If you’ve got a layover in Panama City, don’t let it go to waste sitting at PTY. The city, in Panama, is within easy reach — roughly 80 minutes by Metro Line 2 (with bus connection). Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave PTY:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Panama. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Panama City takes about 80 minutes by Metro Line 2 (with bus connection). Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
What to See and Do in Panama City
If you head into Panama City, here are two things worth checking out:
Miraflores Locks Visitor Center is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Panama City.
Casco Viejo (Historic District) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside PTY, you can spend time at Copa Club (Terminal 2) or try La Riviera Duty Free. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Getting from PTY to Panama City
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro Line 2 (with bus connection) | ~80 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~100 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Metro Line 2 (with bus connection) is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Where to Grab a Meal
For food in Panama City, local travelers recommend Mi Ranchito. If you have time for a second stop, Restaurante Atlantic & Pacific Co. is another popular pick.
Back at PTY, Aromas del Perú is the go-to. McDonald’s Tocumen Airport rounds out your in-terminal options.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Panama City:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at PTY, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Panama City itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Panama that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Storing Your Luggage at Tocumen International Airport
Specific locker facilities at PTY aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Panama City itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Taking a Break at PTY
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at PTY, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Panama City genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.