The Shaping of Panama with Airport Transfer
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Port
Fuerte Amador (Panama City), Panama
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
Information Not Currently Available
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$109
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Archaeological Site of Panamá Viejo and Historic District of Panamá
Founded in 1519, Panamá Viejo is the oldest European settlement on the Pacific coast of the Americas. It was laid out on a rectilinear grid and marks the transference from Europe of the idea of a planned town. Abandoned in the mid-17th century, it was replaced by a ‘new town’ (the ‘Historic District’), which has also preserved its original street plan, its architecture and an unusual mixture of Spanish, French and early American styles.
Panama is a country whose name is utterly inseparable from the image of the canal that changed the world -- considered by many to be the Eighth Wonder of the World. Yet the 'other' Panama is just as interesting, with an amazing history of glory and tragedy that has shaped this country that was once known as the Pearl of the Pacific.
Old Panama -- the original European settlement was founded in 1519 and destroyed by the infamous Welsh Captain Henry Morgan in 1671. This scenic, get-acquainted excursion takes you to see the ruins of the churches and convents, colonial palaces, bridges and military buildings that attest to the grandiose past of Old Panama. You will drive through the streets of the old French Quarter of Panama City, founded in 1673 by French colonists.
En route along the coastline to El Casco Antiguo and the narrow streets of Colonial Panama, you'll hear tales of the extraordinary gallantry and shocking piracy that kept the inhabitants in a state of constant high alert.
Visit the beautiful vaulted promenade of Las Bovedas, and the French Plaza that pays homage to those who built the Panama Canal. A number of old houses and other senescent monuments can be found in the downtown district. Appreciate the eclectic architecture, influenced by a wonderful blend of French, Spanish and Italian styles.
After visiting these UNESCO World Heritage sites, you will transfer to the airport.
Please note: This tour is available to only guests whose cruise ends in Fuerte Amador. It will accommodate those transferring to the airport, with flights departing after 3:30pm.