Private Tour to Explore History of Panama City and Rooftop Bar

Panama La Vieja – Military Canal Area – Casco Antiguo Walking Tour & Rooftop Bar

To truly understand Panama’s rich history, we must start at the very beginning. Our tour begins with a visit to the Panama Viejo Archaeological Site, where the first ruins of the city, founded by the Spaniards on August 15, 1519, are located. This historical site marks the origin of Panama, which became a vital hub for trade and treasure routes across the Americas.

Due to its strategic location, Panama quickly became an essential point of connection between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. The city also served as the main launch point for Spanish expeditions and the transshipment hub for gold and treasures being sent to Spain. This attracted pirates, and in 1671, the infamous Henry Morgan attacked Panama Viejo, leaving the city in ruins.

After visiting the Panama Viejo ruins, we will take a scenic drive of approximately 8 kilometers to Casco Antiguo (the Old Quarter). In 1673, after the destruction of Panama Viejo, the Spanish relocated the city to this more defensible site. Today, Casco Antiguo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its charming cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and historical landmarks.

Tour Itinerary:

• Departure:
  • From Coronado: 8:30 AM
  • From Panama City: 9:30 AM
    Refreshments such as water, soft drinks, will be provided during the drive.
• Panama Viejo Archaeological Site:
  Our first stop will be the Panama Viejo ruins, where we’ll explore the remnants of the city founded in 1519. Here, we’ll dive into the history of Panama as a key transit point for treasures and expeditions, as well as the devastating pirate attacks, including the infamous 1671 attack by Henry Morgan. All entrance fees are included in the price of the tour.
• Casco Antiguo Walking Tour:
  After visiting Panama Viejo, we’ll drive to Casco Antiguo, where we’ll embark on a walking tour of the four main squares, each with its own historical significance. As we walk, we’ll visit iconic landmarks, including the Panama Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, and the National Theatre, all of which tell the story of Panama’s colonial past and its transformation into a modern nation.
• Lunch at a Traditional Panamanian Restaurant:
  Midway through the tour, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at a traditional Panamanian restaurant. You’ll savor local dishes such as sancocho (chicken soup), arroz con pollo (rice with chicken), or ceviche, paired with one drink of your choice (soft drink, beer, or juice). Lunch and one drink are included in the price of the tour.
• Rooftop Bar:
  We’ll conclude the tour with a visit to a rooftop bar where you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Panama City, the Panama Canal, and the Pacific Ocean. The view is spectacular, providing the perfect end to a day of history and exploration. Consumption at the rooftop bar is not included.

What’s Included:

• Roundtrip transportation with pick-up and drop-off at your hotel (from either Panama City or Coronado).
• Professional guide to provide historical insights and lead the walking tour.
• All entrance fees to Panama Viejo and other attractions.
• Lunch at a traditional Panamanian restaurant, including one drink (soft drink, beer, or juice).
• Refreshments (water, soft drinks, and light snacks) provided during the bus ride.

What’s not Included:

• Consumption at the rooftop bar is not included.