Discover the vibrant soul of Panama City by exploring its most iconic markets. From the bustling wholesale stalls filled with tropical produce to the intricate, handmade textiles of the Guna Yala people, these markets offer an authentic glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage and daily life.
Whether you are hunting for unique souvenirs, tasting fresh local ceviche, or simply soaking in the colorful atmosphere, this guide highlights the essential markets you must visit to experience the true spirit of Panama.
The wholesale Market
The mercado de abastos is the wholesale fruit and vegetable market of Panama City. Functioning under a relentless sun, farmers and customers elbow each other as they unload boxes, exchange money, fill shopping bags and bargain over the price of avocados and yucca. The market is a muddy, lively and colorful place that smells of fresh earth, mixed with citrus fruits and is found in the heart of this tropical city.
The fish market
The fish market in Panama City is open every day from 6am-5pm. Sitting outside at one of the various restaurants that serve cheap and delicious ceviche, you can witness the fishermen’s boats as they return to the harbour of Panama to unload the catch of the day. The mercado de mariscos is a place full of character that brings together people from all walks of life and it is one of the most authentic experiences you can have in Panama City.
The National Handicraft Market
“The Mercado Nacional de Artesanías” is located next to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Panama Viejo and is a great place for buying souvenirs. As well as the world-famous Panama hats, local sellers also trade typical Panamanian pre-Columbian and pre-Hispanic artefacts. Some of them are copies of the masks and jewellery that were made by the indigenous people native to Panama before the Spanish conquest, while others are woven Embera bowls or masks.
El Mercado pop-up market
This pop-up market was created to provide an alternative handicraft and flea market in a city that seems to have got lost in the concept of the “Shopping mall’, and is frequented by everyone, from young people, to families and the elderly, who come here to buy, sell, explore, eat, or simply to stretch the legs. This market, which takes place in the City of Knowledge, in Panama City, hopes to promote the sale of handmade products, local and alternative foods, antiques, second-hand items and artwork.
The Avenida 5 de Mayo Market
The market on the central Avenida 5 de Mayo, in Panama City, is the best place in town for buying molas, the traditional handmade fabrics woven by the Guna Yalas. Natives of San Blas, the Gunas stand out for their unique, flashy style, that mixes square pieces of fabrics with embroideries inspired by body painting, birds, butterflies, leaves and nature in general.
Mi Pueblito
Mi Pueblito is found on Ancon Hill in Panama City and is a craft market that sells replicas of items typically produced in the Panama, by Caribbean communities and in indigenous villages. Setup like a mini village, with little plazas, churches, fountains, and colourful folklore shows, it opens daily from 9am-5pm.
