Are you able to get your steps in in Panama Metropolis’s Casco Viejo? The historic part of Panama’s capital metropolis has one thing on each nook value exploring. And the most effective half? You don’t want a information to soak all of it in! My self-guided strolling tour is an ideal strategy to see all of it (plus, you may transfer at your personal tempo). PS: If have extra time try my picks for the Greatest Issues to Do in Panama Metropolis.
Oh, and FYI: the whole stroll is about 2 km (1 ¼ miles) and takes round half-hour with out stops. However you’re undoubtedly gonna need to cease, belief me!
Casco Viejo Strolling Itinerary
1. I Love Panama Chocolate
First issues first: chocolate! You’ve obtained to kick off your day with a go to to I Love Panama Chocolate. I imply, who can say no to chocolate for breakfast, proper? (I’m not judging!) They’ve obtained these scrumptious flavors like Chombo chili and salted cashew which might be to die for. Plus, if you happen to’re a complete sucker for darkish chocolate like me, you’ll be in heaven. And right here’s a bit of tip: they provide free samples! So, you may get a style earlier than you decide to your favourite taste.
2. La Calle De los Sombreros
Now that you simply’ve obtained your candy repair, stroll on over to La Calle De los Sombreros (hat avenue). This would possibly simply be the prettiest avenue in Casco Viejo! Think about lots of of colourful Panama hats hanging between buildings, creating a cover that’s simply begging for an Instagram pic. Severely, it’s like strolling below a sky of hats—so don’t neglect to snap a shot or two!
3. France Sq.
Subsequent up, make your strategy to France Sq. (Plaza de Francia). This spot is full of historical past and an ideal place to take a breather whereas soaking in some fascinating tales. The sq. is devoted to the French function within the Panama Canal’s early days, honoring their courageous—although not totally profitable—try and create the canal. You’ll discover stunning monuments right here, together with a towering obelisk and plaques that element the French contribution. However the actual star? The enduring rooster statue—it’s a unusual nod to France’s nationwide image.
4. Colourful Mural
If you depart France Sq., take a bit of detour! Stroll up the steps to the suitable, and simply earlier than you move by means of the bougainvillea-covered walkway, look to your left. There’s a hidden mural there that’s stuffed with vibrant colours! I nearly missed it myself, but it surely’s completely value the additional step.
>> Hungry? see my Picks of the Greatest Eating places in Panama Metropolis.
5. Paseo de Las Bovedas
Talking of bougainvillea, your subsequent cease is the gorgeous Paseo de Las Bovedas. This beautiful arched walkway is lined with flowers creating a fantastic, shaded passage that feels nearly magical. As you stroll by means of you’ll be greeted by native distributors promoting every kind of handmade crafts and souvenirs. I picked up a cute little one thing to recollect my journey (as a result of, why not?).
6. El Boquete
Time for a fast breather! Cease by El Boquete for among the finest views of Panama Metropolis’s skyline. It’s a brief break, however the view is completely value it—plus, it’s an amazing probability to catch your breath and take within the beautiful distinction between the outdated and new metropolis.
7. Parish of San Felipe de Neri
Subsequent, head over to the Parish of San Felipe de Neri. The church is gorgeous, with its traditional colonial structure, however what actually blew me away was the hidden treasure inside. Behind a big wood door on the again, you’ll discover a big, elaborate Nativity scene. It was created to honor Panama’s deep-rooted Christian traditions and as a strategy to convey the story of Christmas to life year-round. The intricate particulars, from the tiny figures to the superbly crafted setting, make it really feel such as you’ve stumbled upon a mini world frozen in time.
8. Independence Sq.
Proceed your stroll and also you’ll end up at Independence Sq., the place Panama declared its independence from Colombia again in 1903. There’s simply one thing about being in a spot so wealthy in historical past—it’s an amazing spot to pause and replicate on what all of it means.
9. Cathedral of Santa Maria
Towering over Independence Sq. is the Cathedral of Santa Maria, the grand dame of Casco Viejo. It’s seen every little thing from fires to independence celebrations, and it’s simply dripping with historical past.
10. Panama Canal Museum
Subsequent upon your self-guided tour is Panama Canal Museum (Museo del Canal). I used to be completely fascinated by the historical past of the canal—like, how did they even construct that factor?! You’ll study all concerning the engineering feats and private tales behind its development. It’s a little bit of a deep dive, however value each second.
11. Museo de la Mola
Earlier than you wrap up your historical past tour, take a fast detour to the Museo de la Mola (MuMo). It’s free to enter and offers you a glimpse into the world of the Mola, which is a vibrant, hand-stitched textile that’s central to the Guna girls’s conventional clothes. The intricate designs blew me away, and it’s a stunning strategy to expertise a little bit of native tradition.
12. Pedro Mandinga
Lastly, what higher strategy to finish your strolling tour on a excessive notice than with a drink? And Panama’s authentic artisanal rum bar is simply the right spot to be: Pedro Mandinga. Whether or not you’re a rum lover or simply within the temper for a great cocktail, this place is a should. I personally fell in love with their Mandingo Mule! So, sit again, sip, and toast to a day properly spent.
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