How to get from Panama City Tocumen Airport to Casco Viejo

Cities & Metropolitan Areas · Panama · Urban & Cultural · Casco Viejo · Panama City · Tocumen International Airport

Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport (PTY) is east of downtown; Casco Viejo (Casco Antiguo/San Felipe) sits on the historic peninsula—so the easiest plan is a direct taxi or rideshare, while the metro is the best-value option if you’re traveling light.

At A Glance (Panama City Tocumen Airport to Casco Viejo)

Mode Duration Best For
🚕 Official Taxi (PTY → Casco Viejo) ~25–45m (traffic-dependent) Most travelers, simplest door-to-door
🏷️ Cost: ~US$25–40+ (tolls/traffic may add) » fixed pickup alternative | compare private drivers
📱 Ride-hailing (Uber) ~25–55m (pickup + traffic) In-app estimate, card payments
🏷️ Cost: ~US$15–35+ (surge possible) » PTY pickup instructions
🚇 Metro (Line 2 → Line 1) + short taxi/walk ~50–75m total (waiting + ride + last mile) Best value, daytime & light luggage
🏷️ Cost: ~US$1–3 total (metro fares + last-mile) » add a Casco tour later
🚌 Public Bus (MiBus) + Metro/Taxi Connection ~60–95m total (connection-dependent) Lowest cost, flexible travelers
🏷️ Cost: ~US$0.25–3+ » check common bus/transfer listings
🚐 Private Transfer (meet & greet) ~25–50m door-to-door Families, late arrivals, lots of luggage
🏷️ Cost: Commonly ~US$30–80+ per vehicle » pre-book airport pickup | alt. transfer listings
🚗 Car Rental (self-drive) ~30–55m drive (+ pickup time) Road trips beyond Panama City
🏷️ Cost: Varies widely by season/vehicle » compare car rentals | stays in Casco Viejo
🧳 Luggage Storage (add-on, not transport) 5–15m detour (drop-off/pick-up) Exploring Casco hands-free
🏷️ Cost: From ~US$6/bag/day » find storage points
🚲 Bike Rental (add-on for Cinta Costera & waterfront) Pick-up time + ride at your pace Sightseeing after you arrive
🏷️ Cost: From a few US$/hour or US$/day » compare bike rentals
🗺️ Guided Tour in Casco Viejo (optional) ~2–4h (tour-dependent) First-time visitors, quick orientation
🏷️ Cost: Varies by tour » browse Casco Viejo tours | alt. activities

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

How to Book and Practical Tips

  • Know your exact endpoint in Casco Viejo: Casco is compact but street access can vary; share a hotel name/address or a landmark like Plaza de la Independencia, Iglesia de San José, or Plaza Francia.
  • Plan for tolls: The fastest route often uses Corredor Sur. Ask if tolls are included (taxi/transfer) or expect to reimburse them.
  • For the metro last mile: The easiest drop point is usually 5 de Mayo or nearby stations—then walk (if light) or take a short taxi/Uber to your exact address.
  • Buy/Top up a transit card: MiBus/Metro typically requires a prepaid card for buses (and commonly for metro). If you plan to use public transport more than once, it’s worth buying immediately.
  • Safety & timing: If you land very late, prioritize private transfer or official taxi to minimize waiting outside.
  • Need a place to stay? Compare hotels inside the historic district on Booking.com (Casco Viejo).
  • Book flights: If you’re still planning, search routes into Panama City on Booking.com Flights or browse deals on Trip.com.
  • Make Casco a guided experience: Once settled, add a walking tour via Casco Viejo tours for quick context and best viewpoints.

🚕 Option #1 — Official Taxi (Most Convenient, Reliable)

Door-to-door No transfers Higher cost

  • Overview: Take a taxi from the airport directly to Casco Viejo. This is the simplest option after a long flight and works well with luggage.
  • How to ride (with price): Use the official taxi line at the terminal exit. Typical fares to Casco are often ~US$25–40+ depending on traffic and whether tolls are included.
  • Pros: Fast, direct, no app needed. Cons: Costs more than metro/bus; traffic can be heavy at rush hour.
  • Tip: Tell the driver “Casco Antiguo / San Felipe” plus your exact hotel name to avoid being dropped at the wrong edge of the district.

Step-by-step: Official Taxi

  1. Exit Arrivals and follow signs for Taxis (avoid unsolicited offers inside the terminal).
  2. Share your exact Casco destination (hotel name or landmark).
  3. Ask whether tolls are included; if not, be ready to pay them during the ride.
  4. Ride to Casco and request a door drop-off (some streets may be restricted at certain times—your driver will choose the closest legal access point).

Getting to the main embarking points (Official taxi rank)

  • Where to go: Head to the signed taxi area outside Arrivals.
  • Alternative (fixed price): If you prefer meet-and-greet, book a car with Welcome Pickups or compare drivers on GetTransfer.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

📱 Option #2 — Ride-hailing (Uber)

Upfront estimate Cashless possible Surge & pickup rules

  • Overview: Request an Uber from the airport to Casco Viejo. Travel time is similar to taxis, but price fluctuates with demand.
  • How to book (with price): Request your ride after you’ve collected luggage. Follow PTY pickup instructions for the correct meeting point. Expect typical trips in the ~US$15–35+ ballpark depending on demand and toll routing.
  • Pros: App receipt, driver ratings, route sharing. Cons: Surge pricing and occasional pickup delays.
  • Tip: If wait times spike, switch to Option #1 to leave faster.

Step-by-step: Uber

  1. Connect to airport Wi‑Fi/data and open the Uber app.
  2. Set destination to your hotel/landmark in Casco Viejo.
  3. Follow the in-app directions to the pickup area; confirm plate and driver name.
  4. Ask the driver to confirm if they’ll take the toll route (faster) or non-toll route (slower but sometimes cheaper).

Getting to the main embarking points (Ride-hail pickup zone)

🚇 Option #3 — Metro (Line 2 → Line 1) + Last Mile (Best Value)

Cheap Avoids traffic Last-mile needed

  • Overview: Take Metro Line 2 from the airport-area station toward San Miguelito, transfer to Line 1, then exit near the old town and finish by walking (light luggage) or a short taxi/Uber.
  • How to ride (with price): Buy a reloadable transit card (or use accepted tap-to-pay if available at gates). The metro ride is usually under US$1 for the rail portion; add ~US$2–6 for a short taxi/Uber into the heart of Casco depending on where you exit and traffic.
  • Pros: Very good value, predictable timing. Cons: Stairs/escalators and a short last-mile transfer; not ideal with bulky luggage.
  • Tip: If you’re arriving at night or with big bags, choose Option #5.

Step-by-step: Metro to Casco Viejo

  1. From the terminal, head to the nearest metro access for Line 2 (Airport branch).
  2. Ride Line 2 to San Miguelito and transfer to Line 1 toward the city center.
  3. Exit at a central station such as 5 de Mayo (common for downtown access) and then:
    1. Walk: If traveling light, walk into Casco (time varies by exact route), or
    2. Short taxi/Uber: Use a quick last-mile ride to your hotel/landmark in Casco.
  4. Set your final destination to a precise Casco landmark (Plaza de la Independencia / Plaza Francia) to avoid extra wandering.

Getting to the main embarking points (Metro Line 2 access)

  • Where to go: Follow airport signage for the metro connection (ask at information if you don’t see it quickly).
  • Card/payment prep: If you plan to use buses too, review MiBus card basics and top-up guidance on MiBus FAQs.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚌 Option #4 — Public Bus (MiBus) + Connection (Cheapest, Most Flexible)

Lowest cost Many routes More steps

  • Overview: Use a MiBus route from the airport area to connect with the metro (common) or a central hub, then finish to Casco Viejo by metro + short taxi, or taxi from a hub.
  • How to ride (with price): Public bus fares can be as low as US$0.25 for trunk routes; corridor/express services cost more. The MiBus user guide explains fare types and the prepaid card system.
  • Pros: Cheapest possible, good for budget travelers. Cons: Slower and more confusing with luggage; not ideal late at night.
  • Tip: If you’re unsure which bus stop to use at the terminals, ask airport staff for “MetroBus / MiBus” stop directions.

Step-by-step: Bus + Metro (simple public-transport combo)

  1. Find the MiBus/MetroBus stop at the terminal departures area (exact doors and platforms can vary by terminal).
  2. Ride a route that connects you toward the metro network (commonly toward Metro Pedregal or similar connections).
  3. Switch to the metro and follow Option #3 into the city center (Line 2 → transfer → Line 1).
  4. From the downtown station (often 5 de Mayo), walk (light luggage) or take a short taxi/Uber to Casco.

Getting to the main embarking points (MiBus stop at the airport)

🚐 Option #5 — Private Transfer (Meet & Greet, Fixed Price)

Hassle-free Driver waiting Costs more

  • Overview: A pre-booked driver meets you at Arrivals and drives straight to Casco Viejo. Best for late arrivals, families, and anyone who wants minimal logistics.
  • How to book (with price): Pre-book with Welcome Pickups (Panama City) for meet-and-greet service, compare offers on GetTransfer (Panama), or browse alternative airport transfer listings on Klook. Typical pricing is often ~US$30–80+ per vehicle depending on car size and timing.
  • Pros: No queues, driver tracks your flight, easiest with luggage. Cons: Higher cost than metro/bus.
  • Tip: Share a WhatsApp number and your exact Casco address; some hotels have preferred drop-off points.

Step-by-step: Private Transfer

  1. Book with your flight number, landing time, passenger count, and destination details.
  2. After landing, follow signs to Arrivals and find your driver at the meeting point specified in your confirmation.
  3. Verify your name and destination; then head directly to Casco Viejo.
  4. Keep provider contact details handy in case of baggage delays or terminal changes.

Getting to the main embarking points (Arrivals meeting point)

  • Where to meet: Usually in or near the Arrivals hall; your confirmation will specify the exact spot.
  • Alternative: If you prefer rideshare, use Option #2 — Uber.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚗 Option #6 — Car Rental (Best for Day Trips)

Maximum freedom Great for onward travel Parking needed

  • Overview: Rent a car at PTY if you’re continuing beyond Panama City (beaches, highlands, Canal area). For “airport → Casco only,” taxis/transfers are usually easier.
  • How to book (with price): Compare suppliers on Booking.com car rentals at PTY. Rates vary by season/vehicle; expect a deposit and check insurance details.
  • Pros: Great for multi-stop trips, easy luggage handling. Cons: Casco streets can be narrow and parking is limited/paid.
  • Tip: If staying in Casco, confirm your hotel’s parking situation before you commit.

Step-by-step: Car Rental to Casco Viejo

  1. Pick up your car at the airport counters and photograph existing damage.
  2. Set navigation to your exact Casco address or a nearby garage/lot.
  3. Park securely, then walk the final blocks if your accommodation sits on a restricted street.

Getting to the main embarking points (Car rental desks)

  • Where to go: Follow terminal signage for Car Rental desks.
  • Where to stay: Compare Casco hotels on Booking.com and confirm parking availability.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🧳 Option #7 — Luggage Storage (Add-on for Exploring Hands-Free)

Hands-free Perfect on arrival day Small detour

  • Overview: If you arrive before check-in (or have a late departure), store your bags and explore Casco Viejo without luggage.
  • How to book (with price): Reserve a drop point via Radical Storage (Panama City). Pricing is typically per bag per day and varies by location.
  • Pros: More comfortable walking Casco’s cobblestone streets. Cons: Requires a stop to drop and collect.

Step-by-step: Luggage Storage + Casco Viejo

  1. Select a storage point near your planned walking loop (Casco/Cinta Costera/downtown) and reserve.
  2. Drop bags, keep your QR/receipt details, and head to Casco sights.
  3. Pick up luggage and continue to your accommodation or onward transport.

Getting to the main embarking points (Storage location near Casco)

  • Where to go: Choose a partner location close to your itinerary so you don’t backtrack.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚲 Option #8 — Bike Rental (Add-on for Waterfront & Cinta Costera)

Fun & scenic Flexible Not for airport transfer

  • Overview: Cycling is a great way to connect Casco Viejo to the skyline viewpoints and waterfront paths. It’s not practical for the airport transfer, but it’s excellent for sightseeing afterward.
  • How to book (with price): Compare rentals on BikesBooking. Prices vary by bike type and duration.
  • Pros: Great photos, easy to cover more ground than walking. Cons: Heat/humidity and traffic—stick to safer waterfront routes where possible.

Step-by-step: Bike Rental After Arrival

  1. Choose a rental location close to your accommodation (Casco/Centro) for easy pickup and return.
  2. Confirm what’s included (helmet, lock) and take photos of the bike before leaving.
  3. Ride waterfront routes at your pace and return before the hottest part of the day if possible.

Getting to the main embarking points (Bike rental pickup near downtown)

  • Where to go: Pick a rental point close to Casco for the easiest start.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🗺️ Option #9 — Guided Tour in Casco Viejo (Optional)

Easy orientation Local context Fixed timing

  • Overview: Join a walking tour focused on Casco’s plazas, churches, viewpoints, and stories—ideal if you want to understand what you’re seeing on day one.
  • How to book (with price): Browse listings on GetYourGuide (Casco Viejo) or check additional Panama City experiences on Klook.
  • Pros: Efficient, informative, great for first-time visitors. Cons: Less flexible than exploring on your own.

Step-by-step: Join a Casco Viejo Tour

  1. Pick a tour that starts close to where you’ll be staying (or near a central Casco plaza).
  2. Arrive 10–15 minutes early; bring water and sun protection.
  3. After the tour, continue on foot to viewpoints or cafés that your guide recommends.

Getting to the main embarking points (Tour meeting point in Casco)

  • Where to meet: The tour listing will show the precise meeting point and a map.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Panama City Tocumen Airport to Casco Viejo)

What’s the easiest way to get from Tocumen Airport (PTY) to Casco Viejo?
For most travelers, Option #1 — Official Taxi is the simplest door-to-door choice. If you prefer an app-based estimate and digital receipt, use Option #2 — Uber.

How long does it take?
By car (taxi/Uber/transfer) it’s commonly ~25–55 minutes depending on traffic. With the metro plus a last-mile taxi/walk, plan ~50–75 minutes total.

What’s the cheapest option?
Usually Option #3 — Metro. If you’re very budget-focused and comfortable with extra steps, Option #4 — MiBus + connection can be the lowest cash cost.

Is there a direct public-transport route into Casco Viejo?
Public transport gets you close, but Casco often requires a short last-mile walk or quick taxi/Uber from a central metro stop.

Do I need cash?
It helps to have small bills for short taxis, toll reimbursements, or quick purchases. For rideshare and many services, cards are commonly accepted.

Where should I be dropped off in Casco Viejo?
Use a precise endpoint: your hotel, Plaza de la Independencia, Plaza Francia, or another landmark. Some streets can be pedestrian-priority, so the closest legal access point may vary.

Can I store luggage if I arrive before check-in?
Yes—use Option #7 — Luggage Storage to explore Casco without bags.

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