Obarrio Panama City
Obarrio: Panama City's upscale financial and commercial heart, offering modern skyscrapers, luxury shopping, and a vibrant dining scene.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Less crowded shopping
Obarrio Panama City
Best Time
Less crowded shopping

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Obarrio: Panama City's upscale financial and commercial heart, offering modern skyscrapers, luxury shopping, and a vibrant dining scene.
"Obarrio is a central, safe, and convenient area for tourists, known for its modern vibe and amenities."
📍 Central & Safe Location
Obarrio is a central, safe area for tourists, close to amenities and business hubs. :shield:
🛍️ Shop 'til You Drop
Explore upscale malls like Multiplaza Pacific for a premium shopping experience. :shopping_bags:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Upscale Shopping & Dining
Multiplaza Pacific Mall
Indulge in luxury brands and diverse culinary experiences at one of Panama City's premier shopping destinations.

Modern Cityscape Views
Various high-rise vantage points
Experience the vibrant pulse of Panama City from above, with stunning views of the modern skyline.

Business & Financial District
Obarrio's commercial heart
Witness the dynamic economic activity of Panama City in this bustling hub of commerce and innovation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Obarrio: Your Central Hub
Evening Exploration in Obarrio
Best Times
Insider Tips
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First-Time Visit to Panama City for Work - Looking for Tips!
📍 Central & Safe Location
Obarrio is a central, safe area for tourists, close to amenities and business hubs. :shield:
🛍️ Shop 'til You Drop
Explore upscale malls like Multiplaza Pacific for a premium shopping experience. :shopping_bags:
Safe areas in Panama City to stay for a couple days?
🌃 Evening Ambiance
Enjoy the lively atmosphere and dining options after dark. :nightwithstars:
🚗 Easy Access
Well-connected for exploring other parts of Panama City. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
📍 Central & Safe Location
Obarrio is a central, safe area for tourists, close to amenities and business hubs. :shield:
🛍️ Shop 'til You Drop
Explore upscale malls like Multiplaza Pacific for a premium shopping experience. :shopping_bags:
🌃 Evening Ambiance
Enjoy the lively atmosphere and dining options after dark. :nightwithstars:
🚗 Easy Access
Well-connected for exploring other parts of Panama City. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Obarrio is widely praised as a safe, central, and modern district in Panama City, ideal for shopping and business. Visitors appreciate its convenience, upscale amenities, and vibrant dining scene. Some find it can be busy and less focused on traditional tourist attractions compared to other areas.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Tocumen Airport, you can take a taxi or a ride-sharing service directly to Obarrio. The journey typically takes 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. Uber and similar apps are widely used and recommended for convenience and fair pricing.
Obarrio is a major hub and is well-served by local buses, though navigating them can be challenging for tourists. Taxis and ride-sharing services are more convenient for getting around the city from Obarrio.
Obarrio is quite walkable, especially if you're staying in the central areas. For longer distances within Obarrio or to nearby districts, taxis and ride-sharing apps are readily available and efficient.
Many hotels in Obarrio, such as the Holiday Inn Panama Obarrio, offer airport shuttle services or can arrange one for you. It's best to check with your specific hotel when booking.
Yes, taxis are abundant in Obarrio, especially in commercial areas and near hotels. It's advisable to agree on a fare before starting your journey or ensure the meter is used.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Obarrio is a district, not a specific attraction, so there are no tickets required to enter or explore the area. You can freely walk around and enjoy its atmosphere.
No, there are no entrance fees for major shopping malls like Multiplaza Pacific in Obarrio. You only pay for the items you purchase.
Most shops and businesses in Obarrio operate from around 10 AM to 7 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, with some extending hours or having Sunday operations, especially in malls. Restaurants often stay open later.
Obarrio is considered one of the safer areas in Panama City for tourists, particularly during the day and early evening. As with any urban center, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially late at night.
While Obarrio itself doesn't have attractions requiring booking, individual restaurants or specific events held within the district might. It's best to check in advance if you have a particular dining or entertainment venue in mind.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Obarrio is known as a central, upscale district in Panama City, famous for its modern skyscrapers, high-end shopping malls like Multiplaza Pacific, and a vibrant business and financial hub. It's also recognized as a safe and convenient area for tourists.
You can enjoy luxury shopping at Multiplaza Pacific Mall, dine at a variety of international restaurants, explore the modern cityscape, and experience the bustling financial district. It's a great base for exploring Panama City.
Yes, Obarrio is highly recommended for tourists due to its safety, central location, and proximity to amenities, shopping, and dining. It offers a good balance of convenience and modern city living.
Obarrio boasts a diverse culinary scene, offering everything from international fine dining to casual eateries, cafes, and local Panamanian cuisine. You'll find options to suit every taste and budget.
Obarrio is generally safe for evening walks, especially in well-lit areas and near popular establishments. However, as with any city, it's always prudent to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid deserted streets.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Obarrio offers international cuisine, don't miss trying local Panamanian dishes like sancocho (a hearty soup), arroz con pollo (chicken and rice), and fresh seafood. Many restaurants in Obarrio will feature these options.
Yes, beyond the upscale restaurants, you can find more affordable eateries, cafes, and food courts within the shopping malls in Obarrio that offer good value for money.
Obarrio has a lively evening scene with numerous bars, lounges, and restaurants that stay open late. It's a popular spot for after-work drinks and dining.
Many restaurants in Obarrio, especially those with international menus, are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus online or ask your server.
For a lively atmosphere, evenings are best, particularly from 7 PM onwards. Lunchtimes can also be busy with business professionals. Weekends offer a more relaxed dining experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the modern skyline from elevated viewpoints, the bustling streets, and the impressive architecture of buildings like those in the financial district. The entrance of Multiplaza Pacific Mall also offers interesting visual elements.
Yes, it is generally safe to take photos in Obarrio. Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and avoid photographing sensitive locations like banks or government buildings up close.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for capturing the city's skyline. Midday provides clear views of the architecture, while evenings come alive with city lights.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions for casual photography in public spaces in Obarrio. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits, and it's always respectful to ask permission before photographing individuals.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for cityscapes and street photography. A wide-angle lens can capture the scale of the buildings, and a telephoto lens can be useful for details. Don't forget a portable charger for your phone if you're using it for photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While Obarrio is primarily a business and shopping district, its central location makes it easy to access family-friendly attractions elsewhere in the city. Consider using Obarrio as your base and planning day trips to places like the Biomuseo or the Panama Canal. Ensure you have reliable transportation options, as walking long distances with children might be challenging in the heat.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider staying in hotels slightly outside the immediate prime Obarrio area if budget is a major concern, but still within easy reach. Obarrio's main draw for budget travelers is its accessibility to other parts of the city, allowing you to explore more affordable dining and attractions elsewhere while using Obarrio as a convenient and safe point of reference.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Obarrio's Vibe
Many travelers find Obarrio to be a convenient and safe base for their stay. Its central location means that other key areas of Panama City are easily reachable, whether by taxi, ride-sharing service, or even public transport for the more adventurous. The district itself is well-maintained and offers a wide array of amenities, from luxury hotels and high-end boutiques to diverse dining options catering to various palates. This blend of practicality and modern comfort makes it a popular choice for both business and leisure travelers.
Shopping and Entertainment in Obarrio
Beyond Multiplaza, Obarrio features numerous smaller shopping plazas and standalone boutiques, offering a more curated shopping experience. The district is also home to a vibrant culinary landscape. You can find everything from gourmet restaurants serving international cuisine to casual cafes and local eateries. The evening atmosphere in Obarrio is particularly lively, with many establishments offering happy hour specials and a buzzing nightlife scene, making it a great place to experience Panama City's urban energy.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit