The port of Colon is the Atlantic gateway of the Panama Canal. Travelers discovering Caribbean & Bermuda and Mexico & Panama Canal cruise destinations will find mighty forts, picturesque national parks, and many exciting

things to do in Colon, Panama

. However, this Panamanian city allures visitors not only with its natural and humanmade beauties. The port can also be proud of the Colon Free Zone – one of the largest duty-free zones throughout Western Hemisphere.
Are you ready to check the most popular attractions in Colon, Panama!

1. The Panama Canal


Of course, it is the main hallmark not only of Colon but of entire Panama. It is a real miracle created by humankind with many secrets and scenic views!

2. Fortifications on the Caribbean Side of Panama: Portobelo-San Lorenzo

The ruins of Fort San Lorenzo at Portobelo by gailf548/Wiki/CC BY 2.0

Portobelo and San Lorenzo forts used to protect the country from invasion from the Caribbean and from the Chagres River. Now the ruins are a significant historic site protected by UNESCO.​

3. Fort Sherman

Ft. Sherman Dock, Panama

This former U.S. Army base is a perfect place for fans of military constructions. Here you can explore numerous batteries, admire the beautiful landscape, and visit a lovely restaurant situated nearby.

4. Cristo Negro

Cristo Negro at Iglesia de San Felipe by Daniestrada01/Wiki/CC BY-SA 3.0

It is a wooden statue of Black Jesus Christ shrouded in mystery. There are several legends about the origin of this statue that was found by fishermen. You can see Cristo Negro and try to uncover its secrets in Iglesia de San Felipe in the city of Portobelo.

5. Chagres

Fort San Lorenzo, Charges, Panama by Ivo Kruusamägi/Wiki/CC BY-SA 4.0

This ghost village used to be an important port. Now it offers a wonderful panorama of the Chagres River and ruins of Fort San Lorenzo.

6. Old Quarter of Colon

There’s no better place to learn the history of Colon. It is the old part of the city imbued with its unique spirit and flavor. It’s so nice to walk here while thinking, dreaming, and enjoying life.

7. Gatun Lake

Gatun Lake, Panama by Joe Ross/Flickr/CC BY-SA 2.0

What can be better than eco-tours? The answer is eco-tours of Gatun Lake. Although it was created artificially, it has absolutely merged with the environment of Panama. The lake will amaze you with breath-taking views, exciting adventures, and cute inhabitants.

8. Soberania National Park

Soberania National Park, Panama by Katja Schulz/Wiki/CC BY 2.0

Here’s an excellent place to get acquainted with flora and fauna of Panama, and to spectate large ships passing the Panama Canal. It is a well-kept national park with trails, fantastic scenery, and friendly birds and animals.

9. Chagres National Park

Chagres River, Panama

How about a mind-blowing trip on a canoe on the Chagres River? And plunging into the life of the Embera people? And experiencing the real glory of pristine wild nature? All of it is possible in the Chagres National Park. Don’t forget to get a temporary tattoo to remember this unforgettable excursion.

10. Portobelo

Portobelo, Panama by Lombana/Wiki/CC BY-SA 4.0

It is a cozy town with historical ruins, picturesque Portobelo National Park, Iglesia de San Felipe with mysterious Cristo Negro, and many other interesting places. Portobelo will show you the soul of Panama.
 
By the way, we advise you to take the guided tours as it’s the best way to learn important and interesting facts about Colon and Panama. Don’t forget to take a ride on the train along the entire Panama Canal – it’s definitely one of the most exciting things to do in Colon, Panama. This journey won’t leave anyone indifferent!
 
You can also check the list of the best things to do in Martinique via this link.
 
Map of Colon, Panama attractions: