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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Panama City
Panama City
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Panama City
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Panama City
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Panama City
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Why Rent a Car in Panama City?
Panama City is a vibrant metropolis with a blend of modern skyscrapers and historic districts. While public transportation is available, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, discover hidden gems, and venture beyond the city limits.
Explore Beyond the City: With a rental car, you can easily visit nearby attractions such as the Panama Canal, the beaches of the Pacific Coast, or the rainforests of Gamboa. Public transport to these locations can be limited or time-consuming.
Flexibility and Convenience: Having your own vehicle allows you to create your own itinerary and travel on your own schedule. You won't have to wait for buses or taxis, and you can easily stop at points of interest along the way.
Access to Remote Areas: Many of Panama's most beautiful natural attractions are located in remote areas that are not easily accessible by public transportation. With a rental car, you can explore these hidden gems at your leisure.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Panama City
Before renting a car in Panama City, ensure you understand the terms and conditions. These typically cover age restrictions, licensing requirements, insurance, deposits, mileage policies, and potential extra charges.
Area
Approximately 275 square kilometres (106 square miles)
Population
Approximately 1 million residents
Time Zone
EST (UTC-5)
Ideal for
Exploring the city and surrounding areas
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7 AM – 9 AM and 4 PM – 7 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost rental companies in Panama City require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some may impose additional fees for drivers under 25.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver's license is required. Foreign visitors may need to present their passport and an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in Spanish.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is usually included in the rental price. Additional coverage options like collision damage waiver (CDW) may be available. A security deposit is typically required and will be refunded upon the car's return, provided there is no damage.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies vary. Some rentals offer unlimited mileage, while others may have a limited number of kilometres per day. Fuel policies also vary, so check whether you need to return the car with a full tank.
5. Additional FeesExtra charges may apply for additional drivers, GPS navigation systems, child seats, or for returning the car to a different location.
Car Rental Prices in Panama City – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42
Electric:
from £16 / $20 / €19
Classic:
from £8 / $10 / €9
Executive:
from £25 / $31 / €30
7 Seater:
from £28 / $35 / €34
Automatic:
from £16 / $20 / €19
SUV:
from £9 / $11 / €10
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (December to April): Experiences higher demand, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (May to November): Often offers discounts as demand decreases
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Panama City?
To book a car in Panama City, follow these simple steps to ensure a smooth rental experience. From comparing prices to understanding rental terms, preparation is key.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison sites to find the best deals from different rental companies. Consider factors like insurance and mileage when comparing prices.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, considering the number of passengers, luggage space, and road conditions you'll encounter.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental terms, including the mileage limits, insurance coverage, and fuel policy, to avoid unexpected charges.
4. Book in Advance - Book your car in advance, especially during peak season, to secure lower prices and ensure availability.
5. Pick Up Your Car - When picking up your rental, bring your driver’s license, passport, credit card, and any other required documentation.
General Information About Panama City
Panama City is a bustling hub with a rich history and modern attractions. Getting around by car offers flexibility, but it's important to be aware of local traffic regulations and parking options.
Panama City, the capital of Panama, offers a unique blend of historical charm and contemporary flair. The city is known for its modern skyline, vibrant nightlife, and the world-famous Panama Canal. Exploring Panama City by car allows visitors to conveniently access various attractions both within and outside the city.
Top Attractions to Discover
Panama Canal
Witness the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal and learn about its history at the Miraflores Locks.
Casco Viejo
Explore the historic district of Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage site with charming colonial architecture.
Amador Causeway
Enjoy scenic views of the city skyline and the Panama Canal along the Amador Causeway.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Numerous public parking garages are available throughout the city, offering secure and convenient parking options.
On-Street Parking
On-street parking is available in some areas, but it can be limited and may require payment at parking meters.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities located outside the city centre to avoid traffic congestion and parking challenges.
Gas Stations in Panama City
Major Brands Available
You can find major fuel brands such as Delta, Puma, and Texaco throughout Panama City.
Fuel Availability
Gas stations are readily available in most areas, but it's always a good idea to fill up before embarking on longer journeys.
Payment Options
Most gas stations accept cash and credit cards.
Useful Tips for Visiting Panama City
Allow Extra Time for Traffic
Traffic congestion can be heavy, especially during rush hours. Plan accordingly and allow extra travel time.
Use a GPS Navigation System
A GPS navigation system can be very helpful for navigating Panama City's complex road network.
Be Aware of Local Driving Customs
Familiarise yourself with local driving customs and traffic regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
Key Transportation Hubs in Panama City
Major Bus Stations
Albrook Bus Terminal
The main bus terminal in Panama City, offering connections to destinations throughout Panama.
Railway Stations
Panama Railway
Offers train service along the Panama Canal Railway, connecting Panama City and Colon.
Airports
Tocumen International Airport (PTY)
The main international airport serving Panama City, located approximately 24 kilometres (15 miles) from the city centre.
Marcos A. Gelabert International Airport (PAC)
A smaller airport located closer to the city centre, primarily serving domestic flights.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Panama City?
To rent a car in Panama City, you'll need to meet a few essential requirements. Having these documents ready will ensure a smooth and hassle-free rental experience.
You'll need a valid driver's license from your country of residence. An International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required if your license is not in Spanish or English.
The minimum age to rent a car in Panama City is typically 21 years old, although some companies may have higher age requirements or charge additional fees for younger drivers.
A valid credit or debit card in the renter's name is required for the security deposit. The available credit on the card must be sufficient to cover the deposit amount.
You'll need to provide a valid passport or other form of government-issued identification.
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Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Panama City as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Panama City was amazing! Getting around with a car was effortless.
Emily Carter
Reviewed: 24.10.2024
Exploring Panama City was a dream! Having a car made it so convenient to discover all the hidden gems. Highly recommend!
Jessica Garcia
Reviewed: 21.03.2025
Pretty chill, overall.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 11.04.2025
So relaxing! Panama City was beautiful, and having a car made exploring the coast so easy.
Olivia Rodriguez
Reviewed: 19.09.2024
Pretty good, really.
Ava Wilson
Reviewed: 02.10.2024
Weekend in Panama City was great; the Casco Viejo heat was intense.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 31.01.2025
Pretty decent, really.
Mia Thompson
Reviewed: 21.06.2025
Panama City was a breeze! Cruising around in our rental car, we saw so much.
Katherine Lee
Reviewed: 05.05.2025
Pretty laid-back, really.
Brianna Harris
Reviewed: 23.12.2024
Panama City was a fantastic stop on our road trip! Having a car made exploring so easy. We loved the vibrant Casco Viejo and the delicious seafood. Definitely recommend a visit!
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 18.12.2024