Why Panama Should Top Your 2025 Travel Short List

Panama is a country of contrasts, where urban sophistication meets wild jungles and pristine beaches. It's easy to overlook this Central American gem in favour of more famous destinations, but savvy travellers know Panama is worth every moment. With direct flights on Copa Airlines from North America and an incredible range of experiences packed into a relatively small country, it's a destination you can explore deeply, even on a short trip. From the bustling streets of Panama City to the laid-back vibe of Bocas del Toro and the natural beauty of the Gamboa Rainforest, Panama offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to all types of travellers.

Here's how to make the most of a few days, from the vibrant streets of Panama City to the laid-back vibe of Bocas del Toro and beyond.

Panama City

Flying into Panama City, you'll see a skyline that rivals Miami's, but don't be fooled—this city is much more than glass towers and bustling avenues. It's where you can sip artisan coffee in a 400-year-old courtyard, stroll along a modern waterfront promenade, and stand in awe of one of the world's most incredible engineering feats, the Panama Canal.

Start your stay in Casco Viejo, the city's historic district. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its narrow cobblestone streets and pastel-hued colonial buildings, feels worlds away from the steel-and-glass modernity of downtown. Yet it's as vibrant as ever, with boutique shops, art galleries, and some of the city's best restaurants.

Where to stay: Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo

A standout in Casco Viejo is the Casco Viejo, a recently opened luxury hotel on the waterfront like a pearl. The building is a beautifully restored colonial masterpiece, and its interiors exude elegance. The rooms are spacious, light-filled, and thoughtfully designed, with views of the bay and historic streets. The hotel also offers unique experiences, such as rooftop yoga sessions and guided tours of the historic district, making your stay truly memorable.

The real showstopper is the rooftop pool, where you can enjoy panoramic skyline views while sipping a cocktail. It's the perfect base for exploring the old city.

What to do in Panama City

Start your day with coffee at Cafe Unido, where you can sample Panama's famed geisha coffee, one of the world's most sought-after beans. Then, wander the streets of Casco Viejo, popping into spots like CasaCasco, a multi-level dining and nightlife venue, and the Panama Canal Museum, which offers a fascinating look at the canal's history and impact. Don't forget to indulge in the local cuisine, a delightful mix of Spanish, African, and indigenous influences. Try the traditional dish of Sancocho, a hearty chicken soup, or the famous seafood ceviche.

Speaking of the canal, visiting the Miraflores Locks is a must. Watching enormous ships navigate this engineering marvel is surprisingly riveting, and the visitor centre offers exhibits that explain the canal's history and modern relevance. Wrap up your day with dinner at Donde José, which tells a story of Panama's rich and diverse culinary heritage. Reservations are essential.

Bocas Del Toro

A quick domestic flight from Panama City will bring you to Bocas del Toro, an archipelago of lush green islands set in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. This is where you go to slow down, tune into nature, and indulge in laid-back luxury.

Where to stay: La Coralina Island House

If you've ever dreamed of Bali but baulked at the long-haul flight, La Coralina Island House is your answer. Nestled in Isla Colón, this boutique property channels Balinese vibes with carved wooden furniture, serene water features, and interiors filled with natural textures and tones. Everything, down to the most minor details, has been sourced from Indonesia, making it feel like you've been transported halfway across the world.

The property's La Coralina Beach Club is a new addition and a game-changer. Spend your day lounging in a private cabana, sipping fresh coconut water, or cooling off in the infinity pool that seems to spill into the ocean. As the sun sets, the beach club becomes a gathering spot, with live music, tropical cocktails, and a front-row seat to nature's nightly show.

What to do in Bocas del Toro

Bocas del Toro is more than just a pretty face. The islands are a playground for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Kayak through the mangroves to discover hidden lagoons, snorkel vibrant coral reefs teeming with life, or hop on a surfboard at Playa Bluff, a popular spot for catching waves.

One of the archipelago's highlights is Red Frog Beach on Isla Bastimentos, where you might spot the tiny, vibrant red frogs that gave the beach its name. For something truly magical, take an evening boat trip to the bioluminescent bay, where the water glows with every movement.

Gamboa

Panama's natural beauty isn't confined to its beaches. The country's rainforests and highlands are equally captivating. Just 45 minutes from Panama City, the Gamboa Rainforest offers an accessible jungle experience. Stay at the Gamboa Rainforest Resort, a riverside retreat where you can wake up to the sounds of howler monkeys and the sight of toucans in the trees.

Take a boat tour on the Chagres River, where you might spot crocodiles, sloths, and even capuchin monkeys. For a different perspective, the Aerial Tram lifts you above the canopy, offering breathtaking views of the forest below.

If you're up for a longer trip, head to the Chiriquí Highlands in western Panama. The town of Boquete, nestled in the shadow of Volcán Barú, is a haven for coffee lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Tour a coffee farm to see how the world's best geisha coffee is grown, or hike the cloud forests to discover hidden waterfalls.

Why Panama?

Panama isn't just a destination—it's an experience that defies easy categorisation. It's where you can drink rooftop cocktails overlooking a bustling city, walk through jungles teeming with wildlife, and relax on white-sand beaches, all in a few days.

It's surprisingly accessible, with seamless connectivity on Copa Airlines and an efficient domestic flight network. Whether you're a culture buff, a nature enthusiast, or someone who needs a break, Panama delivers.

So, next time you're craving an adventure that's as dynamic as it is convenient, skip the usual suspects and give Panama a chance. You'll leave wondering why you didn't visit sooner.