Panama Shopping & Markets
Complete 2026 Guide for Indians

Panama offers a diverse shopping experience, from the rustic, off-grid artisan markets of the San Blas Islands to the ultra-modern, air-conditioned luxury malls of Panama City.

• Currency: US Dollar (USD). No currency conversion math is required for Indian travelers carrying USD.
• Bargaining: Expected at local artisan markets and street stalls. Fixed prices in malls, boutiques, and supermarkets.
• Payments: Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) are widely accepted in the city. Carry USD cash for remote islands and local markets.
• Duty-Free Hub: Panama's status as a global trade hub means excellent prices on electronics, perfumes, and alcohol.

Shopping hours in Panama are generally convenient, with malls operating seven days a week.

• Shopping Malls: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Daily, including weekends).
• Boutiques (Casco Viejo): 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM. Some may close on Sundays or Mondays.
• Artisan Markets: Typically 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Best visited on weekends when all vendors are present.
• Supermarkets: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Some operate 24/7).
• Duty-Free (PTY Airport): Open 24/7 for international departing passengers.

For tips on navigating the city where most of these shops are located, check our Panama City travel guide.

Panama's Boquete region produces the legendary Geisha (Gesha) coffee, consistently ranked as the most expensive and flavorful coffee in the world.

• Flavor Profile: Floral, jasmine, bergamot, and tropical fruit notes. Extremely clean and tea-like.
• Price: $50 – $150+ USD per pound, depending on the farm and auction score.
• Where to Buy: Specialty cafes in Casco Viejo, supermarkets (Riba Smith), or directly from farms in Boquete.

Molas are intricate, multi-layered, hand-stitched textiles created by the Guna women of the San Blas Islands. They are true works of art.

• Designs: Feature vibrant geometric patterns, animals, or nature scenes using a reverse-appliqué technique.
• Price: $20 – $150+ USD, depending on complexity, size, and quality.
• Where to Buy: Directly from the Guna people in San Blas (best for authenticity and supporting the community), or at the Mercado de Artesanías in Panama City.
• Tip: Look for tight stitching and multiple layers (3+ layers indicate high quality).

Panama produces excellent spirits and eco-friendly crafts that make for perfect gifts.

• Rum: Ron Abuelo and Varela Hermanos produce world-class, award-winning rums. A bottle of 7-year-old Abuelo costs around $15 – $25 USD.
• Tagua Nut Jewelry: Known as "vegetable ivory," the tagua nut is carved into beautiful, eco-friendly jewelry, buttons, and figurines.
• Straw Hats: Fine woven hats (often mistakenly called Panama hats, though they originated in Ecuador) are a point of national pride and excellent quality.

Located near the ruins of Panama Viejo, this is the best centralized market for traditional Panamanian crafts.

• What to Buy: Molas, tagua jewelry, woven baskets, wooden carvings, and coffee.
• Vibe: Bustling, colorful, and highly interactive. Vendors are friendly and open to bargaining.
• Tip: Bring small USD bills ($1, $5, $10) for easier transactions.

The historic district of Casco Viejo is filled with upscale, curated boutiques selling high-end Panamanian crafts and gourmet foods.

• What to Buy: Premium Geisha coffee, artisanal chocolates, high-end Mola fashion, and designer jewelry.
• Vibe: Elegant, relaxed, and air-conditioned. Fixed prices, no bargaining.
• Tip: Great for buying premium, gift-ready souvenirs in a beautiful colonial setting.

If you are taking a day trip to the mountains, the Sunday market in El Valle is a must-visit.

• What to Buy: Fresh local produce, handmade pottery, woven hammocks, and unique square-shaped plants.
• Vibe: Rural, authentic, and focused on local agriculture and traditional crafts.
• Tip: Arrive early in the morning to beat the heat and get the best selection.

Panama City boasts world-class shopping malls that rival those in Miami or Dubai.

• Multiplaza Pacific: The most upscale mall, featuring luxury brands (Gucci, Rolex, Hugo Boss), high-end electronics, and excellent dining.
• Albrook Mall: One of the largest malls in Latin America. Great for mid-range brands, supermarkets, and a massive food court.
• Tax-Free: While not a "free trade zone" for tourists, Panama's low import taxes mean electronics and luxury goods are often cheaper than in India.

Tocumen International Airport is the "Hub of the Americas" and features an extensive, newly expanded duty-free shopping area.

• Best Buys: Perfumes, cosmetics, premium liquor (rum, whiskey), chocolates, and electronics.
• Local Goods: Excellent selection of Panamanian coffee, rum, and Molas right before you board.
• Tip: Arrive at least 3 hours before your international departure to have ample time to browse the duty-free shops.