When flying with Copa Airlines, a layover in Panama City is almost inevitable—and it’s an opportunity you don’t want to miss!
Rather than waiting idly at the airport, why not take advantage of your time to explore Panama City’s iconic sites?
Whether you have a short layover or an extended stopover of 24 hours or more, Panama is ready to be discovered.
In this article, you’ll find tips for making the most of your time according to the hours you have available, the must-see spots in the city, and insider advice only locals know.
Copa Airlines offers a unique Stopover program that lets travelers explore Panama for free between flights
Table Of Contents
SECTION I
Copa Panama Stopover program
Understanding Layover vs. Stopover
It’s common to refer to any extended break between flights as a “stopover,” but technically, there’s a difference.
- A layover typically refers to a shorter break, often ranging from a few hours to a day.
- While a stopover lasts 24 hours or more, allowing more time to explore.
Copa Airlines offers a unique Stopover program that lets travelers explore Panama for free between flights, extending a regular layover to a full, immersive experience at no additional airfare cost.
With a 7 hour layover you will be able to visit the must-see of Panama.
SECTION II
How Much Time Do You Need for a Panama Layover?
For those with at least six hours between flights, a quick city tour is entirely doable.
Tocumen International Airport is about a 40-minute drive from Panama City, so for short layovers, you’ll have to plan efficiently.
With traffic and airport formalities considered, a six-hour layover leaves about three hours to visit Panama’s top attractions.
If you plan ahead, your guide can meet you at the airport and streamline the tour to ensure you’re back in time for your flight.
If you have more time, The Copa Stopover Program allow travelers to add a stopover in Panama for up to 7 days. We recommend you to stay 2 or 3 days.
SECTION III
What to do in a 6 hour Layover in Panama
If you have a layover of 6 to 7 hours, you can cover some of the city’s most famous landmarks:
The Panama Canal:
A must-see marvel of engineering.
The Miraflores Visitor Center is the closest point to view the canal, and it’s equipped with a museum and observation deck for a full experience.
Insider Tips
Seeing a ship pass through the canal isn’t guaranteed, as transits are scheduled.
That’s why it is so important that you book a private tour, we can time your visit to catch this impressive sight, an experience that many travelers miss out on.
Stroll to colonial charm of Casco Viejo | Old Town Panama
Stroll through the colonial charm of Panama City’s historic district. With its cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and a vibrant mix of colonial history and modern culture.
Casco Viejo is also home to charming boutiques, cafes, and restaurants where you can get a taste of local cuisine.
You’ll find iconic spots like the Plaza de Francia, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and unique viewpoints overlooking the city skyline.
Amador Causeway
This stretch connects four small islands and provides stunning views of Panama City’s skyline as well as the Pacific Ocean.
It’s a great spot for photos, a walk along the boardwalk, or a quick refreshment at one of the local cafés.
Modern Panama City
The modern part of the city contrasts sharply with the old; it’s full of high-rise buildings that house financial centers, luxury apartments, and shopping
hubs.
Bridge of the Americas
This iconic bridge connects North and South America, spanning the Panama Canal. It’s a beautiful stop for panoramic views and pictures, symbolizing the unity of the Americas.
These stops are enough to give you a taste of Panama City without missing your connecting flight.
To make the most of a short layover, it’s best to avoid venturing out on your own, as managing time and transportation in an unfamiliar city can be challenging.
If you have a longer layover, 7 hours or more you can enjoy the 5 stops with ease:
- taking the time to visit the landmarks
- tasting the local gastronomy and beverages to quench your thirst on our hot city
- visiting the churches of the Casco Antiguo
- walking through history and modern times
If you have a long layover in Panama City you can visit the 5 main landmarks but enjoy additional places, like the ruins of Old Panama City. Ask us, and we will craft a customized city tour just for you and your partners.
SECTION Iv
Stopover: Spending 24 Hours or More in Panama
For travelers with a stopover of 24 hours or more, Panama City offers a variety of experiences, both day and night.
After exploring the main sites, take the opportunity to dive deeper into the local culture.
Start your evening in Casco Viejo, where historic streets blend with modern nightlife, boutique eateries, and live music.
From the buzzing bars to fine dining options, Casco Viejo comes alive at night, offering something for every taste.
In Casco Viejo, don’t miss Plaza de Francia for breathtaking nighttime views of the skyline and the opportunity to explore the vibrant arts and cultural scene.
Hidden Treasures and Local Haunts
Do you want to go beyond the popular and well-known sights in Panama City? If you have the time and want the authentic local experiences, there are hidden gems that provide unique experiences and are certainly worth a visit.
Old Panama City:
Panamá la Vieja, in Spanish, is the ruins where was the original Panama City, the former capital of Panama, which was destroyed in 1671. You can travel in time walking through its remaining buildings.
The Mercado de Mariscos:
The bustling seafood market is the city’s best spot to try an array of seafood delicacies, including ceviche, a local favorite. Located near Casco Viejo, this is where locals come to shop for the freshest seafood.
Metropolitan Natural Park:
Despite its proximity to the city center, it’s not as widely known amongst tourists. This natural getaway is a mini rainforest paradise where you can enjoy numerous walking trails, spot various flora and fauna, and take in panoramic views of the city from the lookout points.
Biomuseo:
The Biomuseo in Panama is a colorful, fun spot for families! Kids will love exploring the exciting exhibits about animals and plants, watching the cool “Panamarama” show, a 10-screen immersive experience, and wandering through the beautiful gardens. It’s the perfect place to learn and play together!
Punta Culebra Nature Center:
Managed by the Smithsonian, this open-air gem offers touch pools to explore starfish and sea urchins, a turtle sanctuary, and trails where sloths hide in the treetops. With hands-on exhibits, stunning ocean views, and fun lessons about protecting Panama’s wildlife, it’s a magical blend of education and excitement for kids and parents alike!
Punta Pacifica:
It may be known for its high-rise luxury condos and shopping, but beyond that, the real gem lies in its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The boardwalk, locally known as Cinta Costera, allows for peaceful walks and cycling while taking in these views.
These less-traveled corners of Panama City hold authentic experiences and give visitors a deeper insight into the local life and culture away from the typical tourist routes.
We can adapt our tour to your needs or particular interest, just send us a message and talk to us.
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Why Hire a Private Tour?
When visiting a bustling Latin American city like Panama, timing and safety are paramount. A private tour with us will:
- Tailor your tour to match your schedule, ensuring you don’t miss your flight.
- Help you time your visit to the Panama Canal so you don’t miss the unforgettable sight of a ship passing through the locks, an experience many travelers miss
- Securely handle your luggage, making it easier to explore without worry.
- Guarantee safe transportation and efficient navigation, allowing you to immerse yourself in the sights stress-free.
While Panama is one of the safest countries in Latin America, being in an unfamiliar environment always requires caution. With a private guide, you’re assured of not only making the most of your time but also experiencing the city securely and comfortably.
SECTION VI
Preparing for Your Panama Stopover
Before embarking on your Panama stopover adventure, consider these practical tips:
- Stay Connected: Tocumen Airport offers free Wi-Fi (TOCUMEN FREE WIFI) for 30 minutes. So you will be able to contact your guide if you need to.
- Luggage Storage: Tocumen Airport doesn’t offer luggage storage facilities.
A private guide can assist with handling luggage securely, allowing you to explore without being weighed down.
So you don’t have to worry about your carry-on, laptop or anything you bring with you during your tour of the city.
What’s included in our city tour
- Pick you up wherever you are (the airport or your hotel)
- You will enjoy a private tour just for you and your party
- A certified bilingual tourist guide will take you to experience a real Panamanian visit.
- All our cars are equipped with air conditioning and water.
- You will visit all the iconic places of the city
A personalized city tour with a local guide who tailors each stop to your interests, from culture and gastronomy to family-friendly fun.
It’s like hiring a local friend to show you around the city.
Feel Safe and secure in a Latin country
Is Panama Safe for Tourists? Absolutely—With a Dash of Smart Travel!
Panama is known as one of the safest countries in Latin America. But you’re still in Latin America, so keep an eye on your belongings, and you’ll be just fine.
In any case, when you book a tour with us, we will make sure that you are always safe. Just relax and enjoy, soak in the culture, and worry only on which fabulous souvenirs you’ll bring back home.
If you’re considering the Copa Panama Stopover program, here are some tips: it allows you to include a stop in Panama on either the outbound or return leg of your trip, adding a new destination without increasing airfare costs.
However, make sure the stopover is added when booking, as adding it afterward can incur fees.
Entry and departure taxes will apply, and it’s best to plan for at least 24 hours in the city to make the most of your stay.
Final Thoughts
Whether your stop in Panama is a brief layover or a planned 3-day stopover, the city offers unforgettable experiences just waiting to be explored.
With TourNow, your layover transforms from a waiting period to an adventure.
Book a tour today and turn your transit time into a journey within a journey, experiencing the best of Panama in comfort, style, andsecurity.
So remember, when you are ready to visit the city, with a certified bilingual tour guide, who can really show you the beauties of this marvelous city of Panama, just click here and and Tour Now will send you a guide right away.
Let us take care of you.
