Aerial view of Plaza Tomás Herrera with statue, gardens, and surrounding colonial buildings in Casco Viejo, Panama
If you’ve only got one day in Casco Viejo, Panama’s historic heart, make it count. This walkable itinerary covers cafés, churches, plazas, shopping, and a touch of magic — all curated by someone who’s lived here for over 15 years. Let’s start to See Casco Viejo in a Day at 9 AM and wrap up by 4, just in time for a sunset drink or your next stop in Panama City for some Family Fun.

9:00 AM – Start with a Stroll + Morning Coffee

  • Begin your day at SISU Coffee Studio – the home of Geisha Coffee
  • When finished head down the road to Plaza Herrera – Great photo opportunities
  • Then you will take a left and head down Avenue a to the Promenade
  • Walk the promenade to see the Bridge of the Americas
  • Stop by Vera Café for a croissant stuffed with soft-serve ice cream

10:30 AM – Explore Churches & Cathedrals

Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral and 4 key churches all within 5 blocks if you want to see Casco Viejo in a day.

  • Iglesia San Francisco
  • Iglesia Santo Domingo
  • Iglesia San Felipe
  • Iglesia La Merced

12:00 PM – Art & Shopping

  • Drop into local gift shops or art galleries
  • Stop at the Kindly Shop for art or home decor we have Mailbox etc: to ship home

1:00 PM – See Casco Viejo in a Day and Lunch Like a Local

You have to do Fonda Lo Que Hay for hip Panamanian plates – House hold name however if the weather is perfect visit a Rooftop Bar and see the views.

2:30 PM – Plaza Circuit + Cultural Sights

Walk Through

  • Plaza Herrera again for a photo op
  • Plaza Francia look for the French Embassy
  • Plaza Bolívar
  • Stop briefly at the National Theatre exterior

3:30 PM – Hotel Lobby Envy + Final Stop

  • Visit Hotel La Compañía to admire its architecture
  • See the 3 Sections French, Spanish and the USA
  • Then finish up at the American bizarre pub suitable for families indoor outdoor ambience.

See Casco Viejo in a Day may be compact, but it’s endlessly rich with stories, flavors, and moments. Whether it’s your first time here or your fifteenth, a well-paced day like this one offers a real taste of its soul — rooftops, ruins, and all. And if you’re staying into the evening, exploring the rooftop bars adds a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the city’s vibrant night views.

🌴 Spending just one day in Casco Viejo? You’ve only scratched the surface. 🛎️ Want your business or hotel featured? Reach out to us — we’re proud to showcase Casco from the inside.

🧭 Out and about with James.

Museum of the Mola

A vibrant museum dedicated to Guna culture, where the meaning behind each stitch tells a story of identity and heritage.

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Arts & Culture

From street murals to studio exhibits, Casco’s art scene is alive with talent and passion rooted in history and place.

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Events in Casco

Stay in the loop with local events—gallery openings, live music, artisan fairs, and street festivals that bring Casco to life.

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