Big Ideas

Panama's Old Quarter is the Coolest Part of Town

Both historic and contemporary, Casco Viejo is hands-down the neighbourhood to book into.

April 09, 2021




  Doug Wallace
Casco Viejo is both the oldest and the hippest part of town, where locals flock to after sunset.

Overview: On the southwestern tip of Panama City, the picturesque old quarter Casco Viejo is adjacent to the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal. The fact that it is where the prime nightlife is makes it more local-like than touristy.

Crowd: Working-class Panamanians share the sidewalks with American eco-tourists in their sportswear. Linen-clad businessmen on café patios make deals on their phones next to pauperized street vendors.

Agenda: Wander the seaside markets, swim in your rooftop pool, commune in the cafés—the pace and the scene are yours to set. Take a morning hike up Ancon Hill, a nature reserve in the middle of town, for a 360-degree view. The Frank Gehry–designed Biomuseo on the Amador Causeway features eight galleries that focus on Panama’s biodiversity and geological history.

Essential: At the 16-seat Donde José, chef José O. Carles infuses Panamanian traditions and cooking techniques into a sublime tasting menu.

Timing: Panama is a year-round destination. January to mid-April is the driest season, while May through October offers a plethora of local events. 





Look for Travelier in print soon.