Panama City is one of the most underpriced travel destinations in the Americas right now. While a mid-range hotel in New York runs $300+ per night and flights can top $600 roundtrip, you can fly from Miami to PTY for under $300 and sleep in a boutique colonial hotel in Casco Viejo for $108 a night. Here’s every real deal we found for May 2026.
✈️ Cheap Flights to Panama City (PTY) — May 2026
Tocumen International Airport (PTY) is Copa Airlines’ main hub, which means solid connectivity from across the Americas and surprisingly competitive fares — especially from the US East Coast.
New York → Panama City
Roundtrip fares from the NYC metro area are running $280–$410 for May, with one-way fares from around $193. Copa Airlines and United both offer nonstop options from EWR.
Miami → Panama City
One of the best-value routes: American Airlines and Copa both fly nonstop MIA–PTY. Roundtrip fares for May are sitting at $250–$320 — check Copa’s site for flash sales.
- Search Miami → PTY on Skyscanner →
- Copa Airlines May Special Fares (from $297 roundtrip, May 7–20) →
London → Panama City
Connecting through Bogotá or Miami, fares from London are workable for a longer trip combining Panama with Colombia or Costa Rica.
Pro tip: Set a price alert on Google Flights or Kayak for your dates — Panama fares can drop 15–20% with a week’s notice.
🏨 Best Hotels in Panama City — May 2026 Prices
Panama City hotels range from world-class boutique properties in Casco Viejo’s restored colonial mansions to efficient business hotels in El Cangrejo and Miraflores. Here’s what real rooms cost right now.
American Trade Hotel — Casco Viejo
From ~$180–$267/night. A restored 1917 building right in the heart of the old city, steps from the best restaurants and bars. Jazz bar on-site, rooftop views, impeccable service. The benchmark for Casco Viejo accommodation.
Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo
From ~$326–$450/night. The most luxurious address in Old Panama — a grand French colonial property with a rooftop pool, spa, and some of the best views of the bay. If you’re splurging, this is it.
Tantalo Hotel — Casco Viejo
From ~$108–$152/night. The most popular choice for younger travelers. Rooftop bar and kitchen, boutique design, walking distance to everything. Great value for Casco Viejo.
La Concordia Boutique Hotel — Casco Viejo
From ~$120–$180/night. A smaller, quieter colonial property with beautiful interiors. Good pick if you want the Casco Viejo location without the Tantalo rooftop crowds.
Check availability on Booking.com →
Central Hotel Panama — Casco Viejo
From ~$140–$180/night. Directly on Parque de la Independencia — you wake up looking at the cathedral. One of the most historic hotels in the city.
Check availability on Booking.com →
TRYP by Wyndham — Budget Option
From ~$65–$100/night. A reliable mid-range option outside Casco Viejo in the banking district. Modern rooms, good amenities, fraction of the boutique price.
Check availability on Booking.com →
🏠 Airbnb in Panama City
Airbnb is strong in Panama City — especially if you want a full apartment in Casco Viejo or a modern condo in Punta Pacifica. Prices typically run 20–40% below equivalent hotels.
When to Book
May is shoulder season — prices are lower than the January–March dry season peak but the weather is still warm. Expect afternoon rains that clear by evening. Book hotels 3–4 weeks out for best rates; flights can be watched closer in.
If you’re staying in Casco Viejo, Pangea Ink is right in the neighborhood — book a tattoo session and make the most of your trip.
👉 Message us on WhatsApp to book a session at Pangea Ink →
Pangea Ink has two studios in Panama City — right in Casco Viejo and on Vía Argentina. If you’re already in town for an event, it’s the perfect time to book that piece you’ve been thinking about. World-class artists, half the price of New York.
