Plaza 5 de Mayo
Experience the real Panama City at Plaza 5 de Mayo, a bustling hub of local life and incredibly affordable shopping on Avenida Central.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience peak local activity
Plaza 5 de Mayo
Best Time
Experience peak local activity

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the real Panama City at Plaza 5 de Mayo, a bustling hub of local life and incredibly affordable shopping on Avenida Central.
"This is a good look at the REAL Panama City. The real feel of Panama City."
🚶♀️ Walk with Awareness
Keep your head on a swivel! Be mindful of your surroundings and belongings, especially in crowded market areas.
⏰ Avoid Nighttime Visits
Locals and travelers strongly advise against visiting Plaza 5 de Mayo after dark for safety reasons.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Avenida Central Market
Adjacent to Plaza 5 de Mayo
Immerse yourself in the heart of local commerce. Find everything from clothing to everyday goods in this vibrant, authentic Panamanian market.

Authentic Panama City Experience
Plaza 5 de Mayo and surrounding streets
Step away from tourist trails for a real look at daily life, local shopping, and the energetic pulse of Panama City.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Navigate with Awareness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
What to do on a 12 hour layover in Panama City tonight (if this is allowed?). I didn’t find any recent posts tagged a ‘day in Panama’ and have a layover from ~8pm tonight until 8am tomorrow. Would love to know your thoughts!
🚶♀️ Walk with Awareness
Keep your head on a swivel! Be mindful of your surroundings and belongings, especially in crowded market areas.
⏰ Avoid Nighttime Visits
Locals and travelers strongly advise against visiting Plaza 5 de Mayo after dark for safety reasons.
Viajaré a Panamá en Agosto
Coming to Panama for the first time and would love some tips..
🚇 Metro is Your Friend
The metro is a convenient and safe way to reach Plaza 5 de Mayo, offering a glimpse into local transit.
🛍️ Shop Like a Local
Discover incredibly cheap clothing and goods where locals shop on Avenida Central. Great for budget finds!
Question about safety in Panama City
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk with Awareness
Keep your head on a swivel! Be mindful of your surroundings and belongings, especially in crowded market areas.
⏰ Avoid Nighttime Visits
Locals and travelers strongly advise against visiting Plaza 5 de Mayo after dark for safety reasons.
🚇 Metro is Your Friend
The metro is a convenient and safe way to reach Plaza 5 de Mayo, offering a glimpse into local transit.
🛍️ Shop Like a Local
Discover incredibly cheap clothing and goods where locals shop on Avenida Central. Great for budget finds!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Plaza 5 de Mayo offers an authentic, vibrant glimpse into the daily life and local commerce of Panama City, particularly through the bustling Avenida Central market. Visitors appreciate the genuine atmosphere and incredibly low prices. However, it's crucial to remain vigilant about personal safety, especially in crowded areas and at night, as recommended by many travelers.
"Take the metro to Plaza 5 de Mayo and take a walk down Avenida Central for an authentic look at life in Panama City.
Many tourists only see the two historic districts and the modern parts of town, but this is a good look at the REAL Panama City."
Karin S.
"The real feel of Panama City. Be careful when you walk around. Keep your head on a swivel at all times. Avoid at night and stay away from trouble."
Wu Tao
"Very cheap clothing stores. Where the locals shop."
Paul Kuchukian
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The S480 metro bus offers a direct connection from Tocumen Airport to the vicinity of El Carmen Subway Station, which is a convenient way to reach Plaza 5 de Mayo. Taxis or Ubers from the airport to El Carmen typically cost around $25-$30 USD.
Yes, the Panama City metro is generally considered safe and efficient for tourists. It's a good option for reaching areas like Plaza 5 de Mayo without the hassle of traffic.
For many central areas, the metro is excellent. For longer distances or specific destinations, Ubers and taxis are readily available. Be mindful of traffic, especially during peak hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Plaza 5 de Mayo is a public square and does not have an entrance fee. You can freely explore the plaza and the surrounding market streets.
The market stalls along Avenida Central are typically open during daylight hours, especially vibrant on weekdays. It's best to visit during the day to experience the full atmosphere.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Plaza 5 de Mayo is a busy area with a local feel. While generally safe during the day, it's crucial to stay aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and avoid visiting at night.
You'll find a lively public square that serves as a gateway to Avenida Central, a bustling street market where locals shop for clothing, accessories, and various goods at very affordable prices.
Avenida Central is renowned for its incredibly cheap clothing stores and as a place where locals do their everyday shopping. It offers an authentic glimpse into Panamanian retail culture.
Yes, always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded market areas. Avoid displaying expensive items, and it's highly recommended to avoid the area after dark.
The plaza and surrounding market are most vibrant and safest during daylight hours, particularly on weekday mornings when local activity is at its peak.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Plaza 5 de Mayo itself is more about the market experience, you can find local eateries and street food vendors offering affordable snacks and meals in the surrounding areas. For more diverse dining, head towards areas like Casco Viejo or El Cangrejo.
Expect simple, local fare. Street vendors might offer empanadas, fresh juices, and other quick bites. It's a great place to try authentic, no-frills Panamanian street food.
📸 📸 Photography
It's generally safe to take photos, but always be mindful of your surroundings. Avoid photographing individuals without their permission, and be discreet with your camera, especially in crowded market areas.
Capture the vibrant chaos of the Avenida Central market, the daily interactions of locals, and the unique architecture that blends old and new Panama City. The energy of the place itself is a great subject.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider using the metro to get there, as it’s a straightforward and safe option for families. While there aren't specific child-focused attractions, the sheer energy of the place can be an adventure in itself. Pack light and focus on experiencing the local culture rather than extensive shopping, and ensure everyone stays hydrated.
💰 Budget Travelers
Getting to the plaza via the metro is also a budget-friendly transportation option. When it comes to food, you can find very inexpensive street food and local eateries in the vicinity, allowing you to eat affordably while immersing yourself in the local scene. Just remember to keep your wits about you and secure your purchases, as you'll likely be carrying more than a few bargains!
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Plaza 5 de Mayo's Role
For travelers seeking an authentic experience, Plaza 5 de Mayo is a must-visit. It’s where you can find incredibly affordable clothing and everyday items, making it a popular spot for locals. The energy here is infectious, and while it can feel overwhelming at first, it’s a rewarding glimpse into the real Panama City. Remember that this is a working market, so embrace the organized chaos and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Navigating Safety and Local Etiquette
Beyond personal safety, understanding local etiquette can enhance your visit. Be respectful of vendors and shoppers. While photography is common, it’s polite to ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals. Embracing the local pace and being observant will lead to a more positive and enriching experience. The metro is a recommended mode of transport to reach the plaza, offering a safe and efficient way to avoid potential traffic issues.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit