The key to keeping travel expenses to a minimum lies in finding free or low-cost activities. There are plenty of these activities available at Panama City Beach, where you can enjoy your vacation free from distractions.
Enjoying Panama Cinema
If you happen to visit Panama during the rainy season, you may need a place to shelter until the rain subsides. Luckily, you can check in during the middle of the week and take advantage of “half-price Wednesdays” at the cinema. If you have extra coin to spend, then you might consider the VIP section at Cinemark, where customer satisfaction is boosted by reclining chair beds and the ability to order beer, popcorn, and hotdogs.
Stop Over at the Panama City Signs
No trip is complete without posing for a photo with the large and colorful “Panama City” signs. This is not even a money-saving tip but a free “must do” activity in Panama. There are several signs across the city, but one of the most famous is found on the Amador Causeway. The other famous one is located on the Cinta Costera.
The Museum of Contemporary Art
Your visit to Panama won’t be complete without understanding Panamanian art and its evolution across the ages. Admission to the museum is free, and you will get to see an array of exhibits showcasing works of art from Latin American and Panamanian artists.
A Random Visit to the Fish Market
Mercado de Mariscos is one of the cheapest places you can pop in to get a taste of seafood in Panama. There is a long line of stalls and kiosks where it is possible to find super cheap ceviche for only $2. Thankfully, there are also plenty of other activities to do at the fish market. This lively port area will provide you with the opportunity to watch the fishing boats come ashore. Cheap, ice-cold drinks are also available at the market for as low as $1.
A Visit to the Metropolitan Cathedral
You may want to seek shelter from the searing sun in Panama City at the Metropolitan Cathedral. Here you can view the beautiful twin towers of the cathedral, the focal point of Casco Viejo. Between Independence Square and the cathedral, there are also plenty of places to rest, including a bandstand, benches, and shady trees.
Transport
While most of Panama City is walkable, it could be expensive to get to places if you’re staying far from town. You also might not enjoy walking in the hot sun. Your best deal, in this case, is taking an Uber that charges considerably low prices. The Uber app is also very convenient if your Spanish is not well polished, plus cars are frequent, so you won’t have to wait for more than a few minutes.
You could also consider using the privately run Red Devil buses. These buses are very cool, and you can enjoy a view of the town during your ride. However, it is not advisable to use these buses if your Spanish is not fluent. You may also want to be sure you know your destination before boarding a Red Devil bus.
Free or Cheap Walks
Most of the walks in Panama are free or only cost a few dollars. There are also free walking tours available in the city, with an English-speaking tour guide, although tipping is expected at the end of the tour. The Amador Causeway Walk is one of the best for making your way around Panama. Admission is free, and you can view the four islands by the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal. You might also enjoy cycling or jogging on the four-lane road along the runway to each of the four islands.
The Casco Viejo Walk is also something to get excited about while in Panama. The good thing is that you do not have to pay someone to show you around the city. There are plenty of online tours available, and these can guide you both during the day and at night. As you walk along the Casco Viejo, you will experience the incredible architecture, food, and coffee.
Meditating at the Conservation Park
There is much more to visiting Panama than beach scenery. This you will discover as you hike through the beautiful wetlands at the Conservation Park. In addition, the park has a vast green space that provides one of the most peaceful experiences for meditating on the Emerald Coast.
Shopping at Pier Park
There are many shopping and entertainment destinations in Panama, and Pier Park could become one of your favorite stops. There are a variety of stores where you can find deals on name-brand items. If you have time, you might also consider spending an afternoon browsing the antique shops. During holidays and festivals, special events are also held regularly at the park, which might be your opportunity to sample the local cuisine and beer on the cheap.
Visiting the Public Beaches
Nothing makes a vacation to Panama City greater than the beauty of the white sand beaches. Several public access spots are available, and you can soak in the sun for free. Most public beaches are numbered, although not all of them provide free parking. If you are on a tight budget, you might consider visiting the Public Beach Access 58. Some of the public beaches in Panama also allow you to walk alongside your canine companion, such as the dog beach at Pier Park.
Enjoying Happy Hour
Beers are better enjoyed cold, but there is nothing better than enjoying them at half price while admiring a stunning sunset. There are plenty of rooftop bars to choose from in Panama but make sure to visit the popular Tantalo in Casco Viejo. The rooftop there provides visitors an opportunity to enjoy a beautiful view of the city’s skyline.
However, make sure to arrive early if you want a seat overlooking the sea. If you happen to be in Casco Viejo during the week, you can take advantage of the beers and cocktails at half price from 3:00 to 6:00 pm.
