Plaza Herrera
Historic heart of Casco Viejo, Plaza Herrera buzzes with life, offering a glimpse into Panama's past and present.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, golden hour glow
Plaza Herrera
Best Time
Cooler temps, golden hour glow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic heart of Casco Viejo, Plaza Herrera buzzes with life, offering a glimpse into Panama's past and present.
"A beautiful historic square, perfect starting point to discover the old town on your own. "
🎯 Start Your Casco Viejo Tour
Plaza Herrera is the ideal starting point for exploring the historic Casco Viejo district.
☀️ Seek Shade Strategically
Limited shade available; visit during cooler hours or bring sun protection.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Relics and Memorials
Discover important artifacts and monuments that tell the story of Panama's diverse history. A true step back in time.
Charming Old Downtown Architecture
Admire the beautifully preserved buildings surrounding the plaza, offering a picturesque backdrop for your visit.
Vibrant People-Watching Spot
Enjoy the lively atmosphere from a bench or outdoor cafe, observing the pulse of this energetic section of the city.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Start Your Casco Viejo Adventure
Embrace the Outdoors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Which hotel should I pick?
🎯 Start Your Casco Viejo Tour
Plaza Herrera is the ideal starting point for exploring the historic Casco Viejo district.
☀️ Seek Shade Strategically
Limited shade available; visit during cooler hours or bring sun protection.
Advice for hotel in Panama City, Panama
First time in Panama. Day 1 of our trip exploring the old city, known as Casco Viejo, Casco Antiguo, or San Felipe.
☕ Enjoy Outdoor Dining
Restaurants offer outdoor seating with great views of the architecture.
🚶♀️ Perfect for a Stroll
A well-maintained plaza ideal for a relaxed walk and soaking in the ambiance.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Start Your Casco Viejo Tour
Plaza Herrera is the ideal starting point for exploring the historic Casco Viejo district.
☀️ Seek Shade Strategically
Limited shade available; visit during cooler hours or bring sun protection.
☕ Enjoy Outdoor Dining
Restaurants offer outdoor seating with great views of the architecture.
🚶♀️ Perfect for a Stroll
A well-maintained plaza ideal for a relaxed walk and soaking in the ambiance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Plaza Herrera is widely praised as a beautiful and historically significant square in Casco Viejo, perfect for starting explorations and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the charming architecture and the abundance of dining options. Some note the limited shade, suggesting strategic timing for visits.
"Wonderful place to start a historical tour as it is filled with important relics and memorials to the varied history of Panama!"
Tim Couch
"Beautiful scenery and park of the old downtown Panama. Lovely plaza with nice shops and a big hotel."
Anthony Plaxen
"This is a nicely maintained plaza with multiple benches, but not very much shade. There are restaurants all around the plaza that offer outdoor dining with beautiful architecture to look at."
Heather S.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plaza Herrera is located in the heart of Casco Viejo, Panama City's historic district. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available and a convenient way to reach the plaza. If you're staying in nearby areas, walking is also a pleasant option.
Parking in Casco Viejo can be challenging due to its narrow streets. It's generally recommended to use taxis or ride-sharing services, or to park in a designated lot outside the historic center and walk in.
While direct bus routes to the immediate vicinity of Plaza Herrera might be limited, you can take buses to the periphery of Casco Viejo and then walk or take a short taxi ride to the plaza.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Plaza Herrera is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time.
As an outdoor public space, Plaza Herrera is accessible 24/7. However, surrounding shops and restaurants have their own operating hours.
No advance booking is necessary as it's a public plaza. You can visit spontaneously.
🎫 compass Onsite Experience
Plaza Herrera is a great spot for people-watching, admiring historic architecture, and as a starting point for exploring Casco Viejo. You can also find cafes and shops around the plaza.
Yes, numerous restaurants, cafes, and pubs surround Plaza Herrera, offering outdoor dining with views of the plaza and its beautiful architecture.
Absolutely! The historic buildings and lively atmosphere make Plaza Herrera a picturesque spot for photography, especially during the golden hour.
The plaza itself is generally flat and accessible. However, cobblestone streets in Casco Viejo can be uneven, so be mindful when navigating the surrounding areas.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light, while evenings provide a vibrant atmosphere. Early mornings can be quieter for capturing the architecture without crowds.
Focus on the colonial architecture surrounding the plaza, the central monuments, and candid shots of local life and people enjoying the space.
Generally, casual photography is permitted. However, it's always respectful to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip for Families: Consider visiting earlier in the day to avoid the largest crowds and the midday heat. Many restaurants around the plaza offer kid-friendly options, making it easy to grab a meal or snack.
💰 Budget Travelers
Budget Tip: Instead of dining at pricier tourist-focused restaurants, explore some of the smaller eateries or street food vendors slightly off the main plaza for more affordable and authentic local flavors.
couples
Romantic Idea: Consider booking a table at a restaurant with a view of the plaza or a rooftop bar nearby for a memorable evening.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Casco Viejo from Plaza Herrera
Insider Tip: Many travelers recommend simply getting lost in the side streets. Each corner reveals new architectural gems, hidden courtyards, and local artisan shops. Don't be afraid to deviate from the main paths to discover the true essence of Casco Viejo. The area is relatively safe for walking during the day, but it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings.
For those interested in history, Plaza Herrera itself is filled with important relics and memorials that offer a direct connection to Panama's past. Take a moment to appreciate these historical markers before diving deeper into the surrounding colonial architecture.
Dining and Nightlife Around the Plaza
When evening falls, Plaza Herrera and its surroundings come alive with a vibrant nightlife. Rooftop bars offer stunning city views, while cozy pubs provide a more intimate setting for drinks. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists to gather, making it a fantastic place for people-watching and experiencing the energetic pulse of Panama City.
Traveler Recommendation: Consider trying some local Panamanian cuisine at one of the restaurants around the plaza. Dishes like 'sancocho' (a hearty chicken soup) or 'ropa vieja' (shredded beef) are often recommended.
Social
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