7 Free Things to Do in Panama City

Panama City, is a vibrant metropolis that offers a unique blend of modern amenities and rich cultural heritage. Digital nomads flock to this city for its affordable cost of living, tropical climate, and the ease of balancing work with exploration. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in history, enjoy natural beauty, or experience the local culture, Panama City has a variety of free activities to enhance your stay without breaking the bank.

Cinta Costera

The Cinta Costera is a bustling waterfront promenade and one of the most popular places in Panama City for both tourists and locals. Stretching along the Bay of Panama, it offers stunning views of the city skyline and the Pacific Ocean. This is the perfect spot for a leisurely walk, jog, or bike ride, and you can often find free aerobic classes and cultural events taking place. The Cinta Costera also connects to the historic Casco Viejo, making it a great starting point for a day of exploration.

Location: Avenida Balboa, Panama City. The Cinta Costera is easily accessible from multiple points in the city and provides a refreshing escape from the urban environment.

Travel Tip: Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat of the day, and enjoy the cooler temperatures and picturesque sunsets.

Nearby: After your stroll, stop by Casco Viejo for a coffee at Café Unido, known for its selection of Panamanian coffee beans and cozy atmosphere.

Mercado de Mariscos

The Mercado de Mariscos, or Seafood Market, is a must-visit for food enthusiasts and culture seekers. Here, you can witness the daily catch brought in by local fishermen and observe the hustle and bustle of market life. While purchasing seafood comes with a cost, exploring the market and soaking up the atmosphere is completely free. You'll also find a variety of ceviche stands outside the market, offering affordable and delicious local flavors.

Location: Avenida Balboa & Calle Eloy alfaro, Panama City. The market is located at the edge of Casco Viejo, making it a convenient stop during a day of sightseeing.

Travel Tip: Although the ceviche isn't free, it's incredibly affordable. Try a small cup of fresh ceviche for a taste of local cuisine without spending much.

Nearby: La Rana Dorada, a nearby brewery, offers a great selection of craft beers and is a popular spot to relax after visiting the market.

Metropolitan Natural Park

The Metropolitan Natural Park is a tropical forest oasis in the heart of Panama City. It's the perfect destination for nature lovers and those seeking a break from the urban environment. The park offers several hiking trails of varying difficulty, where you can spot a diverse range of wildlife and enjoy panoramic views of the city from lookout points. Entrance to the park is free, and it's an excellent opportunity for birdwatching and wildlife photography.

Location: Av. Juan Pablo II, Panama City. This green lung is situated just a short drive from the city center, providing easy access to nature.

Travel Tip: Bring binoculars if you have them, as the park is home to many bird species, including toucans and parakeets.

Nearby: After your hike, visit the nearby Mi Ranchito for authentic Panamanian cuisine with a view of the Amador Causeway.

Panama Canal Administration Building

The Panama Canal Administration Building is a lesser-known gem where visitors can delve into the history of one of the world's most important waterways. The building itself is an architectural marvel, and the murals in the rotunda, painted by William B. Van Ingen, depict the construction of the canal. While access to the building is free, it's the view from the steps that many come to see, offering a sweeping vista of the canal and the surrounding area.

Location: Balboa, Ancon, Panama City. The building is perched on a hill overlooking the canal, providing a majestic backdrop for your visit.

Travel Tip: Time your visit with the passing of a large ship through the canal for a truly memorable experience.

Nearby: The Balboa Yacht Club is a short distance away and is a great spot to grab a drink and enjoy the waterfront.

Plaza Francia

Plaza Francia, located in the historic district of Casco Viejo, is a tribute to the French influence on Panama and the French citizens who attempted to build the canal before the United States. The plaza features an obelisk and surrounding busts honoring notable French engineers and administrators. It's a peaceful spot to take in the history and enjoy the views of the ocean and city. The surrounding area is also dotted with charming colonial buildings and quaint streets to explore.

Location: Casco Viejo, Panama City. Plaza Francia is at the tip of the peninsula, offering a quiet retreat within the bustling old quarter.

Travel Tip: Visit at dusk when the plaza is beautifully lit and the temperature is cooler, making for a pleasant evening walk.

Nearby: Diablicos, a nearby restaurant, serves traditional Panamanian dishes and often features live folkloric music and dances.

Amador Causeway

The Amador Causeway connects four small islands by the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal. This scenic roadway is a popular spot for walking, cycling, and rollerblading while enjoying the fresh ocean breeze and views of the city skyline and ships entering the canal. There are also plenty of benches and green spaces to relax and watch the sunset. The causeway is a great place to experience Panama's natural beauty and modern infrastructure coexisting harmoniously.

Location: Amador, Panama City. The causeway is a short drive from downtown and offers a tranquil escape with stunning vistas.

Travel Tip: Rent a bike from one of the many rental shops along the causeway to cover more ground and enjoy the coastal scenery.

Nearby: After your excursion, visit the BioMuseo, designed by architect Frank Gehry, to learn about Panama's biodiversity. While the museum has an entrance fee, the architecture itself is worth seeing from the outside.

Ancon Hill

Ancon Hill is a 654-foot hill that offers the highest viewpoint in Panama City. A hike to the top rewards you with panoramic views of the urban landscape, the canal, and the Bridge of the Americas. The hike is relatively easy and takes about an hour to reach the summit. Along the way, you might encounter wildlife such as sloths, armadillos, and a variety of birds. The hill is also a symbol of Panamanian sovereignty, as it was one of the first areas to be returned by the United States after the Torrijos-Carter Treaties.

Location: Quarry Heights, Panama City. Ancon Hill is located in a quiet residential area, just a short distance from the bustling city center.

Travel Tip: Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and to have a better chance of spotting wildlife.

Nearby: La Suiza is a delightful bakery close to the base of Ancon Hill, perfect for grabbing a pastry and coffee before or after your hike.

Panama Viejo

Panama Viejo is the remaining part of the old Panama City and was the first European settlement on the Pacific coast of the Americas. While there is a fee to enter the museum and climb the cathedral tower, wandering the surrounding ruins and the visitor center is free. It's a fascinating place to learn about the city's history and the pirate attacks that led to its eventual move to what is now Casco Viejo. The site offers a glimpse into the past and the chance to walk among the ruins of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Location: Via Cincuentenario, Panama City. Panama Viejo is situated on the outskirts of the city and is a testament to its rich history.

Travel Tip: Bring a hat and sunscreen, as the area is quite open and can get very hot during the day.

Nearby: After exploring the ruins, stop by the nearby Deli Gourmet for a quick bite or a refreshing drink.

Free Walking Tours

For those interested in learning more about the city from a local perspective, consider joining one of the free walking tours available in Casco Viejo. These tours are typically led by knowledgeable guides who are passionate about their city and are eager to share its history, culture, and hidden gems. While the tours are free, it's customary to tip the guide if you enjoyed the experience. It's a great way to meet other travelers and gain insights that you might miss exploring on your own.

Location: Tours usually start at prominent locations within Casco Viejo, such as Plaza Herrera or Plaza Independencia.

Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the cobblestone streets and tropical climate can make for a warm walk.

Nearby: Casco Viejo is home to numerous cafes and bars. Try Super Gourmet for a variety of local and international foods in a casual setting.

These free activities in Panama City offer a wealth of experiences for digital nomads looking to explore the city's culture, history, and natural beauty without spending a dime. Whether you're staying for a few months or longer, these attractions will surely enrich your time in this dynamic Central American hub.