Top Things to do in Colon
What to do and see in Colon, Colon Province: The Best Budget-friendly Things to do
About 50 miles northwest of Panama City, Colón is home to the northern gateway of the Panama Canal as well as Afro-Caribbean descendants of those workers who helped build the canal in the early 20th century. Colón’s greatest claim to fame—and the main reason visitors come here—is the Colón Free Zone, a massive shopping showroom where wholesalers, retailers and the general public shop. You’ll also find Colón 2000, a cruise-ship port with restaurants, a supermarket, and shops selling duty-free merchandise. The most scenic way to travel here is by way of the restored Panama Canal Railway, featuring elegant, wood-paneled and carpeted rail cars (based on 19th century designs) that takes you on a hour-long journey through the rainforest to Colón.
Restaurants in Colon
1. Gatun Locks
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 757 reviews
Reviewed By harmonie - Antwerp, Belgium
We crossed the Gatun Locks on a cruise ship. Since there are 3 locks and the operations last for hours, you get plenty of time to experience all the maneuvers needed to bring the ships from the Atlantic Ocean up to Lake Gatun
2. Almiza Tours by My friend Mario - Tours
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 132 reviews
Providing the highest quality tours at an unbeatable value since 1994.Friendly guides and the best price in Panama city and Colon.Enjoy the pleasure of an amazing trip, coupled with the opportunity to discover a life-changing cultural experience.
3. Observation Centre Canal Expansion
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 51 reviews
Reviewed By 791989 - Grayson, United States
This is a place to spend a couple of hours to get a full idea of the importance of the Panama Canal. There is a restaurant, walking trails and a fantastic view area of the new locks, as well a the old locks. You ca almost reach out and touch ships entering the new locks.
4. Agua Clara Locks
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 141 reviews
Reviewed By LIRoss55 - Kilmarnock, United Kingdom
We had seen the original canal lock gates at the excellent centre on the Pacific side: Miraflores. I wanted to see the new system and the only way to do this is to go to the Atlantic side. So we took the early train from Panama City. It is the original carriage and engine from the 19th century, a wonderful comfortable trip though the rainforest with views of the canal and lakes with complimentary coffee and breakfast. I had arranged for a driver to take us to the station in the morning, she picked us up in Colon and took us to Aguas Claras locks where we watched a ship go through the new basins and gates. The guide gave great live explanations what was happening and tbere is a good short film about the building of the new super ship size locks. A must if you want to understand the new canal.
5. Portobelo National Park
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 197 reviews
Picturesque bayside village features the ruins of five Spanish forts, a restored treasure house and the burial place of Sir Francis Drake.
Reviewed By Resort545463
Portobelo is a quiet town seemingly in the middle of nowhere. It's steeped in history, bright colors and third world charm I fell in love instantly. I enjoyed walking through the Spanish ruins imagining what things must have been like in the 1600's sitting by the bay drinking rum and walking the streets and taking in the sights. You won't find fancy hotels here YET its still an unspoiled hub of culture.
6. Fort San Lorenzo
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 318 reviews
King Phillip II ordered the fortress to be built in 1595, which is located on the Chagres River commanding a view of the mouth of the river and miles out to sea.
Reviewed By 617reginaldg
This is a beautiful site. It's a bit of a drive to get there as the road is rather isolated but when you get there, it is really beautiful. the ruins are gorgeous and some really great photo's can be taken there. Also, there are some unique animals to see there as well. It's worth the trip if you like history and beauty.
