Things To Do
in Santiago
Santiago, Panama sits in the verdant Veraguas region of central Panama, surrounded by rolling hills and coffee farms. It functions as a practical provincial hub with a mix of colonial charm and modern services. The city hosts lively markets, welcoming locals, and a budding food scene that reflects its agricultural heritage.
From here you can explore nearby cloud forests, waterfalls, and Pacific beaches within a few hours’ drive.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Santiago and check into your hotel. Take some time to settle in and refresh after your journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café to kickstart your adventure.
Visit the local market to explore the vibrant culture and sample fresh tropical fruits. Engage with local vendors and pick up some handmade crafts as souvenirs. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic city center to absorb the atmosphere.
Dine at a local restaurant where you can savor traditional Panamanian dishes. Relish the flavors of foods like sancocho and patacones while enjoying live music. End your night with a relaxing walk back to your hotel, soaking in the warm evening breeze.
Start your day with a visit to the Iglesia de Santiago Apostol, a beautiful colonial church that showcases stunning architecture. Spend some time contemplating the history of the city as you wander through the tranquil grounds. Capture the beauty of the church with some photographs.
Explore the nearby Museo de Arte de Santiago, which houses an impressive collection of contemporary Panamanian art. Participate in a guided tour to gain insights into the significance of the artworks. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a cozy bistro nearby.
Join a guided nightlife tour to discover Santiago's vibrant scene. Experience the local bars and restaurants, trying unique cocktails infused with local flavors. Wind down your evening with a taste of nightlife entertainment, perhaps a local band or dance show.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or small drink | $1-3 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $3-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace with authentic local culture
- Close proximity to coffee farms and nature escapes
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to Panama City
- Limited English-speaking services in rural areas
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does this cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Santiago
Visit one of these nice places.
Central square framed by colonial-era buildings and the grand cathedral, ideal for golden-hour portraits and street photography.
Walking paths along the river yield colorful reflections, local life, and birds at dawn or dusk.
A hillside overlook offering panoramic views of Santiago and the surrounding valley—great for sunset shots.
Colorful stalls, fruit stacks, and busy market scenes provide dynamic photo opportunities.
Food in Santiago
Santiago Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty chicken, corn, plantain, and cassava stew flavored with culantro and green plantains; perfect with hot rice.
Must-Try!
A one-pot rice and chicken dish with peppers, peas, and saffron-like color, commonly served with fried plantains.
Seafood soup featuring a mix of fish, shrimp, and shellfish in a savory tomato-based broth.
Crispy twice-fried plantain slices topped with cheese or bean spread; a staple street-side bite.
Yuca-filled fritters often stuffed with beef or cheese, a popular street snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market stalls offering tropical fruit, fresh fish, yuca, plantains, herbs, and regional snacks. Great for a quick lunch and people-watching.
Seasonal market with produce, crafts, and small food stalls; a good place to sample regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm hello and a handshake or abrazo is common. Use polite vocabulary like 'Buenos días/tardes' when entering shops.
Casual but neat attire is typical; swimwear should be saved for beaches or pools and not worn in town centers.
Polite conversation matters; avoid discussing sensitive political or social topics with strangers.
Safety
Tipping in Santiago
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants: 10-15% if service is not included. Small tips for taxi drivers and tour guides are appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash (USD) is widely accepted, with cards common in hotels, larger restaurants, and shops. ATMs are available in Santiago; street vendors and small markets often prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with sunny days and warm temperatures; ideal for outdoor activities and city strolls, but stay hydrated and protect against sun exposure.
Wet season brings frequent afternoon showers and higher humidity; mornings are often clearer and cooler, so plan outdoor plans for the early part of the day.
Transition periods can bring mixed weather; Pack a light rain jacket and breathable layers.
Santiago at Night
Hiking in Santiago
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate climb with scenic viewpoints overlooking the city and valley; ideal for a half-day hike.
Accessible hikes near El Valle de Antón, including forest paths and crater views; good for a longer day trip from Santiago.
Gentle to moderate hikes through cloud-forest environments with opportunities to spot birds and orchids.
Airports
How to reach Santiago by plane.
Small regional airport serving domestic flights and charter services; convenient for short trips within Panama.
Major airport in nearby David, offering international and domestic flights; a common gateway for western Panama.
Panama’s main international hub with connections worldwide; typically the most convenient option for international travel via a road trip or domestic connection.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
People working in commerce, education, and services within the city and surrounding farms.
Local university attendees and family groups who shop at markets and enjoy weekend outings.
Residents involved in agriculture and local coffee production in the hills around Santiago.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local leagues and informal games in parks and schools.
A beloved pastime at community fields and schoolyards, especially among younger players.
Common in city gyms and outdoor courts; a favorite after-work activity.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santiago.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer rice and bean dishes, roasted plantains, salads, and vegetable-based stews. When ordering, ask for 'sin carne' (no meat) or 'sin pescado' (no fish) and look for 'vegetales' or 'verduras' on the menu.