Instagram-Worthy Buildings in Panama City

Panama City is famous for its ultramodern skyline. However, architecture in Panama extends far beyond towering skyscrapers. As neighborhoods evolve around historic sites, a new wave of designers and architects are infusing creativity into the tropical capital. Here are five Instagram-worthy buildings to photograph while you explore Panama City.

The BioMuseo

Imagined by Canadian designer Frank Ghery, the colorful BioMuseo on the Amador Causeway was completed in 2014 and represents the creation of the Panamanian isthmus 2.8 million years ago. As it emerged from the oceans, this strip of land became a biological corridor between two continents and two oceans, facilitating species migration from North to South. With natural light penetrating through the tall glass windows, the eight pavilions are interconnected by a meandering path that overlooks the Panama Canal. Alongside the modern structure, the museum also features a public atrium for temporary exhibitions, as well as a botanical garden.

YOO Panama

In line with the previous work of founders John Kitchcox and Philippe Stark, YOO Panama is a residential building that merges quirky design with modern architecture. Overlooking the ocean on the trendy Avenida Balboa, the YOO distinguishes itself with airy, bright, and luxurious apartments paired with top-tier amenities. The heated rooftop pool offers a five-star experience for residents, alongside a premier spa, gym, party room, and a spacious playroom for children. Although the YOO is a residential space, visitors can delve into the imaginative world of Philippe Stark by dining at one of the exquisite on-site restaurants. The Asian fusion Chin Chin, located on the ground floor, is ideal for a weekday lunch, while the Mediterranean Cabana provides a stunning sunset view over the bay, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner.

Innova 109

Launched in 2017, Innova 109 serves as a co-working space managed by Panama City’s Center of Innovation. This startup accelerator and tech hub has established a modern enclave amid the remnants of a complicated history stemming from US occupation in Panama. The area known as City of Knowledge features this former church transformed into an office space, previously serving as a military base within the Canal Zone until 1999. For nearly a century, it housed thousands of ‘Zonians’—Americans living in the Canal Zone who enjoyed tropical living combined with American comforts until control of the Canal returned to Panama. Nowadays, the City of Knowledge is home to international schools, NGOs, and residential spaces, with Innova 109 being a prominent part of it.

Panama Viejo

Beneath a suburban neighborhood on the outskirts of Panama City, the ruins of Panama Viejo, founded in 1519 by Spanish conquistador Pedro Arias de Ávila, remain significant. This site is the oldest colonial architectural landmark in the country and served as South America’s gateway to Europe and the main export channel for Peruvian gold and silver during Spanish rule. In 1971, Captain Henry Morgan plundered the city, leading to its relocation to what is now known as Casco Viejo. Notably, Panama Viejo was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 and continues to be one of the capital’s most visited attractions.

Metropolitan Cathedral, Casco Viejo

The Metropolitan Cathedral of Panama stands as the most impressive landmark in the historic district of Casco Viejo and one of the largest churches in Central America. Overlooking the Plaza Mayor, the Cathedral has witnessed dynamic events throughout Panama’s history. After the old town’s sacking (now known as ‘Panama Viejo’), a new city emerged in Casco Viejo. The construction of the church was completed in 1796, featuring ten stunning stained glass windows influenced by the Art Déco style of the early 20th century. With its narrow cobblestone streets and colorful colonial mansions, Casco Viejo is the second-most visited area in Panama City, home to boutique hotels, rooftop bars, and gourmet restaurants. The Cathedral, officially called Catedral Basílica Santa Maria la Antigua de Panamá, is currently undergoing considerable renovations.