Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition in Panama City, Panama
Panama City, Panama

Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition

Outty Ranking 65 5.0 · 9 traveler reviews2 hoursFrom $36
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Outty Ranking

65/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 9 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition worth booking?

Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition is a 2-hour experience in Panama City, Panama, from $36 per person. It scores 65 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 9 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
65 / 100
Rating
5/5 (9)
Duration
2 hours
From
$36 per person

Do one or both sites, for the walking tour we can meet in the colonial city or arrange pick up by writting us a message. Casco Antiguo de San Felipe is where the new City of Panama was founded in 1673 (the 350 year anniversary was in 2023), built only 5 miles Southwest from where the first city (Panama Viejo archeological site) was left in ruins after the fires started by the Spanish colonials themselves, in an effort to save the strategic position crucial for World Trade since the Pacific Ocean was discovered in 1513, and to avoid the collapse of the Spanish Empire right there and then, to the most famous pirate of the second half of the Spanish Colony, their nemesis who commanded the "Rogue" attack in 1671: Captain Henry Morgan. Both are World Heritage Sites as per UNESCO.

What you get

    About this experience

    Do one or both sites, for the walking tour we can meet in the colonial city or arrange pick up by writting us a message. Casco Antiguo de San Felipe is where the new City of Panama was founded in 1673 (the 350 year anniversary was in 2023), built only 5 miles Southwest from where the first city (Panama Viejo archeological site) was left in ruins after the fires started by the Spanish colonials themselves, in an effort to save the strategic position crucial for World Trade since the Pacific Ocean was discovered in 1513, and to avoid the collapse of the Spanish Empire right there and then, to the most famous pirate of the second half of the Spanish Colony, their nemesis who commanded the "Rogue" attack in 1671: Captain Henry Morgan. Both are World Heritage Sites as per UNESCO.

    What's included

    Included

    • Free museums in Casco Antiguo de San Felipe
    • Guided tour and transport when visiting both sites

    Not included

    • Admission fees
    • Admission fees
    • Admission fees

    What you'll see and do

    1. Plaza Tomas Herrera

      We will start walking to the main squares and town center of the San Felipe area, if we have both sites in your tour we will cover the highlights of San Felipe for about 1 hour before going to Panama Viejo archeological site.

      10 minutes here

    2. Plaza de Francia

      As we walk down Avenida "A" (Ave.) we will stop by St. Joseph's Church, where we can get a glimpse of the Gold Altar and a Nativity Scene that is inside the Spanish Colonial Church founded in 1675. We will also stop by the Society of Jesus Ruins (Jesuit monks) and the flat arch ruins (used by the french as evidence that Panama was suitable for the waterway they wanted to build).

      22 minutes here

    3. Church Of Saint Francis Of Assisi

      On B Ave we will visit the church and the San Felipe Neri Oratory ("cloister") for the Sisters of Charity that are around the Plaza Bolivar area.

      15 minutes here

    4. Plaza Mayor

      Once we walk up Avenida B (Ave.) we will proceed to the main square in the historic World Heritage Site city of San Felipe, Casco Antiguo, Republic of Panama, which is accurately positioned in front of the Basílica Metropolitana Santa María La Antigua (construction started in the year of our Lord 1688 and consecrated 108 years later in 1796) where we will see some of the relics and tradition, and to then walk up Central Ave where we will see evidence of the tracks of the old Trolley as we walk out towards the Church of Our Lady of Mercy inside the entrance of the city.

      11 minutes here

    5. Iglesia Santa Ana Panama

      And we will end our tour walking by the place where the gates to the city would separate the citizen's by hierarchy, meaning the european settler's and the Spanish born in the new world had the right of living within these limits and the native, indigenous and blacks lived outside in the suburbs ("los arrabales"), then we will head back to Plaza Herrera where the tour begun to send off the guests that booked the * "Ruined City tour" optional variation.

      15 minutes here

    6. Museo de la Mola

      We highly recomend to check out this museum on your own time, ask your guide where it is located, pre columbian heritage of the inhabitants of San Blas.

      Pass by without stopping

    7. Museo Panama Viejo

      The visitors Center for the archeological site blows our guides away with the knowledge gained.

      60 minutes here · Admission not included

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Panama City

    In Casco Antiguo by General Tomás Herrera who sits on the horse in the middle of the square or block that has his name, in front of Casa Casco and The American Trade Hotel.

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 45 minutes before departure.

    Ends at

    The First city of Panama, which is 8 Kms East and we will include transportation to go there from location in Panama City, pick up fee applies if you are in Tocumen Int'l Airport or out of town.

    Ends at

    Same spot usually when doing only San Felipe, if you have a short lay over and need to get back to the airport the same rate applies for returning with us (paid to the guide directly).

    Options you can book

    • Casco Antiguo Walking Tour

      Duration: 2 hours: On average

    • Casco Walking tour+Ruined city

      Museum, Ruins, Visitors Center: The Nat'l Park is a World Heritage Site, it has a permanent and a temporary museum exhibit that adds value to this tour. Panamá Viejo, +500 y/o City: The 1st City settled on the Pacific side of the America's was dubbed after the birthplace of the Queen: "Castilla de Oro". Historic and Cultural: The anniversary of the foundation of this City was in 2019, that celebrated 500 years in 2019. Duration: 3 hours: The walking tour of the Casco Antiguo lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes, and this is a great complement to that experience. Driving 8 Kms East, "Uptown": After the walking Tour of San Felipe, we go uptown beyond Panama City, towards the historic ruins of Panama Viejo. Sedan, SUV or Van: We adjust for the comfort of our travelers to their group size. Visitors Center: The library, visitors center and crafts store will offer you the opportunity to find souvenirs for those that await for you. Pickup included

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Lift-Intl

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition in Panama City, photo 2Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition in Panama City, photo 3Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition in Panama City, photo 4Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition in Panama City, photo 5Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition in Panama City, photo 6

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 9 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    7 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    7 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Photo opportunities

    2 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Traveler reviews

    9 verified traveler reviews for Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    9
    4 star
    0
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    sabrinan400 · October 2026

    Good experience

    My tour guide Richard was super nice and very informative. It was a super hot day and he even stopped to get us water which was so nice. Definitely book!!

    Response from the operator: Sabrina, how nice of you to leave a kind word on the Viator listing, I am honored to have left a good impression of Panama.

    via Tripadvisor

    A6699DEmarthaj · April 2025

    Alex was a spectacular guide and terrific story-teller! Exploring Casco Antiguo with him is a must!

    Alex was an absolutely fabulous guide! He has a vast amount of knowledge about the history of Casco Antiquo and was very generous in sharing lots of interesting stories about the buildings he was showing us! We covered a temendoud amount of ground in 3 hours - but he really paced us well and welcomed all our questions! We learned so much from him! And we had a renewed appreciation for both the ruins and all the restored buildings!

    Response from the operator: You are very welcome, we have passed on your kind words to guide Alex and thank you very much for using our services.

    via Tripadvisor

    Orville_R · January 2024

    Highly recommended

    Richard was an excellent knowledgable guide. Would definitely recommend him. He was patient and kind and took some excellent photos of us

    Response from the operator: Your kindness is inspiration and we are boldly growing thanks to it, please recommend us to your family and friends

    via Viator

    Ashley_F · May 2023

    Highly knowledgeable guide

    The Richard was extremely informative and I learned so much about Panamá. I was solo on trip and felt safe. I would have liked to see more places, but the weather made it more difficult because I don’t really want to be outside in the rain. He did a good job of finding indoor locations and helped me take lots of pictures. We did see many historical sites.

    Response from the operator: Glad we were useful, and we truly value the time you used to leave a kind word for other travelers to use our services. Your words are very encouraging.

    via Viator

    Nathalie · July 2022

    A History Buff's Dream Tour

    Richard is a knowledge and intelligent guide. He knows the history of the Panama Canal and the roles played by France, Spain, and the United States. I would recommend this tour to anyone who has a penchant for historial events. Any history educator or history buff will be enthralled with Richard's level of knowledge of the Panama Canal, while moving through the historical event sites.

    Response from the operator: Our team is very honored to share time with travelers, specially with guests that want to get the most out of the culture and national perspectives (since history is learned differently depending where we learn it, hence the value of going to see the world for your own self), I personally want to thank you for recommending our service to the National Board of Education, Principal Nathalie.

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    2 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
    Price range
    $36 to $83
    Hotel pickup
    Available for selected locations
    Booked in 30 days
    3
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Why this scores 65

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)84
    Review evidence (18% weight)33
    Booking momentum (14% weight)24
    Value for money (12% weight)75
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)63
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Panama City.

    How much does Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition cost?

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    Prices start at $36 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Panama City usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition take?

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    Plan for about 2 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Panama City is not rushed.

    Is Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 65 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 9 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Panama City, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition?

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    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition?

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    Around 3 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Panama City can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

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    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Panama City and add a light layer if any part of the 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Panama City within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Panama City?

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    On Outty we rank every Panama City experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Tour to a waterfall and Embera village with lunch included, Ocean to Ocean Combo: Canal Boat Safari, Agua Clara & Gatun Locks, Half day of Panama city and canal tour: shared and private. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Panama City?

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    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Panama City?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition?

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    Included: Free museums in Casco Antiguo de San Felipe; and Guided tour and transport when visiting both sites. Not included: Admission fees; Admission fees; and Admission fees. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 153 listed pickup locations in and around Panama City. Be ready about 45 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition offered in?

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    It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Transportation options are wheelchair accessible; and All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition if the weather is bad?

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    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition?

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    Across 9 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    What booking options are available for Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition?

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    There are 2 options to choose from, including Casco Antiguo Walking Tour, Casco Walking tour+Ruined city. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Casco Antiguo & Panama Viejo World Heritage eXpedition.

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