Getting Around
Panama City can be difficult to navigate at first. The city has a public MetroBus system, visitors can use a Rapi>Pass card that can be bought and recharged at grocery stores.
Taxis are the most common way to get around in Panama City, as an average ride should be under $10 to most parts of the city. Taxis are not metered, and can be hailed on the street or ordered by phone (although a dispatch fee is often charged). Taxis can also be hired at an hourly or weekly rate, which can be cost-effective for frequent sightseeing and dining trips. Rental cars are available, but the local driving is very aggressive and self-driving can be the source of frustration rather than convenience.
Airports
Tocumen International Airport
The airport lies 20 miles (32km) from Panama City.
Tocumen International Airport (PTY)
Location
The airport lies 20 miles (32km) from Panama City.Getting to the city
There are buses and minivans dubbed Taxi de Turismo, which can be booked from the Information Booth in the arrivals hall. The transfer time is about half an hour.
Time
GMT -5.Car rental
Car hire companies represented in the arrivals hall include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Hertz, National and Thrifty.
Airport Taxis
Regular taxis operate day and night at fixed prices depending on the number of passengers, but are not metered.
Transfer between terminals
The terminals are within easy walking distance of each other.
Facilities
There is a bank and ATM, a restaurant and coffee bars, as well as snack bars. Last-minute gifts can be bought at several stores on the first and second floors, including duty-free. Baggage storage is available, and information booths are located in arrivals.
Parking
Parking at Tocumen International Airport is plentiful and very cheap.