CartagenavsPanama City
Can't decide between Cartagena and Panama City? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
Cartagena
Cartagena is a Caribbean jewel of colorful colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and tropical energy. This walled city enchants with its romantic plazas, vibrant nightlife, nearby islands, and some of the best ceviche in South America.
Known for
Panama City
Panama City is a striking contrast of old and new — a glittering Manhattan-like skyline beside the UNESCO-listed Casco Viejo historic district. The Panama Canal, tropical rainforests within city limits, and a booming food scene make it Central America's most cosmopolitan capital.
Known for
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Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Cartagena offers Walled City, Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, Getsemaní
Panama City offers Panama Canal (Miraflores Locks), Casco Viejo, BioMuseo
Food & Dining
Cartagena is famous for its local dining scene
Panama City is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Cartagena has legendary nightlife
Panama City offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
December to April
December to April
Weather
Summer: 32°C, Winter: 30°C
Summer: 32°C, Winter: 30°C
Top Attractions in Cartagena
- 1Walled City
- 2Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
- 3Getsemaní
- 4Rosario Islands
- 5Plaza Santo Domingo
- 6Café del Mar
Top Attractions in Panama City
- 1Panama Canal (Miraflores Locks)
- 2Casco Viejo
- 3BioMuseo
- 4Metropolitan Natural Park
- 5Amador Causeway
- 6Panama Viejo Ruins
Cartagena is Popular With
Panama City is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
Hidden Gems in Cartagena
- 1
Convento de la Popa
A 17th-century monastery perched on the highest hill in Cartagena, offering panoramic 360-degree views of the entire city, bay, and coastline.
- 2
Mercado de Bazurto
The city's sprawling, chaotic central market where locals buy everything from fresh fish and exotic fruits to household goods and traditional remedies.
Hidden Gems in Panama City
- 1
Cementerio Amador (Amador Cemetery)
A historic cemetery on a small peninsula near Casco Viejo, with elaborate tombs and stunning views of the bay and skyline.
- 2
Mercado de Abastos
The city's massive, bustling wholesale fruit and vegetable market, located near Albrook.
Neighborhoods to Explore
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Top Areas in Cartagena
Ciudad Amurallada (The Walled City)
The historic heart and soul of Cartagena, enclosed by massive stone walls.
Getsemaní
Once a rough neighborhood, now the city's hip, artistic, and most energetic quarter.
Top Areas in Panama City
Casco Viejo
The historic heart and soul of the city, a UNESCO World Heritage site of colorful colonial buildings, charming plazas, and cobblestone streets.
Punta Pacifica & Punta Paitilla
The city's modern, affluent waterfront districts, dominated by sleek skyscrapers, luxury condos, and high-end shopping malls like Multiplaza Pacific.
Budget Comparison
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Budget in Cartagena
Budget in Panama City
Book Activities
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Book Activities in Cartagena
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Book Activities in Panama City
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Getting There
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Find cheap transport to Cartagena
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Find cheap transport to Panama City
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Our Verdict
Both Cartagena and Panama City are incredible destinations. Cartagena excels in colonial architecture and Caribbean beaches, while Panama City stands out for Panama Canal and Casco Viejo.
Best destination for:
nightlife
Cartagena
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