Top Reasons to Visit Casco Viejo – Panama’s Colonial Gem

Casco Viejo, also known as Casco Antiguo or the Old Quarter, is Panama City's most captivating district. With its cobblestone streets, 17th-century colonial facades, and lively blend of cafés, rooftop bars, and art galleries, this UNESCO World Heritage Site tells the story of Panama's layered past and vibrant present. It's not just a place to visit—it's a place to experience.
 

From stunning sunsets over the Pacific Ocean to the rhythmic pulse of salsa echoing through old stone walls, Casco Viejo invites travelers to slow down, soak in the history, and live the moment.

📍 Where Is Casco Viejo?

Casco Viejo is located at the southern edge of Panama City, bordering the modern skyline of downtown and offering dramatic contrasts between the old and new. It's easily accessible by taxi, Uber, or even on foot from nearby neighborhoods like Bella Vista or Avenida Balboa.

📅 Best Time to Visit Casco Viejo

Dry Season (December to April):

Ideal for exploring on foot. Warm days, low humidity, and sunny skies.

Rainy Season (May to November):

Short tropical showers in the afternoon, but still a good time to visit—especially with fewer tourists and lush surroundings.

🏛️ Top Things to See & Do in Casco Viejo

1. Plaza Bolívar

A peaceful square lined with historic buildings and outdoor cafés. A great spot for people-watching or a leisurely lunch.

2. Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral Basílica Santa María la Antigua)

The largest cathedral in Panama, recently restored, featuring beautiful architecture and religious significance.

3. Palacio de las Garzas (The Presidential Palace)

Home to Panama’s president. While entry is restricted, its gleaming white façade and ceremonial guards are worth a photo.

4. Church of San José & The Golden Altar

This unassuming church hides a baroque gold-plated altar that survived pirate attacks. A must-see piece of Panamanian history.

5. Paseo Las Bóvedas

A seaside walkway along old fortifications, offering artisan markets, ocean views, and a romantic atmosphere.

6. Museo del Canal Interoceánico

An informative museum detailing the story of the Panama Canal with historical photos, documents, and exhibits.

🏘️ History of Casco Viejo

Founded in 1673 after the destruction of Panama Viejo by pirates, Casco Viejo became the new hub of trade and governance for centuries. Its Spanish colonial roots were later blended with French and Caribbean influences, especially during the French canal construction era.

UNESCO World Heritage Status

In 1997, Casco Viejo was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historical and architectural significance. Since then, major restoration efforts have helped preserve and revive the area.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Casco Viejo

Casco Viejo is Panama’s culinary epicenter, with offerings from fine dining to street food.

🍽️ Top Restaurants:

Donde José – An immersive tasting menu showcasing Panamanian flavors.

Fonda Lo Que Hay – Casual, creative dishes in a hip setting by Chef José Olmedo Carles.

Tomillo Panama – A rooftop restaurant serving gourmet fusion cuisine with great views.

Mahalo Cocina y Jardín – Plant-forward dishes in a cozy garden ambiance.

🌮 Local Eats:

Street ceviche at Mercado de Mariscos – Just a short walk from Casco.

Empanadas from local vendors – Affordable and delicious street snacks.

Panamanian sancocho – Traditional chicken soup served in several local fondas.

🍹 Rooftop Bars & Nightlife

Casco Viejo comes alive at night with music, cocktails, and beautiful views.

🌇 Top Rooftop Bars:

Tantalo Rooftop – Trendy bar with panoramic city views and live DJs.

CasaCasco – Multi-level venue with restaurants, bars, and a rooftop overlooking the skyline.

Salvaje – Chic Japanese fusion restaurant by day, club-vibe rooftop at night.

💃 Nightlife Highlights:

La Tana – Speakeasy-style cocktail bar with excellent mixology.

Relic Bar – Located in the cellar of Luna’s Castle Hostel, a great spot for travelers.

Casa Jaguar – Latin beats, craft cocktails, and an outdoor courtyard.

🛍️ Shopping & Art in Casco Viejo

🎨 Art & Culture:

DiabloRosso – Contemporary art gallery supporting Panamanian artists.

Galería Mery Palma – Fine art and indigenous-inspired pieces.

🛒 Local Crafts:

Handmade molas from the Guna people

Panama hats, though originally from Ecuador, are widely available

Jewelry made from tagua nuts and cocobolo wood

🏨 Where to Stay in Casco Viejo

Whether you’re looking for luxury or budget-friendly charm, Casco has options for every traveler.

🛏️ Luxury:

American Trade Hotel – Stylish boutique hotel with jazz nights and fine dining.

La Compañía Hotel – A 5-star gem built in a restored Jesuit convent.

🏠 Mid-Range:

Tantalo Hotel – Vibrant art-themed rooms and rooftop bar.

Las Clementinas – Cozy suites in a quiet part of Casco, perfect for longer stays.

💸 Budget:

Selina Casco Viejo – Popular with digital nomads; offers dorms and private rooms.

Luna’s Castle Hostel – Historic building with social atmosphere and budget rates.

📸 Instagrammable Spots

Sunset at Paseo Las Bóvedas

Balconies with colorful flags

Street murals near Avenida A

Rooftops with skyline views

Colonial doorways and pastel walls

🚶‍♂️ Walking Tours & Experiences

Popular Tours:

Casco Walking Tour – Led by local historians or guides, covering key plazas and churches.

Gastronomic Tour – Sample street food, cocktails, and local dishes.

Panama Canal + Casco Combo Tour – A full-day experience covering two icons of Panama.

🛡️ Safety in Casco Viejo

Casco Viejo is generally safe for tourists, especially during the day and in well-trafficked areas. At night, stick to main streets and avoid wandering into surrounding neighborhoods like El Chorrillo unless with a guide.

💡 Tip: Petty theft can occur. Keep valuables secure and be mindful when taking photos or using your phone on busy streets.

🚖 How to Get to Casco Viejo

By Taxi/Uber from downtown Panama City or the airport

Walking from nearby neighborhoods like Cinta Costera or Avenida Balboa

Public Buses stop near Avenida B, a short walk from the heart of Casco

📅 Sample 2-Day Casco Viejo Itinerary

Day 1:

Morning: Walking tour of historic sites

Lunch at Fonda Lo Que Hay

Afternoon: Museum visit + artisan shopping

Dinner & drinks at CasaCasco rooftop

Day 2:

Morning: Coffee at Café Unido + cathedral visit

Brunch at Mahalo Garden

Afternoon: Relax at hotel or enjoy a salsa class

Evening: Rooftop sunset + explore nightlife

🌿 Responsible Travel Tips

Support local artisans and small businesses

Respect the heritage buildings—no graffiti or climbing on ruins

Be courteous when photographing locals

Use refillable water bottles to minimize plastic waste

✅ Pros & Cons of Visiting Casco Viejo

Final Thoughts

Casco Viejo is more than just Panama City’s oldest neighborhood—it’s its cultural heartbeat. A blend of the past and present, it offers travelers a dynamic and immersive experience. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a photography lover, Casco Viejo will enchant you with its colonial charm, lively streets, and unforgettable atmosphere.

Add it to your Panama itinerary—you won’t regret it.