Colon

Travel Guide

A historic stone fortress with a central dome and surrounding walls.
A tropical island landscape with lush greenery and clear blue waters.
An aerial view of a coastal area with clear turquoise waters, a sandy beach, and dense green forest.
A beach with clear turquoise water, sandy shore, and dense green foliage.
A river winding through a lush green valley with hills in the background and a cloudy sky above.

Where to stay in Colon

Find the best Colon areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Colon
Learn more about Colon
A statue of a historical figure pointing upwards with a bird in hand, set against a backdrop of a clear blue sky with scattered clouds.

Barrio Norte

While visiting Barrio Norte, you might make a stop by sights like Monument to Christopher Columbus and Limon Bay.

A large cargo ship docked at a port with multiple containers stacked on its deck.

Cristobal

Travelers enjoy Cristobal for its churches and seaside views. Consider checking out Limon Bay while you're in the area.

An aerial view of a coastal area with a large body of water, a bridge, and a solar power plant.

Barrio Sur

If you're spending some time in Barrio Sur, Colon Free Zone and Colon 2000 are top sights worth seeing.

Coco Solo

If you're spending some time in Coco Solo, Colon Free Zone and Limon Bay are top sights worth seeing.

Gatun

The museums and monuments are just a few features travelers like about Gatun. If you want to do some sightseeing nearby, Canal Expansion Observation Center and Gatún Dam are a few top places to visit.

Gamboa Rainforest Reserve

Gamboa Rainforest Reserve

3.5 out of 5
Corregimiento de Cristobal, IA 5 Colon Colon
The price is $147 total per night from Nov 26 to Nov 27
$147 total
per night
Nov 26 - Nov 27
Book a stay at this family-friendly hotel in Colon. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8/10 Very Good! (823 reviews)
"Wonderful experience. Our dinner the night we arrived, however, was extremely disappointing (overcooked pork so dry I could not eat it). Breakfast was very nice, the property is amazing, and the sloth/butterfly/ frog tour guide we had was very knowledgeable. Rooms are large and clean, but the humidifier/Ac ..."

Reviewed on Oct 29, 2026

Gamboa Rainforest Reserve
SAND DIAMOND HOTEL

SAND DIAMOND HOTEL

3 out of 5
Millennium Plaza, Av A. Waked Colon Colon
The price is $107 total per night from Dec 7 to Dec 8
$107 total
per night
Dec 7 - Dec 8
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Colon. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Colon Free Zone and Colon 2000 are ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (335 reviews)
"Beautiful hotel, close to everything in Colon. The breakfast was delicious and fresh. Would stay again in the future."

Reviewed on Nov 7, 2026

SAND DIAMOND HOTEL
Hotel Riu Plaza Panama

Hotel Riu Plaza Panama

5 out of 5
Calle 50, Urb. Marbella Panama City Panama
The price is $145 total per night from Dec 1 to Dec 2
$145 total
per night
Dec 1 - Dec 2
Book a stay at this luxury hotel in Panama City. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and 3 restaurants. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our reviews. ...
9/10 Wonderful! (6,187 reviews)
"From the minute that you arrive the way you are treated is excellent. I love the friendliness of the staff, the respect and their courtesy especially at the pool (Horacio) very attentive person and at breakfast (Ezequiel) was also a great server."

Reviewed on Nov 7, 2026

Hotel Riu Plaza Panama
See all 1,614 properties in Colon
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Marriott Executive Apartments Panama City, Finisterre

Marriott Executive Apartments Panama City, Finisterre

4 out of 5
Calle Colombia Y Ave.,3ra A Sur, Bella V Panama City Panama
Book a stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in Panama City. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 bars/lounges. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our ...
Marriott Executive Apartments Panama City, Finisterre
Corporate Stays Arcadia | Executive Furnished Apartments

Corporate Stays Arcadia | Executive Furnished Apartments

4 out of 5
Calle rio mar Panama City Panamá Province
Stay at this aparthotel in Panama City. Enjoy free WiFi, a rooftop terrace, and parking (surcharge). Popular attractions Multiplaza Pacific Mall and Avenida ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (419 reviews)
"Amazing"

Reviewed on Nov 5, 2026

Corporate Stays Arcadia | Executive Furnished Apartments
Torres de Alba Hotel & Suites

Torres de Alba Hotel & Suites

3.5 out of 5
Calle Eusebio A. Morales y Calle 55 Panama City Panama
Book a stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in Panama City. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (596 reviews)
"The location was in close proximity to most places of interest, getting a taxi to and fro was easy since one pases every 30 seconds, the breakfast was a lot and very enjoyable. I will definitely stay again."

Reviewed on Nov 6, 2026

Torres de Alba Hotel & Suites
See all properties in Colon
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Colon attractions

Fort San Lorenzo

8.4/10 (36 reviews)
You can learn about the history of Colon with a stop at Fort San Lorenzo. Stroll along this relaxing area's lakeside, or simply enjoy its restaurants.
See properties

Things to do

Magnificent Gatun lake

Monkey Watch and Gatun Lake Wildlife Safari Private Tour

$75
per adult
Monkey Watch and Gatun Lake Wildlife Safari Private Tour
Monkey and Sloth Jungle Habitat Panama Tour

Monkey and Sloth Jungle Habitat Panama Tour

$30
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Monkey and Sloth Jungle Habitat Panama Tour
Explore Panama Canal and Gatun Lake with Rainforest Hike

Explore Panama Canal and Gatun Lake with Rainforest Jungle Walk

$109
per adult
Explore Panama Canal and Gatun Lake with Rainforest Jungle Walk
Mono Island and Panama Canal Tour

Eco-Explorers: Rainforest Hike & Monkey Island Encounter

$50
per adult
Eco-Explorers: Rainforest Hike & Monkey Island Encounter
Panama Canal Tour: New Locks Agua Clara, Gatun & Atlantic Bridge

Panama Canal Tour: New Locks Agua Clara, Gatun & Atlantic Bridge

$45
per adult
Panama Canal Tour: New Locks Agua Clara, Gatun & Atlantic Bridge
Guided Tour in Sloth Sanctuary and Monkey Island

Guided Tour in Sloth Sanctuary and Monkey Island

$140
per adult
Guided Tour in Sloth Sanctuary and Monkey Island
See all activities in Colon

Frequently asked questions

Is Colon worth visiting?
Colon is worth visiting for its diverse Latin American and Italian dining, offering dishes like empanadas or pasta. Travelers can also explore standout attractions such as Colon 2000 and the Gamboa Rainforest Resort. The destination also provides practical transit access, with train services available for easy travel.
When is the best time to visit Colon?
Colon is enjoyable for travelers year-round, thanks to its consistently warm climate. For those who prefer fewer crowds and often find better value, the quieter months from May through August present a good opportunity to visit.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Colon?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Colon depend on what you want to see. You can explore:

  • Barrio Norte, which features landmarks like the Monument to Christopher Columbus, November 5 Park, and Juventud Park.

What is Colon known for?
Colon is known for attractions such as Colon 2000, Gamboa Rainforest Resort, and the Canal Expansion Observation Center. As a coastal city on the Atlantic Ocean, travelers can also find a vibrant Latin American food culture here.
What is a good itinerary length for Colon?
A good itinerary length for Colon is two to three days to explore sights like Colon 2000, the Canal Expansion Observation Center, and the Barrio Norte neighborhood. An extended stay of four to five days allows travelers to also experience the Gamboa Rainforest Resort and take a Culture and Nature Tour in Embera Tribe, or enjoy the Aerial Tram & Sloth Sanctuary. See Colon Activities.
How do you get around Colon?
Colon offers train service from the Colon Atlantic Passenger Station, providing a way to get around. For more flexibility, rental cars are available in the Barrio Sur neighborhood. Rideshare services are also an option for convenient travel throughout the area.
What are the top things to do in and around Colon?
Colon offers a mix of cultural tours, rainforest adventures, and historic landmarks for travelers to explore:

  • Experience a Culture and Nature Tour in Embera Tribe.
  • Ride the Aerial Tram and visit the Sloth Sanctuary in the Rainforest.
  • See the Agua Clara Canal Lock Center.
  • Explore historic Fort San Lorenzo.
  • Visit the Gamboa Rainforest Resort.

How do I plan a trip to Colon?
To plan your trip to Colon, search for hotels and book flights and activities like the Aerial Tram & Sloth Sanctuary. Consider staying in Barrio Norte to be near sights such as Monument to Christopher Columbus. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon. You can get around by train, or consider a rental car for exploring further.
What cuisines can you find in Colon?
In Colon, you can find Caribbean cuisine, with dishes like jerk chicken, rice and peas, and plantains. Travelers also have options for Latin American, Italian, and North American flavors. You can also find various coffee shops for a quick bite or drink.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Colon?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Colon by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Colon with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Colon trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Colon?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Colon can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Colon trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Colon trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Colon trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Colon trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Colon?
If it's your first trip to Colon, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Colon hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Colon hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Colon

A coastal cityscape with high-rise buildings, a marina, and a clear blue sky.

Panama City

A river winding through a lush green valley with hills in the background and a cloudy sky above.

Gamboa

A historic stone structure with a dome and arched entrance, surrounded by greenery and palm trees.

Fort Sherman

A large industrial port with a white ship docked, surrounded by cranes and rail tracks.

Chilibre

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