This beautiful coastal city revealed as a must-visit destination in 2026

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We at Travel Off Path hate delivering bad news. Don’t worry, no one died…

The loss to mourn is the shine of Costa Rica, a place where Pura Vida now seems like a marketing slogan; therefore, travelers have ventured to the neighboring region of completely transformed El Salvador and even lesser-known Honduras for its sun-kissed coasts, impeccable nature and less touristy experiences.

But there’s one iconic city more known for its pioneering canal than for its beautiful coastline and fascinating culture.

A new insight report reveal the trendiest destinations of 2026 Panama City as a must visit destination.

As someone who visited Panama for the first time this year, I can tell you that the country has much more to offer than impressive logistics loopholes for cargo ships.

It is one of the most impressive cities I have explored in recent history. Not only is Panama City a world-class metropolis, it’s also a gateway to virtually unknown beaches, home to a charming Old Town reminiscent of Havana, and anchored by an endless skyline that would make Dubai blush.

The most underrated metropolis in the world

Unless you’re getting stem cell treatment to get around FDA regulations or want to dip into your IRA early, chances are you haven’t Real previously considered visiting Panama City.

Even my tour guide actually said, “People don’t really come here for tourism,” before adding, “They come for real estate and medical care.”

That surprised me being such a culturally rich, historic, vibrant and resort-laden destination.

As you probably know, Panama City sits on a narrow isthmus (no, that’s not Mike Tyson saying “Christmas”), a stretch of land that has made the Panama Canal famous for decades.

As cool as it was to see the canal with my own eyes on a tour, it’s all the other joys I experienced that have been seared into my mind since I left.

There’s no denying that Panama City’s skyline oozes Miami-meets-Dubai, but it’s actually a city where you’ll want to turn back the clock and spend as much time as possible in Old Town (known as Casco Viejo).

We’re talking timeless cathedrals, colorful facades, legendary buildings transformed into luxury hotels (like the one I stayed in), and no shortage of sensational food and traditional cafes, including the ‘champagne of coffee’ – an absolute must-try at Geisha experience.

Panama City is truly an underrated metropolis where there is never a dull moment and where it feels completely safe and welcoming at all hours; many locals even speak fluent English.

With the new flights of Copa Airlines, Panama’s flagship airline, it’s easier to get there than ever!

Panama shows off its Caribbean side

Rumors are swirling that Panama is ready to become a full-fledged holiday destination, whether you like bustling cities or beautiful beaches.

The Caribbean side of Panama is much less known than nearby locations. Even Panama’s picture-perfect San Blas Islands, with sugary white sand and crystal clear water, are largely underrated in the shadows of their neighbors.

During my trip I was encouraged to visit a coastal town off the path, although that should not be underestimated…

Portobelooriginally named by our “founder” (wink, wink) Christopher Columbus, it should be on every tourist’s radar.

Home to well-preserved ruins of 16th-century Spanish strongholds, Afro-Caribbean traditions and excursions to virtually untouched coasts on the edge of the jungle, perfect for snorkeling, spotting sloths and feasting on the fresh ‘catch of the day’ from a tin-roof hut. I can’t recommend visiting Portobelo enough, just 2 hours from the city.

It is best to book via Ancon expeditions (ask for my friend, Nico!)

Easy access to glamorous resorts

While many Americans end up in a hospital bed for cheaper medical treatment than at home, others have missed out on heavenly mattresses and crowd-free beach chairs in some of Latin America’s most overlooked havens.

With names like Westin, Dreams and Riu, no, we’re not talking about Mexico – this is the coast of Panama, baby.

The beach town is just 30 minutes from Panama’s Tocumen International Airport (PTY). Playa Bonitahome to the aforementioned Dreams and Westin resorts.

But there is no denying that the most paradisiacal setting is the San Blas Islands, which are in the Caribbean closer to Costa Rica.

Sam Sears

Sam, our lead writer and San Diego-based journalist, has visited 36 countries and written more than 1,000 articles with an emphasis on sharing his own travel experiences and highlighting lesser-known gems.