Colon, Panama Travel Guide

Discover Colon, Panama: A historic gateway to the Panama Canal, rich in culture, colonial charm, and a stone’s throw from stunning Caribbean beaches and lush rainforests.

Colon, a city steeped in history and culture, is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Panama’s Caribbean coast. As the entrance to the world-renowned Panama Canal, Colon offers a unique blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The city’s proximity to the canal makes it a strategic and vibrant hub, attracting visitors from around the globe. Strolling through the streets of Colon, you’ll encounter a rich tapestry of colonial architecture and modern developments. The city’s heritage is reflected in its old churches, charming plazas, and vibrant street markets. The local cuisine, influenced by various cultures, is a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. Don’t miss the chance to try fresh seafood dishes that are a staple of the region. Beyond the city limits, Colon is a gateway to some of Panama’s most stunning natural attractions. The nearby San Lorenzo National Park offers lush rainforests and the historic San Lorenzo Fort, providing a glimpse into the past amidst breathtaking scenery. For those seeking sun and sea, the pristine beaches of Isla Grande and Portobelo beckon with their crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or beach enthusiast, Colon promises an unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Colon.

Visit the Panama Canal at the Gatun Locks to witness the engineering marvel up close.
Explore the local markets for unique crafts and fresh produce.
Try the traditional Panamanian dish, 'ceviche,' at a local restaurant.
Hire a local guide for a more in-depth exploration of the San Lorenzo National Park.
Take a day trip to Isla Grande for snorkeling and beach activities.

Explore Colon: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Colon

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Gamboa Rainforest Reserve

Discover Gamboa Rainforest Reserve: A Tropical Paradise of Biodiversity and Adventure in Panama's Lush Wilderness.

4.4

Agua Clara Locks Visitor Center

Visit the Agua Clara Locks Visitor Center to explore the Panama Canal's engineering marvels and enjoy stunning views of ship transits between oceans.

4.7

Cerro Ancon Reserve

Explore the breathtaking Cerro Ancon Reserve, a serene urban oasis in Panama City offering stunning views, diverse wildlife, and tranquil walking trails.

4.7

Crazy Park Panama

Discover the ultimate fun at Crazy Park Panama, where thrilling rides and family-friendly attractions create unforgettable memories in the heart of Panama City.

4.6

Best landmarks in Colon

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Panamá Viejo

Explore Panamá Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in history, stunning ruins, and breathtaking views of the modern city.

4.6

Panama Canal

Discover the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal, a breathtaking connection between two oceans that showcases human ingenuity and natural beauty in Panama.

4.6

Parque Municipal Summit

Explore the lush landscapes and vibrant biodiversity of Parque Municipal Summit, a top botanical garden and park in Panama's stunning natural setting.

4.4

Gamboa Rainforest Reserve

Explore the captivating Gamboa Rainforest Reserve in Panama, a nature lover's paradise with stunning wildlife and luxurious accommodations.

4.4

Best restaurants in Colon

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Arrecifes

Experience the flavors of Panama at Arrecifes in Colón—where every dish tells a story of culinary tradition.

4.2

Grand Cafe

Discover delicious Panamanian cuisine at Grand Cafe in Colón – where every dish tells a story.

4.2

Restaurante Beirut

Discover authentic Lebanese cuisine at Restaurante Beirut in Colón – a delightful dining experience blending tradition with taste.

4.5

KOKIO

Experience authentic Korean cuisine at KOKIO in Colón - where flavor meets tradition in an inviting atmosphere.

4.4

Best bars in Colon

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Evolution Zona Libre

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Colón at Evolution Zona Libre, where great drinks and friendly faces await you.

4.6

NightClub La Flor

Discover the vibrant nightlife at NightClub La Flor in Colón, where electrifying music and dance await every night.

3.8

Eleven bar sport

Discover Eleven Bar Sport in Colón - a vibrant sports bar offering great drinks, live games, and an electrifying atmosphere perfect for every fan.

4.7

Lucky 7 Bar Colón

Discover the lively Lucky 7 Bar Colón, where local flavors meet a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable nightlife experience.

4.1

Best nightclubs in Colon

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Casa Jaguar

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Casa Jaguar, Panama City's premier disco club and restaurant, where delicious cuisine meets electrifying beats.

4.3

Barco Hundido

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bocas del Toro at Barco Hundido, a premier disco club known for its lively atmosphere and diverse music.

4.4

Club Arabe

Experience the rich flavors of Panama at Club Arabe, where local and international cuisines come together in a vibrant dining atmosphere.

4.6

La Tana

Experience the vibrant nightlife at La Tana, Panama City's premier night club and bar offering lively music and delicious cocktails.

4.2

Best shops in Colon

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Colon Free Zone

Explore the Colon Free Zone: A premier duty-free shopping destination in Panama offering luxury goods and great savings.

4.2

Plaza Cuatro Altos

Discover the vibrant Plaza Cuatro Altos, a shopping haven in Colón, Panama, featuring diverse shops, local goods, and delightful eateries.

3.9

Colón 2000 Mall

Experience shopping, dining, and fun at Colón 2000 Mall in Colón, Panama - a vibrant hub for locals and tourists alike.

3.9

El Maestro | Bolivar

Discover El Maestro in Colón: A trendy clothing store blending local fashion with exceptional service for a unique shopping experience.

4.2

Explore Colon on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Colon, mapped for you.

Colon Essentials

Colon is easily accessible from Panama City. The most convenient way to get there is by car, which takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours via the Panama-Colon Expressway. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Albrook Bus Terminal in Panama City, which offers frequent services to Colon. The journey by bus typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. For a more scenic route, you can also take the Panama Canal Railway, which runs parallel to the Panama Canal and offers stunning views. The train ride takes around an hour.
Colon has a variety of transportation options. Taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive, but make sure to agree on a fare before starting your journey, as they often don't use meters. For public transport, buses and minibuses (known as 'diablos rojos') operate within the city and to nearby areas. Ride-sharing apps like Uber are also available, though coverage may be limited. Renting a car is another option, especially if you plan to explore areas outside of Colon.
The official currency of Panama is the Balboa (PAB), but the U.S. Dollar (USD) is also widely accepted and used interchangeably. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry cash, especially for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available throughout Colon, but be cautious when withdrawing money and avoid using ATMs in isolated or poorly lit areas.
While Colon has many attractions, it is known for having areas with high crime rates. Avoid wandering into neighborhoods like Barrio Norte and Barrio Sur, especially after dark. Stick to well-known tourist areas and avoid displaying valuables openly. Always be cautious with your personal belongings and stay aware of your surroundings. It's advisable to use registered taxis or ride-sharing services rather than walking alone, especially at night.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. For non-emergency situations, the local police station and medical facilities are available in Colon. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are numerous pharmacies in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Keep a list of emergency contacts and your embassy's phone number handy.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably, but avoid overly revealing clothing. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are best due to the tropical climate. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and remove hats. Public Transport: Do be cautious when using public transport; it can be crowded and a hotspot for pickpocketing. Don't engage in loud conversations or eat while on the bus. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hola' and a handshake. It's polite to use formal titles like 'Señor' or 'Señora'. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and drinks, but always check if street food is prepared hygienically. Don't refuse an offer to share a meal; it's considered impolite.
To experience Colon like a local, visit the Colon Free Zone, one of the largest free-trade zones in the world, where you can find various goods at tax-free prices. Explore the local markets like the Mercado Público for fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with the locals; they are usually friendly and willing to share tips about the best places to eat and visit. Don't miss the chance to see the Panama Canal's Gatun Locks, and for a unique experience, take a boat tour of the canal.

When is the best time to visit Colon?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Colon

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Colon. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
- GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
- YesSí
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vor/de nah-dah]
- Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
- Excuse me/SorryDisculpe/Lo siento
  [dee-skool-pe/loh see-en-toh]
- How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
- Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byen. ee too]
- Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
- I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tyen-doh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah behr ehl meh-noo, por fah-vor]
- I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
- I would like to pay, pleaseQuisiera pagar, por favor
  [kee-see-eh-rah pah-gahr, por fah-vor]
- Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
- Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
- Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
- Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
  [yah-mah ah oon meh-dee-koh]
- I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh]
- I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]
- I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah kohm-prahr...]
- I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy meer-ahn-doh]
- How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
- That's too expensiveEs demasiado caro
  [ehs deh-mah-see-ah-doh kah-roh]
- Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?
  [pweh-deh bah-har ehl pree-see-oh]
- What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
- It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
- Half past (10)Media (10)
  [meh-dee-ah (deez)]
- MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
- EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
- YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
- TodayHoy
  [oy]
- TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2Dos
  [dohs]
- 3Tres
  [trehs]
- 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
- 6Seis
  [says]
- 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
- 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
- 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
- 10Diez
  [dyehs]
- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
- What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rek-see-ohn]
- Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puede mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-deh mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-see-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ...)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah ...)]

History of Colon

Colón was founded in 1850 by the Americans as the Atlantic terminal of the Panama Railroad, which was constructed to transport gold prospectors across the Isthmus of Panama during the California Gold Rush. Initially named Aspinwall after one of the railroad's builders, the name Colón was chosen in honor of Christopher Columbus.
The construction of the Panama Railroad in the mid-19th century was a pivotal moment for Colón. This engineering feat connected the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and played a crucial role in international trade. The railroad transformed Colón into a bustling port city and a critical hub for commerce and travel.
In the late 19th century, the French began their ambitious project to construct the Panama Canal, with Colón serving as a key logistical base. Despite the project's ultimate failure due to engineering challenges and tropical diseases, the attempt left a significant cultural and architectural imprint on the city.
The United States took over the canal project in 1904 and successfully completed it in 1914. Colón's strategic importance grew even more, and it became a central point for American military and commercial activities in the region. This period saw significant infrastructure development in the city.
During World War II, Colón was of immense strategic importance due to its proximity to the Panama Canal. The U.S. military established bases in the area to protect this vital waterway from potential Axis threats. The war years brought further economic activity and an increased military presence to the city.
Following Panama's independence from Colombia in 1903 and later from U.S. influence in the late 20th century, Colón faced numerous economic challenges. Despite its historical significance and strategic location, the city struggled with poverty, crime, and urban decay. Efforts to revitalize the city have been ongoing.
Colón is known for its rich cultural diversity, with influences from Afro-Caribbean, Chinese, Indian, and Indigenous communities. This melting pot of cultures is reflected in the city's festivals, cuisine, and vibrant arts scene. The annual Carnival of Colón is one of the city's most celebrated events, showcasing its unique cultural heritage.
Established in 1948, the Colón Free Trade Zone is the largest free port in the Americas and the second largest in the world. It plays a vital role in the local and national economy, facilitating international trade and attracting businesses from around the globe. This zone has cemented Colón's status as a global commercial hub.