Where to stay in Panama City Panama is a key decision for travelers seeking to experience this vibrant Central American capital, where modern skyscrapers meet colonial charm along the Pacific coast. Spanning 2,750 square kilometers with a population of about 1.5 million, Panama City blends bustling financial districts, historic neighborhoods, and stunning Panama City Panama hotels with ocean views.
From the cobblestone streets of Casco Viejo to the trendy vibe of El Cangrejo, the city offers diverse best neighborhoods in Panama City Panama for every traveler, whether you’re after luxury hotels Panama City Panama, budget places to stay in Panama City Panama, or family-friendly hotels Panama City Panama.
Best Neighborhoods in Panama City Panama: Choosing Your Base
Selecting the best neighborhoods in Panama City Panama depends on your travel goals. Casco Viejo, the historic district, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with colonial architecture, lively plazas, and proximity to attractions like the Panama Canal Museum.
It’s ideal for first-timers seeking where do tourists stay in Panama City Panama, offering a mix of best boutique hotels Panama City Panama and hostels in Panama City Panama. El Cangrejo, known for its European-style charm and nightlife along Via Argentina, suits travelers wanting a vibrant, walkable area with budget places to stay in Panama City Panama.
Bella Vista, encompassing El Cangrejo and Marbella, blends modern high-rises with green spaces, perfect for business hotels in Panama City Panama. Punta Pacifica offers Panama City Panama hotels with ocean views and luxury, while Calidonia provides affordable options for long-term stays. Each neighborhood offers unique vibes, from historic to cosmopolitan, catering to diverse preferences.
Panama City Panama Accommodation Guide: Options for Every Traveler
This Panama City Panama accommodation guide covers a spectrum of lodging types. Top hotels in Panama City Panama range from five-star properties like Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo to mid-range options like Best Western Plus Panama Zen.
Budget places to stay in Panama City Panama include hostels like Selina Casco Viejo, with dorms starting at $15 USD per night, and guesthouses in Calidonia at $20–$40 USD. Luxury hotels Panama City Panama, such as Hotel La Compañía, offer rooftop pools and fine dining, with rates from $200–$400 USD.
Hostels in Panama City Panama like Magnolia Inn provide social vibes for backpackers, while Panama City Panama Airbnb options range from colonial apartments in Casco Viejo to modern high-rises in Punta Pacifica. Family-friendly hotels Panama City Panama like The Westin Playa Bonita feature kids’ pools and babysitting services, ensuring comfort for all ages.
Safe Areas to Stay in Panama City Panama: Prioritizing Security
Safe areas to stay in Panama City Panama include Casco Viejo, El Cangrejo, Bella Vista, and Punta Pacifica, where tourism police and well-lit streets enhance security. Casco Viejo is safe within its core, with constant patrols, but avoid adjacent areas like El Chorrillo at night.
El Cangrejo and Obarrio, part of the financial district, have a strong police presence and are ideal for business hotels in Panama City Panama. Punta Pacifica’s upscale vibe ensures safety, though petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded spots.
Calidonia is budget-friendly but requires caution after dark. Avoid areas like San Miguelito or Curundú, known for higher crime rates. Stick to tourist zones, use licensed taxis, and secure valuables to enjoy a worry-free stay.
Casco Viejo vs El Cangrejo Lodging: Comparing Two Top Areas
When choosing Casco Viejo vs El Cangrejo lodging, consider your priorities. Casco Viejo, a historic gem, offers a cultural immersion with colonial buildings, rooftop bars, and proximity to landmarks like Plaza de la Independencia.
It’s home to best boutique hotels Panama City Panama like Tantalo Hotel ($130–$200 USD) and hostels in Panama City Panama like Magnolia Inn ($15–$90 USD). However, weekend nightlife can be noisy, and public transport is limited to buses or taxis. El Cangrejo, a modern, walkable neighborhood, boasts lively bars, casinos, and restaurants along Via Argentina, with metro access at Vía Argentina station.
It offers budget places to stay in Panama City Panama like Blu Hostel ($10–$40 USD) and mid-range hotels like TRYP by Wyndham ($60–$100 USD). El Cangrejo is quieter at night and better for budget travelers, while Casco Viejo suits those seeking history and charm.
Top Hotels in Panama City Panama: Standout Properties
The top hotels in Panama City Panama cater to varied tastes. In Casco Viejo, Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo ($200–$350 USD) blends colonial elegance with modern amenities like a rooftop infinity pool. Hotel La Compañía, built in a restored convent, offers luxury suites and a spa ($250–$400 USD).
In El Cangrejo, Best Western Plus Panama Zen ($80–$150 USD) features a rooftop pool and vibrant nightlife access. Hilton Panama in Marbella ($100–$200 USD) is a top business hotel in Panama City Panama with skyline views and meeting facilities.
For Panama City Panama hotels with ocean views, JW Marriott Panama in Punta Pacifica ($150–$300 USD) offers waterfront luxury. These properties consistently earn high Panama City Panama hotel reviews for service, location, and amenities.
Luxury Hotels Panama City Panama: Indulging in Comfort
Luxury hotels Panama City Panama elevate your stay with world-class amenities. Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo combines historic charm with sea-view suites, a spa, and three upscale restaurants ($200–$350 USD).
The Santa Maria, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Costa del Este, features a golf course and panoramic suites ($250–$400 USD). In Punta Pacifica, Waldorf Astoria Panama offers floor-to-ceiling windows and a rooftop bar ($150–$300 USD).
These hotels provide concierge services, gourmet dining, and wellness facilities, ideal for romantic places to stay in Panama City Panama or business travelers. Book early, as peak season (January–April) sees high demand, especially in safe areas to stay in Panama City Panama like Casco Viejo and Punta Pacifica.
Budget Places to Stay in Panama City Panama: Affordable Options
Budget places to stay in Panama City Panama offer comfort without breaking the bank. In Casco Viejo, Selina Casco Viejo provides dorms ($15–$25 USD) and private rooms ($50–$80 USD) with a social vibe and coworking spaces. Magnolia Inn, in a restored colonial building, offers budget rooms ($20–$90 USD) with shared kitchens.
In El Cangrejo, Blu Hostel ($10–$40 USD) features hot showers and a communal kitchen, perfect for backpackers. Calidonia’s Hostal El Prado ($15–$35 USD) provides clean rooms near Avenida Balboa. These hostels in Panama City Panama and guesthouses keep daily costs low, around $30–$60 USD, including meals at local eateries like Jap Jap ($5–$10 USD), ideal for budget places to stay in Panama City Panama.
Hostels in Panama City Panama: Backpacker Havens
Hostels in Panama City Panama are ideal for solo travelers or groups seeking affordability and community. Selina Casco Viejo stands out with its rooftop bar, yoga classes, and dorms ($15–$25 USD) or private rooms ($50–$80 USD). Magnolia Inn in Casco Viejo offers a quieter vibe with dorms ($15 USD) and colonial charm.
In El Cangrejo, Machico Hostel ($10–$30 USD) provides a large pool and social events, while Bodhi Panama City ($12–$35 USD) offers a serene garden and metro access. These hostels include free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and communal kitchens, making them budget-friendly bases for exploring where do tourists stay in Panama City Panama.
Family-Friendly Hotels Panama City Panama: Comfort for All Ages
Family-friendly hotels Panama City Panama ensure a welcoming stay for kids and adults. The Westin Playa Bonita, a beachfront resort 20 minutes from downtown, offers kids’ pools, babysitting, and family suites ($150–$300 USD). ]
In Casco Viejo, Hotel La Compañía provides spacious suites and child-friendly dining ($250–$400 USD). Hilton Panama in Marbella features interconnecting rooms and a kids’ club ($100–$200 USD).
These hotels, located in safe areas to stay in Panama City Panama, offer amenities like pools and game rooms, keeping kids entertained while parents relax. Book family packages early for discounts, especially during the dry season (January–April).
Panama City Panama Airbnb Options: Unique Stays
Panama City Panama Airbnb options provide flexibility for travelers. In Casco Viejo, restored colonial apartments with balconies and full kitchens cost $50–$150 USD per night, ideal for couples or families.
Marbella offers modern high-rise condos with skyline views and pools ($60–$200 USD), perfect for romantic places to stay in Panama City Panama. Punta Pacifica’s luxury apartments, often with oceanfront terraces, range from $100–$250 USD.
El Cangrejo has cozy lofts near metro stations ($40–$100 USD), great for budget travelers. These rentals include Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and sometimes rooftop access, offering a home-like experience in best neighborhoods in Panama City Panama.
Panama City Panama Hotels with Ocean Views: Scenic Stays
Panama City Panama hotels with ocean views elevate your experience with stunning Pacific vistas. JW Marriott Panama in Punta Pacifica offers suites with floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies ($150–$300 USD).
Le Meridien Panama in Marbella provides oceanfront rooms and a pool deck ($100–$200 USD). In Casco Viejo, Sofitel Legend’s rooftop pool and sea-view suites create a luxurious escape ($200–$350 USD).
These hotels, located in safe areas to stay in Panama City Panama, are ideal for romantic places to stay in Panama City Panama or relaxation, with easy access to Cinta Costera’s waterfront promenade for evening strolls.
Best Boutique Hotels Panama City Panama: Charming and Unique
Best boutique hotels Panama City Panama offer personalized charm. Tantalo Hotel in Casco Viejo features art-filled rooms and a rooftop bar ($130–$200 USD), perfect for romantic places to stay in Panama City Panama. Las Clementinas, also in Casco Viejo, offers studio-style rooms with vibrant decor ($100–$180 USD).
In El Cangrejo, La Concordia Boutique Hotel provides modern suites with balconies ($80–$150 USD). These properties, often in restored colonial buildings, blend local culture with modern amenities, earning high Panama City Panama hotel reviews for their unique ambiance and prime locations.
Romantic Places to Stay in Panama City Panama: Intimate Getaways
Romantic places to stay in Panama City Panama create unforgettable moments. Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo offers candlelit dining and sea-view suites ($200–$350 USD). Hotel La Compañía’s historic charm and private balconies ($250–$400 USD) suit couples seeking intimacy.
In Punta Pacifica, Waldorf Astoria’s spa and rooftop bar ($150–$300 USD) add romance with skyline views. Panama City Panama Airbnb options in Casco Viejo include cozy lofts with rooftop access ($50–$150 USD), perfect for stargazing. These stays, in safe areas to stay in Panama City Panama, enhance couple’s retreats with dining and cultural experiences.
Business Hotels in Panama City Panama: Work and Comfort
Business hotels in Panama City Panama cater to professionals with modern amenities. Hilton Panama in Marbella offers meeting rooms, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a business center ($100–$200 USD). Bristol Panama in Bella Vista, a Registry Collection Hotel, provides spacious work desks and conference facilities ($150–$250 USD).
In Obarrio, Eurostars Panama City features a 27th-floor pool and sauna ($80–$150 USD), ideal for unwinding after meetings. Located in the financial district, these hotels ensure easy access to corporate hubs and metro stations, making them top choices for where do tourists stay in Panama City Panama for business.
Cheap Hotels in Downtown Panama City Panama: Value Stays
Cheap hotels in downtown Panama City Panama keep costs low without sacrificing comfort. Hotel Coral Suites in El Cangrejo offers suites with kitchenettes ($40–$80 USD). Riande Urban Hotel in Bella Vista provides clean rooms and free parking ($35–$70 USD).
In Calidonia, Hostal El Prado ($15–$35 USD) is near Avenida Central’s markets. These budget places to stay in Panama City Panama are close to metro stations and attractions like Cinta Costera, keeping daily expenses around $30–$60 USD, including meals at local spots like Manolo’s ($5–$10 USD).
A Panama City Panama lodging map helps visualize accommodation locations. Casco Viejo sits on a peninsula, with boutique hotels and hostels clustered around Plaza de la Independencia. El Cangrejo and Obarrio, north of downtown, are near Vía Argentina and Vía España metro stations, offering mid-range and budget options.
Punta Pacifica, along the coast, hosts luxury hotels Panama City Panama near Multiplaza Mall. Bella Vista’s high-rises, including Marbella, are walkable to Cinta Costera. Calidonia, between Casco Viejo and Bella Vista, offers affordable stays near Avenida Balboa. Use offline maps like Google Maps to navigate, as Wi-Fi can be spotty outside hotels.
Top-Rated Accommodations Panama City Panama: Guest Favorites
Top-rated accommodations Panama City Panama earn praise for service and value. Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo consistently receives 4.5–5-star Panama City Panama hotel reviews for its elegant rooms and rooftop pool. Selina Casco Viejo is lauded for its social vibe and affordability ($15–$80 USD).
In El Cangrejo, Best Western Plus Panama Zen is favored for its central location and rooftop amenities ($80–$150 USD). JW Marriott Panama in Punta Pacifica earns high marks for ocean views and dining ($150–$300 USD). Guest reviews highlight cleanliness, staff friendliness, and proximity to attractions, making these ideal for where do tourists stay in Panama City Panama.
Eco-Friendly Hotels Panama City Panama: Sustainable Stays
Eco-friendly hotels Panama City Panama prioritize sustainability. The Westin Playa Bonita uses energy-efficient systems and locally sourced dining ($150–$300 USD). In Casco Viejo, Selina Casco Viejo supports local artisans and offers eco-conscious events ($15–$80 USD).
Monkey Lodge Panama, near Soberania National Park, provides solar-powered cabins and nature tours ($80–$150 USD). These properties reduce waste, use biodegradable products, and promote Panama’s biodiversity, appealing to travelers seeking green options in safe areas to stay in Panama City Panama.
FAQs About Where to Stay in Panama City Panama
What are the best neighborhoods in Panama City Panama?
Casco Viejo, El Cangrejo, Bella Vista, Punta Pacifica, and Calidonia offer diverse vibes, from historic charm to modern luxury, with options for all budgets.
Which are the top hotels in Panama City Panama?
Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Hotel La Compañía, JW Marriott Panama, and Best Western Plus Panama Zen are highly rated for their amenities and locations.
What are safe areas to stay in Panama City Panama?
Casco Viejo, El Cangrejo, Obarrio, and Punta Pacifica are secure with tourism police, but avoid areas like El Chorrillo or San Miguelito at night.
Where can I find budget places to stay in Panama City Panama?
Hostels like Selina Casco Viejo ($15–$25 USD) and guesthouses in Calidonia ($15–$35 USD) offer affordable stays with basic amenities.
What are the best family-friendly hotels Panama City Panama?
The Westin Playa Bonita and Hilton Panama provide kids’ pools, babysitting, and spacious suites, ideal for families in safe areas to stay in Panama City Panama.
Which hotels are romantic places to stay in Panama City Panama?
Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo and Tantalo Hotel offer intimate suites, rooftop bars, and scenic views, perfect for couples seeking romance.
What are the best eco-friendly hotels Panama City Panama?
The Westin Playa Bonita and Monkey Lodge Panama prioritize sustainability with energy-efficient systems and local sourcing, ideal for eco-conscious travelers.
Conclusion of Where to Stay in Panama City Panama
Where to stay in Panama City Panama shapes your experience in this dynamic city, where colonial history meets modern luxury. From the vibrant streets of Casco Viejo to the lively nightlife of El Cangrejo, the best neighborhoods in Panama City Panama cater to every traveler.
Whether you choose luxury hotels Panama City Panama like Sofitel Legend, budget places to stay in Panama City Panama like Selina Casco Viejo, or Panama City Panama Airbnb options for a home-like feel, this Panama City Panama accommodation guide ensures a tailored stay.
With safe areas to stay in Panama City Panama, top-rated accommodations Panama City Panama, and options for families, couples, and business travelers, your Panama City adventure awaits with unforgettable moments by the Pacific.
