Discover Casco Viejo with Amarla Boutique Hotel, Panama
Explore Historic Landmarks and Local Life
Discover Casco Viejo with Amarla Boutique Hotel, your gateway to the heart of San Felipe—Panama City’s most historic and cosmopolitan neighborhood. Here, colonial wooden houses and cobbled streets contrast with gleaming skyscrapers and lush jungle. It’s a vibrant destination where history and modernity coexist in a compact, walkable area.
Explore Historic Landmarks and Local Life
The best way to experience Casco Viejo is on foot or by bike. Begin your tour at the baroque-style Metropolitan Cathedral. Its twin towers, decorated with mother of pearl, make it one of Central America’s most stunning churches. Construction took more than a century and finished in 1796.
From there, head to La Plaza Mayor. This lively square hosts a craft market where you’ll find handmade goods from local artisans. Nearby, the Paseo de Las Bóvedas is a must-visit. This trellised promenade, covered in vines and bougainvillea, offers shade from the tropical sun and breathtaking views of the Bay of Panama.
The Story of Amarla Boutique Hotel Casco Viejo
The origins of Amarla Boutique Hotel Casco Viejo date back more than 350 years. In 1671, British pirate Henry Morgan looted Panama City, blowing up its gunpowder magazines and burning its buildings to the ground. Just two years later, the original Casa Amarla was built. By 1688, historical records show it was occupied by one of Panama’s elite families.
Unfortunately, their grand wooden home didn’t last. In 1737, the “Fuego Grande” (Great Fire) destroyed 95% of the San Felipe neighborhood, including Casa Amarla. A second fire, the “Fuego Chico” in 1751, once again devastated Manzana 13, the area where the hotel now stands.
Rebirth of a Historic Landmark
The current structure has its roots in a simple wooden building from 1921. It was originally built to house the staff of Casa Góngora and the Arias Pérez family. By then, electric lighting had made wooden homes less vulnerable to fire. This modest structure is the foundation of what would later become the colorful, luxurious Amarla Boutique Hotel.
Neighbors in Time: Casa Góngora
Right next door to Amarla stands Casa Góngora, one of the oldest surviving homes in Casco Viejo. It’s also the only remaining example of 18th-century Spanish colonial architecture in the neighborhood. Archaeological evidence suggests Casa Amarla was once physically connected to Casa Góngora via a shared patio.
Casa Góngora was originally built for Paul Góngora Cáceres, a prominent Spanish pearl merchant. Today, his former home is a vibrant cultural center known as Casa de la Cultura y del Artista Panameño. It regularly hosts art exhibitions, live jazz, folklore shows, and fashion events—well worth a visit during your stay in Casco Viejo.
Nearby Attractions
Just a 10-minute drive from the hotel is the Biomuseo, the only building in Latin America designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry. Known for the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, Gehry created a masterpiece in Panama. This vibrant structure with bold, colorful shapes tells the story of Panama’s geological evolution and how it became the bridge of the Americas.
For shopping lovers, Albrook Mall is a paradise. With over 700 stores, it’s one of the largest shopping centers in the world and filled with amazing deals. Also nearby is Multiplaza Pacific Mall, a more modern shopping destination—both less than 10 minutes from the hotel.
Take a scenic walk along Avenida Balboa, just half a mile from Amarla. This coastal avenue, lined with skyscrapers, offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Don’t miss the Cinta Costera, a beautiful marine viaduct that circles Casco Viejo. Completed in 2009, it stretches over 1.5 miles and is perfect for walking or cycling.
Planning to visit the iconic Panama Canal? It’s only a 20-minute drive away. And for international travelers, Tocumen International Airport is located 30 to 45 minutes from the hotel, depending on traffic. Private transportation can be arranged for your convenience.
Places of Interest Near Amarla
You are in the capable, caring hands of a small group of devoted individuals who work in Amarla Boutique Hotel, which is located in the center of Panama City’s compact old quarter, the Casco Viejo. History is never far away. Cathedral Square, the beating heart of Casco Viejo, is just a five minute walk from the hotel. It’s the ideal place to start your exploration of the brick-paved alleyways, colonial mansions, vibrant shops, bars and restaurants. Other nearby places of interest include:
Boutique Hotels in Casco Viejo, Panama
The ‘Old Quarter,’ also known as Casco Viejo or Casco Antiguo, features some of the finest hotels in Panama. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997, the area dates back to 1673, rebuilt after its destruction in 1671 by British pirate Henry Morgan. In more recent history, the area was unsafe for visitors due to gang presence. However, once they left, the spectacular facades and grand colonial mansions were restored to their original beauty. Today, the vibrant old town is a captivating blend of lively plazas, colorful architecture, and charming brick-paved alleyways lined with cafes, restaurants, shops, and bars. As a result, Casco Viejo is now one of Central America’s most desirable destinations. Since the district is only about four avenues wide, it’s ideal for a leisurely stroll. Indeed, history reveals itself on every corner, making it a dream location for photographers. Moreover, food lovers will be thrilled by the endless culinary options available, regardless of their preferences. Finally, at the end of a delightful day, visitors can safely join locals in what is now considered the trendiest neighborhood in Central America.
The Neighborhood of Casco Viejo
Casco Viejo is home to some of Panama City’s most fascinating museums. For instance, located in the old main post office, right by the cathedral square, is the Museum of the Canal. This museum explores the rich and complex history of one of the world’s greatest engineering marvels—the Panama Canal. Nearby, the Museo de la Mola offers another cultural gem. It celebrates the intricate appliqué textile art created by the Guna people, an indigenous group renowned for this vibrant tradition. The museum showcases many Molas, explaining their cultural, religious, and political significance.
If you’re looking for a perfect souvenir, Molas are a beautiful option. However, under Panama’s tropical sun, a more practical choice might be the iconic Panama hat. Though originally from Ecuador, these hats are found all over the city. Prices vary greatly depending on the tightness of the weave. You’ll see options in different styles and colors, but the timeless, classic look tends to last for years.
Culinary Delights
After exploring Panama’s artistic heritage, it’s time to treat your tastebuds. With a bounty of fresh ingredients from both land and sea, Panama’s culinary scene has flourished in recent years. In fact, in 2017, Panama City was named a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. Whether you’re looking for fine dining or casual eats, just ask us—we’ll gladly guide you to an unforgettable meal.
If lunchtime is near, follow the locals to the Mercado de Mariscos. This popular fish market is only a 10-minute walk from the hotel. There, you’ll find lobsters, fillets, and shrimp displayed on ice. Choose your favorite and enjoy it freshly cooked at the restaurant upstairs. Many locals prefer a quick, tangy ceviche with an ice-cold beer.
Need to cool down? Ice cream is a great choice. In Casco Viejo, head to the charming French parlor Grancelement, located in a restored colonial home. With over 30 flavors—including unique ones like basil and vegan options—it’s a must-visit. One scoop and you’ll be planning your return.
Don’t miss out on Panama’s exceptional coffee either. While Geisha beans originated in Ethiopia, Panama’s climate makes them thrive. Some beans sell for as much as $600 per pound. At Café Unido, in the American Trade Hotel at Plaza Herrera, you can sample this rare coffee for a much more affordable price.
As evening sets in, consider visiting Teatro Amador. Originally built in 1908 to entertain canal engineers and wealthy locals, it was fully restored in 2012. Today, it stands as one of Casco Viejo’s top nightspots. On weekends, the venue features live DJs and the occasional band—perfect for wrapping up your day in style.
