Panama Emerges as One of the World’s Most Attractive Destinations

Panama continues to establish itself as one of the most attractive and versatile destinations in the region. In recent weeks, leading international travel and lifestyle media outlets have highlighted the country among their global recommendations, reinforcing its international visibility and confirming the factors that make Panama a unique place to visit, invest in, or even retire.

These recognitions support the destination’s promotion strategy and showcase, to key audiences, the authenticity, diversity, and outstanding connectivity that set Panama apart on the global stage.

Panama City: A Must-Visit Destination for 2026

Panama City has been named among the destinations expected to trend in 2026, thanks to its ability to offer multiple experiences within a single destination. Key attributes that position the capital as a unique meeting point include:

• The historic charm of the Casco Antiguo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• A vibrant cultural scene and dynamic nightlife.

• Proximity to the Panama Canal, the country’s most iconic attraction.

• Easy access to beaches, tropical rainforests, and Indigenous communities.

This recognition highlights one of Panama’s strongest competitive advantages: the ability to enjoy diverse experiences within short distances—an increasingly decisive factor for today’s high-value travelers.

Panama City: An International Gastronomic Hub

Panama City has also gained international attention for its culinary offering and its recognition by UNESCO as a Creative City of Gastronomy. The city’s food scene reflects Panama’s cultural diversity and its ongoing evolution as a world-class destination.

Key highlights include:

• A multicultural heritage that shapes its flavors and culinary traditions.

• The growth of food tours that connect visitors with local cuisine.

• Innovative and high-quality restaurants blending tradition with modern creativity.

Gastronomy has become a cornerstone of the tourism experience in Panama.

Air Connectivity Driving Growth

Air connectivity remains one of Panama’s most important competitive strengths. The country offers direct access from major cities across the Americas and Europe, supported by an extensive international route network.

Programs such as the Panama Stopover allow travelers to stay in the country for several days at no additional airfare cost, encouraging longer stays and attracting new traveler segments seeking enriching short-term experiences.

Panama Among the Best Retirement Destinations for 2026

CNN Travel, referencing the Global Retirement Index by International Living, ranked Panama among the top destinations for retirement in 2026.

The country stands out for key factors valued by retirees:

• Tropical climate and high quality of life.

• Economic stability and use of the U.S. dollar.

• Access to competitive, high-quality healthcare.

• Retiree benefits and streamlined residency options.

Panama’s geographic diversity—from the capital city to the highlands of Boquete and the Pacific coastline—allows retirees to design a lifestyle tailored to their preferences.

A Destination in Constant Evolution

Growing global recognition confirms that Panama continues to move steadily toward its goal of becoming a world-class destination. Its comprehensive value proposition—combining connectivity, natural diversity, cultural richness, and quality of life—positions the country as an attractive option for international markets and high-potential segments.