Savvy shoppers in Panama City have several excellent tour options worth considering. The historic Casco Viejo sunset walking tour combines smart shopping with gorgeous colonial architecture, while the half-day excursion pairs Panama Canal views with duty-free bargains – a great value for time-conscious travelers.
I’m especially fond of the Zona Libre Colon tour, where you’ll find incredible deals on international brands in the Western Hemisphere’s largest duty-free zone. For a more upscale experience, the private Mall Colón 2000 tour offers personalized attention and premium shopping without the crowds.
Let’s explore the best shopping tours Panama City has to offer.
Key Points
- Explore the duty-free shopping haven of Zona Libre Colon, with round-trip hotel transfers and a guided shopping experience.
- Enjoy a private tour to Mall Colón 2000 Duty Free, with door-to-door service and an air-conditioned vehicle.
- Combine shopping with cultural and culinary experiences, such as a sunset walking tour of historic neighborhoods and ceviche tasting.
- Visit the Panama Canal and explore diverse city architecture on a comprehensive half-day tour, with opportunities for duty-free shopping.
- Opt for small group tours led by knowledgeable English-speaking guides, offering personalized experiences and insights into local social dynamics.
Sunset Walking Tour at Casco Viejo El Chorrillo and the Fish Market
On a sunset walking tour through the historic Casco Viejo district and the lively local fish market, travelers can enjoy Panama City’s vibrant culture and rich heritage.
This highly-rated 5-hour tour, which boasts a perfect 5.0-star rating from 11 reviews, offers an authentic evening experience showcasing the city’s diverse neighborhoods and culinary delights.
Led by an engaging, English-speaking guide, the tour takes visitors through the charming Casco Viejo area, exploring its local history and architecture.
Travelers will also venture into the gritty yet captivating El Chorrillo neighborhood, gaining insights into the area’s complex social dynamics and gentrification.
The highlight of the tour is a stop at the bustling fish market, where participants can savor a delicious ceviche tasting.
With a maximum group size of 10 people, the tour provides an intimate and personalized experience.
While not suitable for those with mobility issues, the tour is stroller-accessible and located near public transportation, making it an accessible option for many visitors to Panama City.
Read our full review: Sunset Walking Tour at Casco Viejo El Chorrillo and the Fish Market Review
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Panama Canal, City & Shopping Half DayTour
For travelers seeking to maximize their time in Panama City, the Panama Canal, City & Shopping Half Day Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s top attractions.
Priced from $62 per person, this half-day tour whisks participants away on an air-conditioned vehicle for a jam-packed itinerary. Highlights include a visit to the impressive Panama Canal, where travelers can witness the engineering marvel firsthand, followed by a city tour showcasing Panama City’s diverse architecture and history.
The tour also includes a stop at the duty-free Albrook Mall, providing an opportunity for some retail therapy. With a knowledgeable guide, complimentary bottled water, and hotel pickup, this tour streamlines the sightseeing experience, making it an efficient and enjoyable way to discover the best of Panama City.
Although not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a well-rounded introduction to the city.
Read our full review: Panama Canal, City & Shopping Half DayTour Review
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Full Day Shopping in Zona Libre Colon, Panama
Amid the duty-free shopping haven of Zona Libre in Colon, Panama, travelers embark on a full-day excursion to indulge in a retail paradise. This activity includes round-trip hotel transfers and a tour guide to navigate the vast array of shops.
Visitors can leave their belongings in a secure locker, ensuring a hassle-free experience. The tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnant women, as it may be physically demanding.
However, most travelers can participate, with a maximum group size of 10. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking.
With a 3.7-star rating from 3 reviews, this full-day shopping experience offers a chance to explore the diverse offerings of Zona Libre.
Whether visitors are seeking designer brands, electronics, or local crafts, this tour provides a convenient and guided way to make the most of the duty-free shopping destination.
Read our full review: Full Day Shopping in Zona Libre Colon, Panama Review
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Private Tour to Mall Colón 2000 Duty Free From Panama City
Travelers to Panama City seeking a guided, private excursion to the renowned Mall Colón 2000 Duty Free can take advantage of this tour. Operated by Luz Gómez, the tour offers a door-to-door experience, with pickup from the airport upon arrival in Panama.
The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable journey, and the driver is duly identified. The tour is available year-round, with operating hours from 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM, seven days a week.
Priced at €146.42 per person, the tour includes a complimentary water bottle and Wi-Fi, making it a convenient and enjoyable experience. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour does offer infant seats, ensuring it’s accessible to most travelers.
With a 5.0 rating from a single review, the tour has received praise for Luz’s knowledge, patience, and the personalized feel of the experience.
Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start of the tour, as well as the lowest price guarantee.
Read our full review: Private Tour to Mall Colón 2000 Duty Free From Panama City Review
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The Sum Up
Panama City offers a variety of shopping tours to cater to different interests. From the historic Casco Viejo to the duty-free zone in Colón, visitors can explore unique local and international products. Whether it’s a half-day tour or a full-day experience, these tours provide a convenient and guided way to make the most of Panama’s diverse shopping opportunities.