"Excellent stay — I loved the apartment, amenities, and facilities. We will definitely be back. Outstanding host, highly recommended."
City
National Theater of Panama
Neoclassical jewel and Panama's cultural soul since 1908
In the heart of Casco Viejo
The National Theater of Panama, inaugurated on October 1, 1908, is the country's premier cultural venue and one of the most iconic architectural jewels of Casco Viejo. Designed by Italian architect Genaro Ruggieri, this majestic neoclassical building was constructed over the remains of an 18th-century convent. Its facade features Corinthian columns, an elegant triangular pediment, and a medallion with a lyre, symbol of the arts. The interior dazzles with an Italian marble lobby, a dome painted in fresco by Panamanian artist Roberto Lewis with allegories of the nation's birth, gilded balustrade boxes, and a Murano glass chandelier crowning the 854-seat main hall. Declared a National Historic Monument, the theater was thoroughly restored in 1974 and again between 2000 and 2004. Today it hosts the National Symphony Orchestra, ballet, opera, international concerts, and top-tier cultural events. Located on Avenida B between 3rd and 4th streets in Casco Viejo, steps from Plaza Bolívar and the Church of San Francisco de Asís.
Inaugurated in 1908 — National Historic Monument
Dome with Roberto Lewis frescoes
Murano glass chandelier
Home of the National Symphony Orchestra
Stay here
BeachFront Apartment — Playa Escondida
Costa Arriba, Colón — ~75 km / ~1 h from Panama City (resort private road)
From $400 / per night
Punta Arenas Apartment — Buenaventura
Pacific Coast of Panama — 1.5 hours from Panama City
From $300 / per night
Dovle Cincuentenario Loft — Ground Floor Corner
Coco del Mar, Panama City — Near Omar Park
Dovle Cincuentenario Loft — Upper Floor Corner
Coco del Mar, Panama City — Near Omar Park
Playa Escondida — Phase 2
María Chiquita, Costa Arriba — official master plan (Arenas, Oasis, Marina, Lagoon Village)
What our guests say
"Impressive — every detail worth it, all high level."
"Everything was amazing. The house was amazing. Juan Carlos and his partner were always attentive and willing to help. The house is fully equipped with everything you need. Maybe I would add a few more blankets for the cold, but everything else was spectacular! Thank you both for making this a great weekend — I'll definitely go back!"
"Excellent apartment for a family stay. Comfortable, clean, and very well equipped. Juan Carlos and his team were always attentive to any questions or needs. We would definitely rent this apartment again."
"Great experience. Excellent location. Juan Carlos is super attentive and available for any questions."
"A very nice apartment! Highly recommended for large groups."
"We had a great time! We will be back soon! 10/10"
"The apartment matches all the descriptions in the listing. Very spacious, tidy, clean, and with all the amenities. The team was very friendly and responded quickly. The place is definitely worth it."
"Everything was great; they were very attentive to everything. We were all very pleased with the accommodation. Thank you for hosting us."
"Excellent stay as always — it is always a great experience to come, even more so with Juan Carlos's service."
"Excellent place in the best area of Playa Escondida! Everything you need for a large family or group of friends, with spacious and comfortable rooms and a lot of security. We love Playa Escondida and this time the accommodation exceeded our expectations — the apartment is super equipped, all new appliances and very comfortable."
"Very grateful to the hosts. All communication was seamless. Excellent property and well equipped for large family groups."
"Excellent accommodation and very good communication with the hosts."
"Juan Carlos and his team were very responsive to our every need. The apartment is in pristine condition, with brand new high-quality appliances. There is lots of room for everyone, and each bedroom has an in-suite bathroom. Bath/beach towels, cooking supplies, TVs, linens, and incredible views are all notable features. Playa Escondida resort is very relaxing, well managed, and a great place to escape the city."
"Everything was beautiful, the apartment was practically new, everything was neat and super comfortable. 100% recommended."
"Our stay at the apartment was excellent. The place is very comfortable, impeccably clean, and has an unbeatable location very close to the club. The bed was super comfortable. The host was very kind and always willing to help. Without a doubt, a highly recommended option for those seeking comfort and great service in Buenaventura."
"Excellent place to relax and enjoy with family. The apartment has all the necessary amenities and is very well equipped. The host's attention is first-class. Easy access to the beach club and golf course. We will definitely return."
Practical Information
Address
Avenida B, between 3rd and 4th Streets, Casco Viejo, Panama City
Hours
Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (administration and tours). Evening events and weekends per schedule.
Admission
Guided tours: $5 per person. Concerts and events: from $10 to $50 depending on the show.
Our Tip
Book a guided tour to fully appreciate Roberto Lewis's frescoes. The National Symphony Orchestra offers accessible Sunday concerts. Arrive early to stroll Plaza Bolívar before the show.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to visit the National Theater of Panama?
Guided tours cost $5 per person. Tickets for National Symphony Orchestra concerts start at $10, and other shows range from $10 to $50 depending on the event.
Who painted the frescoes in the National Theater?
The ceiling frescoes were painted by Roberto Lewis (1874–1949), Panama's most important painter. The allegories depict the birth of the Panamanian nation and the triumph of the arts. Lewis studied at the Académie Julian in Paris and directed the National School of Painting.
How to get to the National Theater from Panama City?
The Theater is in Casco Viejo, accessible by taxi or Uber (15 min from the financial district, ~$5). You can also take the Metro to 5 de Mayo station and walk 10 minutes. Casco Viejo only allows local traffic, so it's recommended to arrive by car and walk from the public parking area.
Are guided tours of the National Theater available?
Yes. Guided tours are offered Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, costing $5 per person. The tour includes the marble lobby, the 854-seat main hall, the dome with Roberto Lewis frescoes, and the historic box seats. No advance reservation is needed for small groups.
What events are held at the National Theater?
The National Theater is home to the National Symphony Orchestra of Panama, which offers regular concert seasons. It also hosts ballet, opera, dramatic theater, piano recitals, jazz festivals, and international cultural events. The schedule is published on the INAC website and the theater's social media.
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