Panama, a country where modern skylines meet historic charm, offers travelers a diverse array of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. From the trendy neighborhoods of Casco Viejo and Obarrio to the bustling city centre, visitors can find everything from chic boutique hotels with lively rooftops to budget-friendly hostels perfect for backpackers. Whether you’re seeking a great location in the heart of Panama City’s gastronomic scene or a quieter residential area closer to Parque Nacional, there’s a perfect spot for every type of traveler.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: The Santa Maria, a Luxury Collection Hotel & Golf Resort
- ✨ 5-Star: Central Hotel Panama
- 🏨 4-Star: Best Western Plus Panama Zen Hotel
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Downtown Suites
- 💸 Cheap: OyeBonita Hostel
- 🏢 Apartament: 17E Beautiful 2-Bedroom Ocean View Apartment
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Central Hotel Panama
- 🏩 For Couples: The Westin Playa Bonita Panama
When deciding where to stay in Panama, consider factors such as proximity to attractions, access to public transportation or taxi services, and amenities like air conditioning, outdoor swimming pools, and private bathrooms. Many hotels offer spacious rooms with flat-screen TVs and some even include full kitchens for added convenience. For those looking to experience the buzz of the city, staying in Casco Viejo or El Cangrejo provides easy access to trendy restaurants, cafes, and bustling nightlife. Meanwhile, areas like San Felipe and Bella Vista offer a more relaxed atmosphere while still being generally safe and well-connected to the city’s highlights. Whatever your preferences, Panama’s diverse neighborhoods ensure there’s a great place for every traveler to call home during their visit.
The Best Places to Stay in Panama: Quick Guide
- 🏙️ For urban explorers, history buffs, and culture enthusiasts:Panama City
• 🏝️ For beach lovers, eco-tourists, and island hoppers: San Blas Islands
• 🌴 For surfers, beach enthusiasts, and nightlife seekers: Bocas del Toro
• ☕ For coffee lovers, hikers, and cool climate seekers: Boquete
• 🌊 For luxury resort fans and beach relaxation: Playa Bonita
• 🐒 For wildlife enthusiasts and rainforest adventurers: Gamboa
• 🌋 For volcano hikers and nature photographers: El Valle de Anton
1. Panama City: The Vibrant Capital 🏙️
🏙️ Modern Skyline: Panama City boasts a stunning skyline that rivals any major metropolis. Its gleaming skyscrapers, set against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, create a breathtaking urban landscape. This modern cityscape is a testament to Panama’s economic growth and its position as a global business hub.
🏛️ Historical Charm: In stark contrast to its modern facade, Panama City is home to the historic district of Casco Viejo. This UNESCO World Heritage site features beautifully restored colonial buildings, charming plazas, and narrow cobblestone streets. The area offers a glimpse into Panama’s rich history and cultural heritage.
🛳️ Panama Canal: The city is the gateway to one of the world’s most impressive engineering marvels – the Panama Canal. Visitors can witness massive ships passing through the canal, learn about its history at the Miraflores Visitor Center, and appreciate the economic importance of this waterway to global trade.
🏛️ The Best Sights in Panama City
- Casco Viejo: Explore the colonial architecture and vibrant street life
- Panama Canal: Visit the Miraflores Locks to see ships transit the canal
- Metropolitan Natural Park: A tropical forest within the city limits
- Biomuseo: Frank Gehry-designed museum showcasing Panama’s biodiversity
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in Panama City
- Mercado de Mariscos: Fresh seafood market with an upstairs restaurant
- Donde José: Innovative Panamanian cuisine in an intimate setting
- Fonda Lo Que Hay: Modern takes on traditional Panamanian dishes
- Maito: Fusion of international and local flavors in a stylish setting
🚕 Getting Around: Panama City has an efficient metro system, the first in Central America, which connects major areas of the city. Taxi or uber are also widely available. For exploring Casco Viejo, walking is the best option to soak in the atmosphere of the historic district.
🏨 Where to Stay in Panama City
⭐ Best Hotels in Panama City
- Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Panama City: A luxurious 5-star hotel located in the historic Casco Viejo district of Panama City. This elegant property offers stunning views of the Panama Bay and city skyline.
- The Santa Maria, a Luxury Collection Hotel and Golf Resort: A luxurious 5-star resort offering world-class service and amenities. Features include an 18-hole golf course, multiple restaurants, a spa, and elegant rooms with modern amenities. Known for its exceptional service and beautiful surroundings.
- Central Hotel Panama: A historic 5-star hotel located in the heart of Casco Viejo, Panama’s Old Quarter. It offers elegant rooms, a rooftop pool with panoramic views, and multiple dining options. The hotel is known for its blend of colonial charm and modern luxury.
- American Trade Hotel: A boutique luxury hotel in Casco Viejo, offering a unique blend of historic charm and contemporary design. Features include stylish rooms, a rooftop pool, and a jazz bar. Known for its excellent location and cultural significance.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Best Western Plus Panama Zen Hotel: A modern hotel offering comfortable rooms at moderate prices. Features include a rooftop infinity pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant. Located in the El Cangrejo area, known for its nightlife and restaurants.
- Hotel Coral Suites: An aparthotel offering spacious suites with kitchenettes, ideal for longer stays. Features include a rooftop pool, fitness center, and convenient location near shopping and dining options.
- Holiday Inn Panama Canal: A reliable choice near the Panama Canal, offering comfortable rooms and good value. Features include an outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant with views of the canal.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- OyeBonita Hostel: A highly-rated hostel offering a social atmosphere and comfortable accommodations. Features include a communal kitchen, lounge areas, and organized activities. Known for its friendly staff and clean facilities.
- Bodhi Panama City: A peaceful hostel offering a mix of dorms and private rooms. Features include a swimming pool, shared kitchen, and outdoor terraces. Located in a quiet area but still close to city attractions.
- Magnolia Inn Casco Viejo: A charming hostel in a restored colonial building in Casco Viejo. Offers both dorms and private rooms, a communal kitchen, and a beautiful courtyard. Known for its excellent location and historic ambiance.
2. San Blas Islands: Paradise Found 🏝️
🏝️ Pristine Beaches: The San Blas Islands boast some of the most beautiful and untouched beaches in the world. With powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, these islands offer a true tropical paradise experience. The beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.
🏄♂️ Water Activities: The archipelago is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Kayaking between islands and sailing trips are also popular activities in these calm Caribbean waters.
🧑🤝🧑 Guna Culture: The San Blas Islands are home to the indigenous Guna people, offering visitors a unique cultural experience. Travelers can learn about traditional Guna customs, admire their colorful molas (textile art), and support local communities through responsible tourism.
🌴 The Best Sights in San Blas Islands
- Isla Perro (Dog Island): Famous for its sunken ship snorkeling site
- Isla Pelicano: A tiny, picture-perfect island with a single palm tree
- Isla Chichime: Beautiful beaches and a great spot for stargazing
- Guna Yala Islands: Explore multiple islands inhabited by the Guna people
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in San Blas Islands
- Local Guna Huts: Enjoy fresh seafood prepared by Guna families
- Yandup Island Lodge Restaurant: Offers a mix of Guna and international cuisine
- Akwadup Lodge Restaurant: Fresh catch of the day and traditional Guna dishes
- Diablo Island Restaurant: Simple but delicious local seafood dishes
🚤 Island Hopping: Transportation between the San Blas Islands is primarily by small motorboats or traditional Guna canoes. Most visitors arrange tours or stays through eco-lodges or Guna-run guesthouses, which typically include transportation between islands. There are no cars on most islands, making walking the primary mode of getting around on each island.
🏨 Where to Stay in San Blas Islands
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Sanblasonsailboats: A unique accommodation option offering stays on a sailing boat in the San Blas Islands. This provides an adventurous and intimate way to experience the beautiful archipelago, likely including activities like snorkeling, island hopping, and enjoying pristine beaches.
- Discovery Gunayar: Another boat-based accommodation in the San Blas Islands. This option likely offers a mix of sailing, exploration of the islands, and opportunities to experience the local Guna culture. Perfect for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
- Private Room in San Blas Islands PLUS meals: This option offers a private room on one of the San Blas Islands, including meals. It’s a good choice for those who want a more traditional land-based stay while still experiencing the beauty and tranquility of the islands.
- Cabañas Narasgandup (Naranjo Chico): Located on Naranjo Chico island, this accommodation offers cabanas for a rustic island experience. Features likely include basic amenities, proximity to beautiful beaches, and opportunities for snorkeling and fishing. Meals are typically included, offering a taste of local cuisine.
- San Blas Islands - Private Cabin Over-the-Ocean including Meals: This unique accommodation offers an over-the-water cabin experience in the San Blas Islands. It includes meals and likely offers stunning views of the surrounding waters. Perfect for those seeking a memorable and immersive island experience.
3. Bocas del Toro: Caribbean Charm 🌴
🏄♂️ Surf Paradise: Bocas del Toro is renowned for its excellent surfing conditions. With various breaks suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced surfers, the archipelago attracts wave riders from around the world. The most famous surf spots include Wizard Beach and Bluff Beach on Isla Colón.
🐠 Marine Biodiversity: The waters around Bocas del Toro are teeming with marine life, making it a prime destination for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can explore vibrant coral reefs, swim with colorful tropical fish, and even spot dolphins in their natural habitat. The Bastimentos Marine National Park is a highlight for nature lovers.
🌴 Island Vibes: Bocas del Toro offers a laid-back Caribbean atmosphere with a touch of Latin flair. The main town on Isla Colón features colorful wooden houses on stilts, lively bars, and a diverse mix of locals and expats. This unique blend creates a welcoming and vibrant community that’s perfect for those seeking a relaxed tropical getaway.
🏖️ The Best Sights in Bocas del Toro
- Starfish Beach: Famous for its abundance of starfish in shallow waters
- Red Frog Beach: Beautiful beach known for its tiny red frogs
- Bastimentos National Marine Park: Protected area with diverse ecosystems
- Isla Zapatillas: Two pristine islands with white sand beaches and clear waters
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in Bocas del Toro
- La Buga Brew & Pub: Craft beer and international cuisine
- El Último Refugio: Seafood and Caribbean fusion dishes
- Raw Fusion: Vegan-friendly restaurant with creative dishes
- Bocas Blended: Smoothie bowls and healthy options
🚣♂️ Navigating the Archipelago: Water taxis are the primary mode of transportation between islands in Bocas del Toro. These small boats run frequently and are relatively inexpensive. On the main island of Isla Colón, bicycles and golf carts are popular for getting around. Some hotels offer free bike rentals to guests, making it easy to explore the island at your own pace.
🏨 Where to Stay in Bocas del Toro
⭐ Best Hotels in Bocas del Toro
- Nayara Bocas del Toro: A luxurious 5-star adults-only resort offering overwater villas with private pools. Features include sustainable design, gourmet dining options, and a focus on eco-friendly practices. Known for its romantic atmosphere and stunning views of the Caribbean.
- La Coralina Island House: A 5-star beachfront property offering a spa, fitness center, and private beach area. Features include a restaurant serving highly-rated breakfast options and activities like cycling and snorkeling. Located close to Bocas Town, it offers a blend of luxury and island charm.
- The Hummingbird: A 5-star hotel offering luxurious accommodations in Bocas del Toro. While specific details are limited, it likely provides high-end amenities and services consistent with its 5-star rating.
- Tropical Suites Hotel: A 4-star hotel offering comfortable suites in Bocas Town. Features include dedicated customer service, laundry services, and easy access to water taxi services. Known for its convenient location and outdoor space overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- The Sunsetter Bed & Breakfast: A charming B&B offering affordable accommodations in Isla Colón. Likely features comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere, making it a good choice for budget-conscious travelers.
- Sol y Sombra: A moderately priced hotel in Bocas del Toro. While specific details are limited, it likely offers comfortable rooms and basic amenities at an affordable price point.
- La Luciernaga Big Creek: An affordable option in Bocas del Toro, likely offering basic accommodations in a natural setting. Perfect for travelers looking to experience the area on a budget.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Surfari Bocas: A hostel catering to surf enthusiasts, likely offering affordable dormitory and private rooms. Features may include surf lessons, equipment rental, and a social atmosphere.
- Bambuda Bocas Town: A popular hostel in Bocas Town, likely offering a mix of dorms and private rooms. Features may include communal areas, organized activities, and a lively social scene.
- Spanish by the Sea - Bocas: A hostel that likely combines affordable accommodations with Spanish language learning opportunities. May offer language classes, cultural activities, and a chance to practice Spanish with other guests and locals.
4. Boquete: Mountain Retreat ⛰️
☕ Coffee Heaven: Boquete is renowned for its world-class coffee production. The region’s high altitude, rich volcanic soil, and ideal climate create perfect conditions for growing some of the finest coffee beans in the world. Visitors can tour coffee plantations, learn about the production process, and sample exquisite local brews.
🌋 Outdoor Adventures: Nestled in the Chiriquí Highlands, Boquete offers a plethora of outdoor activities. Hiking enthusiasts can explore trails in the cloud forests, including the challenging ascent of Volcán Barú, Panama’s highest peak. The area is also popular for white-water rafting, zip-lining, and birdwatching.
🌼 Eternal Spring Climate: Boquete’s elevation provides a refreshingly cool climate year-round, often referred to as “eternal spring.” This pleasant weather makes it a popular retirement destination for expats and a welcome respite from the heat of Panama’s lowlands. The temperate climate also supports a vibrant flower industry, with colorful blooms dotting the landscape.
🥾 The Best Sights in Boquete
- Sendero Los Quetzales: A scenic trail known for quetzal sightings
- Caldera Hot Springs: Natural hot springs for relaxation
- Finca Lérida: Historic coffee farm with excellent birdwatching
- The Lost Waterfalls: Three stunning waterfalls accessible by hiking
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in Boquete
- The Rock: International cuisine with panoramic views
- Retrogusto: Fusion of Panamanian and international flavors
- Panamonte Inn & Spa Restaurant: Upscale dining with local ingredients
- Sugar & Spice: Popular bakery and café for breakfast and lunch
🚶♂️ Exploring the Area: Boquete’s town center is compact and easily walkable. For attractions further afield, local buses (known as “Diablos Rojos”) connect Boquete to nearby areas. Many tour operators offer transportation to popular hiking trails and attractions. Renting a car can be a good option for those wanting to explore the surrounding countryside at their own pace.
🏨 Where to Stay in Boquete
⭐ Best Hotels in Boquete
- ”Valle: A luxurious hacienda-style resort featuring a golf course, spa, heated indoor pool, and free breakfast. Known for its beautiful grounds and excellent service.
- Los Establos Boutique Inn: A boutique hotel offering elegant accommodations with mountain views.
- Hacienda Los Molinos Boutique Hotel & Villas: A boutique hotel offering a blend of luxury and local charm.
- Finca Lerida: Set on a coffee plantation, this boutique hotel offers luxurious rooms with spectacular views, a gourmet restaurant, and coffee tours.
- The Haven - Hotel & Spa: An adults-only boutique hotel with a focus on wellness and relaxation.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- El Oasis Hotel & Restaurant: A more affordable option offering comfortable accommodations and an on-site restaurant.
- Hotel Valle del Rio: Located near central Boquete, offering modern rooms with amenities like a gym and casino.
- Downtown Suites: Centrally located suites offering a more apartment-style stay.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Bambuda Castle: A unique hostel set in a castle-like building, likely offering a mix of dorms and private rooms.
- Selina Boquete: Part of the popular Selina chain, offering a range of accommodations and social activities.
- Agartha Hostel: A hostel offering both indoor accommodations and camping options.
5. Playa Bonita: Beachside Luxury 🏖️
🏖️ Pristine Beaches: Playa Bonita lives up to its name, which means “beautiful beach” in Spanish. The golden sand stretches along the Pacific coast, offering a perfect setting for sunbathing, beach walks, and watching stunning sunsets. The beach is less crowded than many others in Panama, providing a more tranquil experience.
🏨 Resort Paradise: This area is known for its luxurious resorts that cater to those seeking a high-end beach vacation. These resorts offer world-class amenities, including infinity pools, spa services, and gourmet restaurants. Many rooms provide breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the distant Panama City skyline.
🌊 Water Activities: Playa Bonita offers a range of water-based activities. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing in the calm waters of the bay. For those interested in marine life, snorkeling trips to nearby islands can be arranged, offering glimpses of colorful tropical fish and coral reefs.
🌅 The Best Sights Near Playa Bonita
- Panama Canal (Miraflores Locks): Just a short drive away
- Punta Culebra Nature Center: Marine education center on the Amador Causeway
- Panama Viejo: Ruins of the original Panama City
- Casco Viejo: Historic district of Panama City, easily accessible for day trips
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in Playa Bonita
- Lighthouse Restaurant: Seafood with panoramic ocean views
- Tamarindo: Pan-Asian cuisine in a luxurious setting
- Azul Restaurant: International buffet with themed nights
- Café Met: Casual dining with a mix of local and international dishes
🚗 Getting to and From: Playa Bonita is located about 20 minutes by car from Panama City, making it easily accessible yet feeling worlds away from the urban bustle. Most resorts offer shuttle services to and from the airport and Panama City. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available for trips into the city or to nearby attractions.
🏨 Where to Stay in Playa Bonita
⭐ Best Hotels in Playa Bonita:
- The Westin Playa Bonita Panama: A 4-star resort offering luxurious accommodations which offers 6 restaurants, multiple pools, spa and fitness center.
- Luxury Paradise at Playa Bonita: A high-end apartment with stunning ocean views.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- 17E Beautiful 2-Bedroom Ocean View Apartment: An apartment offering ocean views and likely more affordable than luxury resorts.
- 08K Resort Breathtaking Ocean Views Panama Canal: Apartment with views of both the ocean and Panama Canal.
- 23o Penthouse Stunning Oceanview Resort Lifestyle: A penthouse apartment offering resort-style amenities and ocean views.
- 24o Penthouse Unique Design 2 Balconies Oceanview: Another penthouse option with unique design and two balconies for ocean views.
6. Gamboa: Rainforest Retreat 🌿
🦜 Biodiversity Hotspot: Gamboa is a nature lover’s paradise, situated at the edge of Soberania National Park. This area boasts an incredible diversity of wildlife, including hundreds of bird species, monkeys, sloths, and countless insects. It’s an ideal location for birdwatching and wildlife photography.
🛶 Gatun Lake Adventure: The nearby Gatun Lake, a key component of the Panama Canal, offers unique experiences. Visitors can take boat tours to spot wildlife on the lake’s many islands, fish for peacock bass, or kayak through the tranquil waters, all while watching massive ships pass through the canal.
🌿 Eco-Tourism: Gamboa is at the forefront of eco-tourism in Panama. The area features several eco-lodges and research facilities that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the rainforest environment. Educational programs and guided nature walks provide insights into the complex ecosystems of the Panamanian jungle.
🦋 The Best Sights in Gamboa
- Panama Rainforest Discovery Center: Observation tower and hummingbird feeders
- Gamboa Sloth Sanctuary and Wildlife Rescue Center: Close encounters with rescued animals
- Pipeline Road: World-famous birdwatching trail
- Gamboa Rainforest Resort Aerial Tram: Canopy tour of the rainforest
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in Gamboa
- Los Lagartos Restaurant: Panoramic views of Chagres River and local cuisine
- Chagres River View Restaurant: Fresh seafood and international dishes
- Corotu Restaurant: Buffet-style dining with a variety of options
- Monkey Café: Casual dining spot with sandwiches and light meals
🚢 Navigating the Area: Gamboa’s remote location means that having a car can be beneficial, although many lodges offer shuttle services to and from Panama City. Boat tours and transfers on Gatun Lake are popular and can be arranged through hotels or tour operators. Within Gamboa itself, walking or cycling are great ways to explore and spot wildlife.
🏨 Where to Stay in Gamboa
⭐ Best Hotels in Gamboa
- Summit Rainforest & Golf Resort: A luxury resort set in the rainforest near the Panama Canal.
- Ciel y Miel: A boutique hotel offering a more intimate experience.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Gatun Lake Lodge Hotel: A more affordable option near Gatun Lake, likely offering basic but comfortable accommodations.
- Brisas del Mirador - Apartamentos - Panamá Campestre: Apartment-style accommodations offering more space and possibly kitchen facilities. Good for longer stays or families.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Gamboa Apartment Toucan y Studio Ñeque: Apartment-style accommodations, likely offering budget-friendly options, self-catering facilities.
- Casa completa en Gamboa, Canal de Panamá: A full house rental in Gamboa, offering complete privacy.
7. El Valle de Anton: Volcanic Valley Retreat 🌋
🌋 Volcanic Crater: El Valle de Anton is uniquely situated in the crater of an extinct volcano, one of the largest inhabited volcanic craters in the world. This location provides a lush, green landscape and a cooler climate compared to the lowlands, making it a popular weekend getaway for city dwellers and tourists alike.
🦋 Natural Wonders: The area is rich in biodiversity, home to numerous species of birds, butterflies, and the famous golden frog. Visitors can explore waterfalls, hot springs, and hiking trails that showcase the region’s natural beauty. The local butterfly haven and orchid nursery are popular attractions for nature enthusiasts.
🏞️ Outdoor Activities: El Valle offers a wide range of outdoor activities for all ages. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding, mountain biking, and hiking on numerous trails. The area is also known for its canopy tours, offering thrilling zip-line experiences through the lush forest canopy.
🌺 The Best Sights in El Valle de Anton
- El Nispero Zoo and Botanical Garden: Home to many native species
- La India Dormida: Mountain trail with panoramic views
- Chorro El Macho: Impressive 70-meter waterfall
- El Valle Amphibian Conservation Center: Dedicated to preserving local amphibian species
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in El Valle de Anton
- Casa de Lourdes: Upscale dining with a focus on local ingredients
- Bruschetta Restaurant: Italian cuisine with a Panamanian twist
- La Casa de Lourdes: International cuisine in a charming setting
- Restaurante El Cisne: Local Panamanian dishes in a casual atmosphere
🚲 Navigating the Valley: El Valle de Anton is a small town that’s easy to explore on foot or by bicycle. Many hotels offer bike rentals, which is a great way to see the sights. For those who prefer not to cycle, taxis are available for longer trips within the valley.
🏨 Where to Stay in El Valle de Anton
⭐ Best Hotels in El Valle de Anton
- Caracoral Hotel Boutique & Spa: A boutique hotel offering luxurious accommodations with spa facilities. Likely features include personalized service, stylish rooms, and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Los Mandarinos Hotel Boutique & Spa: Another boutique hotel with spa facilities, offering a blend of luxury and local charm. Probably features elegant rooms, gourmet dining, and beautiful views of the surrounding nature.
- The Golden Frog Inn: A rustic hotel known for its cozy rooms with balconies offering amazing views. Features include fresh coffee and fruit for breakfast, sunset social hours, and a friendly staff. Guests praise its delicious food and peaceful atmosphere.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Casa Morada: A more affordable option with a friendly host/owner. Guests appreciate the helpful local information provided about trails and transportation.
- Refugio Cariguana: A hostel-style accommodation featuring a rooftop terrace and located within a 15-minute drive of local attractions. Offers a budget-friendly option for travelers.
- La Casita de Don Daniel: A guest house offering a more intimate and affordable stay option in El Valle de Anton.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Casa Hostal Bouvá: A highly-rated hostel known for its relaxed atmosphere, attentive staff, and excellent information booklet. Guests praise its good value for money.
- Casa Grimaldo: A guest house offering budget-friendly accommodations in El Valle de Anton.
- Bodhi Hostel & Lounge: A well-rated hostel (8.7) likely offering a social atmosphere, comfortable accommodations, and possibly organized activities or tours.
Where to Stay in Panama
Panama offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs and preferences. From the bustling streets of Panama City to the tranquil beaches of San Blas, and from the cool mountains of Boquete to the surf-friendly shores of Santa Catalina, there’s a perfect spot for everyone in this Central American gem.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best area to stay in Panama City for first-time visitors?
Casco Viejo is often recommended for its historic charm, vibrant atmosphere, and proximity to major attractions.
Is it safe to stay in hostels in Panama?
Generally, yes. Panama has many reputable hostels, especially in popular tourist areas. Always check recent reviews and take standard precautions.
What’s the best time of year to visit Panama?
The dry season (December to April) is generally considered the best time to visit, but this can also be the busiest and most expensive period.
Are there any all-inclusive resorts in Panama?
Yes, particularly in beach areas like Playa Bonita near Panama City and in Bocas del Toro.
How far in advance should I book accommodation in Panama?
For popular areas and during peak season (December to April), it’s advisable to book at least 2-3 months in advance.
