Panama Canal and Old Town
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Quick answer
Is Panama Canal and Old Town worth booking?
Panama Canal and Old Town is a 4.5-hour experience in Panama City, Panama, from $50 per person. It scores 53 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 53 / 100
- Rating
- Not yet rated
- Duration
- 4.5 hours
- From
- $50 per person
Discover the Panama Canal, Visitor Center and unique crafts. Book now to explore American history in Panama.
What you get
About this experience
Discover the Panama Canal, Visitor Center and unique crafts. Book now to explore American history in Panama.
What's included
Included
- Pickup from hotels in the center of Panama City
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Professional tour guide
Not included
- Miraflores Visitor Center Admission: National from $1.50 to $3.00 Non-resident from $7.22 to $20.00
What you'll see and do
Canal de Panama
When exploring the Miraflores Visitor Center, from its terrace, you will be able to closely observe the operation of the canal and the passage of ships through the locks. A Specialized Canal Guide will provide you with detailed information about this amazing process, sharing interesting facts about the history and engineering behind this wonder. In addition, our guide will always be with you to answer any questions or provide the support you need during your visit for an enriching and smooth experience. We review boat transit hours daily to increase the possibility of witnessing this spectacle. But it is crucial to keep in mind that this always depends on the Canal Authority. Therefore, it is important to follow our schedule or itinerary instructions to ensure an optimal experience during your visit. Take advantage of the opportunity to capture photos for an unforgettable memory while you learn from an expert.
90 minutes here · Admission not included
Imax- Canal De America
Immerse yourself in a captivating experience at the Panama Canal IMAX THEATER. The documentary "Panama Canal Land Divided – A World United" will transport you to the dense Panamanian jungle, immerse you in 19th century French excavations and show you the transformation of maritime transport and tropical medicine thanks to centuries-old engineering. Presented in IMAX 3D, on the second largest screen in the world, this screening will fully immerse you in the fascinating history and scope of the interoceanic waterway. The documentary addresses the impact of the Panama Canal, exploring its operations and the vessels that have crossed this vital route. Morgan Freeman's captivating narrative adds a touch of class. In addition, the IMAX 3D theater room (its screen is the second largest in the world) enriches the offer of the Miraflores Visitor Center, which includes a souvenir shop, cafeteria and ice cream parlor.
40 minutes here · Admission not included
We will pass in front of the Marcos A. Gelabert International Airport, standing out as the second busiest airport in the country in terms of air traffic and passengers transported. The history of this airport traces its origins to Albrook Air Force Station, a former United States Air Force base in the Canal Zone. Established in 1932, this facility was transferred to Panama on September 30, 1997, as stipulated in the Torrijos-Carter Treaties. This relevant airfield, now known as the Albrook "Marcos A. Gelabert" International Airport, opened its doors to civil air service in January 1999. Its strategic location and history give it a prominent place in the Panamanian airport network.
Pass by without stopping
We will pass by the slopes of the historic Panama Canal Administration Building, which holds more than a century of stories. Along its corridors, thousands of Panamanians have left their mark, dedication and effort, guiding the monumental work of modern engineering. Designed in 1912 by engineer George W. Goethals, this building stands as the main headquarters of the administrative offices of the Panama Canal Authority. The choice of location led to the arrival of New York architect Austin W. Lord in 1912, who designed not only the building, but also the lock control booths, the train stations in Balboa and Cristóbal, the Gatún hydroelectric plant, and the residential areas of El Prado. This architectural complex, consistent with the time, took shape quickly, with the plans ready in 1913 and the building's inauguration on July 15, 1914, a month before the opening of the interoceanic waterway.
Pass by without stopping
Mercado Nacional de Artesanias
Inaugurated by the Mayor's Office of Panama on June 25, 1998, the Balboa Crafts Market emerged in response to the need to provide shelter to a group of artisans previously exhibited in Stevens Park. Currently, it houses 45 exhibition modules, staffed by skilled Gunas artisans and representatives from various regions of the country. In this vibrant market, a wide range of crafts are displayed, from molas and beads to painted hats, cutarras, tembleques, skirts and much more. To guarantee the comfort of visitors, the market has extensive parking, a ramp for the disabled, bathrooms, 24-hour security and rigorously complies with all Biosafety Protocols.
30 minutes here
Casco Viejo
The Old Town, also known as Casco Viejo, is the historic district of Panama City, recognized as a World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. Lively squares and cobblestone streets envelop you in history, surrounded by colorful buildings. Ideal for walking, learning about history and taking beautiful photographs. We will visit the Plaza Mayor, the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Church of San José with its golden altar. The Plaza de Francia pays tribute to French participation in the construction of the Panama Canal. Las Bóvedas, a monument today, is the ancient defense against pirates. Walking around you will enjoy spectacular views of the horizon and the bay. Photograph the iconic Arco Chato, remains of a Dominican church. Take the opportunity to buy local crafts. Experience the historical and cultural essence of this fascinating neighborhood. You will be able to know where the main museums of the city are for a later visit in detail.
110 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Panama City
Usually, the meeting point for passengers who are not in one of the hotels in the city is the Hotel Riu Panamá.
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.
Ends at
Usually, the meeting point for passengers who are not in one of the hotels in the city is the Hotel Riu Panamá.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Panama Crucero Tours
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Not all locations are wheelchair accessible.
Photos
Good to know
- Duration
- 4.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 0
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Why this scores 53
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Panama Canal and Old Town: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Panama City.
How much does Panama Canal and Old Town cost?
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Prices start at $50 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 Panama Canal and Old Town take?
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Plan for about 4.5 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 Panama Canal and Old Town worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 53 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (0/5 across 0 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 Panama Canal and Old Town?
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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 Panama Canal and Old Town suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 4.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Panama Canal and Old Town?
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Around 0 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 4.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Panama Canal and Old Town 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?
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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 Panama Canal and Old Town?
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Included: Pickup from hotels in the center of Panama City; In-vehicle air conditioning; and Professional tour guide. Not included: Miraflores Visitor Center Admission: National from $1.50 to $3.00 Non-resident from $7.22. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Panama Canal and Old Town include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 126 listed pickup locations in and around Panama City. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time.
What languages is Panama Canal and Old Town offered in?
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It runs in 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 Panama Canal and Old Town?
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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 Panama Canal and Old Town wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Not all locations are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Panama Canal and Old Town if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Panama City. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
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