Shopping in Panama City

Introduction

The shopping experience within this country provides an excellent mix of modern shopping centres and colourful markets. Whether a person is interested in browsing through luxurious shopping malls or exploring the alleyways of the cheapest retail shops, Panama City offers all sorts of shopping destinations. For clothes, jewellery, shoes, handmade Panama souvenirs, organic produce, and even used clothes, there are a variety of shops in Panama that cater to any buyer’s taste. Welcome to the ultimate guide to discovering the best locations for shopping in Panama City!

Grocery Stores

Panama City is a modern city with well-structured grocery stores. Panama supermarkets are similar to US grocery stores in that they offer a huge variety of products. Grocery stores, markets, and specialty shops in Panama City are abundant, so no matter what one needs – from basic supplies to gourmet foods to imported items – it can be easily attained. Below is a list with information on how to successfully shop in Panama City’s main supermarkets and speciality stores.

Supermarkets

Many large supermarket chains are also available in Panama City, making shopping and food availability relatively easy. Some of the most convenient stores include Rey, Super 99, Superxtra, and Riba Smith, which stocks a variety of local and international products. Riba Smith is a favourite for those who want to shop for international brands and specialty products, similar to Whole Foods in the United States.

PriceSmart in Panama

PriceSmart is one of the leading membership-based cash and carry retail stores in Panama, similar to the company Costco in the USA. It is a preferred shopping destination for those people who seek to purchase goods in bulk and at cheaper prices. PriceSmart has stores all over Panama City where it sells different products ranging from groceries, electronics, household products, and furniture among others. Another benefit of shopping at PriceSmart is the fact that shoppers get value for their money more so for large families or individuals who do mass shopping. The store stocks products from local and global markets; with global brands. Another strong category in PriceSmart is frozen and refrigerated foods, fruits, vegetables, meats and bakery products. They offer competitive prices for their products, especially for the bigger cartons of items that most people use in their everyday needs like rice, oil and detergents.

Markets

Apart from the large chain stores, local markets offer fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and seafood, providing shoppers with the opportunity to try Panamanian cuisine. Here are some of the most famous local markets in Panama:

Mercado de Mariscos: The Seafood Market is a must-stop for fresh and cheap seafood directly from the Pacific.
San Felipe Neri Public Market: Sells fresh agricultural products and meat as well as local delicacies.
Mercado de Abastos: Known for a vast variety of agricultural produce, ideal for chefs and foodies seeking fresh ingredients.
Mercado Nacional de Artesanías: A place to buy traditional Panamanian goods, including indigenous hand-made jewellery, clothing, carvings, and sculptures.
Mercado de Buhonerías y Artesanías: Features second-hand products, antiques, and locally made arts and crafts, perfect for those looking for unique finds.

Farmers Markets

There is a central market called Mercado Agricola Central, and many farmers' markets across Panama City sell fresh-grown produce, handmade goods, and more. These markets support local farmers while ensuring access to fresh food.

Fish Market

Located near Casco Viejo, this market is popular for fresh fish, shrimp, and seafood. The market is also full of local fish restaurants, where travellers can try Panama’s unique dish, ceviche, and other traditional meals.

Liquor Stores

Panama City has plenty of liquor and wine stores. Essentials such as alcohol products are available in most grocery stores; however, for an extended selection of wines, craft beers, and spirits, La Bottega, Felipe Motta Wine Store & Deli, and Beermarkt are great shops.

Pet Stores

For pet lovers, Mascotas and Pet Supermarket Panama City are excellent places for pet food, toys, grooming items, and more. With several outlets located across Panama City, pet owners can ensure their pets are well taken care of. Some pet stores include:

Thrift Stores

Those interested in ecological products or antiques should visit El Desván and The Closet. These shops offer second-hand clothing, accessories, and furniture at affordable prices. Another option is to search online classified websites such as Encuentra24 or Facebook Marketplace for used furniture.

Health Food Stores

Organica Store and Riba Smith have health sections where shoppers can find organic and speciality foods, including gluten-free and vegan products.

Apple Store

For tech enthusiasts, the search for an Apple Store in Panama leads to MacStore, located in Multiplaza Mall. This store offers all the latest Apple products, from iPhones to MacBooks.

Furniture Stores

Some well-known furniture stores in Panama City include Furniture City, Casa Suarez, and Homecenter Panama, offering designs from contemporary to traditional at various price points.

Shopping in Panama Online

Online shopping is booming in Panama. Stores like Doitcenter, Titan, and Novey offer the convenience of ordering groceries, furniture, electronics, and more from home. Amazon is also a popular option; for tips on how to order from Amazon in Panama, check out our dedicated article.

Looking for alternatives to Amazon in Panama? Read our detailed article for more options.

Stores in Panama Airport

For last-minute shopping or gifts, Tocumen International Airport offers various stores, including duty-free shops, perfume outlets, and electronics stores. It’s a great place to indulge in some luxury shopping before departure.

Sources & Footnotes

[1] Rey Supermarket - One of Panama's most popular supermarket chains
[2] Super 99 - A leading supermarket chain in Panama
[3] Riba Smith - Known for its premium international brands and specialty products
[4] La Bottega Panama - Shop for wines and spirits
[5] Felipe Motta - A destination for wine and spirits in Panama
[6] MacStore Panama - Panama's retailer for Apple products