Casco Viejo is a legendary district in Panama City. It’s famous for its rustic beauty and unique charm. Also, it has become a UNESCO World Heritage site because of its stunning colonial mansions and other historical buildings. Therefore, this is a small but seeing-worthy neighborhood. Above all, its popularity has recently increased, and many Americans have started moving to Panama. This is why we have come up with a list of things to see and do in Casco Viejo. We are sure you’ll have a wonderful time here staying in hip hotels, exploring gorgeous buildings, and enjoying vibrant vistas.
The list of things to see and do in Casco Viejo
Even if you are visiting Casco Viejo or you are one of the people mentioned above who plan to move here, the attractions this neighborhood has to offer won’t cease to amaze you. Therefore, if you plan to move here, remember that relocating from America to Panama will require some thorough planning, logistics, and nerves. Thus, it would be best to consider hiring someone experienced to lead the process. This way, you can focus on settling into your new home and plan the attractions you want to see in peace.
On the other hand, if you are just a temporary visitor, make sure you plan and make a priority list of things to do and see based on the length of your stay. Even if you are in town for just a couple of days, we are sure you will want to come back. So, without further ado, here are the things to see and do in Casco Viejo.
- Paseo Las Bóvedas
- Colonial buildings
- Compañia de Jesus
- Casco Viejo’s signature chocolate
- The world’s 8th wonder
- Metropolitan Cathedral and Independence Square
- Panama hats
- Rooftop bars
Take a walk around Paseo Las Bóvedas
If you are a lover of handmade things, you will enjoy strolling around here. You can admire the art of Kuna women in this area. Also, you can buy some of these tempting local craft items.
They typically sell a wide selection of handmade textiles with different geometric designs. The Kuna Yala women painted these patterns all over their bodies in the past. Once the European settlers came to Panama, these women bought fabrics from them. That made them decide to include the motives as a part of their clothing. So today, they sell these fantastic products along this promenade.
Enjoy the scenery of colonial buildings
Casco Viejo is one of those cities where you can wander for hours and won’t get bored. It’s no wonder why tourism boosted in the area, and many people have decided to invest in tourism and Panama real estate. While walking through narrow cobblestone streets, you will be amazed by beautiful colonial architecture. So, be sure to check out the mansions, churches, the Metropolitan cathedral, and plazas. Some of the most significant Spanish architectural landmarks are located in Panama.
Visit Compañia de Jesus
Casco Viejo is filled with impressive ruins. One of the top favorites is the Society of Jesus, which was initially a temple. Afterward, it became the first university in Panama. Finally, it transformed into a church, which unfortunately wasn’t completed.
Try its signature chocolate
If you wonder what to do in Casco Viejo, and you also happen to have a sweet tooth, you should visit Oro Moreno. This tropical café offers the best chocolate in Panama, which is entirely natural.
The idea behind this follows the tree-to-bar principle. As a result, the cocoa grown in Bocas del Toro gets mixed with local ingredients (passion fruit, pineapple, coriander) and creates Panama’s unique treats.
Check out the world’s 8th wonder as one of the best things to see and do in Casco Viejo
The Interoceanic Canal Museum is located in the heart of the area. It uncovers the turbulent history of building the Panama Canal.
The museum has an enormous collection of materials and objects that reveal the technology and functioning of the Panama Canal, a true engineering marvel.
Additionally, you can complete your visit by seeing the Panama Canal itself. You can see it from a platform on the shore or take a boat through the Canal.
Visit Metropolitan Cathedral and Independence Square
The focal point of the old town is the twin towers of Metropolitan Cathedral, which are right across Independence Square. You can choose to get away from the sun by sitting on the benches at Independence Square and enjoy the view, or you can check out this marvelous cathedral.
Also, there are a couple of museums worth seeing nearby. We have mentioned the Panama Canal museum before, and there’s the Museum of the History of Panama.
Get yourself a classic Panama hat
Whether you are just visiting and renting real estate or have bought a Panama property, getting a Panama hat is a must.
Panama hat business was launched during the construction of the Canal. They were in high demand back then due to the dry season and intense sun. Furthermore, US President Theodore Roosevelt wore it during his visit to the Panama Canal, an influential advertisement. And the popularity of these hats doesn’t fade away still.
Check out the rooftop bars
Casco Viejo has numerous rooftop bars, which not only offer delicious cocktails but offer lovely views over Panama City. Some of the most popular rooftop bars are Lazotea Restaurant & Rooftop, Tantalo, Salvaye Rooftop, Casa Casco, and many more. We are sure you will enjoy grabbing some bites with a view. Dont forget to check out Teatro Amador amazing event venue, restaurant bar and co working space.
Final thoughts
Casco Viejo is an oasis of colonial charm that offers an escape from the everyday hustle. It is quiet by day, which will allow you to enjoy the views and try new things, and comes alive at night with a wide range of rooftops and clubs. So, if you were wondering why Panama is the place to go, search no more. We hope our guide on things to see and do in Casco Viejo helps you organize your visit.