San Felipe Market & Santa Ana Experience. City Rhythms Revealed!
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 49 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is San Felipe Market & Santa Ana Experience. City Rhythms Revealed! worth booking?
San Felipe Market & Santa Ana Experience. City Rhythms Revealed! is a 2.5-hour experience in Panama City, Panama, from $47 per person. It scores 74 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 49 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 74 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (49)
- Duration
- 2.5 hours
- From
- $47 per person
Begin at the vibrant San Felipe Neri Market, a cornerstone of Panama City's daily life since 1914. Recently renovated, this bustling market offers a sensory feast of fresh produce, local delicacies, and authentic Panamanian commerce. Engage with friendly vendors, sample traditional snacks, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere. From the market, weave through the narrow alleys of Salsipuedes—a historic street whose name translates to "get out if you can." Once a maze of vibrant stalls and dynamic trade, Salsipuedes has been revitalized, blending its rich past with contemporary flair. Continue into the heart of Santa Ana, a neighborhood steeped in history and resilience. Admire architectural marvels showcasing Spanish, French, and Panamanian influences, and learn about the area's significance in Panama's social and cultural tapestry. This walking tour offers a unique glimpse into the authentic spirit of Panama City, far from typical tourist paths.
What you get
About this experience
Begin at the vibrant San Felipe Neri Market, a cornerstone of Panama City's daily life since 1914. Recently renovated, this bustling market offers a sensory feast of fresh produce, local delicacies, and authentic Panamanian commerce. Engage with friendly vendors, sample traditional snacks, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere. From the market, weave through the narrow alleys of Salsipuedes—a historic street whose name translates to "get out if you can." Once a maze of vibrant stalls and dynamic trade, Salsipuedes has been revitalized, blending its rich past with contemporary flair. Continue into the heart of Santa Ana, a neighborhood steeped in history and resilience. Admire architectural marvels showcasing Spanish, French, and Panamanian influences, and learn about the area's significance in Panama's social and cultural tapestry. This walking tour offers a unique glimpse into the authentic spirit of Panama City, far from typical tourist paths.
What's included
Included
- Professional Tour Guide (Certified by ATP)
What you'll see and do
This is the starting point, where you will meet our guide and start your experience! San Felipe Neri Public Market, is a special place, nothing touristy, but extremely popular with locals from all over Panama City looking for the best products at the best prices. Historically, the building was one of the stations of the "First Transcontinental Railway in the World"... Today, fully restored and renovated, for the sale of the best agricultural, organic products and the best meats of all kinds.
20 minutes here
Chinatown will be your first encounter with the Real Panama during this fascinating walking tour While you listen to the stories of our guide, you will be able to observe the buildings that brought together the ancient Chinese societies at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century. Since the beginning of the 20th century, this neighborhood has been shared between the original descendants of the Chinese who refuse to abandon the houses inherited by their relatives, and the new inhabitants who arrive in Panama and settle in the neighborhood, to participate as part of the labor force in the Panama Canal. Today, the new Chinese generations have moved to the north of the city, to what we know today as "El Dorado", the "New" Chinatown of Panama
30 minutes here
Enjoy a market of artisan products, traditional hats, dresses, souvenirs and discover the most incredible murals with graffiti in Panama City
15 minutes here
Iglesia Santa Ana Panama
This is an incredible stop to discover the stories that surround this church and its emblematic plaza during the rise of the Panamanian popular class in the early 20th century. This is a place that marked many writers and politicians to transform the art, culture and political destiny of our nation
Pass by without stopping
Café Coca-Cola is the only restaurant that bears this famous name in the world. Founded in 1875, it became the meeting place for the new social class of the 20th century. It was the scene where celebrities from all over the world met on their way through Panama. Fidel Castro, Che Guevara, Evita Perón among many more.
Pass by without stopping
The Imposing Hand of the Tiger is the remnant of what in the 17th century became the wall that protected the city of Panama at that time. With the gold boom in the mid-1850s, this wall was torn down and used as the quarry for the construction of the new city "outside the wall". Here begins your walk in the "intramuros", which became the new city of Panama since 1673.
Pass by without stopping
Plaza Tomas Herrera
This is the point where history and architecture merge ... Here we honor the memory of General Herrera, pioneer of the idea that Panama was recognized as a Free State since the mid-19th century while enjoying the incredible variety of Spanish, French and Italian architecture.
Pass by without stopping
Museo de la Mola
Travel through Guna history and culture and discover the mystery behind one of the most representative arts of Panama Here we will make a quick visit to this magical museum.
20 minutes here · Admission included
The legendary Golden Altar, which survived the looting perpetrated by Henry Morgan and his men, is today the subject of legends and admiration. Here he discovers one of the greatest Christmas nativity scenes in the republic.
15 minutes here
Iglesia de la Compania de Jesus
Today, fully restored and renovated, it has been occupied by one of the most luxurious and extravagant hotels built in the Old Town of San Felipe. The University "La Compañía de Jesus", became the first university in Panama, run since the end of the 17th century by the Jesuits.
Pass by without stopping
You could not miss a visit to our Majestic Basilica Cathedral and its Plaza surrounded by History and beautiful buildings.
30 minutes here
Independence Square
The Plaza de la Independencia (Independence Square) is your last stop on this amazing walking tour. This square, full of history, culture and traditions, is the ideal place to plan your lunch spot, visit your favorite museum or simply taste a delicious "Raspao" (shaved ice) with tropical fruit!
5 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Panama City
meet us at the front door, next to the parking area of the market. Here you have at your disposal clean bathrooms, the best cheap local food, and the best natural juices in Panama. While you wait to start the tour, enjoy a local breakfast or lunch in the style of our Panamanian people.
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.
Ends at
The perfect place to make plans for lunch, visit the Panama Canal Museum or just enjoy the local shaved iced at the Independence Square! Participants with hotel transportation can also decide if to stay and continue enjoying the beauty of the Old Town or take our transportation back to the hotel.
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
- CONOZCA PANAMA PRIMERO Tours & Transfers, S. A.
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 49 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
8 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Traveler reviews
49 verified traveler reviews for San Felipe Market & Santa Ana Experience. City Rhythms Revealed!. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
An Authentic Look at Panama City Beyond the Tourist Trail
If you want to see Panama City the way locals actually live it, this two and a half hour tour with Juan Carlos is exactly what you're looking for. Instead of sticking to the polished, touristy streets of Casco Viejo, we got a real, unfiltered look at daily life in San Felipe and Santa Ana. The San Felipe Market was a highlight — stalls of fresh chicken, beef, and pork, a food court packed with local vendors, and fruits and vegetables we'd genuinely never seen before. We also tried some incredible fresh fruit juices, hot sauce and sweets along the way. From there, we made our way through Santa Ana and the expanding edges of Casco Viejo, taking in the blend of Spanish and French colonial architecture, vibrant murals, and historic squares lined with monuments and beautiful old trees. Alongside all of this, we saw the visible signs of gentrification firsthand — buildings occupied by squatters standing just steps from renovated hotels with rooftop bars. That contrast stayed with us and spoke volumes about the city's ongoing transformation. Juan Carlos was an outstanding guide throughout — knowledgeable about Panamanian history and culture, and clearly passionate about showing visitors a side of the city that most tourists never get to see. I highly recommend this tour if you’re looking for something beyond the typical Casco Viejo tourist experience.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for such a thoughtful and detailed review! We’re especially happy to know that Juan Carlos helped you experience a more authentic side of Panama City beyond the usual tourist route. Thank you for highlighting the market, local flavors, architecture, murals and the contrasts that make this part of the city so unique. We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back to Panama again soon — you have friends here! 🇵🇦
via Tripadvisor
A nice way to see Panama City
Bekar was a great host, taking us around the market, showing us the different foods and helping our conversation with the traders who were happy to chat without pressuring us to buy. At the end of the tour he helped us get an uber back to the cruise port
via Viator
A fusion of history and shopping!
Belco was a great guide! His knowledge of the history of the marketplaces in Panama City kept me interested and asking questions! The tour is a great way to pick up the souvenirs for your return trip.
via Tripadvisor
Excellent
Excellent tour with knowledgeable tour guide who gave great information about the people and the places. Best tour of Casco Viejo.
via Viator
The tour guide Juan...
The tour guide Juan Carlos was amazing and extremely knowledgeable. He took us through the evolution of Panama City. His referral of Fonda San Felipe for us to get a taste of traditional Panamanian food was gold star.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much, my friend Kohdia! We're very happy you enjoyed the journey through Panama City's history with Juan Carlos, he's truly passionate about what he does. And we're glad you loved the local food recommendation too! Rafael Tello Conozca Panama Primero Tours Recognized Excellence with the VIATOR EXPERIENCE AWARD 2022 & 2023 Proud Winner of the TRIPADVISOR TRAVELERS' CHOICE AWARD 2023
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 2.5 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
- $47 to $53
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 17
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by CONOZCA PANAMA PRIMERO Tours & Transfers, S. A., who run 5 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 70.7 and 1 in the 90+ Club.
See everything CONOZCA PANAMA PRIMERO Tours & Transfers, S. A. runsWhy this scores 74
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
San Felipe Market & Santa Ana Experience. City Rhythms Revealed!: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Panama City.
How much does San Felipe Market & Santa Ana Experience. City Rhythms Revealed! cost?
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Prices start at $47 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 San Felipe Market & Santa Ana Experience. City Rhythms Revealed! take?
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Plan for about 2.5 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 San Felipe Market & Santa Ana Experience. City Rhythms Revealed! worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 74 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 49 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 San Felipe Market & Santa Ana Experience. City Rhythms Revealed!?
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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 San Felipe Market & Santa Ana Experience. City Rhythms Revealed! suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book San Felipe Market & Santa Ana Experience. City Rhythms Revealed!?
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Around 17 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 2.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does San Felipe Market & Santa Ana Experience. City Rhythms Revealed! 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 San Felipe Market & Santa Ana Experience. City Rhythms Revealed!?
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Included: Professional Tour Guide (Certified by ATP). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does San Felipe Market & Santa Ana Experience. City Rhythms Revealed! include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 136 listed pickup locations in and around Panama City. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is San Felipe Market & Santa Ana Experience. City Rhythms Revealed! 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 San Felipe Market & Santa Ana Experience. City Rhythms Revealed!?
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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 San Felipe Market & Santa Ana Experience. City Rhythms Revealed! wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to San Felipe Market & Santa Ana Experience. City Rhythms Revealed! 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.
What do travelers say about San Felipe Market & Santa Ana Experience. City Rhythms Revealed!?
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Across 49 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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