We visited Portobelo July 2019 as an easy day trip from Panama City on public transit. There is actually very little to add to the previous reviews as it is the kind of place where nothing changes. If anything it feels even more neglected. Other than a couple of local visitors we were the only ones there, which left us free to sit and imagine days gone by. The natural harbour and its strategic importance is obvious at first glance and at Portobelo there are two little fortifications (Santiago and San Jeronimo) to quickly explore. In a rush it could be seen in 10 minutes but if you are the type that enjoys history unrestored and decaying it is a great place to linger. 

Changing buses in Sabanitas makes the journey quick and easy. We decided to go all the way into Colon on the return trip which was a mistake. Although it wasn't far, it easily doubled the journey time because of frequent stops and Colon itself looked very uninviting.