Hotel Riu Plaza Panama is a large modern hotel at Calle 50 and 53 Este in the city's business and financial district, close to shopping centers, restaurants and museums. It has an outdoor swimming pool, a gym, a buffet breakfast, an a la carte restaurant serving Spanish cuisine and several bars, and it is a room-only or room-and-breakfast hotel rather than all-inclusive.
Location and getting around: the hotel is in the modern core of the city, not in the old quarter, so you will use taxis or ride-hailing cars for sightseeing. Casco Viejo, Miraflores and the Amador Causeway are all a short drive away, typically twenty minutes depending on traffic. The area has banks, malls and restaurants, which is convenient for business and for shopping, but it is quieter in the evening than Casco Viejo, so you will probably go out to eat.
The rooms and facilities: the hotel lists Deluxe King and Deluxe Twin rooms, Deluxe Family Twin rooms, Premium Suites on the Crown Level and a penthouse apartment, so there are options for couples, families and groups. Facilities include an outdoor pool, a gym, 24-hour room service, more than fifteen meeting rooms, a boutique shop and a lobby bar. Dining includes a buffet breakfast, a Spanish a la carte restaurant and three bars, one with sushi. Parking is available with a discount, which is useful if you have a rental car, though driving in Panama City can be challenging.
Who it suits: families, groups and business travellers who want comfort, a pool and a predictable chain-hotel experience at a mid-range price. It is also a good base for canal day trips because tour operators pick up from hotels like this one. It is less atmospheric than a Casco Viejo boutique, so if character is your priority, stay in the old town and visit this district for shopping instead. Good to know: breakfast may or may not be included depending on the rate, rates vary by season and by room type, and Crown Level rooms add premium service. Ask for a higher floor for better views and less street noise, and book early for holiday periods.
Why stay here
- ✓Outdoor swimming pool
- ✓Gym
- ✓Buffet breakfast
- ✓Spanish a la carte restaurant
- ✓Three bars
- ✓24-hour room service
- ✓Family and suite rooms
- ✓Parking with discount
Good questions
Where is Hotel Riu Plaza Panama?+
At Calle 50 and 53 Este in the business and financial district, near shopping centers and restaurants.
Is it all-inclusive?+
No, rooms are booked room-only or with breakfast, per the hotel page.
Does it have a pool?+
Yes, an outdoor swimming pool, plus a gym and several bars and restaurants.
