Map of Portobelo, Panama

🌴 What to do in Portobelo

Immerse yourself in the rich history and natural beauty of Portobelo with a variety of exciting activities to suit every budget. From exploring historic forts to relaxing on pristine beaches, Portobelo offers a diverse range of experiences for all visitors.

• Best Budget Activity in Portobelo:

  Visit Portobelo's Historic Churches: Discover the cultural heritage of Portobelo by exploring its iconic colonial churches and marveling at the intricate architecture.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Portobelo:

  Snorkeling at Isla Grande: Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Isla Grande and witness the vibrant marine life and coral reefs that make this a perfect spot for snorkeling enthusiasts.

• Best Luxury Activity in Portobelo:

  Private Boat Tour to Punta Manzanillo: Indulge in a luxurious private boat tour to Punta Manzanillo, where you can enjoy exclusive access to secluded beaches and pristine snorkeling spots.

🍽️ Where to eat in Portobelo

Indulge in the culinary delights of Portobelo, where fresh seafood and tropical flavors merge to create a gastronomic paradise. Don't miss out on tasting the local specialties like ceviche, coconut rice, and plantain dishes.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Portobelo:

  El Rancho Colón•$:

  Traditional Panamanian comfort food

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Portobelo:

  Restaurante El Nazareno•$$:

  Caribbean fusion cuisine

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Portobelo:

  Casa Congo•$$$:

  Fine dining with a modern twist on local ingredients

• Best Budget Bar in Portobelo:

  Bar Kuna Yala•$:

  Ice-cold beers and traditional rum cocktails

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Portobelo:

  Papagayo Beach Club•$$:

  Freshly made mojitos and tropical fruit cocktails

• Best Luxury Bar in Portobelo:

  Tío Tomate•$$$:

  Premium wines and signature craft cocktails

🏰 What to see in Portobelo

Portobelo is a treasure trove of historical landmarks that transport visitors back in time to the days of Spanish colonial rule and pirate invasions. Explore the captivating blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty that defines this enchanting town.

• Nombre de Dios Church:

  A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 16th-century church showcases stunning architecture and religious artifacts that reflect the town's rich history.

• San Felipe de Portobelo Fortress:

  An imposing fort that once protected the town from pirate attacks, offering panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and insight into the region's military past.

• Black Christ of Portobelo Statue:

  A revered religious icon that attracts pilgrims from far and wide, symbolizing faith and miracles in the local community.

• Customs House:

  This historic building served as a key trading hub during the colonial era, showcasing the importance of Portobelo as a vibrant port city.

• Playa Huerta:

  A tranquil beach with clear turquoise waters and swaying palm trees, providing a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of Portobelo's coastline.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Portobelo

Uncover unique treasures and local handicrafts in the charming shops and markets of Portobelo. From traditional souvenirs to handmade goods, shopping in Portobelo offers a delightful mix of cultural finds for visitors to take home.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Portobelo:

  Mercado Artesanal de Portobelo: Explore this vibrant artisan market to browse affordable handmade jewelry, textiles, and souvenirs crafted by local artisans.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Portobelo:

  Galeria de Arte Portobelo: Visit this art gallery showcasing a diverse selection of paintings, sculptures, and handicrafts created by talented Panamanian artists.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Portobelo:

  Boutique Mar y Selva: Indulge in luxury shopping at this boutique offering designer clothing, accessories, and home décor items inspired by Panama's rich cultural heritage.

🚌 Getting Around Portobelo

• Public Transport

  In Portobelo, the primary mode of public transportation is by bus. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to travel within the town and to nearby areas. The fare for a bus ride typically ranges from $1 to $3, depending on the distance traveled. Buses operate on a regular schedule throughout the day, making it easy for visitors to explore the town and its surroundings.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  Portobelo is a small town, and the main transportation hub within the area is the bus terminal located in the town center. From this terminal, buses depart to various destinations in the region, providing easy access to neighboring towns and attractions. Additionally, the nearest major airport is Tocumen International Airport in Panama City, approximately a 2-hour drive from Portobelo.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rental: There are several car rental companies in Portobelo, such as XYZ Car Rental and ABC Rentals, offering a range of vehicles from compact cars to SUVs. Prices for car rentals start at $30 per day, with discounts available for longer rental periods. 🚲 Bicycle Rental: For those looking to explore Portobelo at a slower pace, bicycle rentals are also available in the town. Companies like Easy Biking and Pedal Adventures offer bike rentals starting at $10 per day, providing visitors with a fun and eco-friendly way to tour the area.