Panama City’s Old Town Guided Tour

Exploring the captivating history and vibrant culture of Panama City’s Old Town is a must for any visitor. This guided tour takes travelers on a journey through iconic landmarks, from the San Jose Church to the French Plaza. With immersive guided walks through the ancient ruins of Panama Viejo and the charming streets of Casco Antiguo, guests can engage with knowledgeable local guides and savor authentic Panamanian cuisine. Offering a glimpse into the city’s rich heritage, this tour promises to…

Key Points

• Guided tour of Panama City’s historic Casco Antiguo (Old Town), including visits to iconic landmarks like San Jose Church and French Plaza.
• Exploration of the Museo de Panama Viejo, showcasing the ruins of the original city destroyed by pirates.
• Immersive 1-hour guided walks through the Panama Viejo ruins and Casco Antiguo, led by local experts.
• Free time for personal exploration and sampling of authentic Panamanian cuisine.
• Tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and is priced at $89 per person with a free cancellation policy.

Tour Overview

The guided tour of Panama City’s historic Casco Antiguo, or Old Town, offers visitors the opportunity to explore the area’s rich cultural heritage.

Travelers will visit iconic landmarks like the San Jose Church, French Plaza, and City Plaza, as well as the city walls. They’ll also explore the local fish market and Museo de Panama Viejo.

The tour includes a 1-hour guided walk through the ruins of Panama Viejo and another 1-hour guided walk in the Old Town, followed by free time for personal exploration.

Group sizes are limited to a maximum of 15 travelers.

Historical Landmarks

As visitors embark on the guided tour, they’ll discover the historical landmarks that define Panama City’s Old Town.

They’ll visit the San Jose Church, a colonial-era Catholic church known for its ornate golden altar.

Next, they’ll explore the French Plaza, a bustling square surrounded by vibrant colonial architecture.

The tour then takes them to the City Plaza, the heart of the Old Town, where they can admire the city walls that once protected the historic district.

Finally, they’ll visit the Museo de Panama Viejo, which showcases the ruins of the original city destroyed by pirates.

Local Attractions

Along With the historical landmarks, the Old Town tour offers visitors the chance to enjoy the local culture and attractions.

Participants can explore the vibrant fish market, where they can witness the lively trade of the day’s catch. The tour also includes a visit to the Museo de Panama Viejo, which showcases the rich history and heritage of the region.

Explore the vibrant fish market and discover the rich history at the Museo de Panama Viejo.

During the free time, guests can wander the charming streets, browse local shops, and sample authentic Panamanian cuisine.

• Local fish market

• Museo de Panama Viejo

• Charming streets

• Local shops

• Authentic Panamanian cuisine

Guided Walks

Visitors can look forward to two guided walks during the Panama City’s Old Town tour.

The first is a 1-hour guided exploration of the ruins of Panama Viejo, the original site of the city founded in 1519. Guests will learn about the history and significance of these important archaeological remains.

Next, the tour heads to the Casco Antiguo, or Old Town, for another 1-hour guided walk. Here, the local guide brings the district’s colonial architecture and landmarks to life through engaging storytelling.

These curated walks offer an immersive experience, allowing guests to step back in time and gain a deeper understanding of Panama City’s rich heritage.

Free Time Exploration

After the guided walks through the historic sites, the Panama City’s Old Town tour provides travelers with an opportunity to explore the area on their own.

During this free time, visitors can:

• Immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere of the local fish market

• Discover hidden gems and charming alleyways off the main streets

• Sample authentic Panamanian cuisine at nearby cafes and restaurants

• Interact with friendly locals and observe their daily routines

• Browse the artisan shops for unique souvenirs and gifts

This self-guided exploration allows travelers to personalize their experience and uncover the vibrant culture of Panama City’s Old Town at their own pace.

Inclusions and Pricing

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and a local guide is provided.

Souvenir photos and a DVD are available to purchase. Priced at $89 per person, the tour offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Travelers can also take advantage of the lowest price guarantee.

The tour duration is approximately 4 hours, and it’s not wheelchair accessible, but it’s located near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.

Guides and Customer Experiences

Guides are praised by tour participants for their knowledge and engaging personality, with specific mention of Pedro, Nicolas, Miguel/Michael, and Rene.

Tour participants noted personalized experiences and engaging storytelling from the guides. Positive reviews highlight the guides’ ability to connect history with daily life, providing an enriching experience for visitors.

The guides’ expertise shines through in their ability to:

• Bring historical sites to life

• Tailor the tour to individual interests

• Foster a sense of connection to the local culture

• Share insights beyond typical facts and figures

• Create a memorable and enjoyable tour experience

Tour Duration and Accessibility

The total tour duration is approximately 4 hours.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s located near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.

Participants can expect to explore the historic landmarks and sites on foot, with a mix of guided walks and free time for personal exploration.

The tour’s proximity to public transit options ensures it’s easily accessible for visitors from various parts of the city.

Whether you’re seeking an informative historical journey or simply want to learn about the vibrant culture of Panama City’s Old Town, this guided tour is suitable for most travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour operator’s policy prohibits bringing animals due to safety and accessibility concerns for all participants. Only service animals are permitted to accompany travelers on the guided experience.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Water and Snacks?

No, water and snacks are not required for this tour. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and a local guide is provided. Participants are free to bring their own refreshments if desired.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour. Visitors are encouraged to capture the historical landmarks and scenic views, though flash photography may be prohibited in certain areas to preserve the sites.

How Much Local Currency Should I Bring?

The amount of local currency needed depends on the tour inclusions, but generally $20-$40 should cover optional purchases like souvenirs. Check with the tour operator for their recommendation on how much local currency to bring.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks Scheduled During the Tour?

The tour includes scheduled restroom breaks during the approximately 4-hour duration. Travelers can expect to have the opportunity to use restroom facilities at various points throughout the guided experience.

The Sum Up

This guided tour of Panama City’s Old Town provides an immersive and enriching experience for visitors. Guests explore iconic landmarks, engage with knowledgeable local guides, and enjoy free time to savor the vibrant culture and cuisine. With two guided walks, this tour offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich heritage, making it a must-do activity for those seeking to discover the charm and history of this captivating destination.