According to forum posts, Panama City's Metro is straightforward to use, although it may not cover all areas frequented by tourists. The bus system, including a new route directly from Tocumen Airport to downtown, offers an economical option, costing only $0.85 for a complete journey utilizing bus and metro lines.

Travelers have called out Uber and taxis as prevalent modes of transportation within the city. While Uber allows for cash payments, which avoids surprise charges, taxis have zone-regulated fares, making them a predictable expense. However, the availability of Uber can be uncertain in less frequented areas like Gamboa.

For many users, hiring a private driver is a preferred transport method, especially for direct and hassle-free travel. Contacts and rates for private drivers can be readily obtained through forums and personal recommendations. Some travelers mentioned paying approximately $30 for trips within central city areas using this option.

Some travelers have suggested Playa Coronado and Gorgona as the closest beach communities to Panama City, approximately an hour away, though they note that most restaurants and shops require a short taxi ride from the beach accommodations. According to forum posts, Playa Bonita is another option near Panama City, offering beach resorts with amenities such as pools, spas, and ocean views.

For those preferring Caribbean waters, Portobelo is recommended by many users. It is about a 90-minute drive from Panama City and offers clear waters suitable for snorkeling and other water activities. Travelers have called out El Bongo as a reasonably priced option in Portobelo, with access to nearby historical sites and natural beauty.

Other posts indicate Buenaventura as a top-notch beach resort location, albeit approximately a 2-hour drive from Panama City. The area is praised for its excellent grounds, pools, and restaurants, though it is noted that transportation services like Uber may not be readily available.

According to forum posts, many travelers suggest visiting the Miraflores Locks at the Panama Canal as a must-see during a layover. If timing does not allow for a visit there, alternatives like the Panama Canal Museum in Casco Viejo or watching ships from the Mirador de las Américas are recommended.

For those with layovers extending into the evening, forum users suggest exploring Casco Viejo for dining and nightlife. Recommendations include dining at local restaurants such as Fonda Lo Que Hay, Casco Mar, and LaBarbara, or enjoying a drink at rooftop bars and clubs like Tantalo and Casco Rooftop.

If overnight stays are necessary, users have noted that staying in areas like Casco Viejo offers a more authentic Panama experience, with the Central Hotel being a popular choice. This location provides easy access to local sights and dining, maximizing the short stay.

According to forum posts, travelers can order an Uber at Tocumen International Airport using the airport WiFi, though the connection may be slow and limited to 30 minutes. Additionally, some travelers have opted for taxis when facing connectivity issues.

Travelers have discussed that there is no direct Metro Rail service from Tocumen Airport to the city, but Metro Line 2 is operational and does not extend to the airport yet. For access to the closest Metro station, travelers need to take a taxi or Uber for a short distance.

For many users, planning for transportation from the airport involves considering time and convenience, especially when dealing with potential traffic during rush hours or poor WiFi connectivity for arranging rides.

According to forum posts, Casco Viejo is celebrated for its historical significance, with visitors recommending the exploration of 17th-19th century architecture. Notable mentions include the Iglesia de San José, known for its golden altar, which according to legend was saved from pirates.

Travelers have highlighted the Plaza de la Independencia for its local crafts, particularly the tabletop kiosks selling Wounaan crafts. For dining, the Café Coca-Cola is recommended for a traditional Panamanian meal, and it is noted for being an establishment that has been in operation for over a century.

For a cultural experience, some users suggested visiting the Museum of the Panama Canal, which offers extensive insights into the country's history and the canal's impact. This museum is regarded as one of the best history museums in Panama.

Despite its historical charm, Casco Viejo also offers modern amenities and is generally considered safe for tourists, especially during the daytime. It is described as walkable, allowing tourists to easily explore its rich history and vibrant street scenes.

According to forum posts, the Miraflores Visitor Center offers observation decks that provide views of the canal locks in operation. Despite some parts of the center being closed for renovation, the observation decks are still accessible, allowing visitors to witness the transit of ships through the canal.

Travelers have noted that there is a museum within the Miraflores Visitor Center that offers historical insights into the Panama Canal, although it is currently closed for repairs. Normally, the museum provides educational content and historical background on the canal's construction and operation.

Previously, the visitor center housed a restaurant where visitors could dine with a view of the canal, but this facility has been closed since 2020 and has not reopened. The center also features an IMAX theater, which shows a documentary about the Panama Canal, narrated by Morgan Freeman, adding an informative and entertaining option for visitors.

According to forum posts, Carnival is a significant celebration in Panama City, although it is described as relatively tame compared to other locations in Panama. Most of the larger celebrations occur in the interior regions like Las Tablas, Chitré, and Penonomé. In Panama City, the festivities are primarily concentrated along the Cinta Costera.

Some travelers have shared that New Year's Eve is another notable celebration in Panama City. Forum members suggest that there are various events suitable for different age groups, including quieter celebrations with good meals and live music, particularly in areas like Casco Viejo, where events may require a reservation and minimum spend.

Travelers also inquire about cultural events like ballet or symphony concerts in mid-March. While specific events are not well-documented in forum posts, suggestions include checking local listings in newspapers like La Prensa or websites such as Ticketplus for potential performances during their visit.