Panama Tourism 2026: Trends & Must-See Attractions

Panama is both a travel hotspot and a place to settle down long-term. Why? Many people who visit end up falling in love with the country and buying property in Panama.

If you yourself are interested in Panama real estate but want to get a feel for what it’s really like here, the best way to test the waters is to go on an extended holiday. Here are two places you may want to see.

Chiriquí province

Conde Nast included Chiriquí on its 2026 must-visit list, and we’re not surprised. About 300 miles southwest of Panama City, this coastal paradise delivers exactly the seclusion you crave without sacrificing access to nature.

Here you will see Central America’s largest protected reserve, La Amistad International Park, which spans more than 400,000 hectares. And just offshore, the Gulf of Chiriquí National Marine Park is very popular with nature watchers and marine life enthusiasts, especially when humpback whales are visible from July through October.

Getting to Chiriquí will soon be easier as the Panamá–David Railway is on track. The high-speed route will connect Panama City to Chiriquí in less than three hours once it launches, so you might not need to fly in anymore.

Panama City

If you’re a first-time visitor and don’t have a lot of time — or if you’re planning on buying property in Panama City and just want to squeeze in a short holiday while you’re here — you don’t really need to leave the capital.

Panama City does a good job of giving visitors a full sense of the country. You can bike along the waterfront, walk through UNESCO heritage zones, explore archaeological sites, and enjoy nightlife, all in a single day. The city delivers fast-paced urban energy but keeps you connected to culture and nature.

UNESCO has named the city a Creative Gastronomic City, and its dining scene 100% reflects that reputation. You can’t go wrong with any of the restaurants in San Francisco, Costa del Este, and Casco Antiguo, or the Cinta Costera area for casual outdoor meals.

Want a taste of Panama’s nature? Parks like the Metropolitan Natural Park give you panoramic views and the chance to see native wildlife. Birdwatchers and hikers often start here before venturing further out.

If you’re more interested in coastal exploration, the four-island Amador Causeway makes a great base because it hosts bike paths, fishing charters, and ferries to the Pearl Islands. You will also find the Biomuseo and the Smithsonian’s natural sciences facility here.

Extend your stay or check out real estate in Panama

Seen enough to imagine a permanent move? KW Panama makes it super easy to browse curated listings — from oceanfront escapes to modern condos — that match the expat lifestyle you’ve experienced firsthand. And if you have any questions, just call us at +507 3680700 or visit Panama-Real-Estate.com