Layover in Panama City
 

If I have a 10.5 layover in Panama City. Is that enough time to see any sights?

Yes. The airport is 15-20 minutes from the city. You can choose to go to the "Old City" which reminds me of the French Qrtr of New Orleans. You can go to Calle Central which is the main shopping street for the Panamanians (not too many tourists) You can even go to the Miraflores Visitor Center to see the Panama Canal and the museum. You can cover a lot of ground in that time. It will be approx. $20 USD to the city center, more of course if going to Miraflores. Negotiate before getting the cab.

Have fun

Miraflores Locks and Visitor Center was one of the highlights of our week in Panama first of August. I hope you can arrange to do that during your layover. You can have lunch at their restaurant overlooking the locks and watch the ships come through as you eat. Seeing that would be my number one priority if I were in your shoes. Good luck--and enjoy whatever you do with your time! :)

I know there are set tours for people flying COPA - not sure if they are available if you are flying other airlines but you can check with the IPAT stand - it used to be just after getting through Immigration but with all the renovations I can't remember where it is now. There is one out in the arrivals area once you leave the customs area - not sure of hours of operation.

If you go on your own you could walk out to the main road - 10 minutes or less and grab a street taxi - look for one with the windows up so you know they have a/c and bargain for an hourly rate - should be between $8 and $10 an hour. Of course you need at least a bit of Spanish to bargain and you won't have an English speaking guide.

cheers,
Andrew

Thanks for all your suggestions! I recently got an email stating that our flight was changed and we now have an OVERNIGHT layover. I guess I'll have even more of an opportunity to see the city/canal!

Be sure and post a trip report!