Where to stay in Panama City
From restored colonial hotels in Casco Antiguo to bay-view towers, plus resorts where hotel guests can play golf. These are the places we recommend and why.
Casco Antiguo
Our two top picks, both in the UNESCO old town.
| Hotel | Area | Highlights | From (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel La Compañía | Casco Antiguo | A restored colonial complex with a pool, spa, an Italian restaurant and live entertainment. One of our two top picks. | $290 |
| Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo | Casco Antiguo | A luxury hotel in the old town with an infinity pool, spa and fitness center. Our other top pick. | $280 to $330 |
| American Trade Hotel | Plaza Herrera, Casco Antiguo | A boutique hotel on the plaza with a pool and live entertainment. | $250 |
The old town is walkable, with restaurants, rooftop bars and museums. See Panama City and Casco Antiguo.
Modern Panama City
Towers, views and business-district convenience.
| Hotel | Area | Highlights | From (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| JW Marriott Panama | Punta Pacífica | The tower that opened as the Trump Ocean Club and became a JW Marriott in 2018, on the bay. | $140 |
| W Panama | Calle 50 / Bella Vista | A design hotel with a rooftop pool and lounge. | $165 |
| Waldorf Astoria Panama | Bella Vista | 133 rooms, a rooftop pool and two restaurants. | $125 |
| Hilton Panama | Avenida Balboa | Near the financial district and the bay. | $125 |
| InterContinental Miramar | Bella Vista | A large hotel on the Avenida Balboa waterfront. | $125 |
| Bristol Panama | Obarrio, financial district | A Registry Collection hotel in the business district. | $100 |
Golf resorts
Stay at the hotel and you can play the course.
| Hotel | Where | Golf | From (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Santa María, a Luxury Collection Hotel & Golf Resort | Santa María community, Panama City | Guests can play the Santa María course, a Jack Nicklaus design. | $155 |
| The Buenaventura Golf & Beach Resort, Autograph Collection | Buenaventura, Pacific coast, about 90 minutes from the city | An 18-hole Nicklaus Design course, a beach club and five pools. | Check dates |
More on the courses at Golf in Panama.
Choosing where to stay
Atmosphere and history
Casco Antiguo, on foot, with colonial buildings and a lively evening scene.
Business and shopping
Obarrio, Bella Vista and Avenida Balboa have offices, banks and malls.
Bay views
Punta Pacífica and Avenida Balboa face the water and the skyline.
Golf and beaches
Santa María in the city, or Buenaventura and Coronado on the Pacific coast.
Rates are approximate starting prices seen on booking listings in 2026. They change by date, season and room type, so check current rates before booking. Hotel descriptions use public information; availability and amenities change.