Panama is the third new country I’ve visited this week, after Costa Rica and Colombia – Bogotá and my trip to South America – and it’s been quite amazing to be here. Both, Panama City and Panama Canal, are unique destinations, and this is my best travel guide to experiencing them.
Upon arrival, I was surprised by the amount of skyscrapers, even though I knew Panama City was a major financial hub. This is not what I imagined of Panama. Will I like it here? Luckily, my stay at Hotel La Compañía Casco Antiguo, located in the heart of the historic district, was the perfect base for exploring the city. This 5-star hotel offers the finest luxury experience in Panama, and I simply had to experience this historic boutique property for myself.
Known as a living museum, La Compañía Casco Antiguo takes you on an immersive journey through time. Each wall, room and area tells the story of the city and its rich heritage. It is truly unique! The hotel is perfect location to explore the vibrant culture of Panama City and the incredible engineering marvels of the Panama Canal. Both was a must see for me when planning my Central America trip.
Short info: Originally founded in 1519, Panama City (Viejo) was attacked and burned down in 1671 by the privateer Henry Morgan, often referred to as a pirate. The city was then rebuilt and relocated to what is now Casco Antiguo.
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La Compañía Casco Antiguo
Set within a meticulously restored Jesuit monastery dating back to the late 1600s, this boutique hotel is a stunning example of how heritage and hospitality can seamlessly intertwine. As part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the hotel’s foundation is history itself. From original stone walls, stained glass, hand-carved wood, and exposed masonry all serve as silent storytellers from a bygone era. Each restaurant and bar is cleverly designed to blend into the original structure.
This hotel and this part of Panama City is definitely a must-see in Panama. My travel guide? Simply wonder the pebbled charming streets of Casco Antiguo. There is a vibrant energy everywhere, with colourful buildings, cafés, and a lively atmosphere. While some areas are definitely touristy, a bit too much for me, it still feels exciting and full of life. I really liked it.
It reminded me a bit of Merida, Mexico actually! Visit Booking.com for more.
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Staying at the beautiful La Compañía Hotel, added an extra layer of charm to my time in Panama City. With some of the wings dating back to 1688, the hotel blends history with elegance. It really is a living museum. Its stunning architecture, thoughtful design, and central location made it the perfect base for exploring the city’s picturesque streets. And with soo many amazing restaurants inside the Hotel, I didn’t venture out at all to explore other dining spots. And why would you? From Italian, to French and Mexican, there was something for everyone in La Compañía Casco Antiguo. You certainly won’t be disappointed!
But what else is there to see? Naturally, a visit to Panama City isn’t complete without a side trip to the Panama Canal. They definitely go hand in hand.
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Panama Canal
When visiting Panama City, a trip to see the Panama Canal is an absolute must. This remarkable feat of human engineering, dating back to 1881, cuts through its centre and connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans to create an essential shipping route. With around 27 ships transiting every day, the canal is the country’s most important workspace for locals. To pass this canal, ships pay significant tolls, depending on size and cargo. Up to USD 1 million or more for the large vessels. This is quite amazing!
I organised my driver via the Hotel to take me to the viewing platform, to watch the massive ships pass through the locks. Upon arriving, I was surprised by how touristy the setup was, with an entry fee, a short movie, and a large viewing area full of visitors. But then again, that’s exactly what people come to see when they visit Panama. Panama City and the Panama Canal.
I skipped the movie so I could get the best viewing spot, and once the huge ship finally arrived, moving very slowly and carrying around 5,000 cars, the locks did their magic work. Once the operation started, it was over in about ten minutes. Just in time for me to leave before the afternoon storm hit.
Nevertheless, the experience was great and the Panama Canal is certainly a must see!
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And so..
My trip to Panama is not quite over yet. You quickly realise that once you’ve stayed at the stunning boutique Hotel La Compañía Casco Antiguo, a visit to La Compañía del Valle becomes a must. Read my blog post here – La Compañía del Valle, Panama’s ultimate luxury retreat. This beautiful and luxurious retreat, nestled deep in the lush Panamanian jungle, offers a completely different luxury experience. I couldn’t wait to see it for myself. This was certainly the right way to explore Panama at its best.
At last, see my best travel guide tip below!
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Villa Ana
However, before I leave Panama and Panama city completely, here is my best travel tip: do not miss an experience at Villa Ana. Just across the road from La Compañía Casco Antiguo Hotel and part of the property, Villa Ana 1928 spans four floors and showcases beautifully restored spaces, each with its own unique design. Oozing history and drama at every level.
Phones are not allowed inside, which I think is fantastic, so you’ll have to trust me when I say: you have to see it for yourself. Dine at the exceptional restaurant, enjoy live music and a drink at the speakeasy bar, and/or finish your evening with a Cuban cigar on the roof top bar.
This house, originally belonging to Ana Mercedes Arias, is a unique addition to the rich multicultural history of La Compañía Hotel and Panama City. Make sure to dress the part. This is luxury and elegance in one unforgettable spot. I absolutely loved it! Obviously! xx
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