Gelato, Ice Cream & Chocolate
The best Casco Viejo ice cream isn’t found through flashy signs or tourist menus — it’s discovered quietly along the neighborhood’s walkable streets, where a few genuine local favorites have earned their reputation over time.
Start with Granclement, the original ice cream shop of Casco Viejo and something of a household name in the neighborhood. Located on Ninth Street next to SISU, it’s the perfect place to begin a relaxed stroll through the historic quarter with a classic scoop of ice cream.
From there, make your way toward Benissimo Gelato Café & Deli on Fourth Street, where authentic Italian-style gelato is crafted in small batches. Pistachio, dark chocolate, and fresh fruit sorbets make this a favorite stop before continuing your walk toward the waterfront promenade overlooking Panama Bay.
Finally, before leaving Casco Viejo, stop by I Love Panama Chocolate on Calle 5a Oeste to pick up beautifully crafted chocolate gifts. It’s the perfect last stop after all, you don’t want to be carrying chocolate around the neighborhood and risk it melting before you make it back to your hotel.
Together, these three stops create a perfect little dessert trail through Casco Viejo: ice cream, gelato, and Panamanian craft chocolate, all within a short walk through one of Panama City’s most charming historic districts.
Q&A: Best Casco Viejo Ice Cream
Facts: Best Casco Viejo Ice Cream
Sweet Strolls Through Casco Viejo’s Historic Streets and find the Best Casco Viejo Ice Cream
Casco Viejo is meant to be experienced slowly, with something delicious in hand. After a scoop from Granclement or a cup of gelato from Benissimo, take a moment to wander the narrow streets. The plazas are full of flowers, the bells of San Francisco ring nearby, and every corner feels like a postcard. Before heading back to your hotel, stop by I Love Panama Chocolate to pick up a few sweet gifts to take home.
Benissimo & The Seawall View
Benissimo makes the perfect stop if you want to sit down, grab a sandwich, or enjoy your gelato inside before heading to the seawall. From there, watch ships pass toward the Panama Canal. You can also admire the Bridge of the Americas in the distance. For those seeking some of the best Casco Viejo ice cream and desserts, this is a must-visit spot for experiencing these delightful treats in the area.
Desserts That Define a Neighborhood
Desserts in Casco aren’t just about satisfying a craving they are part of the neighborhood’s rhythm. Families gather on benches, tour groups pass by, and musicians play. You sit with your sweet treat. This is what makes Casco magical. It’s not just about what you eat it’s about where you are when you eat it. Indeed, when indulging in desserts, and especially the best Casco Viejo ice cream or gelato, you realize this true essence.
Your Sweetest Walk Through Casco Viejo
So grab a spoon, a cone, or a slice, and let Casco Viejo show you its sweeter side. For the best Casco Viejo ice cream or gelato experience, make sure you try all the unique flavors available. When you’ve finished, wander toward your next discovery. This could be a rooftop bar at sunset, a hidden restaurant, or a quiet plaza that feels like your own. Don’t miss out on the wonderful desserts that Casco Viejo has to offe this experience of best Casco Viejo ice cream, gelato and desserts can elevate your exploration.
Planning your afternoon walk? Pair it with one of the routes from our Casco Viejo Sightseeing Blog — gelato in hand, of course.
Explore Casco Viejo
On Your Own Time
This self guided walking tour is designed to last up to four hours, but you set the pace. Do it in one relaxed half day, or break it into a few stops between coffee, meals, and photos.
- No groups, no schedules
- Start anywhere, stop anywhere
- Works on phone or desktop
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