San Francisco: The Beating Heart of Panama City

Discover San Francisco in Panama City: A dynamic neighborhood where history meets modernity, offering a rich cultural experience, culinary delights, and lush green spaces.

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San Francisco is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood in Panama City, known for its rich cultural tapestry and dynamic atmosphere. This area blends the old with the new, presenting a unique juxtaposition of historical charm and modern sophistication. The streets are lined with trendy cafes, fine dining restaurants, and boutique shops, making it a paradise for foodies and shopping enthusiasts alike. One of the standout features of San Francisco is its lush green spaces, particularly Parque Omar. This expansive park is a hub for outdoor activities, offering jogging trails, sports facilities, and serene spots for picnics. It's the perfect place to unwind and soak in the natural beauty amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. San Francisco is also a cultural hotspot, home to various art galleries, theaters, and cultural centers. Visitors can immerse themselves in local art and music scenes, with numerous events and festivals held throughout the year. The neighborhood's strategic location makes it a convenient base for exploring other parts of Panama City, with easy access to major attractions and transport links.

Local tips in San Francisco

Visit Parque Omar early in the morning to enjoy the park's serenity before it gets crowded.
Explore local eateries and try traditional Panamanian dishes for an authentic culinary experience.
Check out the neighborhood's art calendar to catch local exhibitions and cultural events during your stay.
Use public transportation or ride-sharing apps to navigate the area easily and avoid parking hassles.

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

File:Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís - Casco Antiguo.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

File:Skyline Punta Pacifica Panamá 2017.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Panamá Viejo

Explore the historical ruins of Panamá Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that tells the story of Panama's colonial past through stunning architecture and picturesque landscapes.

France Square

Explore the beauty and culture of France Square in Panama City, a perfect blend of nature, history, and vibrant local life.

Town Square of Casco Antiguo

Explore the historic Town Square of Casco Antiguo, where Panama's vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and local flavors come alive.

Independence Square

Explore Independence Square in Panama City, where history, culture, and local artistry converge to create a vibrant tourist destination.

Arco Chato

Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of Arco Chato, a must-see landmark in Panama City, immersing yourself in the city's rich heritage.

Paseo de Las Bóvedas

Discover Paseo de Las Bóvedas, a historical promenade in Panama City showcasing stunning views, rich heritage, and vibrant culture along the Pacific coastline.

Monument of the Flag of Panama

Explore the Monument of the Flag of Panama, a stunning tribute to national pride and a must-see cultural landmark in Panama City.

Convento de Santo Domingo

Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Convento de Santo Domingo, a must-see historical landmark in Panama City.

Calle del Obispo

Explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Calle del Obispo, a charming landmark in Panama City with stunning architecture and unique local crafts.

Jose de San Martin

Explore Jose de San Martin, a captivating historical landmark in Panama City that reflects the nation's rich cultural heritage and colonial architecture.

Conjunto Conventual de San Francisco

Discover Panama's colonial heritage at Conjunto Conventual de San Francisco, a stunning archaeological museum that showcases rich history and architectural beauty.

Iglesia San Franicisco de Asis

Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of Iglesia San Francisco de Asis, Panama City’s iconic historical landmark.

Unmissable attractions to see

Monumento a Goethals

Explore the Monument to Goethals in Panama City, a remarkable tribute to the engineering genius behind the Panama Canal, surrounded by lush gardens and vibrant city life.

Museum of Old Panama

Experience Panama's rich history at the Museum of Old Panama, where the past comes alive through captivating exhibits and artifacts.

Essential places to dine

Segundo Muelle San Francisco

Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Segundo Muelle San Francisco, where culinary artistry meets exceptional dining in Panama City.

Tacos la Neta San Francisco

Experience the vibrant taste of Mexico at Tacos La Neta - where authentic flavors meet a delightful garden ambiance in Panama City.

ASSISI Restaurant

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at ASSISI Restaurant in Panama City – a perfect blend of tradition and Mediterranean flavors awaits.

Brutto Restaurant

Discover Brutto Restaurant in Panama City: where Asian Fusion meets modern elegance for an unforgettable dining experience.

Casa Stizzoli - Gastroteca Italiana

Experience authentic Italian flavors at Casa Stizzoli - Panama City's premier gastroteca offering exquisite dishes and fine wines.

Restaurante Tomillo

Discover exquisite Panamanian cuisine at Restaurante Tomillo in San Francisco - where every dish tells a story.

The Yard

Experience the best of family-friendly dining at The Yard in Panama City – where great food meets a welcoming atmosphere.

Casa Escondida

Discover the flavors of Panama at Casa Escondida, where tradition meets innovation in a cozy dining setting.

Intimo Restaurante

Discover culinary excellence at Intimo Restaurante - where innovative cuisine meets exquisite ambiance in Panama City.

The Top Restaurant

Discover the culinary delights of Panama City at The Top Restaurant - where exquisite flavors meet exceptional service.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Casa Ideal Market

Explore the charming Casa Ideal Market in Panama City, a delightful gift shop and boutique with unique local crafts and a cozy café atmosphere.

Belén Shops Panamá

Discover Belén Shops Panamá, a vibrant shopping mall offering diverse brands, delicious dining, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Panama City.

Kromya Design Store

Explore Kromya Design Store in Panama City for unique artisan gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of Panamanian culture.

It’s a Wrap

Explore It’s a Wrap Boutique in Panama City for unique, handcrafted souvenirs reflecting the rich culture and artistry of Panama.

My Butterfly

Explore My Butterfly, Panama City's premier gift shop for unique clothing, fashion accessories, and exquisite leather goods.

Love Shop Panama

Explore Love Shop Panama, a boutique treasure trove in San Francisco, Panama City, offering unique and handcrafted items that embody the local culture.

Salama Shop

Explore Salama Shop in Panama City for unique handcrafted treasures that showcase the local artisans' creativity.

Pixbae Boutique

Explore the essence of Panamanian fashion at Pixbae Boutique, where unique designs meet local craftsmanship in the heart of Panama City.

Mademoiselle Boutique

Explore Mademoiselle Boutique for exquisite fashion pieces that blend local artistry with international trends in Panama City.

Casa Boutique

Explore Casa Boutique in Panama City for unique home goods and local crafts that beautifully reflect the vibrant culture of Panama.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Istmo Brew Pub

Experience the perfect blend of local brews and delicious cuisine at Istmo Brew Pub, a must-visit spot in Panama City for craft beer lovers.

La Rana Dorada San Francisco

Discover the vibrant flavors of Panama at La Rana Dorada, a premier gastropub offering irresistible dishes and craft brews in a lively atmosphere.

El Pavo Real

El Pavo Real: Dive into Panama City's vibrant nightlife with signature cocktails, live music, and an unforgettable atmosphere.

Amano Bar

Discover the perfect blend of craft cocktails and Panamanian cuisine at Amano Bar, a top destination in Panama City's vibrant San Francisco neighborhood.

Pintas Spot

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Panama City at Pintas Spot, where locals and visitors come together to enjoy great drinks and lively atmosphere.

Inedito Rooftop Lounge

Experience breathtaking views and vibrant nightlife at Inedito Rooftop Lounge, Panama City's premier bar for cocktails and tapas.

LB Bieren Bar

Discover LB Bieren Bar in Panama City, a vibrant bar offering a diverse selection of craft beers and a lively atmosphere for tourists and locals alike.

La Rana Dorada Tap Room

Discover the vibrant craft beer culture at La Rana Dorada Tap Room, where local flavors meet a lively atmosphere in Panama City.

50th Sport Bar

Join the excitement at 50th Sport Bar in Panama City for thrilling sports, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for every visitor.

Wall Street Bar and Kitchen

Discover the lively ambiance and innovative cocktails at Wall Street Bar and Kitchen, a gem in Panama City's vibrant nightlife scene.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to San Francisco

Discover San Francisco 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-dyohs]
- YesSí
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vohr / de nah-dah]
- Thank youGracias
  [grah-syahs]
- Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [pehr-dohn / loh syehn-toh]
- How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
- Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byehn. ee too]
- Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
- I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tyehn-doh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah behr ehl meh-noo, poor fah-vohr]
- I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-loohd]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah pah-gahr, poor fah-vohr]
- 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 lookingSólo 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-hahr 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)Y media (10)
  [ee meh-dyah]
- 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-rehk-syon]
- Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trahr-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 San Francisco

San Francisco, located in the heart of Panama City, began its development in the mid-20th century as a residential neighborhood. The area was primarily agricultural before urbanization, and its name is derived from the local church dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi. San Francisco's strategic location made it an attractive area for families seeking proximity to the city center while enjoying a quieter, suburban environment.
The neighborhood of San Francisco has evolved into a vibrant cultural melting pot, reflecting Panama's diverse population. The area showcases a blend of Panamanian, Afro-Caribbean, and expatriate influences, contributing to its rich cultural tapestry. Festivals, art exhibitions, and local markets highlight the neighborhood's commitment to celebrating its multicultural identity.
In the late 20th century, San Francisco experienced significant modernization and urban development. The construction of high-rise buildings, shopping centers, and improved infrastructure transformed the neighborhood into an urban hub. This period marked the establishment of essential services and amenities, making it one of the most sought-after areas in Panama City.
With increasing urbanization, residents of San Francisco have become advocates for environmental awareness and the preservation of green spaces. Community initiatives have aimed to protect parks and promote sustainable practices, reflecting a growing consciousness towards ecological issues within the urban landscape of Panama City.
San Francisco is renowned for its diverse culinary scene, featuring a mix of traditional Panamanian cuisine and international flavors. The neighborhood hosts a variety of restaurants, cafes, and food markets, making it a culinary destination within Panama City. Local chefs often incorporate fresh, local ingredients, emphasizing the region's agricultural bounty and multicultural influences.

San Francisco Essentials

San Francisco is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Panama City. You can take a taxi or use ride-sharing apps like Uber, which are widely available. The Metro is another option; you can take Line 1 to the 'Iglesia del Carmen' station and then catch a bus or taxi to San Francisco. Alternatively, local buses also connect San Francisco to areas like Casco Viejo and El Cangrejo, making it convenient for travelers.
San Francisco is well-connected by public transport. The Metro has stations nearby, such as 'San Miguelito' on Line 2. Buses are plentiful, with routes that cover most of the neighborhood. For a more leisurely approach, consider renting a bicycle, as many streets are bike-friendly. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available for quicker trips.
San Francisco is generally safe, but tourists should remain vigilant. Avoid areas around 'El Chorrillo' and 'Curundú', known for higher crime rates. It's best to stay in well-lit areas at night and avoid displaying valuables in public. Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest hospitals are Hospital Punta Pacífica and Hospital Nacional. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies are available for over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local churches. Avoid wearing overly casual attire. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always be polite and respectful in religious settings. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to the elderly and disabled. Don't consume food or drinks on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and drinks. Don't waste food or refuse offers of hospitality, as this is considered impolite.
To experience San Francisco like a local, visit the neighborhood markets, where you can find fresh produce and local delicacies. Engage with residents, who are often eager to share their culture and stories. Don't miss the chance to explore local parks like Parque Omar for a taste of the community vibe. Additionally, check out local cafes where you can enjoy Panamanian coffee and pastries.

San Francisco: The Beating Heart of Panama City

Local tips in San Francisco