David walking tour & city guide
The hub of western Panama.
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David, Panama's third-largest city, is the capital of Chiriquí province and the gateway to the highlands of Boquete and Volcán and to the Pacific islands of the Gulf of Chiriquí.
The city
Parque Cervantes is the leafy central square. The city is a busy commercial center for farmers and ranchers from the region.
Around David
Boquete and its coffee farms are 40 minutes north. Las Lajas beach and the islands of Boca Chica are popular day trips.
Why it is worth a stop
David is Panama's third-largest city and the commercial center of the west, close to the border with Costa Rica, so many travelers pass through it on their way between the two countries. It is hot and lowland, but within an hour you can be in the cool mountain town of Boquete, at the Volcán and Cerro Punta highlands, or on the Pacific coast at Las Lajas beach or Boca Chica. Boca Chica is the gateway to the Gulf of Chiriquí National Marine Park, with islands, coral reefs and humpback whales from July to October.
Top sights in David
- 1
Parque Cervantes
The central square.
- 2
San José Cathedral
The city's church.
- 3
Las Lajas Beach
A long Pacific beach.
- 4
Boca Chica
Islands and boat trips.
- 5
Volcán Barú
Panama's highest peak.
Food markets & where to eat in David
Mercado de David
The public market.
Parque Cervantes
Cafés around the square.
Avenida Central
Local eateries.
Food to try in David
Sancocho
Chicken soup with cilantro.
Bollos
Corn wrapped in husks.
Chiriquí coffee
From the highlands.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to David
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in DavidCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in David.
- eSIM for PanamaStay online from the moment you land.
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