Finding the right place to stay in Panama City with kids isn’t as straightforward as it looks.
Some areas are great for nightlife but not ideal for families, and others look good online but leave you dealing with noise, traffic, or long travel times.
We’ve kept this simple, these are hotels that actually work when you’re travelling with kids.
Don’t have time to read? Start here:
Start here:
🏆 Best overall: Hotel Bristol Panama – central, comfortable, easy stay
👨👩👧 Best for families: Residence Inn by Marriott – more space, apartment-style
🌆 Best location: Central Hotel Panama Casco Viejo – walkable, historic area
💰 Best budget option: Hampton by Hilton Panama – simple, reliable👉 Check availability for your dates
Where to stay in Panama City with kids
For families, location matters more than anything.
The two best areas are:
Punta Pacifica / Obarrio – modern, safe, central, close to malls and restaurants
Casco Viejo – more character, walkable, great for a short stay
Most of the hotels below are in these areas for a reason.
7 Best Family Hotels in Panama City
1. Bristol Panama – Best overall family stay
Why it works for families:
This is one of those places where everything just feels easy. Good location, spacious rooms, and reliable service.
What you’ll like:
- Large, comfortable rooms
- Quiet compared to busier areas
- Central location for getting around
What to consider:
- Slightly more expensive than average
👉 Check prices Hotel Bristal Panama
2. Residence Inn by Marriott Panama City – Best for space
Why it works for families:
If you want more space and flexibility, this is one of the best options. It’s more apartment-style, which makes a big difference with kids.
What you’ll like:
- Kitchenettes in rooms
- Extra space for families
- Good for longer stays
What to consider:
- Less of a “hotel” feel
👉 Check prices Residence In by Marriot Panama City
3. Central Hotel Panama Casco Viejo – Best location
Why it works for families:
Right in Casco Viejo, so you can walk to restaurants, cafes, and main sights without needing taxis all the time.
What you’ll like:
- Walkable historic location
- Rooftop pool
- Easy short-stay base
What to consider:
- Can be busy/noisy at night
👉 Check prices Central Hotel Panama
4. Hilton Panama – Reliable, modern choice
Why it works for families:
A bigger hotel with all the facilities you’d expect. Easy, predictable, and comfortable.
What you’ll like:
- Pool and family-friendly amenities
- Spacious rooms
- Good central location
What to consider:
- Feels more “corporate” than local
👉 Check prices Hilton Panama
5. Waldorf Astoria Panama – Good balance option
Why it works for families:
A solid middle-ground option—comfortable, good service, and a central base.
What you’ll like:
- Clean, modern rooms
- Good location
- Reliable service
What to consider:
- Not as spacious as apartment-style hotels
👉 Check prices Waldorf Astoria Panama
6. Hampton by Hilton Panama – Best budget option
Why it works for families:
If you’re trying to keep costs down, this is a simple, reliable option in a good area.
What you’ll like:
- Affordable
- Breakfast included
- Easy, no-fuss stay
What to consider:
- Smaller rooms
- Basic setup
👉 Check prices Hampton By Hilto Panama
7. Global Hotel Panama – Underrated option
Why it works for families:
A quieter, less touristy option that still gives you comfort and space.
What you’ll like:
- Spacious rooms
- Rooftop pool
- Good value for money
What to consider:
- Not as well-known as bigger chains
👉 Check prices Global Hotel Panama
Quick tips for booking in Panama City
- Stick to Punta Pacifica, Obarrio, or Casco Viejo for your first stay
- Check for larger rooms or suites if travelling with kids
- Look for pools (it gets hot)
- Don’t just pick the cheapest option, location matters more
Still not sure where to stay?
If you want to keep it simple:
- Go with Bristol Panama for the easiest overall stay
- Choose Residence Inn if you want more space
- Pick Hampton by Hilton if you’re on a budget
Book your accommodation
We usually use Booking.com for most of our stays. It’s flexible, easy to manage, and works well when plans change.
Use the search below to find what fits your trip.
Panama City is one of those places where the right hotel makes a big difference.
Get the location right, give yourself a bit of space, and everything else becomes a lot easier, especially with kids.
