Layover in Panama City: An Expert Guide to Scheduling Your Stopover

Tocumen International Airport is the main airport in Panama City and the busiest in Central America. It sits about 24 kilometers from the city center and connects travelers to many places across North and South America, as well as Europe. Tocumen is the home hub for Copa Airlines and is an important stop for international flights.

If you have a Panama City airport layover, this guide will help you enjoy it. No matter if your stop is short or long, we’ll explain what to do — including visa rules, airport services, and ideas for exploring the city. With a little planning, your layover can become a fun part of your trip.

To make things easier, you can leave your bags with Qeepl, a helpful luggage storage service close to the airport. With your luggage safely stored, you’ll have more freedom to walk around the airport or head into the city without carrying anything heavy.

Panama City Transit Visa Requirements

Before planning your layover in Panama, verify whether you need a transit visa. According to the Panamanian Embassy, most travelers do not require a transit visa if they remain airside (inside the international transit area) and do not pass through immigration.

However, if you plan to leave the airport, entry rules depend on your nationality:

• Visa-free entry is granted for up to 180 days (or less, depending on nationality) for passport holders from the US, Canada, UK, EU, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and several other countries.
• Travelers from non-exempt countries may still enter visa-free if they hold a valid multiple-entry visa or residence permit from the US, Canada, UK, or Schengen Zone, provided it has been used at least once and is valid for at least six months.

Since regulations vary, always confirm the latest requirements before traveling.

What to Do at the Airport During Your Panama City Layover?

If your layover is under 6 hours, it’s generally best to stay at the airport. Traffic in Panama City can be heavy, and leaving the airport might be too stressful or risky for short connections.

Let’s look at what you can enjoy inside Tocumen International Airport during your layover.

Restaurants Worth a Stop

Tocumen offers a variety of dining options that cater to all tastes. If you’re looking to try local flavors, check out spots offering Panamanian-style empanadas, tamales, or arroz con pollo. Many cafés and casual restaurants serve Central American specialties, perfect for a quick but satisfying bite.

You’ll also find plenty of international options. There are fast-food chains for quick meals, as well as sit-down restaurants with Latin American, Italian, and American menus. Whether you want a snack or a full meal, you won’t go hungry at Tocumen.

Best Stores to Browse Between Flights

If you like shopping, Tocumen has several duty-free shops offering everything from perfumes and cosmetics to electronics and local souvenirs. Look for well-known brands, as well as handcrafted gifts that represent Panama’s culture.

In addition to luxury items, travelers can shop for Panamanian coffee, chocolate, and local rum. These make great gifts or travel treats, especially for passengers continuing long international flights.

Lounges and Nap Zones

There are a few airport lounges available for travelers who want extra comfort. These lounges offer comfortable seating, food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and quiet spaces to rest. Some are operated by airlines, while others are open to travelers who buy a day pass.

If you need to nap but don’t want to pay for a lounge, there are designated seating zones in quieter parts of the terminal. These areas may not offer full privacy, but they can still provide a peaceful spot to relax during your layover.

Facilities, Services, and Wi-Fi Access

Tocumen Airport is clean and modern, with basic services like ATMs, currency exchange counters, water refill stations, and mobile charging points. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminals, though the signal can vary in strength.

There are also information desks where staff can assist with flight info, directions, or general questions. If you’re traveling with kids, play areas and family services make the layover easier.

How to Spend Long Layover in Panama City?

If your layover is long enough and you meet the visa requirements, you can go into the city. Panama City is vibrant, rich in culture, and full of things to see and do — even if you only have a few hours.

8-Hour Layover in Panama City

An 8-hour layover gives you just enough time for a short trip into the city. Start with a visit to Casco Viejo, Panama City’s historic district. This area is filled with colorful buildings, cathedrals, museums, and small shops. It’s a great place to walk around, grab lunch, and take photos.

Depending on traffic and timing, you might also visit Cinta Costera, a scenic waterfront area perfect for a relaxed stroll with views of the skyline. Just make sure to return to the airport at least 2 hours before your next flight.

12-Hour Layover in Panama City

With 12 hours, you have more freedom to explore. After visiting Casco Viejo, head to the Panama Canal Visitor Center at Miraflores Locks. It’s about 30 minutes from the city center and lets you watch ships pass through the famous canal. There’s a museum and viewing deck for travelers who want to learn more about this engineering marvel.

You’ll also have time for a meal at a rooftop restaurant or a walk through Metropolitan Natural Park, one of the world’s few urban rainforests.

24-Hour Layover in Panama City

A 24-hour layover gives you enough time to enjoy the best of the city. In addition to Casco Viejo, the Canal, and local parks, you can visit Amador Causeway — a relaxing waterfront road with views of the Pacific and plenty of cafés.

You might explore Biomuseo, a museum dedicated to Panama’s natural history, or take a short boat tour of the Panama Bay. With this much time, consider booking a guided tour or hiring a driver to maximize your visit.

How to Handle Overnight Layover in Panama City?

If your layover includes an overnight stay, there are several nearby hotels to choose from. These hotels range from budget-friendly to upscale, and many offer free airport shuttles.

• Riande Aeropuerto Hotel & Casino: Just 5 minutes from the airport, with a pool, restaurant, and shuttle service. Price range: mid-range.
• Crowne Plaza Panama Airport: Offers modern rooms, a fitness center, and reliable shuttle service. Located less than 10 minutes away.
• Courtyard by Marriott Panama Metromall: Slightly farther but near a shopping mall. Offers comfort and shopping in one place.
• Hampton by Hilton Panama: A good choice if you’re headed to the city center. About 30 minutes from the airport, offering great value and amenities.

Booking in advance is a good idea, especially during peak travel seasons. Many travelers choose to stay close to the airport for convenience, but if you want to explore more of Panama City by night, staying downtown is also an option.