Stroll the cobbled plazas and crumbling baroque churches of Casco Viejo — Panama City's UNESCO-listed old quarter — with a private architectural historian, then ascend to a rooftop terrace for a long lunch overlooking the skyline and the canal's Pacific entrance.
What to expect
Your guide meets you at the pier and escorts you by private vehicle to Casco Viejo's pedestrian streets, where colonial mansions in states of glorious ruin sit beside immaculately restored boutique hotels and embassies. You visit the Metropolitan Cathedral, the French Canal Company's old headquarters, and the Palacio de las Garzas before climbing to a terrace for sweeping views of both the modern skyline and the canal entrance. Lunch features Panamanian ceviche, patacones, and fresh corvina at a critically acclaimed local restaurant, with time to explore the artisan quarter before heading back to the ship.
Good to know
Best paired with a Pacific-side port call (Balboa/Amador). Transfer from Colón adds 1.5 hours each way — factor this into timing. The neighbourhood is compact and walkable but cobblestones require comfortable footwear. Reserve the restaurant in advance as top tables fill quickly.