Panamá la Vieja: Founded nearly 500 years ago, this original Panama City was the first Spanish city on the Pacific coast of the Americas. Its stone ruins transport one back to the time of gold-hungry conquistadors and pillaging buccaneers.

Casco Viejo: This charming colonial neighborhood is the cornerstone of modern Panama City. It was founded in 1673 after the sacking of Panamá la Vieja, and an ambitious renovation project has brought restaurants, theaters, and clubs to its historic buildings, sidewalk cafés to its quaint plazas, and new life to its crumbling churches. It’s the most colorful part of Panama City.

Avenida Central: The walking street that extends from Plaza Cinco de Mayo to Parque Santa Ana is one of the most vibrant parts of town. A bustling commercial center that draws a cross-section of Panamanian society, it takes visitors back to an older Panama City that is still very much alive.

Parque Natural Metropolitano: More than a city park, this 265-hectare tropical forest within the city limits offers a glimpse of Panama’s flora and fauna for those who can’t make it to the country’s enormous national parks.

Bella Vista and Marbella: Panama City’s most dynamic nightlife destination lies along Calle Uruguay, where trendy new restaurants and clubs open and close constantly.