Experience the rich Afro-Caribbean heritage of Barrio Norte in Colón. This authentic cultural enclave offers a genuine glimpse into everyday Panamanian life with its colourful concrete houses and lively community atmosphere. Travellers can observe locals chatting on porches and hear Caribbean music drifting through narrow streets. Budget-conscious visitors will appreciate the affordable family-run guesthouses and traditional comedores serving flavourful Caribbean-influenced dishes. While tourist infrastructure is minimal, the area provides easy access to Limon Bay and Monument to Christopher Columbus. The close-knit community welcomes respectful travellers seeking authentic cultural exchange beyond Panama City's tourist zones.
This historic port area offers a fascinating glimpse into Panama's maritime heritage at the Caribbean entrance to the Panama Canal. Watch massive ships navigate the impressive Gatun Locks while strolling along the waterfront promenade. Colonial architecture tells the storey of American canal construction throughout Cristobal. The Colon Free Zone beckons shoppers with duty-free electronics and designer goods just minutes away. Local eateries serve Caribbean-influenced Panamanian seafood dishes that reflect the area's diverse cultural influences. Though primarily a working port, Cristobal rewards visitors with authentic maritime experiences and sweeping harbour views.
Barrio Sur reveals Panama's Afro-Caribbean soul through weathered colonial buildings painted in faded pastels. Caribbean wooden balconies overlook narrow cobblestone streets where the aroma of fried plantains fills the air. West Indian influences shine through local customs, architecture, and the rhythms of reggae and calypso. This historic district offers glimpses into Colón's significance during the Panama Canal construction era. Budget-friendly guesthouses and family-run eateries serving authentic rice and beans make exploration affordable. The neighborhood's compact layout means most attractions are just a short walk away.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Colon
Fort San Lorenzo
8.4/10 (36 reviews)
Perched dramatically above the Caribbean Sea, Fort San Lorenzo guarded Spanish treasure routes from pirates in the 17th century. Explore its UNESCO-protected walls while enjoying sweeping coastal views.
This bustling cruise port welcomes travellers with duty-free shopping and local cuisine. Browse handcrafted souvenirs or savour regional dishes while preparing for your Caribbean or Panama Canal adventure.
Nestled in Panama's Soberanía National Park, Gamboa Rainforest Resort provides a luxury wilderness retreat. Experience the canopy via aerial tram or spot wildlife on boat tours along the Panama Canal.
This Smithsonian facility showcases Panama's Caribbean coastal ecosystems through guided mangrove walks and touch pools. Explore the rooftop deck for views of wildlife and the Panama Canal entrance.
Witness the engineering marvel of Panama's expanded canal from panoramic platforms at the Agua Clara Locks. Watch massive Neo-Panamax ships navigate while learning about this feat through informative exhibits.
This 24-hour gaming destination offers an energetic atmosphere with diverse electronic games and slot machines. Relax between plays at the on-site restaurant and bar while experiencing Panama's vibrant casino culture.
This bronze statue honours Columbus's voyages with a dramatic pose symbolising the meeting of worlds. Stroll along the Paseo del Centenario for Caribbean Sea views and contemplative moments at this historic monument.
"Great bed. Overall clean but property needs some work. Breakfast on par with a Holiday Inn. Definitely not great. Lunch and dinner available and there's a bar. But no onsite snacks when restaurant was closed. Pool was closed - and it was the reason I chose this hotel. Understandable that work needed to be done but would've expected that communication when I made my reservation. Not when I checked in. Also as an FYI, all but 1 TV channel is in Spanish. Perfectly understandable, just something to...
"La atención del personal muy buena y amable desde el guarda de seguridad hasta el personal de limpieza y recepción lo único malo es que probablemente el detergente que usan para lavado no es muy bueno xq las toallas olían a sucio aún estando recién lavadas y habían algunas pequeñas cucarachas en el baño... pero por lo demás muy bien y recomendado como muy buena opción de hospedaje.."
"Great base to explore! Waking up and looking over the river was magical. Room was clean and fresh. Staff very friendly and helpfull. Rent a kayak and bike at the bike park. Multiple trails around the park (Laguna, el Chunga). Tucans and sloths to see at the parking lot. Gamboa town has a small shop and chinese eatery. You can drive, bike or walk to the pipeline trail and discovery center. The road towards it has many things to see allready. Go to the marina over de bridge for boat trips, but...
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
You'll find cheap prices on Expedia for your Colon getaway. However, a range of factors like the length of stay, hotel choice and season will influence how much your holiday to Colon costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Colon?
May, August and November are the best times to look for cheap Colon holiday packages. Travelling in quieter months means you'll typically find better prices on accommodation and flights.
How many days is enough for Colon?
To get the most out of a Colon holiday, we suggest booking for 3 days. Divide your time between discovering Colon 2000, Monument to Christopher Columbus and other major sights, in addition to experiencing neighbourhoods like Barrio Sur and Barrio Norte. If you've got some time to spare, include a day trip in your Colon holiday itinerary.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Colon?
Colon is a good holiday destination with attractions like Juventud Park among the many things to keep you busy. Whether you're travelling with the family or getting away with friends, a Colon holiday promises fun for everyone.
How to find the best Colon package deals?
Finding a cheap Colon package deal is easy with Expedia. Once you've entered your destination and trip dates under our "Packages" tab, set your maximum budget, apply a few filters and browse what's available. You can tailor your search by "Popular locations," "Property type," "Guest rating" and more. Order the results by "Price: low to high" to discover the most economical Colon package deals. Want a simple trick to score the biggest savings? Be flexible with your departure dates and consider going away on a weekday, when prices are generally lower.
Is it cheaper to book a Colon holiday as a package?
An Expedia holiday package could save you hundreds of dollars when compared to booking flights and hotels individually. Better still, you can personalise your Colon getaway to fit your exact style. Choose your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a rental car. Browse our bundle deals and find out how much you can save.
When to book a holiday package to Colon?
Enjoy incredible bargains by reserving your flights early with Expedia. If spontaneity is more your thing, take advantage of our last-minute deals for a spur-of-the-moment Colon trip.
How to plan a trip to Colon?
Choose when to travel: Check your calendar and pack your bags. Your preferred season and the type of activities available will also help you decide when to holiday in Colon.
Set a budget: Consider expenses such as flights, meals and transportation when calculating how much to save for your trip to Colon. Then, pick a hotel that matches your budget, whether that's an affordable stay or a more upscale retreat.
Decide how long to go away for: Now that you're more familiar with Colon, you can figure out the perfect length of your holiday. Pull together a rough plan and give yourself enough time to cover everything you want to do.
Combine your accommodation and airfare: Once you've nailed down your trip dates and duration, lock in the ideal Colon holiday package for you.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.