3 Best Casco Viejo Walking Tours + Self-Guided

If you’re looking for one of the best things to do in Panama City, a Casco Viejo walking tour is a perfect choice.

I’ve been to Panama multiple times and every time I walk through this historic neighbourhood, filled with an abundance of culture, history, and architecture.

From hidden alleyways and cobblestone streets to UNESCO World Heritage Sites and colourful markets, a walking tour of Casco Viejo will take you on a journey through Panama City’s past. So grab your walking shoes and get ready.

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1. Half Day City and Panama Canal Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 (746+ reviews) | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 5 hours | BOOK NOW

See the best of Panama City on the Half Day City and Panama Canal Tour.

This 5-hour tour takes visitors through some of the most iconic sites in Panama City, such as a walking tour of Casco Viejo, and Amador Causeway, while providing an opportunity to experience one of the world’s greatest engineering feats: the Panama Canal.

No Panama itinerary is complete without visiting Casco Viejo and the Panama Canal.

With hotel pick-ups included, snacks and drinks provided on board, and comfortable air-conditioned vehicles to travel in, this is one of the best Panama City tours. Perfect for first-time visitors to Panama or those with only one day in Panama City.

“I truly enjoyed this experience. It was my very first time to beautiful Panamá and I’m already looking forward to visiting again. It was extremely informative, and I HIGHLY recommend taking this tour to learn about the deep history of Panamá City. Our day was well spent even though it rained toward the end of the tour, we didn’t mind at all, we had a really good time. I really enjoyed visiting the churches and hearing about the Panamanian gold. Two thumbs up‼️” – Simone B (see more reviews)

➜ BOOK Half Day City and Panama Canal Tour

2. Sightseeing: Legends of Casco Viejo

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 (295+ reviews) | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2-3 hours | BOOK NOW

Take a trip back in time with a Sightseeing: Legends of Casco Viejo tour.

While there are many ways to get around in Panama, the best way to explore Casco Viejo is on foot.

Walk past some of the most beautiful churches, townhouses, and government buildings on this fast-paced Casco Viejo walking tour. Your tour guide will provide you with insider recommendations for trendy restaurants and places to visit after your tour.

And if it rains, they’ve got you covered and provide an umbrella. So put on your comfy shoes and get ready to explore the history and culture of Panama City’s old town.

“We have been to Casco Viejo many times and so glad we took the tour with Alex because he showed us so many things we have never seen and he knows so much history about his city. Would definitely recommend Alex as a tour guide of this beautiful area of Panama!!” – Cristin R (see more reviews)

➜ BOOK Sightseeing: Legends of Casco Viejo

3. Guided Colonian Heritage Walking Tour in Panama

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 (14+ reviews) | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 hours | BOOK NOW

The Guided Colonian Heritage Walking Tour in Panama is one of the best Panama walking tours.

This 2.5-hour tour is a great way to learn about the history, culture and everyday life of this vibrant country while walking through a UNESCO World Heritage neighbourhood.

Your certified tour guide will show you some of the hidden gems that are often missed by tourists. From churches and squares to narrow streets, this walking tour of Casco Viejo offers a unique insight into Panamanian life.

“Our guide met us on time at the correct meeting location. He explained to us that our tour would not be the usual ‘tourist highlights’ but, rather a good historical account of how Panama was founded, moved and founded again. We would see all the important places in the story of Panama. It was a great experience! We learned a lot of new information about the history of the country and gained a better understanding of how it has developed until today. The story is fascinating and we are now eager to see other sights, such a Panama Viejo, that will complete the story.” – Tad (see more reviews)

➜ BOOK Guided Colonian Heritage Walking Tour in Panama

What Can I See on a Walking Tour of Casco Viejo, Panama?

If you prefer to walk through the city on your own, I’ve got you covered. Here are the best Casco Viejo sights to see on your self-guided walking tour: 

Plaza Bolivar

Plaza Bolivar was originally the site of several homes which burnt down in the late 1800s. In 1883, the plaza was named after Venezuelan general Simon Bolivar thanks to his role in leading the countries of Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Panama, and Bolivia to independence. 

In 1926, a monument was erected in honour of Simon Bolivar which still stands to this day. Plaza Bolivar is surrounded by a number of churches, hotels, and cafes where locals gather to eat, drink, and listen to live street music. 

National Theatre

Just steps away from Plaza Bolivar is the next location on this Panama City walking tour: the National Theatre. 

The theatre was designed by an Italian architect who mimicked the style of classic Italian opera theatres. It opened in 1908 and still hosts live music, dance, and theatrical performances to this day. 

It has undergone a number of renovations but preserved its original style and charm. National Theatre is known for its elegant architecture which makes it a must-visit spot, even if you aren’t able to catch a performance. 

Arco Chato

One of the top Casco Viejo sights is Arco Chato, the ancient remains of a 17th-century church. 

Though the original church burnt down in 1781, some of the stone foundations, including a well-known stone archway, survived. 

Sadly, the archway collapsed in 2003 but was quickly rebuilt to its original design so visitors can still admire the architectural remains. The ruins are impressive and an excellent piece of Panama City’s rich history.

Panama Canal Museum

Make sure to visit the Panama Canal Museum on your self-guided walking tour of Panama City.

 The museum first opened in 1997 and is dedicated to the history of how the Panama Canal was constructed. It’s informative and interesting, and a great way to learn more about one of the most significant landmarks in Panama. 

The Panama Canal Museum is located in a historical building from 1874 which was once the headquarters of the French and U.S. companies tasked with constructing the canal.

Independence Square

After touring the Panama Canal Museum, continue your walking tour of Casco Viejo by making your way to Independence Square. 

Independence Square holds a significant place in the country’s local history because it serves as the location where Panama declared independence from Colombia in 1903. 

Walking through the square will transport you back in time as you take in the historic architecture, such as La Cathedral Metropolitana – which happens to be our next destination.

La Cathedral Metropolitana

La Cathedral Metropolitana is one of the most beautiful sights you will see as you walk through Panama City’s old town. 

This towering church took over 100 years to complete, beginning in 1688 and ending in 1796. 

An example of traditional colonial architecture, it features a pair of bell towers and intricate stained glass windows. 

Iglesia de la Compania de Jesus

Another site holding great cultural significance that you can visit on your Casco Viejo walking tour is Iglesia de la Compania de Jesus. 

This landmark consists of the ruins of a monastery first built in 1641. The site would later go on to become a university before the complex was abandoned and then damaged by a fire and an earthquake. 

While not much remains of the original monastery, the stone walls that are still standing are quite impressive to experience in person.

Iglesia de San Jose

The last church featured on this self-guided walking tour of Panama City is Iglesia de San Jose. 

First built in 1673, Iglesia de San Jose is a piece of Panama’s history that has survived many significant changes and historical events throughout the centuries. 

Iglesia de San Jose, which translates to Church of San Joseph, is best known for its stunning gold altar located inside the building. 

Though the altar isn’t solid gold, but rather mahogany wood covered in gold leaf, it is still an amazing sight that I recommend taking the time to visit. 

Plaza Herrera

Last, but certainly not least, on this walking tour of Casco Viejo is Plaza Herrera, a lively city square. 

Plaza Herrera is largely dominated by the American Trade Hotel which features some beautiful architecture and is known for serving delicious food and hosting local jazz musicians. 

A number of other historic buildings line the square making it the perfect place to wander for an evening and take in the sights. 

The focal point of Plaza Herrera is a statue of General Tomas Herrera, who was instrumental in Panama gaining independence as a country in 1840.  

About Casco Viejo, Panama

FAQs about Walking in Panama City Old Town

Final Thoughts: Best Casco Viejo Walking Tours

Visiting Casco Viejo is a must-do when exploring Panama City. A walking tour of this historic neighbourhood will give you an insight into its culture, history and architecture like no other.

The Half Day City and Panama Canal Tour is the best Casco Viejo walking tour for first-timers in Panama or those with only a day in Panama City.

Make sure to add one of these tours to your Panama itinerary as well as try one of the other fun activities in Panama City.