Bars Near Me in Panama City, Panama

Best Rooftop Bars, Cocktail Lounges, Night Clubs, Live Music and Craft Beer

Looking for the best bars near me in Panama City, Panama? This nightlife guide covers where to drink, dance, and listen to live music in Panama City right now. You’ll find casual neighborhood pubs, high-end cocktail bars, late-night clubs in Casco Viejo, rooftop bars with skyline views, local craft beer taprooms, and live jazz lounges.

All recommendations focus on the areas where visitors actually go at night: Casco Viejo (the Old Quarter), Avenida Balboa, Obarrio / Financial District, San Francisco, Causeway Amador, and Costa del Este.

Use this page to plan a bar crawl, understand Panama City nightlife, or just decide where to grab one great drink within walking distance of your hotel.

Quick Snapshot: Panama City Nightlife in 2025

• The legal drinking age in Panama is 18. Bring ID.

• Dress codes are common in upscale lounges and night clubs, especially in Casco Viejo and the Financial District. Sneakers are usually fine, beachwear is not.

• Most bars stay busy until 1–2 a.m. on weekdays and later on weekends. Rooftops and clubs in Casco Viejo often turn into full parties after midnight.

• Expect excellent rum, serious signature cocktails, Panamanian craft beer, and tropical ingredients like passion fruit, pineapple, tamarind, and raspadura cane syrup.

• The highest density of “walk to the next spot” bars is in Casco Viejo. You can rooftop-hop in a few blocks.

Best Neighborhoods To Find a Bar Near You

Casco Viejo (Casco Antiguo / Old Town)

Casco Viejo is the historic district and the nightlife heart of Panama City. Picture colonial plazas, cobblestone streets, rooftop terraces, live bands, salsa nights, and some of the best craft cocktails in Central America. Many venues here combine restaurant, lounge, and club energy under one roof.

Typical vibe: creative cocktails, rooftops with skyline views, Latin and Caribbean beats, dressy but relaxed.

Obarrio / Financial District / Marbella

This modern zone (often just called “downtown Panama City”) has executive lounges, cigar bars, and hotel bars aimed at business travellers. It’s good for quieter cocktails or a last drink after dinner.

Typical vibe: suits, lounge atmosphere, whiskey and classic cocktails.

San Francisco & Coco del Mar

Trendy, residential, full of younger Panamanians. This is where you’ll find insider cocktail bars and gastrobars that feel more local than touristy. Amano is a perfect example: serious spirits selection, inventive house cocktails, DJs, and elevated bar food.

Typical vibe: creative mixology, DJs on weekends, smart-casual dress.

Amador Causeway

This waterfront strip faces the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal. It’s ideal for happy hour with ocean breeze, sunset views, and open-air seafood spots. Great first stop before heading into Casco Viejo for the late part of the night.

Costa del Este

Costa del Este is an upscale residential and corporate zone east of downtown. For nightlife, it matters because some of Panama’s best craft breweries and taprooms are here. Expect beer flights, barbecue-style food, and a mostly local after-work crowd.

Best Rooftop Bars in Panama City and Casco Viejo

CasaCasco

CasaCasco is a multi-level nightlife complex in Casco Viejo with restaurants on the lower floors, a stylish cocktail lounge above, and an open-air rooftop terrace with views of the Old Quarter and the bay. On weekends, the top floors shift from relaxed sunset mode to full DJ-driven nightlife. It’s one of the classic late-night stops in Casco for both locals and visitors.

Why people love it: skyline and ocean views, several venues in one building, and the ability to move from dinner to cocktails to dancing without getting in a taxi.

Lazotea Rooftop

Lazotea sits on top of a boutique hotel in Casco Viejo and is famous for two things: panoramic views of the modern Panama City skyline and an outdoor pool built right into the terrace. Sunset is prime time. Guests order seafood dishes like ceviche or tuna, sip signature cocktails, and listen to DJs or live musicians. After dark, the vibe turns upscale and social: music is loud enough to feel like a party, but it still leans lounge, not chaos.

Why people love it: romantic skyline views, poolside rooftop vibe, and modern Latin food that’s actually good.

Ex Selina Rooftop (Casco Viejo)

Above one of the neighbourhood’s best-known boutique hostels, this rooftop mixes pool hangout, a DJ booth, and casual tacos/snacks. Travellers like it because it’s social, unpretentious, and more budget-friendly than some luxury rooftops. It’s a perfect pre-game stop before a longer night out in Casco.

Why people love it: sunset drinks with no strict dress code, music, and an easygoing international crowd.

Top Cocktail Bars in Panama City

Pedro Mandinga Rum Bar

Pedro Mandinga is Panama’s original artisan rum bar concept. House rums are crafted with local cane and spices, and you can order them neat, in tasting flights, or in cocktails built around passion fruit, ginger, coconut, cacao, and coffee. The space feels like an intimate Caribbean rum hideout. This is a must if you want something uniquely Panamanian.

Why people love it: authentic Panamanian rum culture, friendly service, and cocktails that taste like vacation.

Mangle Bar

A modern craft den known for technique-forward drinks, house infusions, and a lively late-night crowd. Expect seasonal menus, balanced flavors, and bartenders who’ll tailor builds to your palate. Perfect as a first or last stop on a Casco crawl.

Why it tops the list: serious mixology without stiffness; high consistency midweek and weekends. Best for: cocktail geeks, date night, small groups. Order this: a signature with local botanicals or a clarified sour. Timing: after 8:30 p.m.; weekends fill fast. Link: https://www.manglebar.com/

Sama Sky Lounge

Panama City’s rooftop bar experience: open-air views across the bay, upbeat playlist, and a menu that balances classics with tropical riffs. Great for golden-hour photos and groups that want breeze + skyline.

Why it tops the list: destination views with legit cocktails, not just pretty glasses. Best for: sunset rounds, birthdays, visiting friends. Order this: a tropical highball or mezcal-citrus signature. Timing: arrive before sunset for seating; book for weekends.
Link: https://honeybadgerbars.com/en/sama

Le Bar du Bristol

A polished hotel bar where technique and service shine—think flawless classics, spirit-forward builds, and a calm room for real conversation. Ideal when you want premium pours without the rooftop bustle.

Why it tops the list: precision classics, professional service, refined ambience. Best for: client drinks, pre-dinner aperitifs, nightcaps. Order this: stirred classics (Martini, Vieux Carré) or a house Negroni variant. Timing: early evening through late; easy to pair with nearby restaurants. Link: https://www.instagram.com/lebardubristol

Amano

Amano (San Francisco district) is known for its deep back bar, serious mixology, and elevated bar food from noted local chefs. Guests highlight the relaxed indoor jungle aesthetic, patio seating, and DJ sets on busy nights. It’s considered one of the best cocktail bars in Panama City among locals, not just tourists.

Why people love it: refined drinks without attitude, balanced energy (social but not out of control), and a crowd that feels more “Panama City insider” than “tour group.”

Craft Beer Bars and Microbreweries in Panama City

La Rana Dorada

La Rana Dorada helped launch Panama’s craft beer scene and is still one of the most recognizable brewpub names in the country. Expect golden ales, pale ales, dark beers, and rotating seasonals, plus pub food like empanadas and pizza. Locations around the city, including Casco Viejo, make it an easy stop if you’re doing a casual night instead of a dress-code rooftop.

Why people love it: approachable local craft beer, bilingual staff, relaxed pub vibe with a mix of locals, expats, and backpackers.

Casa Bruja Brewing Co.

Casa Bruja is one of Panama’s most awarded microbreweries. The taproom (often called CB Taproom) pours small-batch IPAs, porters, fruited sours, and experimental releases. You can build a tasting flight, pair it with barbecue from an onsite smoker or food truck, and sometimes tour the brewery. Casa Bruja beers regularly win medals in international competitions.

Why people love it: serious craft credibility, constant new releases, and the ability to taste Panama-made beer styles you won’t find in generic beach bars.

Live Music Bars, Jazz Lounges in Panama City

Looking for live music bars in Panama City or a polished jazz lounge before your late-night plans? Here’s a curated, high-yield list—tight sets, good sound, and easy logistics.

3 Gatos Cervecería (Indie/Alt, Taproom Vibes)

Small-venue energy with rotating bands—indie, funk, and Latin-rock sets that keep the room moving. Great first stop if you want craft beer + live music without a cover-shock.
Link: https://www.instagram.com/3gatoscerveceria/

Rock & Folk PTY (Rock Covers, Throwbacks)

Crowd-pleasing rock bar where guitars lead and sing-along choruses follow. Expect classic covers, themed nights, and a reliable late crowd—perfect for groups that want familiar hits before club-hopping.
Link: https://www.instagram.com/rockandfolkpty/

El Tropicana Panamá (Salsa, Tropical, Dancing)

Live bands, tropical rhythms, and a dance-forward floor. If your night needs salsa, merengue, bachata and an easy on-ramp to dancing, this is your move.
Link: https://www.instagram.com/eltropicanapanama/

The Club at American Trade Hotel (Jazz Lounge, Casco)

Refined jazz lounge experience: intimate room, serious musicianship, and cocktails that match the standard on stage. Ideal for date night or a pre-midnight set before heading to Obarrio/El Cangrejo.
Link: https://www.americantradehotel.com/the-club

How to plan it (zero friction)

• Timing: Most live sets start 9:00–10:00 p.m.; jazz often runs in defined sets—arrive on the hour.

• Dress code: Smart-casual works everywhere (closed shoes).

• Reservations: Recommended Thu–Sat for The Club and popular band nights elsewhere.

• Payments: Cards are common; keep small cash for covers and tips.

• Sound levels: Rock rooms get loud—ask for bar seats if you want conversation; pick The Club for best listening acoustics.

Dance Clubs and Late-Night Party Bars

Chupitos 507 (Casco Viejo)

Shot-bar turned dance floor with fire shows, neon, and a fast rotation of reggaetón/Latin hits. It’s the perfect pre-club party bar: cheap rounds, quick service, and a packed crowd by 11:00 p.m. Expect a young, mixed scene and zero pretension.
Peak: 10:30 p.m.–12:30 a.m.
Vibe: high-octane, loud, Instagram moments.
Dress: casual works; closed shoes recommended.
Link: https://www.instagram.com/chupitos507/

Euforia Panamá (Casco Viejo)

Big-room nightclub built for main-stage reggaetón and LED walls, CO₂ blasts, and VIP tables. Security and door flow are organized, and the sound system is dialed for weekend headliners.
Peak: midnight–2:30 a.m. (Fri–Sat).
Vibe: festival energy, bottle service, packed dance floor.
Dress: smart-casual; sneakers are fine if clean.
Link: https://euforiapanama.com/

Wahaka (Downtown / Marbella–Uruguay corridor)

A late-night Latin club designed for stamina: dembow, reggaetón, and cross-over pop with crowd-pleasing DJs and themed nights. Expect confetti, dancers, and a room that stays lively after 2 a.m.
Peak: 1:00–4:00 a.m.
Vibe: colorful, party-forward, groups and birthdays.
Dress: dress to be seen; light layers (it runs warm).
Link: https://www.wahakarest.com/

Casa Jaguar

Casa Jaguar is a nightlife landmark in Casco Viejo. Early evening it works as a restaurant and cocktail spot; after midnight it transforms into a high-energy party with DJs, reggaetón, Latin beats, and a stylish crowd. Expect a line, a cover charge on busy nights, and an enforced dress code. It is packed on weekends.
Link: https://casajaguarpanama.com/
Why people love it: jungle-chic design, consistently strong party energy, and a dance floor that stays busy late.

CasaCasco

CasaCasco is not just sunsets and rooftop photos. After dinner, the upper floors flip into club mode with DJs, bottle service, and dance floors overlooking the Old Quarter and the skyline. If you’re standing in Casco Viejo late at night and searching for clubs, this is usually one of the first high-energy options within walking distance.
Link: https://casacasco.com/
Why people love it: all-in-one nightlife tower (restaurant to lounge to nightclub), panoramic city views, and a late-night crowd that mixes locals, expats, and visitors.

How to run the night (zero friction)

Route: Sunset rooftop → Euforia main set → Wahaka late session.

Timing: Arrive early for easy entry (before midnight on weekends).

Transport: Ride-hail between Casco and Calle Uruguay; traffic eases after 12:30 a.m.

Covers & tabs: IDs checked at door; most places accept cards—keep small cash for covers/tips.

Etiquette: No beachwear, no vape clouds on the dance floor, tip your bartenders, respect staff.

Safety: Stay with your group, watch your drinks, use official ride-hail at the end of the night.

This trio covers the spectrum—pre-game chaos, main-room spectacle, and late-night Latin heat—so you capture the best of Panama City nightlife in one clean run.

Safety and Etiquette Tips for Panama City Bars

1. Stay in the Nightlife Zones

Casco Viejo, the Financial District / Obarrio, San Francisco, and the Amador Causeway are the most popular areas for going out. Stick to lit streets and main plazas when walking at night. After midnight, most people use taxis or ride apps between neighborhoods.

2. Respect Dress Codes

Rooftop lounges and clubs often refuse entry to guests in beachwear, flip-flops, or tank tops. Men are generally fine in jeans or chinos plus a clean T-shirt or collared shirt and decent sneakers. Women usually go for smart casual or full club style. Panama City nightlife is stylish.

3. Cash and Cards

You can pay by card almost anywhere from mid to high-end. Still, carry small bills in U.S. dollars for cover charges, street taxis, and tipping security or bathroom attendants. (Panama uses the U.S. dollar alongside the balboa.)

4. Hydrate

Panama City is hot and humid all year. Alternate cocktails with water, especially if you’re drinking on rooftops or dancing outdoors.

5. Bring ID

The legal drinking age is 18, and upscale venues will check ID at the door and sometimes again at the table for bottle service.

Sample One-Night Bar Crawl in Panama City

Sunset / Golden Hour

Start in Casco Viejo on a rooftop such as Lazotea or CasaCasco. Order a signature cocktail or a local craft beer and take skyline photos while the sun drops.

Cocktails and Conversation

Move downstairs into serious mixology at The Strangers Club or Pedro Mandinga Rum Bar. Ask for something with passion fruit, coconut, cacao, or Panamanian rum.

Live Music Break

Head to an intimate jazz lounge in Casco Viejo for live Latin fusion or classic jazz. Sit, cool down, and reset.

Late-Night Dancing

Finish after midnight at Casa Jaguar or on one of the upper club floors at CasaCasco. Expect DJs, reggaetón, Afro-Latin beats, and a full dance floor.

This crawl keeps you mostly in Casco Viejo so you don’t waste time in traffic. You can literally walk from rooftop bar to craft cocktail bar to live music lounge to nightclub in a single evening.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bars in Panama City, Panama

What are the best bars near me in Panama City if I just landed and I’m staying downtown?

Head for hotel lounges and cocktail bars in Obarrio / Marbella for an easy first night. If you’re willing to take a short ride, Amano in San Francisco is a local favorite for serious cocktails and DJ sets without going all the way to the Old Quarter yet.

Where can I drink craft beer in Panama City?

La Rana Dorada brewpubs pour locally brewed ales and lagers in casual pub settings, including a location in Casco Viejo. Casa Bruja Brewing Co. runs a taproom that serves award-winning IPAs, porters, and experimental small-batch beers alongside barbecue. These two brands define Panama City’s craft beer scene.

What is the best rooftop bar in Panama City for sunset photos?

Lazotea and CasaCasco are consistently mentioned for skyline and ocean views from Casco Viejo, plus signature cocktails and DJs at golden hour.

Is Panama City safe at night?

The main nightlife zones (Casco Viejo, Obarrio / Financial District, San Francisco, Amador Causeway) are busy with locals and visitors. Use normal big-city precautions: stay on well-lit streets, use registered taxis or ride apps after midnight, and keep phones and wallets secure in crowded clubs.

Where can I hear live music instead of a DJ?

Look for intimate jazz lounges and performance spaces in Casco Viejo. You’ll find live jazz, Latin fusion, soul, and curated guest musicians in upscale, candlelit rooms. Larger restored theater spaces in Casco rotate between bands, themed parties, and DJ nights.

Do bars in Panama City have happy hour?

Yes. Rooftops and waterfront spots often run sunset drink specials. Craft breweries usually offer weekday early-evening deals on pints and tasting flights. Ask when you sit down, since promotions change.

Final Word

If you’re searching “bars near me in Panama City,” you’re in one of the best nightlife cities in Central America. The scene is compact, walkable in Casco Viejo, and surprisingly sophisticated. You can start with an artisan rum cocktail in a restored colonial building, sample award-winning craft beer brewed in the city, hear live jazz in a 50-seat lounge, then end the night on a rooftop dance floor overlooking the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal all in a single night.

Use this guide as your reference, bring ID, hydrate, and enjoy Panama City nightlife responsibly.

Sources & Foot Notes

[1] Tripadvisor - Panama City Bars
[2] OpenTable - Best Happy Hour Panama City