Panama City: DIY Rooftop Bar Crawl

One of my favorite parts of Panama City was all the lovely little rooftop bars in Casco Viejo. Just a few years ago, Casco Viejo was a rough part of town, but in the last few years there have been major efforts to clean up this part of the city and make it more of a tourist destination. A lot of the buildings are being renovated and turned into boutique hotels and restaurants.

If you’re going thru Panama City, I highly recommend you look into joining a rooftop bar tour - something like THIS - OR save your money (to spend on drinks) and follow my DIY rooftop bar tour below. Everything is easily walkable - and I felt perfectly safe walking alone at night there. After a bit of research, this is the course I recommend (my favorites are starred). I’ve also created a google map at the bottom for you to easily follow.

Selina Casco Viejo* - the rooftop bar of popular hostel / coworking chain, Selina (although it definitely feels more like a boutique hotel than a hostel!). The rooftop is gorgeous and huge. There are 3 sections - a fancy bar, a pool hangout, and a low-key bar with delicious taco restaurant directly opposite and DJ booth. It’s a good place to hangout, but wasn’t super social (people mostly chatted with those they came with).
LAZOTEA* - I found this rooftop very pretty and it was reasonably busy the first time I visited. Mostly older couples / business people. The second time we visited it was completely empty (but it was also a Monday). Drinks are a bit on the pricier end, but atmosphere is really nice.
Santa Rita Restaurant (not actually a rooftop bar but great spot for dinner) - this restaurant was recommended to me by my tour guide and it did not disappoint. Good service, food, and atmosphere.
Capital Bistro Panama - small open air restaurant right at the end of Cinta Costera. It’s sweet and romantic feeling. The porch overlooks the water and they serve a mean margarita!
StorX at Hotel Casa Antigua* - the view here is outstanding! Go for drinks but I’d recommend food elsewhere as it wasn’t particularly good (and not cheap).
Gatto Blanco - this is a darling, intimate little rooftop bar.
Tantalo* - I went here a couple times as well. Service was good, view nice, and vibes strong. There’s a restaurant on the ground floor, but go straight to the rooftop!
Casa Casco - lovely upscale spot. The food menu is eclectic and there’s a nice selection for drinks as well.