We spent a week in Panama over Xmas.. 3 days in Bocas del Toro and 3 days in Panama City. Its a long way to Bocas by car (better to fly), but there is alot to see around Panama City itself. Old Panama and Casco Antiguo are worth a day, also visit the Miraflores locks on the Canal. We also went over to the Caribbean coast, the town of Portobelo has a World Heritage listed fort. We also did a worthwhile tour to an Embera native village, that will take nearly a full day.

Bocas del Toro, isla bastimento ;)

If you like historical stuff, then there is a 500 year old Spanish fort (Ft. San Lorenzo) on the carribean side. There is also some fantastic snorkeling / scuba in that area. I've heard that the jungle canopy tours are fun, but I haven't done of of those myself.

I do know the San Blas Islands on the north east side of panama. For me its the most beautifull place ive ever seen. 100 islands small like a backgarden white beach all around and full of palmtrees. I had my own Island for a couple of days. Its realy like robinson crusoe!

Try to get a little plane out to the San Blas island, a wonderful getaway. You'll get to see the Kuna indians up close and personal and still not many people go there, so you have something new to tell to your travelling pals.

See Fort San Lorenzo. It sits behind what used to be Ft. Sherman US military base. It's an old fort dating back to the 18th or 19th century.

The city: do a trip at the Panama canal, have diner at the Miraflores locks, rent a bike and cycle to the islands via the Amador Causeway. Out of the city: drive to Isla Grande via Portobelo, enjoy the beach at Santa Clara and drive to the country side ...