Morning departure from JFK to Tocumen Airport (PTY) to maximize arrival time in Panama City and give an afternoon to explore; Copa Airlines and other carriers operate direct flights. Verify exact flight times and check-in rules before departure.
Clear immigration and take a 30–45 minute taxi or pre-booked transfer to your hotel in Panama City (Miraflores/Casco Viejo/Obarrio areas are convenient).
Walk or rent a bike on the Amador Causeway for skyline views and the Bridge of the Americas; the Biomuseo is nearby if you want a short museum visit (check Biomuseo hours). Amador is open 24/7; Biomuseo typical hours ~10:00–17:00 (verify).
Wander the historic Casco Viejo district’s plazas, colonial streets and rooftop bars — ideal sunset views and photography opportunities. Many shops and bars are open until late evening.
Seasonal tasting-menu restaurant that showcases modern Panamanian cuisine; a great introduction to Panama’s flavors (book ahead). Typical service hours for dinner ~18:00–22:00; verify availability.
Start with coffee and a light Panamanian breakfast at a local café (Café Unido has multiple locations and good coffee). Typical café hours ~07:00–15:00 but vary by location.
Visit the Miraflores Locks to watch ships transit the canal, see interpretive exhibits and the observation platforms. Visitor center hours are typically ~08:30–17:00; check for any maintenance or holiday closures.
The Frank Gehry–designed Biodiversity Museum explores Panama’s natural history and role as a land bridge; typical hours ~10:00–17:00 (confirm before going).
Short regional flight from PTY to Juan Santamaría (SJO) in Costa Rica. Flights run frequently with Copa, Avianca and regional carriers; flight ~1h20. Confirm flight time, baggage rules and passport requirements.
Visit Costa Rica’s elegant theater (ornate 1890s interior). Guided tours usually run during daylight hours (approx. 09:00–17:00; check tour times ahead).
Enjoy people-watching, small shops and local snack stalls through the pedestrian avenue and central market; typical market hours are early morning to early evening.
Well-regarded restaurant in a boutique hotel serving elevated Costa Rican and international cuisine; open for dinner ~18:00–22:30 (reservation recommended).
Quick hotel breakfast; day trips to Poás Volcano or a coffee/plantation tour start early to avoid crowds and afternoon fog. Confirm trip pick-up location and time.
Drive roughly 1–1.5 hours to Poás to view the crater and short walking trails; Poás hours typically ~08:00–15:00 but the park can close sporadically for volcanic activity — check the park status before departure.
Have lunch near Poás or at a coffee estate (Doka Estate offers meals and a coffee tour) — great chance to taste local coffee and learn about production. Coffee tours often run ~09:00–16:00; reserve in advance.
Choose a coffee plantation tour (education + tasting, typically 1–2 hours) or visit La Paz Waterfall Gardens (requires a longer drive but great if you prefer wildlife and waterfalls). Check each attraction’s opening times (generally 08:00–16:00/17:00).
Enjoy traditional Costa Rican dishes and, if you choose Tiquicia, great sunset views and folkloric atmosphere (Tiquicia hours vary; check opening times).
Final hotel breakfast and check-out; confirm airport transfer time based on your international flight schedule (allow 2.5–3 hours before departure for international flights).
Take a relaxed morning walk in La Sabana Park (San José’s main green space) or pick up last-minute souvenirs near Avenida Central. Park open roughly early morning to night.