Avenida Central
Avenida Central: Panama's historic pedestrian shopping street, alive with low-budget shops, street art, and local culture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the vibrant pulse
Avenida Central
Best Time
Experience the vibrant pulse
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Avenida Central: Panama's historic pedestrian shopping street, alive with low-budget shops, street art, and local culture.
"It's where you go to put your finger on the pulse of the Panamanian Pueblo."
🚶♀️ Walk the Full Length
Explore the entire kilometer-long pedestrian street for the complete experience.
💰 Bargain Hunter's Paradise
Find great deals on clothing, shoes, electronics, and more.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Commerce Hub
Experience the bustling heart of Panamanian commerce, a pedestrian thoroughfare lined with shops and vendors.
Vibrant Street Art
Discover impressive street art and wall murals adorning buildings along and adjacent to the avenue.
Local Flavors
Savor inexpensive local eateries and fresh fruits directly from countryside farms.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Safety and Parking Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk the Full Length
Explore the entire kilometer-long pedestrian street for the complete experience.
💰 Bargain Hunter's Paradise
Find great deals on clothing, shoes, electronics, and more.
🍎 Taste Local Produce
Buy fresh fruits directly from vendors, often cheaper than supermarkets.
🎨 Admire Street Art
Keep an eye out for colorful murals and graffiti art.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Full Length
Explore the entire kilometer-long pedestrian street for the complete experience.
💰 Bargain Hunter's Paradise
Find great deals on clothing, shoes, electronics, and more.
🍎 Taste Local Produce
Buy fresh fruits directly from vendors, often cheaper than supermarkets.
🎨 Admire Street Art
Keep an eye out for colorful murals and graffiti art.
👀 Stay Aware
Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in busier areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Avenida Central offers an authentic, bustling shopping experience that captures the pulse of Panamanian commerce and culture. Visitors appreciate its historic feel, vibrant street art, and affordable local eateries. However, some find it chaotic, smelly, and potentially less safe in certain areas or at specific times.
"Outdoor shopping in a brick-lined plaza about a kilometer in length. Here you will find mostly low budget stores for clothing, shoes, fabrics, electronics, eateries, grocery stores and sellers of fruits and vegetables.
Before shopping malls existed in the city, this was the go-to shopping district. During my childhood, the street allowed cars. Nowadays, it has been closed off for pedestrians only. I Iike how the place has kept its old look. It may not be fancy but this is a historic part of city commerce.
Tourists may appreciate the sights and sounds. Old buildings alongside other old buildings with renovated facades. Children playing soccer. Works of art made by locals on some walls. Inexpensive eateries serving local food. This should be a must-see place for any tourist.
I find the area very safe. I have counted up to three different police agencies patrolling the area. Parking in the surrounding streets is limited but very possible if you simply search."
Panama George
"Old School Panama Vibes. Time machine to the 90s"
JC Headley
"You had Av. Central España which was incorrectly posted."
Esther Fisher
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Avenida Central is a pedestrian-only thoroughfare. You can reach it by taxi, ride-sharing services, or public buses that drop you off nearby. It's advisable to use navigation apps to find the closest drop-off point.
Parking on the streets surrounding Avenida Central can be limited. It's recommended to be patient and search thoroughly, or consider using public transport to avoid parking hassles.
Depending on your starting location, walking might be an option, but it's a significant distance. Public transport or taxis are generally more practical for reaching Avenida Central from further afield.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Avenida Central is a public street and does not require an entrance ticket. It's an open-air shopping district accessible to everyone.
As a public street, Avenida Central is generally accessible during daylight hours. Individual shops and eateries will have their own operating times, typically from morning to early evening.
Avenida Central is a brick-lined plaza, which can present some challenges for wheelchairs. While it's generally flat, uneven surfaces might exist. It's best to proceed with caution.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Experience
You'll find a wide variety of low-budget stores selling clothing, shoes, fabrics, electronics, and household goods. It's a great place for bargain hunting.
During the daytime, Avenida Central is generally considered safe with a visible police presence. However, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
The atmosphere is bustling, chaotic, and vibrant, offering a true 'pulse of the Panamanian Pueblo.' Expect a lively mix of shoppers, vendors, and street life.
While not a dedicated souvenir market, you might find unique local crafts or items among the diverse offerings that could serve as souvenirs.
Before modern malls, Avenida Central was the primary shopping district. It retains its old look and feel, offering a glimpse into the city's commercial past.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can find inexpensive eateries serving local Panamanian food. It's also a great spot to buy fresh fruits directly from street vendors.
Avenida Central is known for its budget-friendly options. Upscale dining is not its focus; it's more about authentic, local, and affordable food experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! Avenida Central offers a rich tapestry of street life, diverse people, historic architecture, and vibrant street art, making it a photographer's delight.
Street art and murals are scattered along the main pedestrian thoroughfare and on adjacent side streets. Keep your eyes open as you explore.
Daytime offers the most activity and light for capturing the bustling atmosphere. Early morning might offer fewer crowds, while late afternoon can provide softer light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for crowds and sensory stimulation. While there are eateries, they are generally casual. The street art can be a fun visual scavenger hunt for children. It's advisable to keep a close eye on children due to the bustling environment and to ensure they don't wander off.
💰 Budget Travelers
Don't miss the opportunity to eat at the inexpensive local eateries or grab fresh, affordable fruits from street vendors. This is where you can truly stretch your travel budget while experiencing authentic local life and flavors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Pulse of Panamanian Commerce
This thoroughfare is a melting pot of cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds, reflecting the true diversity of Panama. You'll see people from all walks of life interacting, shopping, and going about their day. It's a place to experience the 'real' Panama, away from the more polished tourist attractions. The sheer volume of shops, selling everything from clothing and electronics to fabrics and household goods, makes it a destination for bargain hunters and those seeking authentic local experiences.
Street Art and Cultural Expression
Exploring Avenida Central offers a chance to discover these hidden artistic gems. Many pieces are large-scale and colorful, depicting various themes relevant to Panamanian life and culture. It's a fantastic opportunity for photography enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates urban art. The art serves as a contemporary counterpoint to the historic architecture, creating a unique blend of old and new.
Local Flavors and Affordable Eats
One of the highlights mentioned by visitors is the availability of fresh fruits sourced directly from the countryside. These are often sold at prices significantly lower than in supermarkets. It's a refreshing and healthy option for a snack while exploring the bustling street. The dining experience here is unpretentious, focusing on authentic taste and value.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit