How to Get to Casco Viejo (and Get Around)
How to get to Casco Viejo from Tocumen airport, Albrook and the rest of Panama City by taxi, Uber, metro or on foot, plus parking and getting around.
Casco Viejo sits on a small peninsula on the Pacific side of Panama City, just south-west of the modern city centre. Once you're there, everything is within walking distance.
From Tocumen International Airport (PTY)
- Taxi or Uber: the simplest option. The drive usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, and longer at rush hour. Uber and similar apps work in Panama; official airport taxis wait outside arrivals. Agree on the fare before you get into a taxi.
- Metro: the airport has a Metro station on Line 2. You can ride Line 2 and change to Line 1 towards Albrook, getting off at 5 de Mayo, the closest station to Casco Viejo. From there it's roughly a 15- to 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride. You'll need a rechargeable Metro card. This is the cheapest option but slow with luggage.
- Hotel transfer: many Casco Viejo hotels can arrange a pickup.
From Albrook (bus terminal and mall)
The Albrook bus terminal, where long-distance buses arrive, is about 10 to 15 minutes from Casco Viejo by taxi or Uber. Albrook is also the end of Metro Line 1.
From elsewhere in Panama City
- Taxi or Uber from the banking district or hotels along the Cinta Costera takes around 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic.
- On foot or by bike: the Cinta Costera, a waterfront park, runs along the bay from the modern city towards Casco Viejo. A section built over the water wraps around the peninsula. It's a pleasant walk in the early morning or evening.
Getting around Casco Viejo
Walk. The neighbourhood is small, with narrow streets and plazas a few minutes apart. Wear comfortable shoes, as some streets are cobbled or uneven.
Driving and parking
Driving in Casco Viejo is slow, streets are narrow and many are one-way, and parking is limited. If you have a rental car, leave it at your hotel (check whether your hotel has parking) and use taxis or Uber to visit.
Getting back at night
After an evening in Casco Viejo, use Uber or a taxi rather than walking to the neighbouring districts. See our safety guide for more.