San Francisco, Panama City Travel Guide

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

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.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Explore San Francisco: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

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

Best attractions in San Francisco

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Monumento a Goethals

Explore the Monumento a Goethals, an iconic tribute to the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal, set in the heart of Panama City.

4.8

Museum of Old Panama

Explore Panama's rich history at the Museum of Old Panama, where artifacts and stories bring the past to life in an engaging setting.

4.7

Best landmarks in San Francisco

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Panamá Viejo

Explore the captivating ruins of Panamá Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that tells the story of Panama's rich colonial history and stunning landscape.

4.6

France Square

Experience the heart of Panama City at France Square, a vibrant park filled with culture, history, and stunning views of the city.

4.6

Town Square of Casco Antiguo

Discover the vibrant heart of Panama City at the Town Square of Casco Antiguo, where history and culture come alive.

4.7

Independence Square

Experience the historical charm and vibrant culture at Independence Square, the heart of Panama City where history and artistry come alive.

4.7

Best restaurants in San Francisco

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Segundo Muelle San Francisco

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

4.6

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.

4.4

ASSISI Restaurant

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

4.5

Brutto Restaurant

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

4.6

Best bars in San Francisco

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

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.

4.4

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.

4.5

El Pavo Real

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

4.4

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.

4.5

Best nightclubs in San Francisco

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

Casa Jaguar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Panama City at Casa Jaguar, where delicious cuisine meets electrifying dance beats in a stylish atmosphere.

4.3

Chill out discotheque

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Chill Out Discotheque in Panama City, where music, dance, and unforgettable moments await you.

4.2

Habano's Café

Discover the lively nightlife of Panama City at Habano's Café, a vibrant night club and bar offering stunning drinks and an electric atmosphere.

4.2

Bar Discoteca Tomsi

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Panama City at Bar Discoteca Tomsi, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await.

4.1

Best shops in San Francisco

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

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.

4.6

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.

4.2

Kromya Design Store

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

5.0

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.

5.0

Explore San Francisco on the Map

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

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.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for San Francisco

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 San Francisco. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- 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.