It may not be a typical country people go to for vacation, but trust us here, it will be soon. Keep reading if you want to find out how to turn Panama into your perfect destination when looking for both adventure and relaxation activities.


Casco Viejo

Casco Viejo was one of our favorite places that we explored while in Panama. Filled with tons of stores, restaurants, beautiful architecture and culture, it was hard not to love it! In the future, we will share our top restaurants that we ate at in Casco Viejo because there are sooo many to share!

Streets of Casco Viejo in Panama

Isla Contadora

Isla Contadora was an absolute dream! After an hour and half ferry ride we were able to drive around the entire island in a golf cart! We spent the day on the island, having the beach practically all to ourselves and enjoying lunch at a small restaurant before heading back to Panama City.

Isla Contadora - a fun day trip when visiting Panama and want to get out of the city!

San Blas Islands

The San Blas Islands was quite an experience! We decided to do a day trip, however, you can also choose to stay overnight if the 2 hour car ride each way is too much for you. And we’ll be honest, it can be a bumpy ride throughout mountains and the forest in Panama. But it is beautiful! The tour is run by the Gunas and they will be the ones guiding you throughout the San Blas Islands. The islands are beautiful, as you can see below…

San Blas Islands - can be a day trip or multiple days depending on what you prefer!

Chocolate Tasting

We had the best time tasting and buying chocolate at the Tropical Chocolate Cafe in Casco Viejo. We think it is a MUST for all chocolate lovers or for anyone who wants to learn more about the chocolate making process. And if that’s not what you’re interested in, you can always just stop in to purchase their chocolate, coffee/tea and many other products that they sell!

Chocolate Tasting in Casco Viejo

San Francisco

San Francisco has tons of shops and fun food places to try! Including one of our favorite food places of our entire trip, Tacos La Neta! They have some of the best tacos along with delicious guac! When there you’ll also have to make your way over to Miranda Bakery for dessert.

Donuts in San Francisco, Panama. A variety of delicious food spots in this area of the city.
Notes
  • If you liked this article, check out our other travel guides here!
  • Have recommendations for other places for when we go back to Panama? Leave them in the comments on this post!
  • Panama City was a great trip full of adventure but also relaxation and DELICIOUS food. We can’t wait to go back!