5-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Panama City

Day 1: Arriving in Paradise

Panama City, Panama

9:00AM

Breakfast at El Trapiche

Start your adventure with a traditional Panamanian breakfast at El Trapiche, known for its tasty breakfast items like scrambled eggs and hojaldre.
Located in the heart of the city, easily reachable by taxi.
PAB 15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Panama Canal Museum

After breakfast, immerse yourself in the wonders of the Panama Canal at the Canal Museum, where kids will enjoy interactive exhibits.
A short 10-minute taxi ride from the restaurant.
PAB 10, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Mercado de Mariscos

Enjoy fresh seafood at Mercado de Mariscos, with plenty of choices for everyone including ceviche and fish tacos.
Located near the museum; a quick 5-minute walk.
PAB 20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Casco Viejo

Wander the charming streets of Casco Viejo, admiring its colorful architecture and history, perfect for family photos.
A 10-minute walk from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at Cinta Costera

Stroll or bike along the scenic Cinta Costera, letting the kids run free in the park areas.
A 15-minute taxi ride from Casco Viejo.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante Nacional

Wind down with dinner at Restaurante Nacional, famous for its delicious Panamanian dishes like sancocho.
Only a 10-minute taxi ride from Cinta Costera.
PAB 25, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Adventure Awaits

Panama City, Panama

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Balear

Fuel up with coffee and pastries at Cafe Balear, a popular spot among locals.
Situated about 15 minutes from your hotel by taxi.
PAB 12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Gamboa Rainforest

Take a day trip to Gamboa Rainforest for zip-lining and wildlife encounters in a beautiful natural setting.
About 30 minutes by taxi; pre-book a tour for ease.
PAB 90, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Gamboa Rainforest Resort

Have a family-friendly lunch at the Gamboa Rainforest Resort with views of the lush surroundings.
On-site at the resort.
PAB 25, 1 hour

3:30PM

Go on a Boat Tour of the Gatun Lake

After lunch, take a boat tour on Gatun Lake, discovering the rich biodiversity of the region.
Arrange through Gamboa Resort; starts from the resort.
PAB 50, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mi Ranchito

End your day with dinner at Mi Ranchito, offering local dishes in a relaxing setting.
30-minute taxi ride back to the city.
PAB 20, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Day

Panama City, Panama

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Juan Valdez

Savor a delightful breakfast at Cafe Juan Valdez, where kids can enjoy pastries and smoothies.
Conveniently located nearby, around a 10-minute taxi ride.
PAB 15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Panama Viejo

Visit the ruins of Panama Viejo, the original city founded in 1519, where kids can explore history and climb the tower.
A 15-minute taxi ride from the cafe.
PAB 10, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Biomuseo

Continue to the Biomuseo, an interactive museum showcasing Panama's biodiversity, woodpeckers, and more.
A short 5-minute taxi ride from Panama Viejo.
PAB 15, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at El Mercado

Grab lunch at El Mercado, where you can find a variety of food stalls offering local and international dishes.
5-minute taxi ride away from Biomuseo.
PAB 15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Cortez Castle

Explore the fascinating history of Cortez Castle, where tales of explorers and pirates come alive.
A short 10-minute walk from lunch.
PAB 8, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax at the Parque Natural Metropolitano

Let the kids unwind in the expansive Parque Natural Metropolitano with hiking trails and scenic views.
A 15-minute taxi ride to the park entrance.
PAB 5, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Taberna del Canal

Enjoy a delicious family dinner at La Taberna del Canal, offering a variety of local beers and dishes.
20-minute taxi ride back from the park.
PAB 25, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Beach and Fun

Panama City, Panama

8:00AM

Breakfast at Los Kitos

Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Los Kitos, where pancakes and fresh fruits await you.
Located within a short distance, a 10-minute taxi ride.
PAB 12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Day Trip to Taboga Island

Catch a ferry to Taboga Island for a fun beach day and explore the town and its sandy shores.
Board the ferry from at the Amador Causeway; around a 20-minute taxi ride.
PAB 20 (ferry ticket), 30 minutes ferry ride + 4 hours on the island

1:30PM

Lunch at Restaurante El Faro

Have lunch with a view at Restaurante El Faro, serving delicious seafood and island specialties.
Located on the island, a short walk from the beach.
PAB 25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Beach Activities

Enjoy sunbathing, snorkeling, or beach games on the tranquil shores of Taboga Island.
Just a stroll from the restaurant.
Free (or equipment rental fee), 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Panama City

Ferry back to Panama City with beautiful views of the skyline during the ride.
Catch the ferry back to the city.
Included in the ferry ticket, 30 minutes ferry ride

6:30PM

Dinner at Fish Market

Wrap up the day with a delightful seafood dinner at one of the vibrant stalls at the Fish Market.
A 10-minute taxi ride from the ferry terminal.
PAB 20, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Last Day Enjoyment

Panama City, Panama

8:00AM

Breakfast at Panaderia La Cascada

Enjoy a lovely breakfast of freshly baked goods at Panaderia La Cascada, a local favorite.
A short walk or taxi ride from your hotel.
PAB 10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Aerial Tram at Gamboa

Relax with a scenic ride on the Aerial Tram at Gamboa to appreciate the lush landscape of the rainforest.
A 30-minute taxi ride to Gamboa.
PAB 30, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Miraflores Restaurant

Dine at Miraflores Restaurant overlooking the Panama Canal for stunning views and delicious meals.
A 30-minute taxi ride from Gamboa.
PAB 35, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Panama Canal Locks Experience

After lunch, visit the Miraflores Locks to watch ships navigate the canal, an educational experience for all ages.
Just a short walk from the restaurant.
PAB 15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Multiplaza Pacific Mall

Spend a few hours shopping or enjoying the mall's entertainment options before you leave.
A 15-minute taxi ride from the locks.
Free (or individual shop fees), 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Hard Rock Cafe

Wrap up your trip with dinner at Hard Rock Cafe, where the kids can enjoy American favorites.
Located in the Multiplaza Pacific Mall.
PAB 30, 1.5 hours
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