Casco Viejo (Old Town) - a white and yellow building with a horse statue in front of it
1 / 10

Casco Viejo (Old Town)

4.7
·185 reviews·Pamplona, Spain

Panama City's UNESCO-listed historic heart, Casco Viejo, enchants with colonial charm, vibrant nightlife, and stunning rooftop views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Vibrant nightlife, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Casco Viejo (Old Town) - a white and yellow building with a horse statue in front of it

Casco Viejo (Old Town)

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Vibrant nightlife, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Panama City's UNESCO-listed historic heart, Casco Viejo, enchants with colonial charm, vibrant nightlife, and stunning rooftop views.

4.7
(185 reviews)

"Casco Viejo is a photographer's dream, a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with history and vibrant energy."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Wander Without an Agenda

Embrace the spirit of Casco Viejo and let yourself get lost in its charming streets.

🌃 Experience the Nightlife

Casco Viejo truly comes alive at night with numerous bars and clubs.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cobblestone Streets

Cobblestone Streets

Wander through narrow, charming streets lined with colorful colonial buildings. A photographer's dream!

Plaza Herrera

Plaza Herrera

A lively central square perfect for people-watching, enjoying a drink, and soaking in the historic ambiance.

Rooftop Bars

Rooftop Bars

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Panama City and the bay, especially magical at sunset.

Architectural Gems

Architectural Gems

Marvel at the beautifully restored colonial architecture, a testament to the area's rich history.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Atmosphere

Casco Viejo, Panama's historic heart, is a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with colonial charm. Wander its cobblestone streets, admire the architecture, and soak in the vibrant nightlife. Be prepared for a mix of quiet mornings and lively evenings. Instagram+1

Best Time for Exploration

While Casco Viejo is beautiful year-round, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Evenings come alive with music and dining, making them ideal for experiencing the local scene. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Vibrant nightlife, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Calm exploration, great for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Sunset
Why
Stunning views from rooftops
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Videos show thousands of attendees at Spain’s San Fermin festival chanting in support of Palestine and forming the shape of its map in the Spanish city of #Pamplona. #news #Spain #SanFerminFestival
@aljazeeraenglish
24.4K likes • 234.3K views

🚶‍♀️ Wander Without an Agenda

Embrace the spirit of Casco Viejo and let yourself get lost in its charming streets. Instagram

🌃 Experience the Nightlife

Casco Viejo truly comes alive at night with numerous bars and clubs. Instagram+1

Nuestra herMoza fv @Pamplona @Pamplona lives #clips #paratiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii #pamplona
@pamplemoza
7.8K likes • 103.9K views
Backpacking through Panama's Old Town Casco Viejo's nightlife solo like I was Jay Electronica 😁. It was quite the experience.
moorishemperor
24 likes • 2.1K views

📸 Capture the Architecture

Every corner offers a picturesque scene; bring your camera! TikTokInstagram

☕ Try Local Coffee

Seek out cafes offering Panama's renowned Geisha coffee. Instagram

Casco Viejo (Old Town) in Panama City, Panama (Also known as Casco Antiguo) is THE place everyone comes to whether you are visiting or live here. In 1997 Casco Viejo (along with Panama Viejo on the other side of town) become a UNESCO World Heritage site and Panama began restoring and preserving much of it. Gentrification really became a “thing” in 2002 and now it is rampant across the world. ...
alohamelani
137 likes • 1.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Wander Without an Agenda

Embrace the spirit of Casco Viejo and let yourself get lost in its charming streets. Instagram

🌃 Experience the Nightlife

Casco Viejo truly comes alive at night with numerous bars and clubs. Instagram+1

📸 Capture the Architecture

Every corner offers a picturesque scene; bring your camera! TikTokInstagram

☕ Try Local Coffee

Seek out cafes offering Panama's renowned Geisha coffee. Instagram

🏨 Stay in a Historic Hotel

Consider hotels like Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo for a unique experience. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(185 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Casco Viejo is widely praised for its stunning colonial architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and rich history, making it a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors love the lively nightlife and beautiful rooftop views, though some mention the increasing gentrification and tourist crowds. It's a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern energy.

"A must for anyone planning to visit Pamplona, this is the heart of the old quarter which is steeped in history, a short stroll from the plaza will take you to the street where the famous Pamplona annual bull run begins and then onto the bull ring itself."

Sharon McAllorum

"Lovely traditions center with many options to sit and have a drink while watching the city go by. When not in festival time, it can be very quiet and calming and during festival time, it can be raucous but enjoyable"

Formy TaxPro

"Beautiful old town, very clean with many nice little bars!"

Esteban Bodega

What People Like

Beautiful colonial architecture
Vibrant nightlife
Historic ambiance

What People Dislike

Increasing gentrification
Tourist crowds

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available at the airport and are the most convenient way to reach Casco Viejo, taking approximately 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. Instagram

Yes, Casco Viejo is very walkable! Its charm lies in exploring its narrow cobblestone streets on foot. Wear comfortable shoes. Instagram+1

While direct public buses to Casco Viejo are limited, you can take a bus to Albrook Terminal and then a taxi or Uber. Many visitors opt for direct taxis or ride-sharing from the airport or other parts of the city. Instagram

Casco Viejo is generally considered safe, especially in the main tourist areas and around popular bars and restaurants. However, like any urban area, it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid poorly lit or deserted streets. Instagram+2

Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber are widely available and convenient for traveling between Casco Viejo and other districts of Panama City. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Casco Viejo itself is a historic district and does not have an entrance fee. You can wander freely through its streets and plazas. Instagram

Casco Viejo is always accessible as it's a living historic district. However, individual shops, restaurants, and attractions within the area will have their own operating hours. Instagram+1

For most general exploration, no tickets are needed. However, if you plan to visit museums, specific historical sites, or book tours (like food tours or bar crawls), booking in advance is recommended. Instagram+1

Yes, numerous guided tours are available, including historical walking tours, food tours, and nightlife bar crawls. Booking these in advance is a good idea. Instagram+1

A guided historical walking tour is highly recommended to understand the rich history and significance of the architecture and landmarks. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

Everywhere! Focus on the colorful colonial buildings, intricate balconies, cobblestone streets, and the stunning views from rooftop bars. Plaza Herrera is also a great spot. TikTokInstagram

Early mornings offer soft light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the architecture. Sunsets are spectacular from rooftop bars, providing dramatic cityscapes. Instagram+1

Drone usage may be restricted in historic and densely populated areas. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone in Casco Viejo. Instagram

Don't miss the iconic views from rooftop bars like Casa Casco, the vibrant street art, and the general charm of the narrow alleyways. Instagram+1

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both street scenes and wider architectural shots. A wide-angle lens can be useful for interiors and tighter spaces. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Casco Viejo offers a diverse culinary scene. Look for fresh seafood, traditional Panamanian dishes, and international cuisine. Don't miss trying local coffee. Instagram

Restaurants are plentiful throughout Casco Viejo, from casual eateries to upscale dining. Plaza Herrera and the surrounding streets offer many options. Instagram+1

Many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's advisable to check menus online or ask your server. Instagram

Casco Viejo is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and rooftop lounges offering live music and a lively atmosphere. Instagram+2

While some high-end dining exists, you can find more affordable options by exploring smaller eateries and local spots away from the main tourist hubs. Food tours can also offer good value. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Casco Viejo can be a fascinating place for families, offering a glimpse into history and a vibrant atmosphere. While the nightlife is geared towards adults, daytime exploration is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy wandering the colorful streets, spotting unique architectural details, and perhaps visiting a museum like the Panama Canal Museum. Instagram

Consider a family-friendly food tour to introduce children to local flavors in a fun and engaging way. Many restaurants offer kid-friendly options. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven cobblestones. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

Casco Viejo offers options for budget-conscious travelers. While some high-end restaurants and hotels exist, you can find more affordable eats by exploring smaller eateries and local 'fondas' (small, casual eateries) slightly off the main tourist paths. Instagram

Walking is free and the best way to explore the historic district. Look for happy hour deals at bars for more affordable drinks. Consider staying in hostels or budget guesthouses located within or near Casco Viejo for cost-effective accommodation. Instagram+1

🥂 Couples

Casco Viejo is incredibly romantic, especially in the evenings. Enjoy sunset cocktails at a rooftop bar with stunning city views, followed by a candlelit dinner at one of the many charming restaurants. Instagram+1

Take leisurely strolls through the historic streets, hand-in-hand, and soak in the ambiance. The area's vibrant nightlife also offers opportunities for a fun and memorable night out together. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

Casco Viejo, also known as Casco Antiguo or San Felipe, is the historic heart of Panama City. Established in 1673 after the destruction of the original Panama Viejo, it served as the city's administrative and cultural center for centuries. Its grid-like street plan and colonial architecture reflect Spanish influence, with buildings showcasing a mix of Baroque, Neoclassical, and Art Nouveau styles. In 1997, Casco Viejo was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognizing its outstanding universal value and the importance of its preservation. Instagram+1

The area has undergone significant restoration and gentrification, transforming from a somewhat neglected district into a thriving hub for tourism, culture, and nightlife. This revitalization has brought back many of its architectural treasures, making it a captivating destination for history buffs and casual visitors alike. Walking through Casco Viejo is like stepping back in time, with every corner revealing a new story or a beautifully preserved facade. Instagram+1

Despite its modern revival, the essence of Casco Viejo remains. It's a place where history is palpable, from the grand plazas to the intimate cobblestone alleys. The area's resilience and transformation are a testament to its enduring significance in Panama's identity. Instagram+1

Experiencing Casco Viejo's Nightlife

When the sun sets, Casco Viejo transforms into Panama City's premier nightlife destination. The historic streets come alive with music spilling from numerous bars, clubs, and rooftop lounges. Whether you're looking for a relaxed evening with craft cocktails or a lively dance floor, Casco Viejo has something for everyone. Instagram+2

Popular spots include rooftop bars offering stunning panoramic views of the modern skyline juxtaposed against the historic old town, creating a unique ambiance. Many establishments offer live music, from salsa to jazz, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. Consider joining a guided bar crawl for an organized way to experience multiple venues and meet fellow travelers. Instagram+1

It's advisable to check the schedules for specific events or live music performances, as the scene can vary throughout the week. While many places are welcoming, some might have dress codes, especially for more upscale venues. Instagram+1

A Photographer's Paradise

Casco Viejo is a visual feast for photographers. The district's well-preserved colonial architecture, with its vibrant colors, ornate balconies, and intricate details, provides endless opportunities for stunning shots. The narrow cobblestone streets, often adorned with bougainvillea and other tropical flora, add to the picturesque charm. TikTokInstagram

For the best light, aim for early mornings when the golden hour bathes the buildings in a warm glow and the streets are relatively quiet. This allows for unobstructed views and a more serene photographic experience. Sunsets are equally magical, especially when viewed from one of the many rooftop bars, offering breathtaking panoramas of the city and the Panama Bay. Instagram+1

Don't forget to capture the details: the weathered doorways, the wrought-iron railings, and the lively street scenes. The contrast between the historic architecture of Casco Viejo and the modern skyscrapers of Panama City in the background creates unique photographic compositions. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2