We had a wonderful stay in this centrally located luxury hotel with a collonial touch.
Be sure to book with breakfast - it's worth it.
The hotel also offers a very stylish traditional dance performance in the lobby bar every evening for the perfect setting for an aperitif, after which there is a lovely selection of great restaurants in and around the hotel for dinner.
What a brilliant experience! From the moment we stepped into this gorgeously rebuilt property we knew we were in for a treat: the welcome, the lobby, the check-in and of course, the room! Huge, with a fully furnished balcony. Not just clean. Spotless was more fitting. The service was impeccable. Sad to leave but will certainly return if back in the area!
From the moment you walk in the door, you know it's going to be great. The entrance is dominated by a mural on the wall showing the progression of the Panama Canal. Check in was a breeze, the through the lounge area, turn left and towards the elevators that will take you to the rooms.
The rooms are very tastefully appointed. Ours had a large bathroom with separate tub and shower, seating area and french doors to a walk-out balcony. Bed is incredible and our view over Panama Bay was spectacular.
The lobby has pastry and coffee shop if you prefer a lighter breakfast. The bar is fantastic with innovative drinks and an easy-going seating area that's not too noisy. Figure drinks are $15 out the door.
The pool area is great with a combination of covered, umbrella and sunny spots. The pool itself isn't anything special but fine to take a dip. They bring ice water and cool fruit snacks, and there's a full service bar at the pool.
Pros:
A great, classy hotel that is well located in the old quarter.
They bring nice snacks with the drinks at the lounge.
Cons:
It's always hot and humid, so be careful on the terrace as it can be slippery even when it's not raining. It really is that humid. You probably won't be spending time on your balcony.
Tip:
There's a hidden library, just three or four tables in nooks surrounded by bookshelves. In the lounge, look opposite the bar and you will notice an open doorway in the wall, go through that and turn immediate left. Drinks and snacks are served there as well as the lounge, but you might struggle to get their attention for your first order if they don't know you're back there.
Sofitel Casco Viejo was magical.
The property is brand new, built in 2023, and absolutely stunning. No expense was spared in designing the space, and the staff were outright incredible.
A young man named Jose greeted me upon my arrival and checked in with me all throughout my stay. In just 4 days I had everyone from the bell hop, to front desk, to restaurant staff calling me by my name. That's a next-level touch of elegance.
I have a special thanks to give to Jose and Anette who made my trip truly special. I think the hospitality industry demands people with incredible customer service skills and professionalism, and I don't think there's two people better suited to the industry than these two.
Thank you both for all your kindness! I CANNOT wait to come back with my entire family.
For solo travelers, especially females: this is an incredibly safe property where the staff will look after you. The location was as safe as it gets, and the staff made me feel at ease my entire stay. Highly recommend!
We had a lovely stay at this well run and perfectly situated property in the middle of the Casco Viejo and built out over the water. Staff were professional and friendly and made us feel very much at home. The lobby and rooms are really beautiful. Food was excellent.
Highly recommended!
