Casco Viejo: The Heart of Old Panama
First Impressions
The first thing you notice is the contrast. Worn colonial buildings stand next to beautifully restored ones. Laundry hangs from balconies just steps away from boutique hotels. It’s a place where old and new share the same space.
We walked the streets numerous mornings before the heat set it. The streets were still quiet and we had no set agenda.
Wandering Without a Plan
There’s something about Casco Viejo that encourages you to wander. We didn’t use a map or follow a list of landmarks. We just walked—down narrow streets, past crumbling facades, and into shaded courtyards. Every corner seemed to hold something: a small art gallery, a friendly dog, a doorway filled with history. We stopped at little parks and just sat for a while, watching the pace of local life.
A Blend of Past and Present
Casco Viejo is full of stories. You feel it in the old churches, the stone walls, the plaques that mark key moments in Panamanian history. But it’s also lived in, not just preserved. There are trendy restaurants and quiet locals’ spots. Upscale rooftop bars share the skyline with kids playing soccer in the plaza.
A Perfect Balance
It’s not polished in the way some historic districts are and while many areas are rundown, it felt very safe. People were friendly and would say ‘buenas’ or ‘buenas dias’. No one bothers you trying to buy something or even hustle you into their restaurants - not even in the market or stalls in areas. This has got to be one of the BEST parts of Panama. I always brace for this when we travel, as saying no just gets old and my husband is a magnet for every scheme and sales person. We have been here for 2 full weeks and not asked for anything besides asking if we needed help a couple of times.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need an itinerary for Casco Viejo, just: time, comfortable shoes, and maybe a camera.
