The airport is 24 km east of Panama City center along the Corredor Sur coastal highway.

About Panama City Center (Casco Viejo)

Casco Viejo (also called Casco Antiguo or San Felipe) is the historic heart of Panama City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has undergone a remarkable transformation from a crumbling colonial quarter to a vibrant cultural destination. Founded in 1673 after the original Panama City (Panamá Viejo) was destroyed by pirate Henry Morgan, the neighborhood features a mix of Spanish colonial, French, and Art Deco architecture on a small peninsula jutting into the Pacific.

The beautifully restored plazas and churches include the distinctive flat-faced Metropolitan Cathedral on Plaza de la Independencia, the striking red-domed Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís, and the ruins of the Compañía de Jesús church. Rooftop bars and restaurants have transformed the neighborhood's skyline, offering views of the modern city's dramatic skyscraper cluster across the bay — a stunning visual contrast between old and new Panama.

Casco Viejo's revival has attracted boutique hotels, artisan shops, trendy restaurants, and a thriving nightlife scene. The Plaza Herrera, the Paseo Las Bóvedas seawall promenade, and the French Quarter with its ornate iron balconies are highlights. The Panama Canal Museum and the Interoceanic Canal Museum provide context on the engineering marvel that defines the nation.

Nearby Landmarks

Plaza de la Independencia Metropolitan Cathedral Panama Canal Museum Las Bóvedas Plaza Herrera

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost $30-35 fixed
Time 30-50 min

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost $15-25
Time 30-50 min

Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 arrivals curb

Step-by-Step Directions

Take a taxi to San Miguelito Metro station (5 min, $3-5), then Metro Line 2 to San Miguelito, transfer to Line 1 for city center

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi $30-35 fixed 30-50 min Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare $15-25 30-50 min Budget-conscious, app users

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Taxis and Uber are available 24 hours. A nighttime ride from PTY to Casco Viejo costs $25-35 USD by Uber or $30-40 by taxi. Casco Viejo has an active nightlife scene on Thursday-Saturday, keeping rideshare available late. Official yellow taxis should use the meter; agree on fares with unlicensed drivers.

Luggage Tips

Taxis and Uber easily accommodate luggage for this route. Casco Viejo streets are narrow and some are cobblestoned, making wheeled luggage slightly challenging on the last stretch. Most boutique hotels in Casco Viejo offer pickup arrangements. There is no public luggage storage in the area.

Accessibility

PTY airport has wheelchair assistance. Casco Viejo presents accessibility challenges with cobblestoned streets, high curbs, and many buildings without ramps or elevators. The seawall promenade (Las Bóvedas) is flat and accessible. Some newer hotels and restaurants have made accessibility improvements.