Bella Vista: The Heartbeat of Panama City

Discover Bella Vista in Panama City: A vibrant mix of modernity and tradition, offering upscale shopping, cultural landmarks, and stunning coastal views.

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Bella Vista

Bella Vista is a vibrant and dynamic neighbourhood in the heart of Panama City, known for its blend of modernity and tradition. This area offers a unique mix of high-rise buildings, historic sites, and lush green spaces, making it a must-visit for any traveler. The district is home to a variety of attractions, from upscale shopping malls and trendy cafes to cultural landmarks and beautiful coastal views. Bella Vista’s streets are lined with an array of restaurants offering delicious Panamanian cuisine, as well as international flavors. Strolling through Bella Vista, you'll find the Cinta Costera, a scenic coastal road perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride. The area is also home to the historic Iglesia del Carmen, an architectural gem that provides a glimpse into the city's colonial past. For those who love shopping, Multiplaza Pacific Mall offers a plethora of high-end stores and boutiques. Nightlife in Bella Vista is vibrant, with numerous bars, discos, and lounges where you can dance the night away or enjoy a quiet drink. Bella Vista is also a cultural hub, with several art galleries and theaters showcasing local and international talent. The neighborhood's central location makes it an ideal base for exploring other parts of Panama City, with easy access to public transportation and major highways. Whether you are looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural enrichment, Bella Vista has something to offer every traveler.

Local tips in Bella Vista

Visit the Iglesia del Carmen early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
Rent a bike and explore the Cinta Costera during the late afternoon for breathtaking sunset views.
Try local dishes at the Mercado de Mariscos, a seafood market known for its fresh ceviche.
Check out local art galleries for unique pieces and to support Panamanian artists.
Use public transportation or rideshares as parking can be challenging in busy areas.

File:Panama City Skyline 2017.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Panama 08 2013 Ave Balboa 7044.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

File:Iglesia del carmen panama.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Miraflores Locks Panama canal.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Casco Antiguo (San Felipe) - Pamama.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Metropolitan Natural Park, Panama City.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

➙ Amazinn Places Coco Del Mar Skyline 1 Panama City in Panama City | atpanamacityhotels.net

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Panamá Viejo

Explore Panamá Viejo: A UNESCO World Heritage Site revealing the rich history and stunning ruins of Panama's first city.

Urraca Park

Discover Urraca Park, a serene green space in Panama City, perfect for relaxation, recreation, and a glimpse of local wildlife amidst urban life.

Arco Chato

Discover the historical charm of Arco Chato, a captivating landmark in Panama City that showcases the rich heritage of Panama's colonial past.

La Milonga

Discover the lively atmosphere and local flavors at La Milonga, the perfect bar to experience Panama City's vibrant nightlife.

Paseo de Las Bóvedas

Discover the historical charm and stunning views at Paseo de Las Bóvedas in Panama City, a must-visit destination for every traveler.

Andrés Bello Park

Discover serenity at Andrés Bello Park, a lush green retreat in Panama City perfect for relaxation, picnics, and cultural experiences.

Poin Panamá

Experience the vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and lively atmosphere at Poin Panamá, a premier tourist attraction in Panama City.

Plaza Bella Vista

Explore Plaza Bella Vista in Panama City: your ultimate shopping, dining, and entertainment destination for a delightful experience.

Weil Art Gallery

Discover the rich artistic heritage of Panama at Weil Art Gallery, a vibrant space showcasing contemporary art and unique auction opportunities.

Casa Góngora

Explore the cultural heritage of Panama at Casa Góngora, a must-visit museum in the heart of Panama City, showcasing the nation's rich history.

Baboons Boulder Wall

Discover Baboons Boulder Wall in Panama City – the ultimate rock climbing destination for adventure lovers, offering diverse routes and a vibrant climbing community.

P. H. El Botánico

Experience the serene beauty of P. H. El Botánico in Panama City, a perfect blend of modern comfort and tropical charm.

El Boquete

Experience the enchanting beauty and adventure of El Boquete, Panama's tropical paradise, where nature meets culture in perfect harmony.

Panama

Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Panama, a premier travel destination offering adventure, history, and vibrant urban life.

Bocaya

Discover Bocaya, a historical landmark in Panama City, where rich culture and stunning architecture tell the story of Panama's vibrant heritage.

Unmissable attractions to see

Biomuseo

Discover the wonders of Panama's biodiversity at Biomuseo, an architectural marvel that celebrates nature through innovative exhibits and interactive experiences.

Pacific Lookout

Experience the stunning skyline and serene ocean views at Pacific Lookout, a picturesque park in Panama City perfect for relaxation and photography.

Metropolitan Natural Park

Explore the lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife of Metropolitan Natural Park, a serene escape in the heart of Panama City.

Panama Canal Museum

Discover the fascinating history and engineering marvel behind the Panama Canal at the Panama Canal Museum in Panama City.

Paseo de Las Bóvedas

Discover the enchanting Paseo de Las Bóvedas, a historic landmark in Panama City offering stunning views and rich cultural heritage.

Escape Room Panama

Experience the thrill of adventure and teamwork at Escape Room Panama, the ultimate destination for puzzle lovers and thrill-seekers.

Weil Art Gallery

Explore the enchanting Weil Art Gallery in Panama City, where local and international artistry come together in a vibrant cultural experience.

Convento de Santo Domingo

Discover the historical charm and serene beauty of Convento de Santo Domingo in Panama City, a must-visit for every traveler.

Essential places to dine

Azahar Panama

Discover exquisite flavors and stunning views at Azahar Panama – where culinary artistry meets elegant ambiance in the heart of the city.

La Strega Ristorante | Bella Vista

Experience authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Panama City at La Strega Ristorante, where tradition meets flavor.

Meze Panamá - Restaurante Griego

Savor the essence of Greece at Meze Panamá - where culinary excellence meets Mediterranean hospitality in Panama City.

Restaurante El Trapiche | Bella Vista

Experience authentic Central American cuisine at Restaurante El Trapiche in Panama City - where every dish tells a story.

Al Basha

Discover authentic Panamanian flavors at Al Basha in Panama City – where every dish tells a story.

Filomena Cucina di Mare

Discover authentic Italian flavors at Filomena Cucina di Mare, where fresh seafood meets elegant dining in Panama.

BLAME KIKI

Experience authentic Italian cuisine in Panama City at BLAME KIKI - where tradition meets contemporary dining.

Piso 5 Cafe

Discover culinary delights at Piso 5 Cafe in Panama City - where fresh ingredients meet gourmet flavors.

El Jardín de Gaudí

Experience exquisite Panamanian cuisine amidst lush gardens at El Jardín de Gaudí - a culinary oasis in Panama City.

American Bistro

Experience the best of American cuisine infused with local flavors at American Bistro in Panama City.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Balboa Boutiques - Strip Mall - Shopping Mall

Explore the vibrant Balboa Boutiques in Panama City, a shopping mall offering unique finds, local cuisine, and a lively atmosphere for every tourist.

Plaza Bella Vista

Discover the vibrant Plaza Bella Vista in Panama City, a shopping haven filled with international brands, dining options, and family-friendly entertainment.

I shop for less Marbella

Explore I Shop for Less Marbella in Panama City for unbeatable deals and a vibrant shopping experience in a friendly atmosphere.

Luckypop.pa

Explore Luckypop.pa in Panama City for unique gifts and authentic souvenirs that celebrate the vibrant local culture.

Lezah Boutique

Explore the essence of Panama with unique fashion and artisanal treasures at Lezah Boutique, a must-visit for every traveler.

Luxury Expressions

Discover designer handbags and luxury fashion at Luxury Expressions in Panama City, where style meets sophistication in a stunning shopping experience.

closet boutique

Explore Closet Boutique in Panama City for a unique shopping experience featuring local fashion and vibrant styles that capture the essence of Panamanian culture.

ELIESTILO BOUTIQUE

Explore ElieStilo Boutique in Panama City for unique gifts, stylish women's clothing, and exquisite local perfumes that celebrate Panamanian culture.

Theeliann store

Explore the essence of Panamanian culture at Theeliann Store, where unique fashion meets local artistry in the heart of Panama City.

Bella vista

Explore Bella Vista, a charming coffee shop in Panama City, where rich local brews and a cozy atmosphere await coffee enthusiasts and travelers alike.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

La Brasserie Pub

Discover the lively ambiance and authentic tastes of Panama's nightlife at La Brasserie Pub, a must-visit destination for travelers seeking local experiences.

La Milonga

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Panama City with delicious drinks and a lively atmosphere at La Milonga, the ultimate bar destination.

BierGarten

Discover the vibrant flavors of Panama City at BierGarten, where great food and good vibes come together for an unforgettable dining experience.

Murphy’s Bar Restaurant & Club

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and eclectic cuisine at Murphy’s Bar Restaurant & Club in Panama City, a must-visit for food and nightlife enthusiasts.

MANGLE

Experience MANGLE in Panama City: a vibrant bar and restaurant known for its innovative cocktails and lively nightlife, perfect for tourists seeking local flavor.

The Office - Sports bar & Good eats

Experience the ultimate sports bar in Panama City with delicious eats, refreshing drinks, and live sports action at The Office.

Olivo Wine Bar & Shop

Discover the exquisite flavors of wine and tapas at Olivo Wine Bar & Shop, a culinary gem in the heart of Panama City.

Bar Blue

Discover the vibrant spirit of Panama City at Bar Blue, where exceptional drinks and a lively atmosphere meet.

Blue Bunny Restaurante Bar

Experience the lively nightlife at Blue Bunny Restaurante Bar in Panama City, where delicious drinks and vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.

Bella Vista Sky Bar

Experience breathtaking views and vibrant nightlife at Bella Vista Sky Bar in Panama City, a perfect blend of ambiance and flavor.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Bella Vista

Discover Bella Vista with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
- GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
- YesSí
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-bor/deh nah-dah]
- Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-as]
- Excuse me/SorryDisculpe/Perdón
  [dee-skool-peh/pehr-dohn]
- 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-tee-ehn-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-bor]
- I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah pah-gar, por fah-bor]
- 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/a
  [ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh/ah]
- I'm illEstoy enfermo/a
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh/ah]
- I'd like to buy...Quisiera comprar...
  [kee-see-eh-rah kohm-prahr]
- I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
- How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
- That's too expensiveEso es demasiado caro
  [eh-soh ehs deh-mah-syah-doh kah-roh]
- Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?
  [pweh-deh bah-har ehl pree-syoh]
- 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)Son las diez y media
  [sohn lahs dyehs ee meh-dee-ah]
- 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
  [see-eh-teh]
- 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
- 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
- 10Diez
  [dyehs]
- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está el/la...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah ehl/lah]
- What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwahl ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
- 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 pasa el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh pah-sah ehl proh-ksee-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ....)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah)]

History of Bella Vista

Bella Vista, originally part of the colonial expansion in the 16th century, began to take shape as a residential neighborhood in the late 19th century. Its development aligned with the broader growth of Panama City, influenced by the establishment of the Panama Canal, which turned the city into a bustling hub of trade and commerce.
In the early 20th century, Bella Vista emerged as one of the most sought-after neighborhoods for the affluent, featuring elegant mansions and lush gardens. This period coincided with the construction of the Panama Canal and the influx of international businesses and expatriates, which significantly influenced the area's cultural and architectural landscape.
Bella Vista became a melting pot of cultures, with various immigrant communities, including Italians, Chinese, and Jews, settling in the area. This cultural diversity enriched the neighborhood's social fabric, contributing to its unique culinary scene, festivals, and traditions that reflect a blend of influences from around the globe.
The latter half of the 20th century saw significant urbanization in Bella Vista, with the construction of high-rise buildings and commercial establishments. The neighborhood transformed into a vibrant urban center, balancing modernity with historical charm. Key landmarks, such as the Parque Urracá and the iconic Cinta Costera, highlight the area's commitment to public spaces.
In recent decades, Bella Vista has become a cultural hub in Panama City, home to numerous art galleries, theaters, and cultural institutions. The neighborhood hosts events like the Festival de las Flores y del Café, showcasing local talent and celebrating the region's agricultural heritage, further establishing Bella Vista's identity as a center for arts and culture.

Bella Vista Essentials

Bella Vista is centrally located in Panama City and is easily accessible from other neighborhoods. To get there from the Tocumen International Airport, you can take a taxi, which takes about 30-40 minutes depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can take the Metro Line 2 to the San Miguelito station and transfer to Line 1, getting off at the Iglesia del Carmen station, which is within walking distance of Bella Vista.
Within Bella Vista, the Metro system is a convenient way to navigate the area, with the Iglesia del Carmen station providing easy access. Local buses, known as 'diablos rojos', also operate, though they can be less predictable. Biking is becoming increasingly popular, and there are bike-sharing options available. Walking is also an excellent way to explore the neighborhood, especially along the Cinta Costera, a scenic waterfront promenade.
Bella Vista is generally safe for tourists; however, it is advisable to remain cautious. Areas around the Parque de la Cinta Costera are well-patrolled, but tourists should avoid venturing alone at night in less populated parts of the neighborhood or the outskirts, particularly near the old buildings in the San Francisco area. Always keep personal belongings secure and be mindful of pickpockets in crowded places.
In case of emergencies, dial 911 for police, medical, or fire assistance. The Hospital Nacional is a reputable facility nearby for medical emergencies. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers health-related issues. For non-urgent matters, there are pharmacies throughout Bella Vista where you can find over-the-counter medicines.
Fashion: Do wear light, breathable clothing due to the tropical climate, but avoid beachwear when not at the beach. Religion: Do be respectful when visiting religious sites; modest dress is appreciated. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for the elderly and be polite. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a friendly 'Hola' and a smile; a handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and enjoy street food, but don’t drink tap water; always opt for bottled water.
To experience Bella Vista like a local, visit the fish market at Mercado de Mariscos for fresh seafood and local cuisine. Engage with vendors and try a ceviche. For a cultural experience, attend local festivals or events, often held in the parks. Explore the Casco Viejo neighborhood, just a short walk away, to appreciate its historic architecture and vibrant nightlife. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases can enhance your interactions with locals.

Bella Vista: The Heartbeat of Panama City

Local tips in Bella Vista