old san juan tourist attractions

32 Fun and Unique Things to Do in Old San Juan You’ll Love

Posted on Published: December 2, 2023  - Last updated: March 5, 2024

Old San Juan is a destination full of history, cool sights, fun nightlife and amazing food. There’s no shortage of things to do in Old San Juan, and this guide covers 32 activities you’ll love!

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This vibrant city is full of character. It’s filled with Spanish colonial architecture, perfectly balanced with fun plazas and historical sights. After all, Christopher Columbus claimed Puerto Rico for Spain back in 1493, so you know there’s a ton of history to see!

The most popular attraction is the San Juan Fort, Castillo San Felipe del Morro , which brings in over 2 million visitors a year. But there’s so much more to do in Old San Juan!

👉Don’t have time to read the whole article? Here’s the best Old San Juan walking tour. A must-do for first-time visitors! Also get the complete  Puerto Rico Travel Guide  for everything you need to see and do in Puerto Rico!

Pro tip: plan to spend at least 2 days and nights in Viejo San Juan, before heading to another area like Fajardo, Ponce or Culebra, Puerto Rico .

Map of the best things to do in Old San Juan PR

This list covers a lot in a small area. Here’s a map to help you plan your time in this colorful city.

Things to do in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

It might just be your new favorite spot in the Caribbean! Old San Juan has so much to offer visitors, let’s dive into the list of the best activities in the area.

1. Visit El Morro

It’s a must-see for any visitor, ‘El Morro’ as it’s called for short, is one of the top things to do in Old San Juan. Dating back to 1533, Castillo San Felipe del Morro is a 6-level fortress built to defend Spanish soldiers and San Juan’s harbor from its attackers.

It was designed and built by the Spaniards until the United States overcame Puerto Rico during the Spanish-American War in 1898.

Why it’s modern-day cool: you can walk around the perimeter of the fort along the ocean and bay. You’ll see what opponents saw while the soldiers inside sat defending the place.

Inside, see the main plaza, where important events took place in the 1700’s and 1800’s. Check out the dry moat from the exterior or walk through the gun deck, where you can imagine cannons firing at enemy ships.

You’ll also be able to walk in the old kitchens, church and living quarters. It’s a really cool experience!

Side note , if you ever make it to Oman in the Middle East, you’ll want to check out the equally impressive forts of Mutrah, Nizwa and Bahla, which are some of the best things to do in Oman . So fun!

To see Castillo San Felipe del Morro from the inside, there’s a $10 fee per person to get in , although if you have the America the Beautiful Pass , it’s free.

By the way, I highly recommend the pass if you travel because it saves quite a bit! I’ve used it to see places like Glacier National Park in Montana , Mount Rainier National Park in Washington, Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial in Put-in-Bay, Ohio and a bunch of other planned and random stops while traveling.

Anyways, visiting this fortress is an incredible experience. Whether you’re into history, architecture or just want to see more of the island’s past, you’ll definitely want to add this to your Puerto Rico bucket list!

Pro tip: bring water and wear comfortable shoes – it’s a big fort!

Location: 501 Bulevar del Valle, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico

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2. Taste Old San Juan on a food tour (a favorite on this list of best things to do in Old San Juan)

In this amazing city, one thing is for sure: the food is fantastic!

As my husband and I ate our way through the town of Old San Juan, we determined it’s in our top 5 for culinary experiences while traveling. Others are a variety of fish tacos on a budget trip to Maui , exploring restaurants in Old Town San Diego and the amazing Mexican food in Phoenix , just to name a few.

Anyway, on this Old San Juan food tour , you’ll taste the unique flavors that make the food scene superb! From African and Spanish influences to traditional indigenous foods, there’s a little bit of everything on this food tour.

If you love trying new foods, this fun adventure in Puerto Rican food is for you!

Book it now: Old San Juan food tour

Location: various restaurants in the city

3. Walk the cobblestone streets

With a city 5 centuries old and the oldest city in the US, it’s no wonder the streets are magnificent! With tiny roads barely wide enough for one vehicle at times, these streets are really cool to experience.

I particularly loved the blue cobblestone streets! Most city streets have some type of stone in the oldest part of the city.

As you walk you can imagine yourself in a horse and buggy, or perhaps old time bicycle heading to the market in the streets of Old San Juan. Wow!

Location: all over the city

4. Visit Old San Juan beaches

Fun fact: Old San Juan beaches are hard to come by. Most of the city was built right up to the water’s entrance, at least in the historic part of the city.

However, there’s a couple beaches on the north side of Old San Juan as you head east towards Condado . And the nice thing about these beaches is that they’re less busy than the ones in Condado!

Note: for the most gorgeous beach in the area, be sure to check out Flamenco Beach, Puerto Rico ! And for the most unique beach in Puerto Rico, visit the Playa Negra (Black Sand Beach) Vieques !

Best Old San Juan beaches:

• Playa Puerto De Tierra, navigate to Playa Puerto De Tierra San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico (my personal favorite)
• Balneario El Escambrón, C. San Agustín, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
• Escambron Beach, navigate to Escambron Beach San Juan, 00910, Puerto Rico

Pro tip: if you’re planning to enjoy the beach in Puerto Rico, be sure to download this beach packing list!

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5. Enjoy the perfect Pina Colada at it’s birthplace

Sitting on some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, like Flamenco Beach, Puerto Rico , the gorgeous beaches of Aruba and white-sand beaches in Turks and Caicos , I had no idea until I visited Puerto Rico that the Pina Colada was first invented here!

One of the must-do activities in Old San Juan is visit the spot where the Piña Colada was created . Back in 1963, Ramón Portas Mignot put together the wonderfully sweet cocktail at the famous Barrachina restaurant.

To pay tribute to the origin of the fruity drink, you can sit at the very place it was created! Oh, and the bar has several machines of perfectly mixed Pina Coladas, so it’s always ready to pour.

Pro tip: go late morning or early afternoon to avoid waiting hours for a seat! If there’s a long wait, consider sitting at the bar and ordering just drinks. After all, you’re there for a Pina Colada. 😉

Location: 104 C. de la Fortaleza, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico

6. Take an Old San Juan helicopter tour (one of the most unique things to do in Old San Juan)

Experience the beauty and history with a birds eye view! I personally love taking helicopter tours like this because you get a unique perspective that hardly anyone else gets to see – the amazing city and Caribbean island from above!

The helicopter tour of Old San Juan is short but worth it. I’d recommend to take a walking tour of the city (see #20 below) before this tour so you’re somewhat familiar with the sights before hand.

Book it now: helicopter tour of Old San Juan

Location: Helipuerto de Bahía Urbana, FV7V+7R6 San Juan, Puerto Rico (departure point)

7. Walk through the San Juan Gate

One of the most historically significant places on this list of the best things to do in Old San Juan is the official entrance to the city.

For centuries this red gate was used to welcome visitors and dignitaries to the city. It was guarded and closed nightly to help secure the city walls.

Today, you’ll see it’s a common stop on a San Juan walking tour and when visiting the San Juan Fort. Just through the gate is the Paseo del Morro National Recreational Trail that leads you around El Morro.

You might also see vendors selling various items like cold drinks and snacks.

Pro tip: be sure to see the red gate from above the wall from the Plaza La Rogativa, and on either sides of the gate.

Location: FV8J+354 Caleta de San Juan, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico

8. Marvel at the old architecture (picturesque Viejo San Juan)

It’s no surprise that the architecture in Old San Juan is fabulous. 🤩 Staring at the architecture is one of the top things to do in San Juan, and it can be done for dayyyyys!

The Spanish Colonial style feels exciting with every turn. The vivid colors of the buildings are captivating as you walk the city. As you reach each plaza, business or micro neighborhood, each street is just as interesting as the last..

Take some time to explore the city on foot, marveling at the old architecture. You can only imagine how it was built 300, 400 and 500 years ago!

You’ll see some buildings in various levels of repair, while others are so well taken care of, they seem brand new! From romantic balconies to wispy flowers and greenery, the wonderfully decorated city is like eye candy for any traveler.

Note: keep in mind many of these properties are people’s homes, so respect their space accordingly.

Location: literally everywhere in Old San Juan🤣

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More things to do Old San Juan

Seriously such a fun city, right? And this list is only beginning! More fun and unique Old San Juan attractions ahead…

9. Snap a photo at the I love San Juan sign

Located near Plaza Colón, this is a must-see when in Old San Juan , especially if you love photos for social media or to frame back home. It’s the perfect place to grab a selfie, take a tripod or ask a person passing by to take a shot of you and/or your group!

Pro tip: this sign gets really busy in the afternoon and on weekends. Try going earlier in the day to avoid a wait.

Location: FV8Q+G6W, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico

10. Popsicles at Señor Paleta

Just gotta say it: no beach vacation is complete without ice cream. And in Puerto Rico, it’s really the popsicles that will win you over!

With incredible, full flavors and toppings (say whaaaaat?), you’ll love the popsicles at Señor Paleta. Whether you like fruit popsicles or decadent flavors, you’ll find something here to enjoy.

Try incredible flavors like Dulce De Leche, Strawberry Cheesecake (pictured above) Tembleque, Mango Nutella and Oreo (also pictured above). Don’t forget the toppings!

Pro tip: expect the line to be long – this place is delicious!

Location: 153 C. de Tetuán, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico

11. Check out Umbrella Street (one of the most touristy things to do in Old San Juan)

One of the most popular attractions in Old San Juan is Umbrella Street. It’s a great spot for taking photos, too!

The umbrellas are positioned to create a canopy over the street leading up to La Fortaleza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , which also happens to be the Governor’s mansion.

Over the years the umbrellas have changed from multi-colored to all pink, all white, etc. They’re swapped out to generate awareness to various causes.

Because of it’s popularity and proximity to the governor’s residence, you can no longer walk down Umbrella Street. However, the barricade makes it easy for anyone to grab a photo of it.

Location: C. de la Fortaleza, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico

12. See the Capilla del Cristo

The tiny Chapel, built in 1753 has a truly amazing story to tell. Back then horse racing through the streets was common during fiestas.

One particular day a rider lost control of his horse, who fell off the steep city wall to his death, but the rider was spared. The small chapel was built in the place the horse went over the wall, with a painting of Christ of Good Health above the altar.

Despite storms and looting across various parts of history, the Chapel is in near original condition , including the silver and gold leaf altar.

Fun fact: this religious museum is ran by volunteers and is free to visit. A donation is appreciated to keep it well maintained!

Location: 1 C. del Cristo, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico

13. Visit the 2nd oldest Cathedral in the Americas

Dating back to 1521, the Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista is the oldest church on US soil , which is one of the most interesting facts about Puerto Rico .

Located in the heart of the city, the church is open and holds services almost daily. Inside, you can find the final resting place of Juan Ponce de León , a Spanish explorer who was instrumental in establishing Puerto Rico.

The beautiful facade and stained glass windows are noteworthy architectural elements that make this church extra special. This is by far one of the best places to visit in Old San Juan for it’s history and beauty.

Location: 151 C. del Cristo, San Juan, 00902, Puerto Rico

14. See La Puerta de la Bandera

This fun spot is located on the streets of Old San Juan , and is often included in a walking tour of the town. Of course you can visit yourself!

La Puerta de la Bandera translates to ‘the flag gate’ and is popular among Puerto Ricans and tourists alike.

For many years the mural at 55 Calle San José in Old San Juan proudly displayed a bright red, white and blue Puerto Rican flag. In 2016 it was transformed by artists to a black and white version of the Puerto Rican flag, in resistance to colonialism. You can read more about the painted update .

While the politics of Puerto Rico are quite complicated, this popular spot is still seen as one of the most popular spots on the island to grab a photo.

Location: 55 C. San José San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico

15. Hang out on the plaza

There are so many public spaces in Old San Juan to enjoy. From people watching to food trucks and festivals, it’s a great spot to take a break and rest or sit out and enjoy the weather.

San Juan Plazas:

• Plaza de Armas, FV8M+48H, San Juan, 00969, Puerto Rico (one of the largest, hosting concerts and festivals)
• Plaza de San José, FV8J+WMF, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
• Plaza La Rogativa, Cll Rafael Cordero, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
• Plaza de la Barandilla, FV8P+G78, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
• Plaza Colón, C. de la Fortaleza, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico (especially fun at Christmastime)
• Plaza de la Marina, FV7P+84G, San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Plaza de la Catedral, 74 Caleta de San Juan, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico

16. Get your chocolate fix at Chocobar

Imagine this: a restaurant menu with every dish made of chocolate. At Chocobar Cortes , every item on the menu has a bit of chocolate flavor.

From delightful cocktails, including the Bloody Choco-Mary or Choco Martini to delicious eats like Avocado Toast or a Chocoburger, you’ll find something on the menu to devour.

Oh, and don’t forget the desserts! Favorites include Chocolate Chip Madeleines, Lava Cake and Chocolate Baklava. Yum!

Pro tip: expect a long wait. It’s worth it though!

Location: 210 C. de San Francisco, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico

San Juan Puerto Rico things to do – continued

With all that has already been covered, can you believe there’s still so much of the list left?! Let’s keep going…

17. Fly a kite (one of the most unique things to do in Old San Juan)

If you’re young at heart or traveling with kids, one of the most popular things to do in San Juan is fly a kite at Castillo San Felipe del Morro .

The exterior grounds of El Morro are spacious and a great spot to enjoy the ocean breeze, have a picnic or hang out for the day. It’s also a perfect spot for kite flying!

There’s a kite vendor that sits close to the main entrance of the fort where you can pick out the perfect kite. The breeze coming off the Caribbean Sea is perfect for launching and flying a kite!

Note: take your kite home as a souvenir or be sure to dispose of it properly. While walking the outside walls of El Morro, we saw plenty of kite strings and remnants littering the walls. It’s also dangerous for sea life, so just be responsible with it. 😊

Location: 501 Bulevar del Valle, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico (entrance to El Morro)

18. Visit La Perla

A San Juan neighborhood with a troubled past, La Perla is now a destination in itself. Nestled along the coast, positioned between Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal, this colorful neighborhood has a lot to offer visitors.

Take a walk through La Perla to witness the brightly colored homes and business, colorful street art and fantastic views of the water.

See El Bowl, the skate park turned community pool (depending on the day!), the basketball court donated by Carmelo Anthony and a handful of shops and restaurants.

Note: this is a neighborhood so please be respectful of the locals’ property.

Location: navigate to La Perla, San Juan, Puerto Rico

19. Adventure on a day trip to El Yunque (one of the must-see attractions nearby)

Okay, so this is obviously a post of the best things to do in Old San Juan. But no Puerto Rico travel guide is complete without mentioning El Yunque National Forest !

It’s a tropical escape from a busy city, El Yunque offers sightseeing with historic lookout towers, waterfalls with natural pools and great hiking.

If you’re staying in Old San Juan, you likely won’t have (or need) a rental car. So to get to El Yunque, you can rent a car for the day. I find the best rates using Discover Cars , typically saving 20-30%.

Otherwise, you can take a day tour of El Yunque from San Juan . Either way you visit, there’s a ton of things to see and do in El Yunque !

Location: PR-191, Río Grande, 00745, Puerto Rico (address of Visitor Center)

20. Take a walking tour of Old San Juan

See the city’s amazing architecture and historical buildings in Old San Juan through the eyes of a knowledgeable guide.

On a guided walking tour of Old San Juan , you’ll visit cathedrals, plazas within the city, historic government buildings and the famous Castillo San Felipe del Morro.

Opt for a sunset walking tour so you’re beating the heat of the day, while watching the sun dip into the Caribbean Sea from the beautiful streets.

Pro tip: wear comfortable shoes and bring water.

Book it now: walking tour of Old San Juan

Location: all over the city!

21. Go to Casa Blanca

One of the hidden attractions in Old San Juan is the Casa Blanca Museum. With a long history, this place has so much to tell! If you love history, this is one of the best things to do in Old San Juan!

Construction began on this building in 1524 and finished in 1530, which was home to the first governor of Puerto Rico, Juan Ponce de León, who was also a Spanish conquistador. It’s also been the School of Military Engineers and part of the San Juan Military and Fort Brooke.

Today, Casa Blanca is a museum. The gardens and exterior are free; there is a $5 fee to see the interior.

Location: 1 C. de San Sebastián, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico

22. Visit the Rincón de Gautier mural (one of the most fun things to do in Old San Juan)

Felisa Rincon de Gautier was a force of nature! She was the first woman mayor of San Juan, and any US city, for that matter. Felisa established the first preschool in the city, which later became a model for preschool programs across the USA.

She was instrumental in the suffrage movement in Puerto Rico and also was one of the first female voters on the island. Rincon de Gautier also served as Goodwill Ambassador for 4 US presidents!

Although her death was over 2 decades ago, she’s still remembered as a power house for the political and humanitarian movements in Puerto Rico.

This incredible, 5,000 square feet of mosaic tile over concrete is just one of the many tributes to her around the city. If you’re looking for Old San Juan things to do, this is one of the most picturesque and important spots in the city.

Learn more about the mosaic here .

Location: at the intersection of Av. Luis Munoz Rivera and C. San Agustin

23. Immerse yourself in the culture

Old San Juan Puerto Rico is full of culture! While in the area, be sure to check out a street festival, live music, street parties or cultural traditions.

From the Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastian in January to the Festival de Teatro Puertorriqueno e International in summer to Nochebuena in December, there’s always something to look forward to in this fun city!

Or, as you walk along the streets, keep an eye out for street performers and ears open for live music, especially on the weekends!

Location: various around Old San Juan

24. See the beaches of Isla Verde

I know, I know, this isn’t directly in Old San Juan. But can you really go to Puerto Rico without exploring the beaches?

Isla Verde is an area close to Old San Juan along the northern side of mainland Puerto Rico. With palm trees lining the beaches and soft sand, it makes for a pretty great day. Swap out the busy city noise for the rolling waves of the ocean!

I visited quite a few beaches while in Puerto Rico. These were my favorite in the area…

Best Isla Verde beaches

• Carolina Public Beach. It’s large, clean and has quite a few amenities really close. You can even rent beach umbrellas, beach chairs, etc.
• Isla Verde Beach. Great for boogie boarding, these waves are a little more intense (especially in winter months), but really fun to ride or watch from the sand. Clean beach with excellent amenities, too!
• Pine Grove Surfing Beach. As the name suggests, this beach is perfect for riding the waves! They’re especially strong in winter months. If you’re up for adventure, visit Pine Grove!

Old San Juan things to do

Can you believe this list?! So much history, culture and fun ahead. Let’s keep going…

25. Visit Castillo San Cristóbal

Built to defend San Juan from the eastern side of the island, Castillo San Cristóbal is a fortress that’s worth visiting. It’s much smaller in size compared to El Morro, but is impressive in its own way. In fact, it’s one of the most underrated but top things to see in Old San Juan!

Built in the 1600’s and named after Saint Christopher, it’s a fortress that saw many attackers. Visitors can explore the fort and imagine what life was like in the bombproof rooms.

One of the coolest features of this fort is the tunnels that soldiers would use to retreat from enemies and attack before being seen.

The fee to enter Castillo San Cristóbal is $10 per person, or else covered with the America the Beautiful Pass .

Location: navigate to Castillo San Cristóbal main entrance (official address is the same as El Morro)

26. Cool off with gelato (one of my favorite things to do in Old San Juan)

It’s hot in Puerto Rico. And unless you’re by the coast, the breeze can be sparse. So one of the best things to do in Old San Juan PR is to grab some gelato from Anita Gelato .

You know the gelato is top notch when they also have restaurants in Barcelona, Spain, Syndey, Australia, Limassol, Cyprus and Tel Aviv, Israel!

With flavors like Milk Chocolate Pretzels, Rocher Cream, Crunch Raspberry, White Chocolate & Pistachio Cream and Strawberry, you know it’s going to be good!

Check out their Facebook page for local info.

Pro tip: it’s going to be busy, so expect to wait. Each time we went the line wrapped through the restaurant and out the door, down the street.

Location: 65 Calle de la Fortaleza 00901 San Juan, Puerto Rico

27. Go shopping in Old San Juan

Whether you’re into jewelry or art, cigars or clothing, you’ll find something to love in Old San Juan. There’s plenty of places to look for souvenirs in the city.

Unique, hand-crafted items are a specialty in Old San Juan . You won’t find chain retail stores, either. As you walk the narrow streets of this charming city, you’ll see opportunities to find the perfect collectible to remember your time in Puerto Rico.

Location: find shops all thought out the city

28. Old San Juan sunset cruise (one of the most underrated but excellent Old San Juan attractions)

One of the most unique things to do in Old San Juan is take a sunset cruise . Step aboard a spacious catamaran complete with cocktails as you watch the sun setting on the horizon.

Sail along the coast, getting a unique perspective of the city from the bay. See the Old San Juan Fort while also enjoying the views as the sun sets on the historic city.

The whole experience will make you think you’re living in a time long ago!

Book it now: Old San Juan sunset cruise

Location: 482 Av. Manuel Fernández Juncos, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico (departure point)

29. Visit the Museo de San Juan

The Museo de San Juan is a colorful building with a historic past. In centuries past, it was a marketplace where goods were sold and people would socialize and dine.

Today, the museum includes historical and modern exhibits. It’s also a cool place to escape the heat while exploring the city.

And bonus – on weekends you can still find a farmer’s market there!

It’s free to tour the museum, but donations are welcome.

Location: 150 Norzagaray St., San Juan PR 00901

30. Hang out at the Old San Juan Port (Dársenas Square)

The San Juan Port is the modern entrance of San Juan by sea , one that typically draws millions of visitors each year. Situated on the San Juan Bay , this is where you’ll arrive on the island if traveling via cruise ship.

At the entrance of the city, you’ll find the Dársenas Square. It’s a public space with views of the bay and there are a handful of restaurants to visit.

There’s also carnival-style food trucks, vendors selling artisan crafts and street performers in this area, too. It’s a fun place to walk around when in Old San Juan.

Pro tip: grab a cocktail and some empanadas at La Casita de Rones – delicious!

Location: Cll San Agustin, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico

31. Tour the capitol building (El Capitol de Puerto Rico)

If you love history, architecture or politics, you’ll want to see El Capitol de Puerto Rico . The 20+ year construction started in 1907 and was finished in 1929.

Despite many significant storms to the area, the Capitol Building is in impeccable shape. The marble facade is stunning to see in person!

Visitors can take tours of the inside, including seeing the incredible rotunda and dome. Also inside are the chambers for the Senate and House of Representatives.

Location: navigate to El Capitol de Puerto Rico, San Juan, 00902, Puerto Rico

32. See the Quincentennial Plaza

This plaza is one of the most impressive in all of Old San Juan. Built 500 years after Christopher Columbus discovered Puerto Rico, this plaza commemorates that discovery.

Water fountains and several statues reside in the Plaza del Quinto Centenario . However, the most noteworthy is the El Totem Telurico. It’s a 40 foot tall totem pole, created from ceramic, with carvings representing the Taino , or natives of Puerto Rico.

It’s close to the entrance of El Morro, and is a good spot for kids (and adults) to cool down on a hot day.

Location: C. del Cristo, San Juan, 00926, Puerto Rico

Where to stay

Before wrapping up this list of Old San Juan things to do, let’s go over a few important keys to having a fabulous trip!

If you don’t have your accommodations yet for Old San Juan, I’ve got the perfect spots for you. After visiting the city over and over, I’ve stayed a lot of places! These are my suggestions:

• Palacio Provincial. This adults only hotel is in the heart of Old San Juan, within walking distance of the top attractions. This property has a gorgeous rooftop pool, perfect for beating the heat during the day!
• El Colonial. El Colonial includes an open bar and friendly atmosphere, and is another adults only option. The rooftop terrace has a great view of San Cristóbal and is perfect to get away from the crowds.
• Caribe Hilton. A little further out is this family friendly option, about a 10 minute drive from the heart of Old San Juan. This is a good option if you’re looking for a fun pool or you’re traveling with kids.

What to pack for Puerto Rico

Old San Juan is hot year round! These are the essentials you’ll need for your time in the vibrant city.

• Walking shoes or sandals . Make sure they’re well broken in to avoid blisters!
• Sunblock and sun hat . Both essential as you’re exploring all the things to do in Old San Juan.
• Over the shoulder bag or waist bag . Carry your essentials and keep them safe.
• Reusable water bottle. Choose a size that fits in your shoulder bag or use a carabiner clip for free hands.
• Mosquito repellent. These mosquitos are really pesky, even in the heart of the city. This is my favorite natural repellent and it works great!

Best things to do in Old San Juan – a recap

What a list! Whether you’re in the city for the culture, food, history or beaches, this list of things to do in Old San Juan has something for everyone.

From walking the cobblestone streets on various tours to exploring historic sights or seeing the city from the air, this colorful city has so much going for it!

Let’s recap that list again, in a more succinct fashion…

San Juan Puerto Rico things to do

• Visit El Morro
• Taste Old San Juan on a food tour
• Walk the cobblestone streets
• Visit Old San Juan beaches
• Enjoy the perfect Pina Colada at it’s birthplace
• Take an Old San Juan helicopter tour
• Walk through the San Juan Gate
• Marvel at the old architecture
• Snap a photo at the I heart San Juan sign
• Popsicles at Señor Paleta
• Check out Umbrella Street
• See the Capilla del Cristo
• Visit the 2nd oldest Cathedral in the Americas
• See La Puerta de la Bandera
• Hang out on the plaza
• Get your chocolate fix at Chocobar
• Visit La Perla
• Adventure on a day trip to El Yunque
• Take a walking tour of Old San Juan
• Go to Casa Blanca
• Visit the Rincón de Gautier mural
• Immerse yourself in the culture
• See the beaches of Isla Verde
• Visit Castillo San Cristóbal
• Cool off with gelato
• Go shopping in Old San Juan
• Old San Juan sunset cruise
• Visit the Museo de San Juan
• Hang out at the Old San Juan Port
• Tour the capitol building
• See the Quincentennial Plaza

Related content you’ll love: Culebra vs Vieques: Which Island is Perfect for You? Ultimate Guide to the Gorgeous Culebra, Puerto Rico Everything You Need to Know About Flamenco Beach, Puerto Rico STUNNING Black Sand Beach Vieques, Puerto Rico: What to Know Before You Go Jaw-dropping Icacos Island, Puerto Rico: What to Know Before You Go 30 Incredible Warm Winter Vacations in the USA

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Sunday 3rd of December 2023

This is such a great list! I can't wait to go back next year and eat all the food!

Wednesday 6th of December 2023

Yesssssss Susan! The food in Puerto Rico is simply amazing!

This post is a BLAST!!! WOW! This made me feel I wanted to visit San Juan! I will definitely try to fly a kite when I get there, I think it's a decade now since I last flew a kite.

Saturday 8th of January 2022

I’ve been to San Juan but after reading your blog lost, I’d love to walk the cobblestone streets, take a food tour, and relax on the beach!

Monday 10th of January 2022

Ah so cool Michelle! It's a wonderful destination, right?!

Erin from Pina Travels

My partner and I have been thinking about visiting Puerto Rico in the spring, and we want to spend two weeks in San Juan - so glad I came across this guide because it's packed with so much useful info. I'll definitely be trying to do all 28 of these things!

Oh yay Erin! There's so much to do in Puerto Rico. Old San Juan is fantastic. Have the best time!!

Ashleigh's Atlas

Thanks for sharing Nikki, the map was really helpful. I'll be adding the colourful streets of the old town and the food tour to my bucket list when New Zealand borders finally open and I can visit!

Ahhh Ashleigh you'll love this destination! Gosh I hope you can travel soon!

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The 10 Best Things to Do in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Zen Rial / Getty Images

While Old San Juan has no beaches, no resort hotels, and not a whole lot of natural beauty, it's still one of the most interesting places to visit in Puerto Rico. For all that it lacks, San Juan’s old city (also called Viejo San Juan ) is known for its rich culture and history—established in 1521, it’s the oldest city in the United States to be founded by Spanish colonizers in the New World, as St. Augustine, Florida , was settled a little later in 1565—beautiful architecture liberally splashed with tropical colors, and timeless magic that makes it one of the most enchanting destinations in the Caribbean. You could spend many happy days just walking around the walled city, sampling delicious Puerto Rican cuisine, and dancing to salsa all night alongside the locals. If you're planning a trip, these are the activities worth putting on your itinerary.

Go on a Guided Walking or Foodie Tour

Flavor Food Tours

If you’d prefer to learn more about the places you’re passing by on a stroll through the colorful streets of Old San Juan, consider booking a walking tour with guide Debbie Molina Ramos , who has been leading educational walks around the city since 1999. Choose from daytime or nighttime tours to see the area in a different light.

Those interested in tasting their way around the old city can choose from several foodie-themed tours by Flavors Food Tours and Spoon , which each offer small groups the chance to sample bites from different restaurants around Old San Juan and in some cases, rum-based cocktails, depending on which tour you choose.

Sip Piña Coladas Where They Were Created

Steve Lupton / Getty Images

While you can find piña colada cocktails all over Puerto Rico (it is the national drink, after all) it might be more memorable to indulge in the place they were created. Head to the Caribe Hilton , located on Calle San Gerónimo in Old San Juan, where, in 1954, bartender Ramón “Monchito” Marrero famously blended coconut cream, pineapple juice, and rum to create the world’s first piña colada.

Visit the Old Forts

Walter Bibikow / The Images Bank / Getty Images

History buffs, rejoice! Old San Juan is home to several massive fortresses whose cannons, ramparts, and layered defenses have guarded the walled city for centuries. Start by visiting El Morro (full name: Castillo San Felipe del Morro ) and Castillo de San Cristóbal , which are among the most visited attractions on the island, and for good reason. Then, stop by the governor's mansion, called La Fortaleza (the Fortress) because it served as one of the Spanish settlement's early defensive structures.

Take a Sunset Stroll Along Paseo de la Princesa

Paseo de la Princesa ("Walk of the Princess") is a broad promenade that begins near the docks at the foot of the city and leads to the lovely Fuente Raíces (Raíces Fountain). On weekends, you're likely to find all kinds of stalls lining the road, and occasionally, a free musical or cultural performance to enjoy. Paseo de la Princesa hugs the old perimeter wall of the city and beyond the fountain, continues around Old San Juan to the San Juan Gate, the last remaining of the city’s original five entry points. The best time to enjoy the walk is during sunset when you can take in gorgeous views of the bay from the fountain and escape the midday heat.

Dance the Night Away

Discover Puerto Rico

While salsa dancing and Puerto Rico go hand in hand, the island isn't exactly crawling with hallowed halls of salsa. While old standards like the Nuyorican Café (where Mick Jagger once danced the night away) have closed, newer spots like La Factoría and La Vergüenza Puertorrican Chinchorro —where you can also dance the rumba, bomba , and plena —in Old San Juan have really stepped up to the plate.

Check Out the Former Home of Juan Ponce de León

James Byrum / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0

One of the oldest structures in Old San Juan, La Casa Blanca (also known as Museo Casa Blanca ) was constructed in 1521 and served as the city’s earliest fortress as well as the home of its first Spanish ruling family. You might have heard of the man who made the search for the mythical Fountain of Youth his legacy, but before Juan Ponce de León took off on his chase for immortality, he built this home; his family and their descendants went on to live here for 200 years. The house provides a beautiful trip back through the ages and is definitely a historical highlight.

Discover the Old City's Nightlife and Dining Scenes

Marmalade Restaurant & Wine Bar

When it comes to the best lounges , bars, and nightclubs in greater San Juan, you'll find several of them in Old San Juan, a section of the island known for its active nightlife scene. Whether you prefer chic lounge vibes of upscale joints like Marmalade, grungy and funky bars like El Batey Bar, or multi-level discos (there are many to choose from), Old San Juan doesn't seem so old once the sun goes down.

Dining in Puerto Rico is also an incredibly rewarding experience, whether you're seeking local classics like mofongo , gourmet international cuisine, or a delightfully inventive fusion of Caribbean and global flavors. In Old San Juan, Calle de la Fortaleza (Fortaleza Street) has carved out its reputation as the city’s Restaurant Row, and is home to some of the best eateries in town; South Fortaleza, known as the SoFo District, even has its own biannual culinary festival. Of course, you don't need to restrict yourself to Fortaleza Street to enjoy good food in the old city, but the variety and quality of food options found here make it a good bet for a great meal.

Visit Legendary La Rogativa

Paul Downey / EyeEm / Getty Images

Of all the lovely sculptures in Old San Juan, why single out La Rogativa (the procession)? Because of the story of Puerto Rican patriotism it tells. The monument, located in Plazuela La Rogativa near the San Juan Gate, commemorates one of the most evocative legends of the island. When the British attacked Old San Juan in 1797, a quick-thinking priest took it upon himself to lead the outnumbered soldiers and civilians on a religious procession through the city. Apparently the British mistook the citizens’ prayer march for reinforcements and abandoned their attack. The sculptures recreate the moment as a work of art for all time.

Shop for Handcrafted Souvenirs

There's nothing wrong with a T-shirt or a shot glass, but if you want something creative and original to remember your trip by, the island is known for its lovely arts and crafts and you can find plenty of souvenir options throughout Old San Juan. From iconic vejigante masks found in numerous shops to the hand-carved santos (wooden figurines), souvenir shopping in San Juan is a real treat.

Browse the Old City's Art Galleries

Galeri­a Botello

Old San Juan is a haven for artists and proudly houses numerous art galleries that are well worth a look. Leading the list is the outstanding Galería Botello , but it's not the only place to feature fine local and regional works. Obra Galería, which showcases modern and contemporary art, is also worth your time.

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35 Best Things To Do In Old San Juan, Puerto Rico (2024)

• Old San Juan
• Things To Do

Looking to get the most out of your visit to Old San Juan? 

Centuries of history and architecture are condensed in this vibrant hub, allowing sightseers to easily experience it all on foot. 

As someone who lived in Old San Juan for three years, I can attest to it being Puerto Rico’s most visited city for good reason. 

From free fun to experiences worth splurging on, below are the 35 best things to do in Old San Juan , Puerto Rico:

1. Castillo San Felipe del Morro

El Morro is Old San Juan’s most iconic structure.

The Spanish fort was built in the 16th century to protect the city from enemy attacks. 

Guests can enter the fort to learn more about its history and enjoy the unbeatable views of the Atlantic Ocean.

There is a small entry fee, which includes access to Castillo San Cristóbal, for adults and free for children. 

For more information, read our article El Morro – All You Need To Know .

2. Fly a kite

On your visit to El Morro, you’re certain to see the sky teeming with kites. 

Don’t want to travel with a kite? No worries. Vendors sell them around the massive lawn in front of the fort. 

Thanks to the lawn’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, there is always a substantial breeze. 

El Morro’s lawn is the ideal location to relax and take in some of the most stunning views in Old San Juan.

If you love getting outdoors, read up on our 15 Best Outdoor Activities In Puerto Rico .

3. Paseo del Morro

Paseo del Morro is a bayside path along the fortress walls and a popular hangout spot for the local cats. 

The scenic route is great for travelers who don’t like to miss a run. 

From Paseo del Morro, you can climb a set of stairs to access the main fortress lawn. The path continues to a short dirt trail that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and the Santa María Magdalena de Pazzi Cemetery.

The distance from the San Juan Gate to El Morro is approximately ¾ mile. 

4. Meet the cats

Below is a photo of one of the many cats I’ve met in Old San Juan. 

Save a Gato is an organization that helps care for and manage the population of cats in Old San Juan. 

Their building is located adjacent to Paseo del Morro, making the area a popular hangout with the local felines.

If you are crazy about cats, you can see an entire colony of them lounging along Paseo del Morro as well as Caleta de las Monjas, one of the streets leading to El Morro. 

Their presence makes for a unique brand of wildlife photography. Of course, always be careful around stray animals. 

Learn more fun facts about the island in our article 30 Travel Tips For Visiting Puerto Rico .

5. Puerta de San Juan

La Puerta de San Juan, or The San Juan Gate, served as the entrance to the city during the Spanish colonization period.   

The large red gate is a popular spot for photographs.

Visitors can get to the gate by walking along Paseo del Morro. The gate is also accessible internally from Caleta de San Juan. 

Learn more about the history of Old San Juan in our guide to the History Of Puerto Rico.

6. Castillo San Cristóbal

Like El Morro, Castillo San Cristóbal is part of the San Juan National Historic Site.

The fortress contains La Garita del Diablo, or The Devil’s Sentry Box. Legends about this sentry box claim that soldiers would disappear from inside. 

It is about a 15-minute walk from El Morro to Castillo San Cristóbal along Calle Norzagaray. I recommend visiting each site since the admission fee includes both.  

7. Walking tour 

The best way to learn about Old San Juan’s history is to see it up close. 

On a walking tour, your guide will expertly weave you through Old San Juan’s streets so that you can learn about the city’s most famous landmarks.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Old San Juan Free Walking Tour (@osjfreetour)

Photo credit: @osjfreetour

Old San Juan Free Walking Tour offers a two-hour tour. The tour is free, but a $10 tip is recommended. 

8. Food tour 

What’s better than a walking tour? A walking tour with food! Get to know Puerto Rico’s history and culture through its cuisine and cocktails. 

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Flavors Food Tours (@flavorsfoodtours)

Video Credit: @flavorsfoodtours

Flavors Food Tours is a company that offers several different tasting experiences.

Still hungry? Check out our 3 Best Local Food Tours in Puerto Rico  article.

9. Cooking class 

Get hands-on in a cooking class.  Learn about Puerto Rican food, and take what you learn back home with you.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by spoon (@thespoonexperience)

Photo credit: @thespoonexperience

Imagine returning from vacation and impressing your friends and families with delicious new recipes. 

The Spoon Experience offers cooking classes for beginner and intermediate chefs. 

10. San Juan Ghost Walk

Interested in the darker side of Old San Juan’s history?

If so, you might enjoy the San Juan Ghost Walk.

I did the evening walking tour with a large group of friends.

It was a fun way to experience the city’s folklore and ghost stories. 

For tour details and booking information, check out the San Juan Ghost Walk website . 

11. Shopping

If you love to shop, you won’t be disappointed by Old San Juan’s diverse collection of stores.

Whether you’re looking for something specific or simply enjoy browsing, you can spend an entire day checking out all the local wares. 

Boutiques, arts and crafts, and gift shops are concentrated along Fortaleza Street and San Francisco Street, but you can find shopping all throughout Old San Juan. 

If you’re a cigar connoisseur, The Cigar House and Casa de Montecristo are two cigar lounges with lots of character. 

12. Photography

Old San Juan is the perfect urban landscape for professional and amateur photographers alike.

Its brightly colored buildings, cobblestone streets, and lively outdoor vendors create a distinctive opportunity for capturing the island’s spirit through a camera lens. 

Too much work? Hire a professional photographer for a session so all you have to do is smile.

For more inspiration, read our article about the Best Places to Take Pictures in Puerto Rico .

13. Catedral de San Juan Bautista

The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is located on Calle del Cristo in Old San Juan.  

Originally built in 1521, the 500-year-old basilica houses the remains of conquistador Juan Ponce de León. 

Marvel at the historical architecture and beautiful stained glass windows as you stroll by, or participate in mass. 

For more information, visit the Cathedral’s website .

14. Capilla del Cristo

Capilla del Cristo is a small chapel and museum located at the edge of Calle del Cristo.

I first noticed the chapel during my time in the Coast Guard as our ship pulled into port. One of the locals shared its lore with me: 

During a horse race, a rider fell from the wall but survived. Capilla del Cristo was built at the site in honor of the miracle. 

The museum is open on weekends during the afternoon. 

15. San Juan Bay Sunset Cruise 

My favorite way to see Old San Juan is from the bay.

The first time I came to Puerto Rico was by ship. I was captivated by the silhouette of buildings atop the impressive El Morro walls.

Take a San Juan Bay sunset cruise to delight in the waterside vision of the city.

Sip on a drink while spotting landmarks and basking in ultimate relaxation.

Because the water inside the bay is calm, it’s unlikely seasickness will be an issue.

For some more ideas on how to spend time on the water, check out our 10 Best Catamaran Charters article.

16. Paseo de la Princesa

Paseo de la Princesa is a popular walkway just a few steps from the cruise ship terminal.

It is lined with booths selling food and souvenirs and leads to Raíces Fountain. The historical fountain is especially beautiful at night when its lights are activated. 

Also along the promenade is Parque Infantil del Niño, a small statue garden and play area for children. 

During the holidays, Paseo de la Princesa is decorated with extravagant lights.

Learn more in our guide to the Paseo de la Princesa .

17. Food trucks 

Try a variety of classic Puerto Rican foods from the trucks along Dársenas Square. 

Dársenas Square is located along the bay, adjacent to the cruise ship terminal. 

You can munch on local favorites such as empanadas, alcapurrias, and monstrous tripleta sandwiches with an immediate view of the water. 

The food trucks are the perfect budget-friendly choice for a quick bite on the way to your next stop. 

Check out the best street foods in San Juan in the following video:

18. La Casa del Libro 

La Casa del Libro is a small gift shop and museum containing numerous historic manuscripts. 

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by La Casa del Libro (@casadellibropr)

Part of its collection includes documents related to Christopher Columbus’ second voyage.

La Casa del Libro offers guided tours and workshops to groups upon request. 

For more information, visit the La Casa del Libro website.

19. Museo de las Américas 

Museo de las Américas features historical and cultural exhibits from the American continent.

A trip to the museum is a great way to escape the heat while enriching your vacation. 

The museum is located across from El Morro on the second floor of Cuartel de Ballajá, the courtyard pictured above. The admission fee is only a few dollars. 

For more information, check out our article 12 Best Museums In Puerto Rico .

20. Casa Blanca

Did you know Spanish conquistador Juan Ponce de León was the first governor of Puerto Rico? 

Casa Blanca, originally built as his home, now serves as a museum. 

A secluded garden provides a peaceful rest area. If you love old architecture and ocean views, the museum is worth a visit. 

Located on Calle San Sebastián, Casa Blanca is open Tuesday through Sunday.

Operating hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. with an hour-long noon closure. There is a few dollars admission fee. 

21. Helitours 

Seeking a more adventurous way to see Old San Juan? Consider a helicopter tour.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Puerto Rico Helitours (@puertoricohelitours)

Video Credit: @puertoricohelitours

Puerto Rico Helitours is located on Pier 8. To reach it, cross the short walking bridge near the seahorse statue at the end of the main boardwalk.

For our anniversary, my husband and I did “The Enchanted Shore Tour,” which took us over Old San Juan and Isla Verde . Other tours include different flight lengths and even a tasting tour.

For reservations, check out the Puerto Rico Helitours website . 

22. Drink a Piña Colada

Did you know that the Piña Colada is the national drink of Puerto Rico? 

The famous Caribbean drink originated on the island, though there is some debate about who is credited with its invention. 

One of the possible birthplaces is the restaurant Barrachina in Old San Juan. At its entrance, a plaque claims the location as the home of the Piña Colada. 

Regardless, the rum beverage is a delicious accessory to your tropical vacation. 

Learn more in our article Barrachina Restaurant – Honest Review .

23. Try Mofongo

Mofongo is Puerto Rico’s most famous dish.

It is made from mashed plantains and typically stuffed with meat or seafood. 

Plenty of restaurants in Old San Juan have mofongo on the menu, but I recommend visiting El Jibarito, Café Manolín, or Raíces. 

A trip to Puerto Rico isn’t complete without trying the island’s beloved cuisine. 

Check out my article 35 Best Restaurants In Puerto Rico for more.

24. La Fortaleza

Originally built as “The Fortress,” La Fortaleza now serves as the Puerto Rico governor’s mansion. 

Visitors can view La Fortaleza from Fortaleza Street. 

Fortaleza Street is known as the famous “Umbrella Street” due to the colorful hanging umbrellas overhead.

The umbrellas have since been replaced by other decorations, which change from time to time. 

For more information or to schedule a tour, visit the Fortaleza website.  

25. Calle San Sebastián

San Sebastián Street is my top choice for drinks in Old San Juan. 

It is lined with a diverse collection of bars and restaurants. Everything is within a short half-mile stretch, making it ideal for bar hopping with friends. 

San Sebastián Street offers cheap beers, luxurious cocktails, dominos, dancing, and more. 

This street is home to a popular annual festival that takes place in late January every year in Old San Juan. Read all about it in our list of Public Holidays & Celebrations In Puerto Rico article.

26. Parque de las Palomas

Parque de las Palomas, or Pigeon Park, is great for a brief stop while exploring Old San Juan.  

Located next door to Capillo del Cristo, the park offers a shady area with an excellent view of the water. Of course, it also has a ton of pigeons. 

Nearby street vendors sell dried corn, so you spend a few minutes feeding the local birds. 

27. Plaza Colon 

Plaza Colon is one of several famous squares in Old San Juan. 

Historically, the plaza served as the main city gate.

When San Juan was surrounded entirely by walls, Plaza Colon connected it to the rest of Puerto Rico. 

Today, the area contains restaurants, cafes, and shopping. It’s also home to the 200-year-old Tapia Theater, which continues to operate. 

28. Plaza de Armas

Plaza de Armas is another one of the main squares in Old San Juan. 

San Juan City Hall sits at the northern end of the plaza.

On the west end lies the Puerto Rico Department of State. 

The fountain in the center of the square is a frequent location for street performances. Grab a coffee from one of the nearby kiosks and relax on one of the plaza’s many benches. 

29. Tour the Capitol Building

El Capitolio de Puerto Rico is a symbol of liberty and houses the island’s Legislative Assembly.  

The impressive domed structure is located just outside the Old San Juan area.

The Capitol Building is open to the public Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. You can view the Puerto Rico Constitution as well as the mosaic artwork on the building’s dome.

Learn more in our article The Capitol Building – All You Need To Know .

Schedule a guided tour in advance by calling 787-721-5200, ext. 301, or emailing [email protected] . 

30. La Casa Estrecha

La Casa Estrecha, which means The Narrow House, is the city’s skinniest historical landmark.

Designed to fit inside an old alleyway, the home is a true architectural marvel.

Even though the two-story building may be a tight squeeze, its balcony offers a grand view of the bay below. 

Check out the La Casa Estrecha for updates on tour hours and contact information.

31. El Convento

El Convento is a Carmelite convent turned luxury hotel.

The historic landmark on Cristo Street is worth visiting even if you choose not to stay as a guest.   

Have a cocktail at the Alegría Patio Bar or stay for dinner at Santísimo Restaurant. Both are open-air and overlook the patio. 

32. Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery

If you visit El Morro, be sure to see Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery.

The cemetery contains the graves of famous Puerto Rican residents. Its elaborate memorials against the stunning seaside backdrop create a lovely site for appreciation and reflection. 

The front gates are accessible by walking through the tunnel on the edge of the El Morro field. You can also view the cemetery from one of El Morro’s many wall platforms.

Read more in our guide to Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery .

33. Salsa dancing

Salsa dancing is a huge part of Puerto Rican culture.

Local salsa hotspots include La Factoría on San Sebastián Street and Nuyorican Café on San Francisco Street.

Don’t worry if you’re completely new to salsa. You can find plenty of beginner classes. I recommend the “Learn Salsa in Paradise” class. It is held outside in Luis Muñoz Marin Park, ten minutes from Old San Juan.

Read more in our article Where To Dance Salsa In San Juan .

34. Taste Puerto Rican coffee

Coffee is a staple of Puerto Rican culture.

Old San Juan offers plenty of venues to taste the strong, sweet flavors of a local cup of joe.

Caficultura, Cuatro Sombras, Café Cola’o, and Spiga are a few local hotspots to check out.

Like so many, I try to save money by making coffee at home.

Living in Puerto Rico, with so many fantastic cafes, makes it extremely difficult. If you’re visiting, go ahead and splurge on that café con leche. 

If you want to visit the farm where your coffee is grown, check out our article 5 Best Coffee Farms & Tours .

35. Bioluminescent Bay tour 

Bioluminescent Bays contain high concentrations of bioluminescent plankton. These plankton emit light at night when disturbed.

When you kayak in a bio bay at night, the plankton move and emit light. This creates the magical effect of glowing water. 

Laguna Grande is one of three bio bays in Puerto Rico. It is located about an hour east of Old San Juan. Transportation is provided to and from Old San Juan for certain tours. 

To learn more, check out our article about Puerto Rico’s Bioluminescent Bays .

FAQ section

How do i spend a day in old san juan.

Start by visiting Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal, the city’s most iconic structures. After, take to the cobblestone streets for food, drinks, and shopping. Just walking around, you’ll be able to see historical landmarks, including Plaza de Armas, Plaza Colón, La Fortaleza, El Convento, and more. 

What are some things to do in Old San Juan for free?

You can enjoy the best of Old San Juan on foot at no cost. The “GPSmyCity” app offers maps containing Old San Juan sightseeing destinations so that you can take yourself on a free self-guided tour. 

What are some things to do in Old San Juan at night?

For a fun nighttime experience in Old San Juan, book a sunset cruise on the bay or take the San Juan Ghost Tour. Alternatively, bar-hopping along the diverse bars, clubs, and lounges on Calle San Sebastián is always a good time. 

Final thoughts

My favorite thing to do in Old San Juan is to visit Castillo San Felipe del Morro and learn about Puerto Rico’s history. 

I also recommend venturing out of Old San Juan to Laguna Grande to experience the magical bioluminescent bay . 

If you are still looking for more activities, then check out our article 45 Best Things To Do In Puerto Rico .

Erin Reynolds

Writer at PuertoRico.com. After graduating from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, I was stationed on a patrol boat in Puerto Rico. I responded to Hurricane Irma and Maria, delivering relief supplies. Then, I worked as an Emergency Management Specialist, coordinating with local partners to develop contingency exercises. Now, I spend my time in Puerto Rico with my husband and two dogs, exploring the island and finding all the best things to do, which I share in my articles!

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The 16 Best Things To Do in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Old San Juan, Puerto Rico is a charming neighborhood that’s packed full of history and sites to see. Founded over 500 years ago, many people are surprised to learn that Old San Juan is the oldest city in the United States. Today, the city retains its historical charm and is famously known for its colonial Spanish architecture, brightly painted buildings and cobblestone streets. Although Old San Juan is small, you can easily spend a couple full days exploring this beautiful area. Ready to plan your trip to Puerto Rico? Keep reading for the 16 best things to do in Old San Juan! 

FAQ: The Best Things to do in Old San Juan

• At least one day, but I recommend two. Check out my post all about how to have the best 48 hours in Old San Juan . 
• Old San Juan is a neighborhood in the city of San Juan. It’s located on a small island that’s connected to the rest of San Juan by bridges. 
• Yes! Playa del Capitolio is about 15 minutes from Old San Juan and Balneario El Escambrón (Escambron Beach) is around 30. 
• No, Old San Juan is small and very walkable. If you’re staying in Old San Juan, definitely walk everywhere and Uber to other parts of the city. 
• Yes, it’s very safe and also very pretty at night. You’ll also find great nightlife – especially near La Factoria bar. 
• The drinking age in Puerto Rico is 18. 

The 16 Best Things to do in Old San Juan

1: wander the colorful streets.

The first thing I recommend doing when arriving in Old San Juan is taking some time to wander around the streets. 

Old San Juan is small and extremely walkable and this is a great way to get oriented, see colorful architecture and start your day. Every single street is beautiful and it’s truly a photographer’s dream.

If you’d like to take a guided walking tour to learn more about the important sites and history of the city, there are tons of great options.

Walking tours of Old San Juan:

• Old Town Sunset Walking Tour
• Photography & Historical Walking Tour in San Juan

2: Tour El Morro

Visiting El Morro is always a top recommendation for the best things to do in Old San Juan! 

Castillo San Felipe del Morro, shortened to El Morro, is a military fort overlooking San Juan Bay. Construction of this fort began in the 16th century by the Spanish and now this impressive fort is open to the public 7 days a week. 

Tickets are $10 for adults and free for children 15 and under.

TIP: once you’ve paid the entry fee to El Morro, you can also visit Castillo San Cristobal (mentioned below) without having to pay another entry fee. 

Some walking tours of Old San Juan include entrance to El Morro as well as a guided tour.  

Guided Tours of El Morro:

• Inside El Morro Castle & Old San Juan Walking Tour
• El Morro Fort Entry Ticket & Old Town Walking Tour
• Explore El Morro Fort: History and Walking Tour of Old San Juan

El Morro Lawn and Kites 

To get to El Morro, you’ll walk across a beautiful lawn area. This is the windiest point of Old San Juan and you’ll often see people relaxing on the lawn and flying kites. 

Be sure to also walk down the lawn to the Cementerio Santa María Magdalena de Pazzi (The Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery). Located on the water, just outside of the walled city, this colonial era cemetery dates back to 1893. 

3: Walk Along Calle Norzagaray for Ocean Views

Calle Norzagaray is one of the central streets in Old San Juan and parts of it also boast beautiful ocean views. You can walk between both major forts in Old San Juan, El Morro and San Cristobal, while enjoying the ocean views and architecture on the way. 

With no stops, the walk between the two forts is 15-20 minutes. 

Starting at San Cristobal, walk along the sidewalk passing by the entrance to La Perla neighborhood and the Museum of San Juan , finally ending up on the lawn of El Morro.

4: Visit Castillo San Cristobal

Castillo San Cristobal is the second most famous fort in Old San Juan, after El Morro. San Cristobal was built to protect  San Juan from Eastern attacks, and therefore, is located on the opposite side of Old San Juan from El Morro. Construction began in 1634 and took 150 years to complete. 

Tickets to San Cristobal are $10 for adults and free for children 15 and under. Your ticket for San Cristobal will also grant you free access to El Morro , and vice versa .

5: Explore La Perla on a Guided Tour

La Perla is one of the most infamous places in Puerto Rico and happens to be nestled right along the Atlantic coast in Old San Juan. 

This neighborhood has had a difficult past and used to be known for being one of the most dangerous areas on the island. La Perla is outside of the walled city of Old San Juan and since its creation has been largely neglected by the government.

However, in the past few years, especially following the production of Luis Fonsi’s famous hit Despacito, who’s music video was filmed in La Perla, the neighborhood is becoming more open to tourists. This being said, it’s still largely residential and nowhere near as touristy as the rest of Old San Juan. There are some streets you should not visit and many locals will warn you not to visit at all. 

Guided Tour of La Perla

If you want to visit La Perla, which I highly recommend, definitely do it on a guided tour. This way, you’ll be visiting the neighborhood safely and respectfully and in a way that supports locals and their businesses. 

I highly recommend taking a tour with Carolina from La Perla Like a Local . You’ll learn the history of the neighborhood, meet locals, support small businesses and really gain an understanding and appreciation for La Perla. You will also feel completely safe. 

After the tour, you’ll also be much better equipped to visit La Perla again on your own. There are great bars in the neighborhood, beautiful street art and everyone we met was so friendly and welcoming. 

You will see some travel blogs and websites saying “it’s totally okay to visit La Perla, no one will stop you and it’s safe!” While this is true in some cases, I still don’t recommend visiting on your own, especially on a first trip. If you do choose to explore on your own:

• Know exactly where you’re going.
• Don’t take photos without asking first (especially of residents or their homes.)
• Understand that there is no police presence in this area and it is still known for drug trafficking. 

I don’t say any of this to scare you, but instead so you understand where you’re visiting and how to do it in a way that is safe for you and respectful to locals who call La Perla home.

6: Have a Piña Colada at Barrachina and El Caribe Hilton

Fun fact: the Piña Colada was invented in Puerto Rico! However, there’s a long standing debate over which establishment, Barrachina or El Caribe Hilton , really made the first one. 

Both spots serve up delicious drinks, but they have slightly different flavors. I recommend trying both to see which you prefer! 

El Caribe Hilton (one of the *supposed* piña colada inventors) is located just 5-10 minutes by car from downtown Old San Juan and is a great place to stay. 

If like a good cocktail, a craft-cocktail walking tour is a fun way to discover great bars and try some delicious drinks.

7: Check out the Art Galleries

Old San Juan is filled with a variety of art galleries and shops. You’ll find handmade souvenirs as well as paintings and ceramics. It’s so fun to pop in and out of these shops and purchase an art piece to bring home. 

A few of my favorite art shops and galleries include: 

• The Poet’s Passage
• Puerto Rican Arts and Crafts
• Galería Éxodo

8: Take an Art Class

In addition to visiting art galleries, taking an art class is so fun and such a great way to learn more about local art and culture. I took a painting class at San Juan Sip & Paint and it was a blast. 

I’m not a very good painter, but with the step by step instructions from the artist, my painting turned out pretty cute. You also get a beverage to sip on (alcoholic or non-alcoholic), making this a fun date night, friends night or even a family activity. 

If you’d rather make something you can wear, you can also take an espadrilles making class . Espadrilles are traditional Spanish shoes that have now spread in popularity across many parts of the world. These shoes are cute and such a fun souvenir to wear home and on other trips!

9: Take a Food Tour and Eat at Delicious Restaurants

Puerto Rican food is delicious and there are so many fantastic restaurants to check out in Old San Juan. A great way to get acquainted with the local dishes when traveling is to take a food tour – it’s always a huge highlight of my trips! Food tours are so much fun and such a great way to try many different menu items. 

They’re also a great way to learn about local restaurants, get recommendations from your guide and decide where you want to go back to for more meals. 

Food Tour Recommendations:

• Old Town Foodie Walking Tour with Tastings
• Old San Juan Walk and Taste Tour

If you don’t want to take a food tour, but instead want to jump right into trying out local restaurants, a few of my favorites for traditional Puerto Rican food are:

• Deaverdura (there will likely be a line)
• Cafe el Punto  
• Cafeteria Mallorca (breakfast and lunch)

10: Eat Mofongo, Tostones, Mallorcas and Paletas

As we’ve been discussing, there is so much great food in Puerto Rico! A few must-try dishes on a first trip to the island definitely include mofongo, tostones, mallorcas, and, my favorite, paletas. 

Plantains are very popular in Puerto Rico and many traditional dishes are plantain-based or have plantains as a side dish. 

Many side dishes, like tostones, are served with the famous mayo-ketchup. This dipping sauce, as you could probably guess by the name, is made by mixing mayo and ketchup. I don’t really like mayo or ketchup on their own, but for some reason I really like mayo-ketchup.

Must-try Puerto Rican foods:

• Some restaurants also serve a vegetarian version. 
• Tostones are crispy, fried smashed plantains.
• Mallorcas are a fluffy, sweet bread (kind of like fried dough) that are sprinkled with powdered sugar. Many people eat mallorcas with ham and cheese, but there are several varieties.
• My favorite popsicle shop is Señor Paleta (it’s also the most famous), but Zippops Gourmet Paletas are also excellent. 

These are just a few delicious foods you’ll find in Puerto Rico! Also be on the lookout for amarillos (fried sweet plantains), alcapurrias (deep fried meat fritters), bacalaítos (fried cod fritters) and empanadillas (fried turnovers with a variety of fillings).

11: Visit the San Juan Cathedral

Built in 1540, the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of Saint John the Baptist is the oldest cathedral in the USA and the second oldest in the Americas. It’s also among the oldest buildings in San Juan.

It’s located right next to the historic Hotel el Convento , a former convent dating back to 1651.

12: Drink Puerto Rican Coffee

If you’re a coffee lover, you’ll love Puerto Rico! Puerto Rican coffee is so good and there are so many fantastic coffee shops around Old San Juan. 

A few of my favorites include: 

• Cafe Cuatro Sombras
• Bien Papayas  

Don’t forget to grab a bag of local coffee (or two!) to bring back home!

13: See the Umbrella Street and Governor’s Mansion

This section of Fortaleza Street, starting next to Anita La Mamma Gelato (very good, by the way) and ending at La Fortaleza (the Governor’s Mansion), is known for its colorful hanging umbrellas. 

Depending on the time of year, these umbrellas are swapped out for other equally beautiful decorations, like kites or flags. 

This street is one of the top photo spots in Old San Juan, however, for the past several months (and likely for the foreseeable future) the street is closed. You can still see the umbrellas, but you can no longer walk under them. They’re still pretty to see, but it makes taking photos a little difficult. 

There is a constant police presence in this area as well as barricades blocking the street, so it’s definitely not possible to pass through for photos directly under the umbrellas.

14: Make your own Bracelet at Caribbean Beads

This little hidden gem is such a fun place to go to make your own jewelry! At Caribbean beads you can choose from a huge variety of beads, charms and chains to be expertly assembled into a one of a kind piece of jewelry. 

I went with a group of friends and we all had so much fun picking out charms and making bracelets. The prices are very affordable as well, with all of our bracelets ranging from $14-$20.

This is the perfect activity for rainy weather!

15: Relax on the Beaches

Puerto Rico is known for its amazing beaches. Although Old San Juan isn’t the beachiest place on the island, there’s still a couple decent beaches within walking distance. 

Start on Paseo Puerta Tierra, a walking path with ocean views, and shortly you’ll come to Playa del Capitolio. 

As its name suggests, Playa del Capitolio is right in front of the Capitol Building. This little beach isn’t great for swimming, but it’s a nice place to come to read a book, watch the sunset or look for sea glass. There are no amenities, so you’ll need to bring everything you need.  

If you keep walking for another 20 minutes along Paseo Puerta Tierra, you’ll arrive at Balneario El Escambrón. This beach and park area has bathrooms and vendors and is somewhere you could easily spend an entire afternoon. 

From Balneario El Escambrón, you can walk or Uber back to the old town for a few dollars. If it’s after sunset, I recommend Ubering as the street lamps aren’t the best and the path is less busy at night. 

16: Have a Drink at the Famous La Factoría

A trip to Old San Juan isn’t complete without a night out at the famous La Factoría ! This bar has been named the best bar in the Caribbean and is often featured as one of the 50 Best Bars in the World . 

What makes La Factoría especially unique is that it’s six bars in one, all connected through hidden (and not so hidden) passageways. Each of these bars has its own unique vibe, music and drink menu. It’s so fun to wander through La Factoría checking out the different rooms. 

Tip: if you want to visit all six bars, plan to go after 11pm, as sometimes not all of the rooms are open until then.

If you’re traveling solo or in a small group, a great way to meet new people and enjoy a night out is to go on an Old San Juan Bar Crawl !

For those who’d like to experience more bars outside of Old San Juan, definitely consider a tour to La Placita de Santurce . This is the perfect area for bar-hopping, nightlife, great music and dancing.

You can also easily visit La Placita on your own. There are tons of bars right next to one another and it’s a very fun time. Keep in mind that these bars are not at all fancy and feature an indoor-outdoor vibe.

More Fun Tours

If you have extra time in Old San Juan, there are even more fun and unique tours and activities to partake in. Below are a few great options!

• Old San Juan: Sunset Cruise with Drinks
• Guided Water Bike Tour with El Morro Fort Views
• Old San Juan Murder Mystery Tour
• Old San Juan Segway Tour

The Best Hotels in Old San Juan

Old San Juan has a great selection of hotels, ranging from small, family run establishments to adults-only luxury properties. When visiting Puerto Rico, I love to stay right in Old San Juan, as everything is very walkable and the area is so beautiful. 

Old San Juan isn’t beachfront though, so if you’re looking for a hotel with a beach, I recommend staying in the Condado neighborhood (known for its beaches) and Ubering into the old town. 

Hotels in Old San Juan: 

• Decanter Hotel
• Navona Studios  
• El Colonial  – Adults Only 
• Hotel El Convento
• Villa Herencia Hotel
• Fortel Hostel  

Hotels in the Condado area:

• Caribe Hilton (between Old San Juan and Condado)
• Casa Wilson Inn
• Condado Ocean Club
• Casa Botanica Hotel (close to Condado)
• Trópica Beach Hotel (close to Condado)

Ready to start exploring? I hope you enjoyed this post about the best things to do in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico! If you have any questions, please leave us a comment below or DM us on Instagram, @twosistersabroad .

If you enjoyed this post, we also appreciate you sharing it on social media!

Other posts to check out:

• Itinerary for 48 Hours in Old San Juan
• The Ultimate 7 Day Road Trip Around Puerto Rico

This guide includes affiliate links! Read our disclosure  here .

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25 Best Things To Do in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

This post contains affiliate links. Read the full disclosure here .

When you’re planning a trip to Puerto Rico, its capital city of San Juan should definitely be high on your priority list. Old San Juan especially is full of charm and history, with streets of colorful colonial buildings, restaurants offering classic Puerto Rican dishes, and old forts telling the story of this city. You won’t want to miss these things to do in Old San Juan!

Pro Tip: Old San Juan is compact and very walkable! You should be able to see everything on this list on foot! And I’ve done my best to put this list in a reasonable walking order.

Things To Do in Old San Juan

1. visit el morro.

El Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro) is by far the most popular tourist attraction in Old San Juan. This fort is located at the very western tip of Old San Juan and overlooks the ocean for some beautiful views.

This fortress was built 1539 (although it wasn’t fully completed until 1790!) and worked to protect the Spanish settlers of San Juan from enemy ships. It was also used by the United States during both WWI and WWII. In 1961 it became part of the National Park Service as a National Historic Site.

Inside, you can peer through the gunholes to imagine a cannon firing on an enemy ship, explore the barracks used by soldiers, and enjoy beautiful views of the ocean. Park rangers offer tours, but you can of course also explore on your own. Taking a tour will help you understand the important history of this fort better though, as well as the history of Puerto Rico.

And while the inside of the fort is the main attraction here, we also really loved the giant lawn out front. It has beautiful views of San Juan, offered us a nice breeze on a hot day, and we loved watching kids flying kites! (Plus, enjoying the lawn is free!)

El Morro is open every day of the week from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Adults are charged a $10 entrance fee, but kids under 15 are free. You ticket for El Morro will also give you access to the other major fort in Old San Juan, Castillo San Cristóbal.

2. Walk the Paseo del Morro

Just outside of the El Morro, there is a paved walkway that cuts between the city walls and the water called El Paseo del Morro. This pathway used to be a maintenance road for the city wall, but now it is open for visitors to enjoy views of the San Juan bay.

If you’re visiting El Morro, this is as fun way to leave the fortress. Climb the stairs down to it from the back of the fort and then walk until you reach the entrance up into the main section of Old San Juan.

Pro Tip: This walking path can get VERY hot! So make sure to bring plenty of water, and if you’re visiting on a hot day, you may save this for the evening! You can get back to it by going through the city gate (see #3).

3. Go Through La Puerta de San Juan (San Juan Gate)

On the Paseo del Morro, you’ll find a large red door known as La Puerta de San Juan (literally the door of San Juan, but known as San Juan Gate). Since Old San Juan was a walled city, there were many entrances in the city wall that allowed visitors to access the city from the bay. La Puerta de San Juan was the main entrance, and you can still walk through it back into Old San Juan.

Want an easy way to plan your trip to Puerto Rico? Check out this Puerto Rico Travel Guide!

4. Walk the Paseo de la Princesa

From the San Juan Gate, you can keep walking around the city wall and you’ll find yourself at the Paseo de la Princesa. This tree-lined avenue is often called the most beautiful promenade in San Juan.

This is a great place to people watch and soak in the feel of the Old San Juan. You’ll also usually find lots going on (especially on the weekends), from food stands to craft vendors to live music.

5. Stop By the Capilla del Santo Cristo de la Salud

At the southern end of Calle del Cristo (now up on top of the city wall), you’ll find a tiny chapel called the Capilla del Santo Cristo de la Salud . It was built in the mid to late 1700s, and the legend is that it was built to commemorate a miracle in which a person in a horse race fell of the city’s cliff but survived. Another theory is that it was built to prevent further accidents off the edge of the cliff.

You can stop by and see the outside of it any day of the week, but note that it is only open on Tuesdays.

6. Feed the Pigeons at Pigeon Park (Parque de las Palomas)

Next to la Capilla del Santo Cristo de la Salud, you’ll find Pigeon Park . Pigeons flock here and you can find vendors nearby selling food you can feed to the pigeons. Be careful though, because if you have food they can definitely swarm you!

This might not be the stop for you if you have a fear of birds, but it’s definitely a unique place and there are some beautiful views of the bay from here!

7. Visit the Umbrella Street (Calle de la Fortaleza)

At the very west end of Calle de la Fortaleza you’ll find Old San Juan’s Instagrammable Umbrella Street. Calle de la Fortaleza is the street that leads to the Governor’s Mansion (La Fortaleza).

Note that you might not always find umbrellas here though. When we visited in October of 2022, the street was covered with a giant pink Puerto Rican flag (I assume for Breast Cancer Awareness month?) and the street was also blocked off by security (perhaps for something going on at the Governor’s Mansion?).

If you are nearby, it’s definitely worth checking out and snapping a few colorful photos.

8. See La Fortaleza

La Fortaleza (translated as The Fortress), was originally a fort built in 1540. But the 1840s it was converted into the home of the governor. Today, it is still the official house of the Governor of Puerto Rico and also contains government offices.

While you can’t visit La Fortaleza while the government is in session, at other times you can take a 30-minute guided tour of the building between the hours of 8:15 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Even if you aren’t taking a tour though, definitely stop by to see the beautiful building. For what I think are the most scenic views, see it from on top of the city walls along Calle de Rafael Cordero.

9. See La Rogativa

Near La Fortaleza (and from the spot where I think you can get the best views of La Fortaleza) you’ll find La Rogativa , a sculpture commemorating an important moment in Puerto Rican history.

The story goes that Puerto Rico was about to be invaded by the British. That night, a large group of women lead by the Bishop walked throughout the streets saying prayers with lit torches. From their ship, the British mistook the lights for reinforcements and called off the attack.

The statue was created by artist Lindsay Daen in 1971, and the location offers amazing views of La Fortaleza and San Juan Bay.

10. Visit Cats at Save a Gato

Just up the street from La Rogativa (walking back toward El Morro), you’ll find the main location for Save a Gato . There is a colony of feral cats that lives in Old San Juan, and Save a Gato is a non-profit organization that cares for these cats. They feed them, spay and neuter them, and otherwise make sure they are cared for.

Most of the cats know to congregate near the Parque Pasivo Viego San Juan where they get fed daily. If you decide to visit these cats, remember that they are feral cats and may not always be friendly. While some of them may be happy to interact, its best to admire them without trying to get too close both for their safety and yours.

Note: The National Parks Service has recently proposed a plan to remove the cats, although there is no timeline for when this will happen or if it is even definitive. Visit the Save a Gato website to stay updated.

11. Take in the History of the Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista

The Catedral de San Juan was first built in 1521, but after being destroyed in a storm it was rebuilt in 1529. This makes it the second oldest church in the Western Hemisphere (the Cathedral of Santa María la Menor in the Dominican Republic is the oldest).

This church has several interesting things to see, and two things are especially of note. First, it’s the final resting place of Juan Ponce de León, the Spanish explorer whose name you will see all over Puerto Rico (just like you do in Florida).

Second, the martyr Saint Pius is also here. His mummy was encased in wax and is kept in a glass box which you can view. If you look closely inside his mouth you can see his mummy teeth!

Another interesting fact about this church is that there are many people buried in the walls. I believe they were mostly priests of church officials, and their resting places aren’t necessarily marked, but they believed that the higher up you were buried the closer you would be to heaven, so they wanted to be in the walls as opposed to buried in the ground.

12. People Watch in the Plaza de Armas

The historic Plaza de Armas is located one block southeast of La Catedral de San Juan. It was built during colonial times to be the main plaza of the city, and today it is still a great place to take a seat on a bench, enjoy a coffee or pastry, and watch the people of San Juan pass by.

There are also a couple points of interest here. The first is the Four Seasons Fountain, which has a statue representing each season at each corner. The second is a statue of Puerto Rican salsa composer Tite Curet Alonso, which sits on one of the benches.

13. Visit La Casa Blanca Museum

La Casa Blanca was built in 1521 and was once the home Juan Ponce de León’s family. Today it is a museum set up with furniture from the 16th and 17th centuries. There are also gardens you can stroll though, and the house and gardens look out over the city wall to the bay.

This is a small museum, and you won’t find many crowds here. It is open Wednesday through Sunday from 8 to 11:45 a.m. and 1-4 p.m.

14. Admire Art in the Museo de las Américas

Near the Casa Blanca, you’ll find a large building once used as a military barracks called the Cuartel de Ballajá. This large building is where the Museo de las Américas is located, which highlights folk art from Puerto Rico and other the Americas.

The museum gives you a chance to understand the history of Puerto Rico and the Americas through art with three permanent exhibits: Folk Arts in the Americas, Our African Heritage, and Conquest and Colonization. They also have temporary exhibits.

The Museo de las Américas is open Wednesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1-4 p.m. On Saturdays and Sundays they are open from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Even if you don’t stop at the museum, be sure to at least stop by the building. This old military barracks has a beautiful courtyard area, and it’s a great place to sit down and rest.

There are also two important necessities you can find here on a long day of walking around Old San Jan. First of all, in the entrance closest to El Morro there is a small room with a glass door that has an small exhibit (I think on the building’s history if I remember correctly?) that has THE BEST air conditioning. Secondly, on the opposite end of the building, you’ll find some bathrooms.

There are also some great places to sit in the courtyard and a few restaurants where you can get out of the sun.

15. See the Ocean from the Plaza del Quinto Centenario

Across from the Museo de las Américas is the Plaza del Quinto Centenario . This plaza was built in 1992 to mark the 500th anniversary of Colombus’s first voyage to the Americas (so, you know, not the best). But it does have a very cool monument called El Tótem Telúrico, which is made of clay and symbolizes the origins of the Americas.

There is also a splash fountain at the bottom which is nice for cooling off on a hot day. And, like so many other attractions in Old San Juan, it overlooks beautiful ocean views.

16. Learn about the History of San Juan at the Museo de San Juan

The Museo de San Juan (Museum of San Juan) is located just a couple blocks from the Museo de las Américas. It was once a public market (and even now there is a farmer’s market on Saturdays), and now it houses a museum. It’s a smaller museum, but the main exhibit is about the history of San Juan. The other part rotates through temporary exhibits.

Admission to this museum is free, and it’s open Wednesday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. On Saturdays and Sundays it’s open from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m.

17. Take in the Views at Cementerio Santa María Magdelena de Pazzi

Across from the Museo de las Américas and back near El Morro, you can walk down Cemetery Street (you’ll go through a tunnel so be careful of oncoming traffic) to find the beautiful Cementerio Santa María Magdalena de Pazzi. This cemetery overlooks the ocean and is full of white headstones and tombs.

You’ll mostly find Puerto Ricans of note buried here. Note that the cemetery is open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Pro Tip: For the BEST views of the cemetery, its actually better to view it from above near El Morro. There you can take in the cemetery, the ocean, and San Juan all at once.

18. Walk Through La Perla

From the cemetery you can walk through the unique neighborhood of La Perla . This area is sometimes described as a shantytown, and it has an interesting history. In the 1700s, enslaved people were required to live outside the city walls, which means they built homes in this neighborhood right next to the sea and where the slaughterhouse was.

Today it remains a poorer area and an underserved community. However, it is also full of vibrant art and culture. The La Perla Community Board has undertaken projects to restore the community. And it was especially made famous for being where the music video for Despacito was filmed.

Some highlights in La Perla include seeing The Bowl (El Bowl), which is used as a skate park during the week and a pool on the weekends; walking along the Malecón, which goes right along the coast; and viewing the variety of murals painted throughout the neighborhood.

Do remember that while this area has gone through a revitalization recently, it can still be a rougher neighborhood. Don’t walk through La Perla alone, be sure to visit during daylight hours, and be aware of your surroundings.

19. Visit Castillo San Cristóbal

On the opposite end of Old San Juan from El Morro is the other major fortress in town, Castillo San Cristóbal . While El Morro was built to defend San Juan from an attack by sea, Castillo San Cristóbal was built to defend the city from a land attack. It is also the largest fort built by the Spanish in the Americas.

Much like El Morro, Castillo San Cristóbal was also used by the United States in WWII, and later became part of the National Park Service in 1961.

Inside you can view the main plaza within the fortress, see the bunker from WWII, peak through the sentry boxes, see the large underground cisterns once used to hold water, and explore a series of underground tunnels.

Castillo San Cristóbal is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

More Things To Do in Old San Juan

Ok, now that we’ve gone through the major attractions to see in Old San Juan, let’s talk about some other fun things to do! These are experiences you can have throughout the city (or, in some cases, at a specific restaurant) for an unforgettable time in Puerto Rico.

20. Take a Walking Tour

If you really want to immerse yourself in the history of Old San Juan, take a guided walking tour of the city. We took this tour of Old San Juan and were able to appreciate the city so much more because of it.

Not only did the tour take us to the major attractions of Old San Juan, but it also introduced us to some lesser known corners of the city we otherwise would have walked right past.

The tour we booked took about two and a half hours, and we learned SO much about Puerto Rican history. We also really loved being with a small group of other tourists, because it meant we got to meet people from other places and also hear what else they had done and loved in Puerto Rico.

21. Take a Food Tour

If you’re a foodie, you might want to take a food tour in Old San Juan. Through one of these tours you can get samplings of a variety of Puerto Rican cuisine (usually enough to make a meal out of, so come hungry!) while you also learn about the history of the city and see many of the San Juan attractions on our list of things to do.

Some dishes you might have on your food tour include a cocktail, ceviche, mofongo, coffee, chocolate, and more.

There are several different options for booking a food tour in Old San Juan. The Flavors of Old San Juan Food Tour and the Old San Juan Sunset Walk & Taste Food Tour are some of the highest rated tours online. You can also check out all the tours offered by Flavors of San Juan Food and Culture Tours .

22. Shop for Puerto Rican Souvenirs

You’ve got to make sure you’re taking home the perfect souvenir from San Juan! And you’ll find lots of great shops in Old San Juan where you can shop. (Aren’t sure what kind of souvenir to buy? We have a post about some of our favorite kinds of items to bring home !)

Of course, just like so many other tourist spots you’ll find all kinds of stores selling “Puerto Rican” souvenirs that aren’t actually Puerto Rican and that you could just as easily buy online. So here are a few tips for making the most of your souvenir shopping:

• Avoid the streets with souvenir shops lined up one right after the other. Try to find the smaller looking stores with crafts and handmade objects, not just t-shirts and sunglasses being shown off out front.
• Pick up the products and look at the labels. Look for products that say they were made in Puerto Rico!

23. Drink a Piña Colada Where It Originated!

Piña Coladas were invented in Puerto Rico, and in Old San Juan you can drink one at the bar where it was invented.

Okay, actually, back up because there are actually TWO places in San Juan that claim to be the home of the Piña Colada.

The first is the restaurant Barrachina . This restaurant is located near La Fortaleza, and they claim their bartender created the Piña Colada in 1963. Since this restaurant is in Old San Juan, this is a great place to stop for a drink while you’re spending time walking around the city.

The second place that claims to have invented the Piña Colada is the Caribe Hilton . This hotel claims that their bartender invented the drink in 1954. This hotel is located just a few minutes drive away from Old San Juan and you can still have one of their Piña Coladas at the hotel bar.

Either way, you’ll definitely want to try Puerto Rico’s national drink on your trip!

24. Eat Traditional Mofongo

There is lots of amazing food to try in Puerto Rico (ceviche! skirt steak! sorullitos!), but perhaps the most traditional Puerto Rican dish is mofongo.

Mofongo is a dish made from mashed green plantains that are fried with garlic and other seasonings and often stuffed with meat like pork.

There are LOTS of places to try mofongo in Puerto Rico (I mean, really, probably almost every restaurant). Some popular options include El Jibarito , Deaverdura , and Café Manolín . (We ate at Café Manolín, an old school Puerto Rican restaurant and loved it!)

25. Treat Yourself To Chocolate!

You know if there is a chocolate restaurant/specialty shop in a town, I am GOING to go there! In Old San Juan, you’ll want to visit Chocobar Cortes , where they sell chocolate drinks, cakes, pastries, and some basic lunch food like sandwiches and brunch items (many of which incorporate chocolate somehow!).

I had a chocolate mousse cake that was amazing and the most delicious and refreshing frozen hot chocolate. And if it weren’t for the hot temperatures that would have caused chocolate to melt in my backpack, chocolate definitely would have been coming home with me!

Fun Fact: Chocobar Cortes started in Puerto Rico, but has also expanded and now has a NYC location!

Tips For Visiting Old San Juan

For a great trip, here are a few tips for visiting Old San Juan!

• Be prepared for walking! While the city is totally walkable, know that it is a bit hilly. So be prepared to walk and wear comfortable shoes.
• Be prepared for heat! It can get HOT in San Juan, so be prepared to deal with heat. Always have water with you, and bringing something like these cooling towels can help keep you cool on a hot day.
• Most people speak English , but it is still nice to greet people in Spanish. If you are worried about traveling to a place were you don’t speak the language though, don’t worry. You should be fine!
• Puerto Rico uses the U.S. dollar , so if you are coming from the United States you don’t have to worry about exchanging money.
• Be prepared for rain! Always have a rain jacket or umbrella with you, because rain can start out of seemingly nowhere.

Where To Stay in Old San Juan

Looking for somewhere to stay in Old San Juan? Here are some of the best options!

• Hotel El Convento is actually housed in an old convent! They have beautiful rooms, a rooftop pool, restaurants in a secluded courtyard, and even a resident cat. This is probably one of the most popular hotels to stay at in Old San Juan.
• El Colonial is small a hotel right in Old San Juan with a clean white lobby, rooms that look over the streets of San Juan, and a rooftop with city views.
• Caribe Hilton is not technically in Old San Juan, but it is just a short Uber ride away. We stayed here on our trip and absolutely loved it! We had a room with a great view, enjoyed the pool, thought the lobby was beautiful, and had great dining experiences at some of the on-site restaurants.

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Old San Juan , Puerto Rico

16 fun things to do in old san juan, puerto rico.

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Vibrant and colorful are the first words that come to mind when trying to describe Old San Juan. The old district of Puerto Rico’s capital is full of colonial buildings painted bright colors, cobble stone streets and historical forts. Even though the city is realtively small, there are quite a few things to do in Old San Juan to keep you busy.

Founded in 1521 by Spanish, Old San Juan ( Viejo San Juan in Spanish ) is a vibrant port city and a popular stop on many Caribbean cruises.

Old San Juan is pretty small and you can easily walk to all the attractions and points of interest. You can definitely spend 2 days, which will allow you to see everything at a slower pace. But if you only have one day in Old San Juan, you can still see and do a lot. While you might not be able to check off everything from this list of things to do in Old San Juan, one day will be sufficient see the top sights.

Table of Contents

Visiting Puerto Rico

Old San Juan is a very easy destination for Americans. Since Puerto Rico is a US territory, visiting from the United States is like visiting any other place in the US. Flights are also generally not too expensive and direct, especially if you are coming from the East Coast.

• No passport necessary – because Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, all you need is a driver’s license or ID.
• The currency is the US dollar
• Your phone will work just like in the US – you don’t need an international plan or a SIM card
• English is widely spoken – yes, Spanish is the main language, but most people speak English really well, especially in tourist areas like Old San Juan.

Things to do in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Walk the colorful streets.

One of the absolute best things to do in Old San Juan is to walk around and enjoy the beauty of the streets. The Spanish colonial architecture, brightly colored buildings and cobble stone streets are a feast for the eyes and the main charm of Old San Juan.

This city is every photographer’s dream. Pretty much every street is stunning. It’s the perfect place to get lost and and just walk around, without any map.

You can easily explore Old San Juan independently. But if you’d like to learn more about history, you might want to join a guided walking Tour . If you are not too familiar with Puerto Rico and San Juan in particular, it’s a great introduction to the city. Below are a couple highly rated walking tours of Old San Juan, one during the day, the other one around sunset time. Both last about 2 hours.

• San Juan: History Walking Tour with a Guide
• San Juan: Old Town Sunset Walking Tour

Explore Castillo San Cristóbal

Old San Juan is home to two impressive forts. They were built to fend off the attacks from both land and sea. Both forts are parts of San Juan National History Site. Today, they are open to visitors and are some of the top Old San Juan attractions.

Out of the two forts Castillo San Cristóbal is the one closer to town and waterfront, so it’s a great place to start exploring the city. It’s also why I recommend visiting first thing in the morning before the cruise ship crowds arrive.

The massive fortress ( it covers 27 acres! ) was built between 1765-1785 to protect the city from land attacks and was used all the way through World War II. Castillo San Cristóbal has three levels, so be sure to take your time exploring it. The upper ones offers amazing views of the city and the Caribbean Sea.

There are several garitas ( sentry boxes ) you can go in, that offer amazing views of the water. Even if you are not a history buff, Castillo San Cristóba is definitely worth visiting, even if just for the views and photo ops.

The entrance fee is $10 and covers both forts. So hold on to your receipt, you’ll need it if you plan on visiting El Morro too.

Castillo San Cristóbal is open from 9 am – 5 pm every day

Explore Castillo San Felipe del Morro

Castillo San Felipe del Morro, or simply El Morro, is the other fort in Old San Juan. It dates back to 1400s and it’s the older of the two. It was built by Spanish to prevent attacks coming from the sea.

El Morro is a very impressive structure, it has 6 levels and offers incredible views of the San Juan Bay. Between the different levels, ramps, tunnels and prison cells, there is a lot to see. Plan a couple of hours if you’d like to explore El Morro in depth.

As I already mentioned before, you can visit El Morro on the same ticket as Castillo San Cristóbal ( within 24 hours ).

There is a huge lawn area around the fort and it tends to be quite windy there. So you might see people flying kites there.

Castillo San Felipe del Morro is open 9 am – 5 pm every day

Stop at the Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery

If you are anything like me and like to visit beautiful cemeteries around the worlds, this is a must stop in Old San Juan. Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis is a colonial cemetery, established in 1863, and it’s a final resting place of many Puerto Rico’s important people.

The cemetery is located between El Morro and La Perla. It’s just a short walk from the fortress across the big grass area.

If you’d like to take a close up look at the graves, you can walk through it. But the most impressive views can be seen from the historic walls of El Morro. From there you can see the cemetery, the Caribbean Sea and the colorful neighborhood of La Perla in the distance.

Walk Paseo de la Princesa

This beautiful tree lined promenade is a great place for a relaxing walk with vendors and historical landmarks along the way. The walk takes you by a couple of Old San Juan’s attractions like Fuente Raíces ( a beautiful fountain ) and the historical Old San Juan gate. The 40 foot tall red gate was once the only way to enter the city.

If you keep walking Paseo de la Princesa, it eventually turns into Paseo del Morro, a scenic, oceanside pathway.

Take a scenic walk down Paseo del Morro

The scenic 3/4 mile walk starts at the San Juan Gate and runs beneath the historic city walls all the way to El Morro. It offers spectacular ocean views along the way and was hands down one of my top things to do in Old San Juan. As you walk you also get a close up look at the walls and Castillo San Felipe del Morro.

The path goes around El Morro and you exit to the side of the fort. You can also continue a bit further down the scenic nature path. But it’s a short walk, which ends at the cemetery and you’ll have to turn around and walk back as it’s a dead end ( no pun intended ).

You can walk Paseo del Morrow between the hours 9 am – 5 pm.

Piña Colada at Barrachina

Piña Colada originates from Puerto Rico, and there are two places in San Juan that claim to be the birth place of it. One of them is Caribe Hilton, the other a restaurant in Old San Juan called Barrachina.

Which claim you want to believe is up to you, but since you are in Old San Juan, Barrachina is the most convenient and the one I visited. It’s a beautiful restaurant with both indoor and outdoor dining and a nice courtyard. It has a full menu, if you need a meal or you can just grab a seat at a bar and have a drink.

Stop at La Casa Estrecha

A fun stop while walking around Old San Juan is La Casa Estrecha, which translates to Narrow House. And at just 5 feet and 3 inches, it is indeed narrow.

The two story yellow house is sandwiched between two regular size houses and used to be a narrow alleyway. Makes for a fun stop and photo op. The address is Calle Tetuán #101, which is right around the corner from Parque de los Palomas.

Stop at Parque de los Palomas

This next thing on the list of things to do in Old San Juan could either be a fun stop, or your biggest nightmare. Parque de los Palomas, which translates to Pigeon Park, is a small park next to Capilla del Cristo, that is a favorite hang out spot for pigeons. Hundreds of them.

They ask you don’t feed the pigeons any food you may have, but you can buy a little bag of bird seeds right there from the kiosk for $2. If you want that photo being surrounded by swarms of pigeons, this will attract them in an instant.

The park also boasts a beautiful view of San Juan Bay. Another reason to make a stop there. Unless you have a bird phobia, then of course, this is not a place for you.

The Park is open every day except for Monday, from 9 am – 6 pm.

Walk Calle la Fortaleza

Calle Fortaleza is often referred to as the most picturesque street in Old San Juan. It’s lined with boutique stores, restaurants and bars. But what it’s mostly known for is for the colorful installations on the last stretch of it.

It started off with the colorful umbrellas, which symbolized color coming back to this beautiful city and the island, after the devastation caused by the hurricane Maria. The street quickly became one of the favorite photo spots in Old San Juan. Over time, the decorations would change and the umbrellas were replaces by colorful kites, bells or a giant Puerto Rican flag. The installations seem to be on rotation, so there’s always a chance umbrellas will be there when you visit.

Unfortunately, when I visited in December 2023, that part of Calle la Fortaleza was blocked off with police officers making sure no one enters. From what I heard, it has been this way for several months. There was also no installation, but it looked like it might have been in between of changing in.

At the very end of the street is La Fortaleza, which is the official residence of the governor of Puerto Rico. La Fortaleza is open for tours, if that interests you.

PRO TIP : A good way to find out what kind of installation to expect on your visit is to check the latest reviews on Google or Trip Advisor.

Take a picture at Puerta de la Bandera

While more like a quick stop than an attraction, Puerta de la Bandera is worth including in your Old San Juan itinerary. It’s a popular photo spot, but for Puerto Rican people it’s symbol of resistance and hope.

Originally, the flag on the door was painted with the traditional colors of red, white and blue. However, in 2016, which was the year of social and economic troubles in Puerto Rico, the flag was repainted with black and white. This was supposed to represent the protest and resistance.

You can find Puerta de la Bandera at 51 Calle San José

Take a food tour

Food is an important part of pretty much any culture and it’s no different in Puerto Rico. The island is known for dishes like Mofongo, Lechón asado, pastones to name a few. If you are new to the island and are not familiar with Puerto Rican cuisine, you’ll get the best introduction by taking a food tour . These tour are great, as you get to sample several different dishes and drinks in a short time.

The San Juan food tour to take is the 3 hour Old Town Walking Tour with Tastings. You’ll visit several local spots, try many local dishes and also get to make Mofongo, which is the signature dish of Puerto Rico. Be sure to book your spot in advance, as this tour is highly rated and popular and often sells out.

If you are a foodie, this is one of the best things to do in Old San Juan.

Photograph the cats

As you walk through the streets of Old San Juan, you will quickly notice the unusual number of cats everywhere. They walk down the side walks, sunbathe on the rocks by the water, hang out in the bushes and some even up on the cars.

The cats are believed to be descendants of the cats brought by Spanish settlers in the 16th century to deal with the rat problem on the island.

Even though most of them are stray cats, they are well taken care of. And that is thanks to the volunteer organization Save a Gato, that cares and feeds the cats of Old San Juan.

Enjoy a night out La Factoria

If you are looking for a fun night out in Old San Juan, La Factoria is a great spot. This is one of the most popular bars in the city and was even names one of the 50 Best Bars in North America.

While it might look like just another bar when you first walk in, there are actually six different bars inside, each with a different vibe. Whether you want to just get a drink or dance your night away, there’s something for everyone.

La Factoria was made famous several years ago as one of the filming locations for the Despacito video. A song by Luis Fonsi, that became the summer hit of 2017.

The bar is not well marked, but you can find it on the corner of Calle San Sebastian and San Jose.

Get food from a food truck

If you are looking for a quick bite while exploring Old San Juan, there are several food trucks located by the waterfront. They sell traditional Puerto Rican food like empanadas, pinchos, tripletas or tostones.

It’s a great, inexpensive option, if you are not quite ready for a big meal, or simply want something really casual.

Take a side trip to visit Bacardi Rum Factory

While Bacardi Rum Factory is technically not in Old San Juan, it does make for a fun side trip from the town. If you are a fan of rum and want to learn the history of it, definitely put that on your itinerary.

Bacardi offers 3 different tours: the Legacy tour , Mixology class and Rum tasting Tour .

I opted for the 45 minute Legacy tour, which focuses on the history of Bacardi rum. The price includes the tour, a free drink and a sample of their Casa Bacardi Special Reserve. Be sure to arrive 20-30 minutes before your starts to enjoy the welcome drink in their outdoor Bat Bar.

I really enjoyed the tour, I thought it was interesting, informative and our guide was really fun. I do think, the price was a bit high for what it was.

Do book your tickets in advance, as they do sell out, especially the most popular Legacy Tour.

As I mentioned, Bacardi is located in Cataño, which is one of the municipalities of Puerto Rico. It’s about a 30 minute drive from Old San Juan. While you can hop in a taxi or an Uber to get there, a more fun way of getting there is by taking a ferry from Old San Juan. The ferry leaves from Pier 2 ( Muelle 2 ), which is right near where the cruise ship dock is. It’s a quick 10-15 minute ride and it costs just 50 cents one way. The ferry runs every hour and you can check the exact times here . You need to take the one that is one hour before your tour starts, to allow enough time to get there, check in etc.

Once you get to Cataño, you can take an Uber ($5-6) or the Bacardi shuttle to get to the factory. If you opt for the shuttle, you can add it to your reservation when booking the tour, and it will be waiting for you when you get off the ferry.

Where to stay in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Hotel El Convento – one of the best hotels in Old San Juan, located right next to the Cathedral. It’s beautiful historic building, that used to be a convent.

Casa Blanca – this is where I stayed on my first visit to Old San Juan. Great hotel, in a prime location right on Calle Fortaleza. The beds are really comfortable and there’s a roof top terrace.

The Decanter Hotel – small boutique hotel with just 19 rooms, located in a historical building right in the heart of Old San Juan.

La Terraza de San Juan – another great option and where I stayed on my most recent visit to Old San Juan. The beds were really comfortable. There is a roof top terrace with a pool, which is great spot to hang out.

READ MORE :

• Things to do in Culebra – Puerto Rico’s laid back island
• Is Flamenco beach in Culebra worth the hype?

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30 Things to Do in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Old San Juan, Puerto Rico is a historic neighborhood located on a small island connected to mainland Puerto Rico by bridges and causeways. It was founded by Spanish conquistador Juan Ponce de León in 1508 and served as the island’s capital until the 19th century. The streets of Old San Juan are lined with colorful colonial-era buildings, many of which have been converted into museums, restaurants, and shops.

The most notable feature of Old San Juan is its fortifications, including the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a 16th-century fortress that guarded the entrance to the bay. The fort was built by the Spanish to protect the island from invading forces, and it played a key role in several battles throughout its history. Another important fortification is the Castillo San Cristóbal, which is the largest fortification built by the Spanish in the New World. Both forts are now part of the San Juan National Historic Site and are open to the public.

Old San Juan’s architecture is a blend of Spanish colonial, neoclassical, and art deco styles. Many of the buildings were constructed in the 16th and 17th centuries, and they feature distinctive elements such as red tile roofs, iron balconies, and plazas. The most famous building in Old San Juan is the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, which was built in the 1540s and is the oldest church in the Western Hemisphere.

Old San Juan has a rich cultural heritage, and it is home to several museums that highlight the island’s history. The Museo de las Américas, for example, features exhibits on the indigenous Taíno people, who were the island’s first inhabitants, as well as on the island’s Spanish colonial period. The Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico, on the other hand, features works by Puerto Rican artists, including pieces from the island’s nascent art movement.

Today, Old San Juan is a popular tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its narrow cobblestone streets, wrought-iron balconies and brightly painted colonial buildings make it a charming place to walk around and explore. Its rich history and culture, as well as its proximity to the beach , make it a perfect spot for a day trip or a longer stay.

30 Things to Do in Puerto Rico

There’s no shortage of things to see and do. Here are my top five must-see tourist attractions in this beautiful city:

1. Walk along the city walls and explore the Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal.

2. Visit the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, the oldest church in the Western Hemisphere.

3. Take a stroll through the Paseo de la Princesa, a picturesque promenade lined with shops and restaurants.

4. Explore the Museo de las Américas, which features exhibits on the island’s indigenous Taíno people and its Spanish colonial period.

5. Visit the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico to see works by Puerto Rican artists.

6. Take a tour of the Casa Blanca, a 16th-century mansion that was once the home of Spanish governor Ponce de León.

7. Visit the Capitolio de Puerto Rico, a beautiful neoclassical building that houses the island’s government.

8. Explore the Mercado de San Juan, a vibrant market selling local crafts and produce.

9. Walk along Calle Fortaleza, one of the city’s most picturesque streets, lined with colorful colonial-era buildings.

10. Visit the Iglesia de San José, a beautiful 18th-century church.

11. Take a bike tour of the city to see the sights at a leisurely pace.

12. Visit the El Arsenal de la Marina, an 18th-century naval shipyard.

13. Take a ferry to the nearby island of Cataño to visit the Bacardi distillery.

14. Visit the Parque de las Palomas, a small park with a great view of the city.

15. Take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Puerto Rican dishes.

16. Visit the Instituto de Cultura Puertorriqueña, which has a library, art gallery, and theater.

17. Take a day trip to the nearby El Yunque National Forest to hike and see waterfalls.

18. Visit the Fundación Casa Paoli, a museum dedicated to the life and work of Puerto Rican composer Manuel Paoli.

19. Visit the Conservatorio de Música de Puerto Rico, a music school and concert venue.

20. Take a sunset sail around San Juan Bay to see the city from the water.

21. Visit the Museum of San Juan History, which has exhibits on the city’s past.

22. Take a day trip to the nearby town of Loíza, known for its Afro-Puerto Rican culture.

23. Visit the Teatro Tapia, one of the oldest theaters in the Americas.

24. Take a day trip to the nearby island of Vieques, known for its beautiful beaches and bio bay.

25. Visit the Casa del Libro, a bookstore and cultural center.

26. Visit the Casa de los Contrafuertes, a museum nestled in the oldest civil structure in Puerto Rico that is dedicated to the city’s artist heritage.

27. Visit the Galería Nacional, which has rotating exhibits of Puerto Rican art.

28. Take a salsa dancing class to learn the island’s signature dance.

29. Visit the Casa del Cuño, a museum dedicated to printmaking.

30. Visit the Casa del Libro Antonio S. Pedre

So What Are Puerto Rico Visitor’s Top Places to See in Puerto Rico?

Old San Juan, Puerto Rico is a treasure trove of history and culture, and there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Here are my top five must-see tourist attractions in this beautiful city. It is nearly impossible to pick our top places to see in Puerto Rico but if you are limited on time check out these spots:

1. Castillo San Felipe del Morro: This 16th-century fortress is one of the most iconic landmarks in Old San Juan. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the bay, it offers stunning views of the city and the sea. Inside, you’ll find exhibits on the fort’s history, including its role in the Spanish-American War.

2. Cathedral of San Juan Bautista: This is the oldest church in the Western Hemisphere, and it’s a must-see for history buffs. The cathedral’s striking architecture is a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, and it’s home to a number of interesting artifacts and works of art.

3. Paseo de la Princesa: This picturesque promenade is lined with shops, restaurants, and street performers. It’s a great place to take a stroll and soak up the lively atmosphere of Old San Juan.

4. Museo de las Américas: This museum features exhibits on the island’s indigenous Taíno people and its Spanish colonial period, as well as contemporary art and artifacts from throughout the Americas.

5. El Morro: El Morro is another fortress that is a must-see for history buffs. It was built in the 16th century to defend the island from invading forces, and it played a key role in several battles throughout its history. Today, it’s open to the public and offers stunning views of the city and the sea.

These are just a few of the many things to see and do in Old San Juan, but they’re a great place to start. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just soaking up the island’s unique atmosphere, this city has something for everyone.

What are the Best Places to Eat in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico?

When it comes to food in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, you’re in for a real treat. This historic neighborhood is a melting pot of flavors, with a mix of traditional Puerto Rican cuisine and a variety of international influences.

If you’re looking for a true taste of the island, head to Casa Cortés ChocoBar, where you can indulge in traditional dishes like mofongo (a mashed plantain dish) and asopao (a thick stew). For something a bit more upscale, check out Marmalade, where Chef Peter Schintler serves up a fusion of Caribbean and Mediterranean flavors.

For a taste of the local seafood, head to El Picoteo, a casual spot that serves up fresh fish and shellfish in a variety of traditional and contemporary preparations. And if you’re looking for a real culinary adventure, check out La Jaquita Baya, a no-frills spot that serves up some of the most authentic and delicious lechon (roast pork) you’ll ever taste.

When it comes to drinks, you can’t go wrong with a cold Medalla beer, the local beer of the island, or a Pina Colada, the island’s signature drink. And for a true taste of Puerto Rico, try a shot of rum, made in the island for centuries.

No matter what you’re in the mood for, Old San Juan has something for every palate. So come hungry and be ready to be wowed by the flavors of this vibrant neighborhood.

Is Puerto Rico Safe?

Old San Juan is generally considered a safe place to visit. However, as with any tourist destination, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

According to crime statistics, the crime rate in Puerto Rico is relatively high compared to other parts of the United States. However, Old San Juan is one of the safer areas of the island, and the majority of crime in the city is non-violent.

As with any city, it is important to be aware of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas. It is also advisable to avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas at night.

It is recommended to take general precautions such as not leaving valuables in plain sight, not carrying large amounts of cash, and not leaving bags or purses unattended. It’s also a good idea to keep copies of important documents in case of loss or theft.

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41 Things To Do In Old San Juan

Old San Juan has a lot to offer everyone, no matter your age or your interests. The following is a list of 41 things to do the next time you visit Old San Juan.

In order to make it easier to locate the various attractions, this list has been broken down by plaza. If you have a favorite place that is not listed, please add it to the comments section at the end of the article.

Plaza San José

1. Plaza San José Said to be the oldest of the plazas in Old San Juan. The plaza is named after the San José church that is close by.

2. Casa Blanca Built for Ponce de Leon, now a museum for mid 16th century life End of Sebastian Street Open daily (except Sunday / Monday) 787-725-1454

3. El Morro Fort Guarding the entrance to San Juan Bay – 6 level fort, now maintained by the National Park Services. This is one of the most spectacular buildings here in Old San Juan. Open Daily: 9am – 5pm (June to November) and 9am – 6pm (December – May) End of Norzagaray Street Website: www.nps.gov/saju/ 787-729-6777

4. Kite Flying at El Morro As well as touring El Morro, you can also enjoy the areas outside the fort too. The grass land in front of El Morro is a popular spot for families on a weekend. Weather permitting you will see people of all ages flying kites on the sea breeze. If you would like to fly a kite, just check with the roadside street vendors as they usually have kites available for a few dollars

5. Museum of African Roots Highlighting Puerto Rico’s African heritage Open daily (except Sunday / Monday) San Jose Plaza 787-724-4294

6. Museum of the Americas Highlighting the islands African and Indigenous heritage Open daily (except Sunday / Monday) End of Norzagaray Street 787-724-5052

7. National Gallery Showcases Puerto Rico art from the 1800’s to 1960’s. Includes artists such as Jose Campeche and Francisco Oller Open daily (except Sunday / Monday) 98 Norzagaray Street 787-725-2670

8. Pablo Casals Museum Memorabilia of the famous cellists life Open daily (except Sunday / Monday) San Jose Plaza 787-723-9185

9. San José church Located just by the plaza it is currently undergoing renovations.

10. San Juan Cemetery Final resting place of several famous Puerto Ricans. Located next to El Morro Fort

11. San Juan Museum Showcases the history and culture of Puerto Rico Open daily (except Sunday / Monday) 787-724-1875

12. San Sebastian Street in January Famous street festival takes place here in January – San Juan’s answer to Mardi Gras.

Plaza de Armas

13. Plaza de Armas Name is derived from the military defense drills that were carried out there

14. Casa del Libro Showcases rare and precious books 255 Cristo Street Open daily (except Sunday / Monday) Webiste: www.lacasadellibro.org/ (Spanish) 787-723-0354

15. Casa de Ramon Power y Giralt Showcases the works of Puerto Rico’s Conservation Trust 155 Tetuan Street Open daily (except Sunday / Monday) 787-722-5882

16. Children’s Museum (Museo del Nino) Interactive exhibits on 3 different floors. Children can learn about TV reporting, caring for animals as well as things like recycling and Space exploration. Focused on children under 15 years of age. 150 Calle Cristo Street Open Tuesday – Thursday 9am – 3:30pm, Friday 9am – 5pm, Saturday & Sunday 12:30 – 5pm There is an admission fee $7 Website: www.museodelninopr.org/ (Spanish) 787-722-3791

17. Cristo Chapel Small chapel dedicated to the Christ of Miracles Lower end of Cristo Street

18. Shopping on Cristo Street Looking for a place to shop. Check out Cristo Street; known for its designer outlet shops such as Coach, Ralph Lauren and more.

19. La Fortaleza Now home to the Governor of Puerto Rico Tours are available of the grounds Open daily Website: www.fortaleza.gobierno.pr/ 787-721-7000 ext 2211

20. Pigeon Park Small park where you can see awesome views of San Juan Bay and also feed the pigeons Close to Cristo Chapel

21. San Juan Cathedral Last resting place of Ponce de Leon. Daily mass in Spanish Website: www.catedralsanjuan.com/ 787-722-0861

22. San Juan City Hall Built after the city hall in Madrid. Now has a gallery room and information center Open weekdays. Gallery open daily (except Sunday / Monday) 787-724-7171 ext 2000

23. San Juan Gate Last remaining gate that was built into the massive defensive walls that protect the city of Old San Juan Gate is closed at night

24. Plaza de Armas Small plaza overlooking San Juan bay

25. Casa Don Q Small museum highlighting the history of the Serralles rum making family and Don Q rum – free samples available Paseo Gilberto Concepcion de Garcia Open Friday – Wednesday 787-977-1720

26. La Casita Home to the Tourist Information Center Lower end of San Justo Street Open daily 787-722-1709

27. La Princesa A former jail is now home to the Puerto Rico Tourism Company. Now has an art gallery Paseo La Princesa Open weekdays 787-721-2400

28. Old Harbor Brewery The only micro-brewery in Puerto Rico Website: oldharborbrewery.com/

29. Paseo La Princesa Promenade that follows the San Juan Bay and the city walls. Takes you to the San Juan Gate

Plaza Colon

30. Plaza Colon The plaza now honors Christopher Columbus and center stage is a statue of the explorer

31. Le Lo Lai Music and Dance Show This is a local music and dance show set in the grounds of San Cristobel fort Evert Tuesday at 6pm San Cristobel Fort Start of Norzagaray Website: www.nps.gov/saju/ 787-729-6777

32. Pharmacy Museum and Museum of 19 Century Puerto Rican Family Fortaleza Street, corner of Callejon de Capilla Open daily (except Sunday / Monday) Tel: 787-977-2700

33. SoFo District South end of Fortaleza Street is know for its numerous fine restaurants and also a yearly food festival

34. San Cristobel Fort 5 independent units connected by tunnels. Impressive structure that can be seen when you arrive in Old San Juan by car. Maintained by the National Parks Service. Located at the start of Norzagaray Open daily: 9am – 5pm (June to November) and 9am – 6pm (December – May) Website: www.nps.gov/saju/ 787-729-6777

35. Tapia Theater The theater is over 170 years old and is named after local playwright, Alejandro Tapia. Located at Fortaleza Street, corner of O’Donnell Tel: 787-723-1709

Other attractions:

36. Captain Duck Tour Take a land and water tour of San Juan with this amphibious bus tour Webiste: www.captainduck.com/ 787-725-0077

37. Free WiFi in Plaza’s around Old San Juan If you feel the need to be connected with the internet while wandering around Old San Juan, you should be able to pick up a wifi signal at most of the plazas in Old san Juan

38. Horse and Carriage Rides Tour the city on board a horse drawn carriage – tours of varying lengths are avilable and start close to the tourist information office at the La Casita

39. Night Tales of Old San Juan with Legends of PR Take a tour of Old San Juan after the sun goes down. Website: www.legendsofpr.com/nighttales.htm

40. Rumba Boat Operates Thursday to Sunday evenings. Tour the San Juan bay to the sounds of Latin music Tel: 787-375-5211 or 787-263-2962

41. Segway Tour of Old San Juan Tour the major attractions of Old San Juan on a Segway Website: www.segwaytourspr.com/

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San Juan ⏐ Old San Juan Puerto Rico

Experience The Happiest City in the Caribbean

Save a spot - most popular walking tour.

Old San Juan “ San Juan Antiguo “, is one of the most popular cruise destinations in the Caribbean and the most visited place in Puerto Rico .  Old San Juan is special in every way, known for its Old World elegance, rich history, vibrant culture, five-century-old forts, romantic ambiance, exquisite food, and festive atmosphere.  “ El Viejo San Juan ” is no ordinary tourist spot, it is a real living place where locals and visitors come together to experience a place that pulsates with rhythm, bursts with color, and encapsulates the warmth and energy of Puerto Ricans, often called the Happiest People on Earth. 

Related Guide:   Old San Juan Top Places to Visit & Things to Do

Celebrating 500 Years of History

We are so excited to have you visit during such a special time… our celebration of 500 years of history.  Old San Juan is the epicenter of Puerto Rican history and culture and we are so delighted to share our past and celebrate our love for the island with you.

Following is our guide to Old San Juan, but before we do, we’d like to share this beautiful video with scenes of places around Old San Juan, and heartfelt songs that speak of our history by our beloved Hermes Croatto, capturing 500 years of History and culture.  The video is in Spanish, but the melodies and images will warm your heart.  We hope you enjoy it!  Receive a warm welcome to our Beloved Old San Juan and thanks for being here. 

Tourism in Old San Juan

Old San Juan is an islet connected by three bridges to the main island of Puerto Rico , framed by the azure colors of the Atlantic Ocean and San Juan Bay.   What Paris is to Europe, Old San Juan is to the Caribbean… a romantic city with Old World charm, warmed with tropical sunshine… inhabited by some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet.

Those planning a long weekend getaway, or visiting as part of their cruise itinerary will find Old San Juan an easy and enjoyable destination since all major attractions, restaurants, and shops are easily accessible by foot.  Although Old San Juan is a tourist destination, it doesn’t feel like a montage to tourists, it is an authentic community where locals come regularly to celebrate cultural events … it is truly one of the happiest places in the world.  You’re warmly invited to mingle with locals to experience the joys of San Juan.

Explore on your own, or allow friendly local guides to bring history to life and show you what makes Old San Juan such a special place… then kick your feet the rest of your visit and allow the sights, scents, and sounds to lead the way…

Top Rated Places to Stay in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

+ More Places to Stay in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

The Attractions & Things To Do

Old San Juan is the home of the most attractive landmarks and historic places in Puerto Rico and among the most significant in the Caribbean.  The most popular attractions are the two forts of San Cristobal and San Felipe del Morro , built to protect the city from invaders, they are UNESCO sites that are part of San Juan National Historic Site .   As you walk around the charming colorful streets, you can stop at museums such as Casa Blanca and Museo de Las Americas .  If you enjoy visiting cathedrals don’t miss Catedral San Juan Bautista and Iglesia San Jose .  If you’re a cocktail connoisseur, Old San Juan is famous for having the best and coolest cocktails bars on the island.  If you’re a romantic, don’t miss taking a walk along the scenic promenade of Paseo de La Princesa , the perfect place to begin exploring the city.  For relaxation, you’ll find squares around the city where you can sit down to relax, enjoy the views, admire the architecture of the city, and participate in the many cultural events held throughout the year.  As we say throughout our guides, please don’t leave without flying a kite on the grounds of El Morro .

If you’re staying in Old San Juan for a few days, you can rent a car and enjoy fantastic day trips to explore Puerto Rico’s natural wonders .  Be sure to take an afternoon nap at your hotel so you can re-energize in order to enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Old San Juan .

+ Things to Do in San Juan, Puerto Rico

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+ Old San Juan Tours

The Culture of Old San Juan

Old San Juan is the cultural hub of Puerto Rico and the most culturally rich destination in the Caribbean.    Old San Juan is a very family-friendly place, with happy cultural experiences for the young and less young.   

As you walk around the colorful city, your body will want to move to the sounds of salsa or relax to the sounds of jazz played by local musicians, when the sun goes down.  Hundreds of events are held in Old San Juan and throughout the island to celebrate culture, we invite you to enjoy them if you happen to be visiting.   Try the food, learn to dance, attend the events, and just have a good time. 

+ Cultural Experiences in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Top Rated Cultural Tours in San Juan Puerto Rico

+ Cultural Experiences in San Juan Puerto Rico

The Streets of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Just walking the streets of Old San Juan is a joyous experience sure to satisfy your wanderlust.  Everywhere you walk, there’s something beautiful and interesting to see from elegant cathedrals to decorated balconies, to intimate cafes for a romantic time with your loved one, to colorful wall art for those shareable posts with friends and family back home.  There’s a plaza about every few blocks, a place locals enjoy from morning till night, we invite you to sit down and relax as you cool off with a piragua, ice cream or enjoy a delicious traditional cafe con leche (coffee) with a quesito (traditional Puerto Rican pastry filled with cream cheese) .  The weather is always at a comfortable mid-’80s, and once you get to the seaside by the forts, the cooling trade winds offer a wonderful refreshing touch.  Among the most visited streets are Calle Norzagaray , where the forts are located, Calle Beneficiencia , where you can visit great museums and landmarks, and Calle Cristo and Calle Fortaleza where some of the most popular shops and restaurants are located.

The History of Old San Juan

San Juan is the second oldest city established in the New World, one of the most historically significant destinations in the Caribbean & the Western Hemisphere.  Walk through 500-year-old forts with breathtaking views of the Atlantic, tour the second oldest cathedral in the Americas, visit museums, step foot into Ponce de Leon’s mansion, and so much more.  

+ See Top Landmarks and Things to Do in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Top Rated Historical Tours of Old San Juan

The romance of old san juan.

Old San Juan is a popular wedding/honeymoon destination.  You’ll feel the love spark from couples holding hands, as they explore this romantic city.   While Old San Juan may be the most popular cruise port in the Caribbean, yet you’ll find it surprisingly relaxed, with many intimate romantic spots to escape from the crowds.   Couples wishing to remain active will enjoy a variety of romantic places to visit during the day, exquisite dining choices, and vibrant nightlife if they wish to extend the evening.

+ Itineary for a Romantic Day in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Great Tours for Romantics in San Juan

+ Romantic Things to Do in San Juan Puerto Rico

The Colors of Old San Juan

Visually Old San Juan brings on feelings of happiness, with its perfectly coordinated candy and bright pastel-colored buildings.  You’ll be walking on blue-toned cobblestones, you’ll be looking up at decorated balconies with bright pink bougainvillea flowers that dance to the trade winds that move through the street blocks.  Families with children will find that the whole family will be mesmerized by the color of the city, it is truly a chromotherapy experience. 

The Architecture of Old San Juan

Old San Juan feels more like a living gallery, it’s like stepping into a rich exhibit of colorful, elegant paintings of Spanish colonial architecture.  Puerto Ricans respect and celebrate the island’s past, evident with carefully restored buildings painted in colors that represent the vibrant and diverse culture of the island.  In the 1940s, Old San Juan went through the restoration of buildings, setting new standards for other countries in Latin America and islands in the Caribbean.  Visitors are captivated by the balconies, elegant doors, and Colonial details.  These buildings house residents, businesses, and government executive offices.

The UNESCO Heritage Site of San Juan National Historic Site

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich history of San Juan National Historic Site .  Discover the majestic forts of Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristobal .  Uncover the secrets of these remarkable fortifications as you explore their tunnels, dungeons, ramps, and barracks.  As you explore the forts, you’ll be cooled by the trade winds and enchanted by the breathtaking backdrop of the Atlantic and San Juan Bay for stunning photo opportunities.   Romantics… take a walk along Paseo de La Princesa and Paseo del Morro .  San Juan National Historic Site also includes the forts of San Juan de la Cruz (El Cañuelo)   and the city walls.

+ San Juan National Historic Site

The Nightlife in Old San Juan

Old San Juan is wonderful at night… elegant lanterns light up the city with a golden glow.  Those that long for a romantic relaxed vibe can enjoy that, you can dine at elegant restaurants and later take a walk on the streets, relax on squares, or choose from a number of experiences at night .   For those that wish to experience a lively night, dance clubs lure people in with the rhythmic sounds of salsa, merengue, and popular modern genres born in Puerto Rico.  Visitors can feel safe walking the streets, police presence remains strong at night.

+ Nightlife in San Juan Puerto Rico

Top Rated Night Tours in San Juan, Puerto Rico

+ Nightlife in San Juan Puerto Rico

The Events in Old San Juan

As we’ve mentioned, Old San Juan is the cultural hub of Puerto Rico, celebrating many events throughout the year that both residents and visitors can enjoy.  Check the tourist office when you arrive for a calendar of events.

Places to Stay in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Right in the heart of Old San Juan, historic buildings have been restored into luxury boutique hotels, charming small inns for every budget, and vacation rentals to enjoy all to yourselves, giving you access to everything within walking distance. 

• Hotels & Small Inns in Old San Juan
• Vacation Rentals in Old San Juan
• Bed & Breakfast in Old San Juan

Visiting Guide

Getting around old san juan.

Old San Juan is best enjoyed on foot.  From south to north, the historic town runs uphill.  Visitors with average physical fitness will walk comfortably.  Wear good walking shoes or comfortable sandals, you’ll be walking in five-century-old cobblestone with uneven surfaces and areas with broken stones.  

Exploring Old San Juan on Your Own

You may start your tour at the Tourist office, they have a number of pamphlets and maps to help you plan your visit.  You can explore Old San Juan on your own with our self-guided tour guide.

Exploring Old San Juan with a Guide

You may also book a number of walking tours , the tour guides do an excellent job, and you will visit places, and hear stories with historical details you would miss with a self-guided tour.

Travel to Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

By taxi or private airport transfers.

Airport Transfers from San Juan

Taxis from the airport, Puerto Rico Convention Center, or cruise ship terminals, are managed by the Puerto Rico Tourism Company.  At the San Juan airport, you’ll find a bilingual representative if you need a receipt.

Fees are set to and from certain tourist areas with an additional charge of $1 for each piece of luggage and a $1 surcharge for trips at night. The price from the airport should be approximately $23 with luggage – slightly less from the convention center.  Trips from cruise ship piers are much less and depend on which pier your ship uses.  Trips from New San Juan hotels, resorts , and beaches , are metered fares.  More information on taxi rates in San Juan.

From Cruise Ship Piers to Old San Juan

When you arrive in San Juan by cruise, there will be plenty of taxis available to offer transport into Old San Juan.

There are several  cruise ship piers in San Juan.

Piers in Old San Juan are just a few blocks from attractions  and hotels in Old San Juan.  You can take the free trolley (when in service), walk a few blocks, book a transfer or take a taxi .

The Pan American Pier is located about a mile away near the Puerto Rico Convention Center.  From there, you will need transportation to Old San Juan.  Check with your cruise ship to see which pier they will use while in San Juan and if they have made arrangements for a shuttle bus or transfer service into the old city.  If not, you’ll need to book a transfer or take a taxi .

Driving from the Airport if Renting a Car

All rental car agencies at the San Juan International Airport are on the 1st level of the parking garage.

Your trip to Old San Juan from SJU is about 8 miles.

• Take Route 17 out of the airport for 1 mile.
• Follow signs to get on Route 26 toward San Juan.
• Continue on PR 26 for 4.5 miles.
• After passing the Condado Lagoon on your right, follow signs for Route 25 into Viejo (Old) San Juan and continue 2 miles and past the Capitol Building on the left.
• You will see the old fort, San Cristobal, on your right as you enter Old San Juan.

You may also want to read about  Parking in Old San Juan .

Everthing You Need to Know Before Visiting

Cost of visiting old san juan.

You don’t have to spend much to enjoy Old San Juan, part of the magic is simply observing the architecture and most historical buildings are free to enter.   Entry to the forts is just $10 for ages 15 and older, you can see both for the entry fee.  There are plenty of restaurants for every budget.     Food trucks along Princesa offer great food at local prices.     Some museums charge a small fee to enter.

Crowds in Old San Juan

Old San Juan is the most popular cruise stop in the Caribbean, during cruise days, there are many people walking around the city, and it becomes more vibrant due to the special events that the Puerto Rico Tourism office holds to welcome and entertain visitors.  Somehow, Old San Juan does not lose its magic, the streets are busier with people, yet it feels relaxed.  Along Paseo Princesa, artisans showcase their crafts, there’s live music and great food.

Safety in Old San Juan

Old San Juan is a safe residential and tourist area, the police presence is very strong, more than any other tourist destination in Puerto Rico.     Police presence is strong primarily because Old San Juan is home to La Fortaleza, the governor’s mansion/residence as well as governmental offices; second, it is the most visited tourist destination in Puerto Rico and police are there to keep visitors comfortable. Policemen are friendly and specifically trained to help tourists in the Old San Juan area, they’re happy to answer any questions and direct you if you need to find a particular place. Don’t hesitate to ask for help in a medical or personal emergency.

Staying Healthy while Exploring Old San Juan

You’re in Puerto Rico with tropical warm weather all year round, hotter and more humid in the summer.     You’ll be walking most of the time, it is very important to do the following to stay healthy during your visit:

Stay hydrated, and drink plenty of water often throughout the day, even when you think you don’t need it.     There are various pharmacies where you can buy cold water, as well as street vendors every few other blocks.  

Protect your skin:     Avoid sunburn and sun poisoning, by wearing sunscreen often throughout the day.

Having a backpack makes travel much easier when walking the city.    

Time Needed to Explore Old San Juan

It depends on what type of traveler/tourist you are… If you’re a history buff, a foodie, or love shopping, you can easily spend a week in the city. The average visitor will need about two days to visit the top attractions and one day to see San Juan National Historic Site, eat and find a scenic spot to relax.

Map of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Old San Juan is a district of San Juan, Puerto Rico, an islet, connected to the rest of (San Juan Metro) by 3 bridges at the southeast corner.  It consists of historical Old San Juan to the west and the community of Puerta de Tierra to the east. 

See Fullscreen map of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico . 

San Juan   ⏐ Best Vacation Spots in San Juan   ⏐ Old San Juan Puerto Rico

Top Rated Tours from San Juan

Privacy overview.

28 Things to do in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, is the 3rd oldest city in the Americas. Only Santo Domingo and Panama City are older. It is a city that is cherished by Puerto Ricans and by visitors alike. This beautiful, vibrant city is a treasure and one of the most beautiful cities in the United States. Learn what to do if you have a chance to explore this city.

Tour El Morro

Pedal a chiliboat, cementerio santa maría magdalena de pazzi, take a walking tour, catedral de san juan bautista, see the body of a saint, visit the old town square, stay in a convent, visit the other white house, try a piña colada, party on calle san sebastián, visit la fortaleza, learn the legend of la rogativa, explore the cobblestone streets, sip a coffee in plaza de armas, visit the site of a miracle, visit pigeon park, tour the “narrow house”, see the church that a privateer built, see an art deco bank, find the best mofongo, take a food tour, shop for a souvenir, hear a poetry reading, express your love to san juan in plaza colón, castillo san cristobal, tour colorful la perla, live boricua.

If you only see one thing in Old San Juan, it should be the El Morro fortress in the northwest corner of the island that holds Old San Juan. The Castillo San Felipe del Morro was built by the Spanish to protect the entrance to the harbor. The oldest portions of the fort were built starting in 1539 but upgraded over two centuries.

The fort was taken only once, by the English, in 1598. They attacked the fort from the land and captured it, but they were forced to flee because of an outbreak of dysentery. The Dutch had less success in 1625 when they attacked during the Eighty Years’ War (or the Dutch Revolt). A marker, halfway up the hill before El Morro, marks how far they advanced before they gave up, set fire to Old San Juan, and sailed away.

El Morro is now part of the San Juan National Historic Site and is managed by the U.S. National Park Service. Admission is $10 for a 24-hour pass that will also work at Castillo San Cristóbal and Fort San Juan de la Cruz across the entrance of the bay.

El Morro is still surrounded by a dry moat and its protective walls. The guard towers along the walls ate iconic in Puerto Rico and are featured on the local license plates.

A unique experience that I was able to do on my most recent trip to Puerto Rico as a guest of Discover Puerto Rico was pedal a chiliboat in the bay. A chiliboat is a pontoon boat that seats one or two people. Unlike the unfamiliar mechanism of moving a kayak, you pedal a chiliboat like a bicycle so it takes no time to learn.

We started our journey on the dock near the Governor’s palace and propelled ourselves up the shoreline to just off the coast at El Morro. I would like to come back with my wife and take her on a chiliboat experience. I think she would love it!

On the north side of the old city walls by El Morro is one of the most prestigious places to be buried in Puerto Rico. The Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery is the final resting place for many famous Puerto Ricans. Even if you have not heard of any of its residents, the cemetery has an interesting collection of tombs and monuments.

The location is stunning as it is sandwiched between the waves of the Atlantic Ocean and the old city defenses. The cemetery was started by the Spanish in 1863, late in the Spanish period.

The cemetery was originally cared for by a group of Carmelite nuns housed in what is now the Hotel Convento .

One of the best ways to start a visit to any city is with a walking tour, and Old San Juan is no exception. I arranged a tour using Patria Tours, which I booked through Get Your Guide. The tour, San Juan: El Morro Fort and Old Town Walking Tour , starts in front of the cruise ship ports and proceeds up the hill into the older parts of Old San Juan, like the Cathedral, and ends at El Morro. You better bet that some of the things I learned about the history of Old San Juan came from my wonderful guide Jorge. 

You need to wear sun protection and good walking shoes and bring a water bottle because Old San Juan is not flat and can get quite warm. 

The Cathedral in Old San Juan is the second oldest church in the Americas and the oldest church in the United States. The oldest part of the church can be found in a chapel behind and to the left of the current altar and dates to 1540. The original church, built in 1521, was destroyed by a hurricane.

The entire island that we now know as Puerto Rico was Named San Juan Bautista (Saint John the Baptist) by Columbus, and around the time this church was started, the city was known as Puerto Rico or “rich port.” For some reason, early during the Spanish period, the city and the island switched names. 

There is a memorial in the oldest part of the church about the first event where the people of the island identified themselves as Puerto Rican. So this building is an important part of the Puerto Rican identity.

Notice the dome of the cathedral with its money-saving architectural details painted on instead of constructed. 

Inside the cathedral, you can find the tomb of Spanish explorer Ponce de León who was the first governor of the island. There is no evidence from the time that Ponce de León ever searched for the fountain of youth, but he did travel to Florida in 1521 to try and colonize the area for Spain. He was wounded by the local natives in a skirmish, the colony was abandoned, and he died from his injuries. 

You can also find the tomb of the only Roman Catholic cardinal from Puerto Rico, Luis Aponte Martínez, and a shrine to Carlos Manuel Rodríguez Santiago who is the only Puerto Rican to be beatified.

The street directly in front of the city is Caleta de San Juan which runs a short two blocks down to the last remaining gate on the city walls, Puerta de San Juan. Stopping at a city’s cathedral to thank God for a safe voyage was a common practice in an age when crew mortality on a long voyage could easily be 20%. 

While Puerto Rico may not yet have a saint of its own, you can see the wax-covered body of Saint Pius in a glass coffin in the cathedral. Saint Pius (St Pio) was an early Christian martyr, a Roman soldier who was killed for his faith. In 1815, the bishop of San Juan, Mariano Rodríguez de Olmedo, wanted a relic for his cathedral, and the Pope gave him the body of St. Pius. The bishop took the body to Spain to have it prepared for display, but for some unknown reason, it was left in Spain until then bishop Pablo Benigno Carrión visited Spain in 1962 and was told he had a saint’s body… apparently in lost luggage.

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The tiny park opposite the Cathedral of Old San Juan is the original main square of the city. It is a small square, but you can often find a street musician or a local ice cream vendor at the park. One side of the park is Calenta de San Juan running down to the old town gate. The other side is the Caleta de las Monjas (the way of the nuns).

The large imposing building on Caleta de las Monjas opposite the San Juan Cathedral and the old town square is Hotel Convento which is, as the name would suggest, an old convent. Construction started on the convent in 1646. The Monasterio del Señor San José de la Orden de Nuestra Señora del Carmen (Monastery of Saint Joseph of the Order of Our Lady of Mount Carmel) opened in 1851. It was the home of a group of Carmelite nuns. 

In 1903, the convent was closed. The massive building was just too expensive to maintain. In 1959, the heir to the Woolworth fortune, Robert Woolworth, purchased the derelict convent and turned it into a grand hotel. This was part of a large effort to modernize the economy of Puerto Rico called Operation Bootstrap. It should be noted that the rooftop pool overlooking the cathedral was not part of the original convent.

Hotel Convento has two different restaurants, including one in the interior plaza. Even if you don’t stay here, take a quick peek at the interior of the building.

Here are some other great places to stay in Old San Juan:

The oldest house in Old San Juan is Casa Blanca, or “White House.” It was built for the original governor of the Island, Ponce de Leon. The governor/explorer died on his Florida expedition before he was able to live in the house, but his family occupied the house until the middle of the 1700s. The house is now a history museum which is open Tuesdays to Sundays in the morning and in the afternoon, with a break for lunch.

Officially the Piña Colada was invented as a cocktail by bartender Ramón “Monchito” Marrero at the Caribe Hilton in Old San Juan in 1954. But, if you tried one of his Piña Coladas you wouldn’t recognize it. Sure, it had rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice, but it was served over the rocks. The blended drink that you know and love was invented at the local restaurant Barrachina which still serves the wonderful blended drink. 

The most lively street in Old San Juan is Calle San Sebastián in the northern part of the city, not that far from El Morro. Here you can find bars like La Factoria, which was named one of the 50 best bars in the world.

In the 3rd week of January, there is a Christmas festival on Calle San Sebastián. The festival celebrates (among other things) the early Christian martyr San Sebastián, so expect to see a few images or statues of a man pierced with arrows. Also, expect to see a few cabezudos or full-head puppets.

The official name of La Fortaleza is El Palacio de Santa Catalina (the palace of Saint Catherine). It was built as part of the city’s defenses but, since the mid-1800s, has been the governor’s mansion. You can get a 30-minute guided tour of the gardens of La Fortaleza Monday through Friday between 8:15 am and 3:30 pm. A tour must be booked in advance. Depending on what is happening on the day of your visit, you may also get a peek inside the building. The building has housed at least 170 governors of Puerto Rico and is the oldest executive mansion that is still in use in the Americas.

La Fortaleza, the city walls, the fortresses of El Morro, Castillo San Cristóbal, and San Juan de la Cruz comprise the UNESCO site La Fortaleza and San Juan National Historic Site in Puerto Rico.

At the Plazuela de la Rogativa, you can see an interesting statue of a bishop and 3 women bearing torches. This statue commemorates yet another attack on the city and the legend that surrounds it.

The English again tried to take the city of Old San Juan in 1797 as part of the Anglo-Spanish War (after the French Revolution and only 2 years before Napolean became emperor). The governor of San Juan encouraged a “rogavita” which is a religious procession that comes from the Spanish word to plea. A procession of the bishop and torch-bearing women marched through the streets at night. They started at the Cathedral, and with hymns, bells, and prayers, they pleaded with God to deliver the city. 

The legend goes that their prayers were heard because the British commanders, Admiral Sir Henry Harvey and Lieutenant-General Sir Ralph Abercromby, seeing the procession, thought that it was the arrival of reinforcements and took their 68 ships and 7000 troops and sailed away. Of course… some point out that the stubborn defense by 4000 militia, 200 Spanish soldiers and a ragtag group of 300 French privateers, 2000 armed peasantry, and paroled prisoners might have also influenced that decision, but never let facts get in the way of a good legend.

Plazuela de la Rogativa is situated on a mirador along the old city walls. From there, you can get a good view of La Fortessa and of the only remaining gate of the city, Puerta de San Juan.

Old San Juan is known for its Spanish revival architecture and its colorful buildings. The architecture dates back centuries, but the colorful buildings only go back to the 1950s when a serious effort was put into developing Puerto Rico as a tourism destination. Students of history will note that the development of Puerto Rico happens around the same time as the Communist Revolution in nearby Cuba. Before the rise of Castro, much of the U.S. Tourism in the Caribbean was heading to Havana instead of Old San Juan. 

Many, but not all, of the streets in Old San Juan have cobblestones. The oldest of these were brought over to the island as ballast in ships. These same ships were then loaded with gold and other treasures of the new world to return to Spain. 

Plaza de Armas is behind the San Juan Cathedral and the Puerto Rico Department of State building and in front of the SuperMax, which is the only grocery store in Old San Juan. It is known for its beautiful fountain with 4 statues that represent the 4 seasons. 

There are two kiosks in the park where you can get a coffee and a pastry, one of which has some shaded tables to take a break. There are also public restrooms in the park. If those are not open, Marshalls department store next to the park has public restrooms.

If you look closely, however, you will see a 5th statue which is a man sitting on a park bench. This is a statue of Puerto Rican composer Tite Curet Alonso (1926 – 2003). Alonso composed 2000 different salsa songs, starting at the age of 15. At least 200 of those songs could be considered hit songs. Alonso moved to New York City in 1960 and lived for the rest of his life on the mainland. When he died, his body was returned to Old San Juan, where he was given a state funeral and buried at Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery, mentioned above.

The tiny Capilla del Santo Cristo de la Salud (chapel of the Holy Christ of Health) comes with an odd story. The story goes that sometime between 1730 and 1740, during the festival of San Pedro, there was a horse race through the streets of the city, and one of the riders, a Captain Baltazar Montañez y Mujica, missed a turn at this spot, and horse and rider went over the city walls at the spot where the chapel sits. One spectator, Secretary of the Government Tomás Mateus Prats, prayed that the rider would be spared and he did indeed survive the fall. In this version of the story, the chapel commemorates his miraculous survival.

In another version of the story, the rider did not survive the fall, and this chapel was built by Don Tomás to prevent other riders from going over the wall at this same spot. In both accounts… the horse did not survive.

With the construction of the chapel, the name of this street was changed from Calle Santa Catalina to Calle del Cristo.

Pigeon Park is either something you will want to see or something that will make your skin crawl. Right next to the Capilla del Santo Cristo de la Salud mentioned above is a park that has places for pigeons to find shelter in the wall and food that you can buy to feed the pigeons. Be aware that feeding the pigeons looks a bit like reenacting scenes from Alfred Hitchcock’s movie “The Birds.”

La Casa Estrecha used to be an alley between two buildings. As I understand it, the building next door used to be a hotel, and the hotel built this skinny building as a place where the staff could stay. Today the Narrow House is a private residence. How narrow is it? Picture standing in the middle and touching both walls at the same time. This 5′ wide house is so narrow that you have to go outside to have room to change your mind. The house is a two-story house with a living room, dining room, kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom. 

It may be narrow but turn around to see what a beautiful view of the harbor can be had from this house. To arrange a tour of the house, contact the owner Antonio Álvarez. 

(787) 396-5620 [email protected]

Iglesia Santa Ana was built with money from a wealthy Puerto Rican businessman. That’s not strange, except that the business that he was in was capturing other ships. Miguel Enríquez was a privateer. A privateer is basically a legally sanctioned pirate. During the colonial time period, it was common for countries at war to provide sea captains with letters of mark that allowed them to prey on enemy merchant ships.

Enríquez was originally a shoemaker, but after doing some sales work for the governor, the governor convinced him to become a privateer to help protect the island of Puerto Rico. He commanded a small fleet of up to 30 ships and became quite wealthy from the prize money from captured ships.

Enríquez was a mulatto who was born out of wedlock. This meant that even when he was a wealthy man, he was not welcome to sit in the places of honor in other churches in town. So what did he do? He built his own.

Eventually, he acquired enemies among the powerful men on the island and was accused of smuggling and stripped of his wealth. He took refuge in a Catholic church (this one?). Even though the charges against him were dropped, he died a pauper.

I learned about the connection between Miguel Enríquez and this church in my walking tour. I couldn’t find a lot of corroborating evidence for this story… but it gave me a good excuse to tell you about a privateer.

The Banco Popular de Puerto Rico is a lovely Art Deco building in what used to be the center for banking in Puerto Rico. Look across the street in one direction at the red building with a Spanish Tapas restaurant and know that the Lion marked the Bank of Leon at one time. You may still be able to see the Chase bank symbol on the building across the other corner. This area used to be by the main docks for ships entering the area in the Spanish colonial era. Now it is near the cruise ship ports, so the financial center of San Juan has moved on, but it is still a lovely building and one of the more convenient ATM machines in the area.

When my daughter and her husband honeymooned in Puerto Rico , they fell in love with the Puerto Rican dish called mofongo. Mofongo starts with smashed plantains and then adds some sort of meat typically. There is a great variety of ways to make and serve mofongo, and I don’t know that I can definitively say who makes the best mofongo as I only tried it at 4 different restaurants. Mofongo is typically served with the ubiquitous ketchup mayo sauce. I don’t know that I became quite as big a fan as my daughter is of mofongo, but I love a good quest on vacation. The one pictured above was from El Balcon Del Moreno across from the Tourist Information Center.

One of the ways to discover the best places to eat in Old San Juan is with a food walking tour.  It is a great thing to do early in your trip so that you can learn what you like or maybe what you don’t. I took the Flavors of San Juan food walking tour .  This food tour has 4 different stops:

• First Stop: Cuatro Sombras (a farm-to-cup coffee house)
• Second Stop: Patio de Sam (main course)
• Third Stop: Casa Luna Rest. (another main course and make your own mofongo)
• Fourth Stop: Anita’s Gelato (enough said)

Along the way, our guide Marjorie Ana suggested other places to eat as well as tidbits of local history.

My tour was paid for by Discover Puerto Rico. Thanks, Discover Puerto Rico!

Old San Juan has its share of souvenir shops. Some have tacky t-shirts, but straw hats and colorful dresses are also very popular. The Mundo Taino shops stock goods that are all made on the island instead of being made by the people of China.

Right near the Plaza de Armas is an unusual gift store run by local artists called Poet’s Passage. Stop by to see what they are selling or check out their website to see if they have any happenings when you are there. In any case, this is a fun shop to stop at if you are looking for more than a “my parents went to Puerto Rico and all I got was this lousy t-shirt” style souvenir.

Near the Castillo San Cristobal in the Plaza Colón is a large I heart SJ sign that is popular with tourists who are on Instagram.

This plaza marks the spot where the eastern end of the city walls used to end and of the eastern gate for the old city. It is named for Colón, which is to say Christopher Columbus, who discovered Puerto Rico on his second voyage in 1493. The plaza has a tall statue of the explorer.

Your entrance fee to El Morro will also allow you entrance to Castillo San Cristobal, which was built to protect the city from a land attack. It stood near the eastern gate of the city. Castillo San Cristobal is named for Saint Christopher, who is the patron saint of land travelers. It was built in 1634 following the attack by the Dutch that burned the city in 1625. It was built to prevent that from happening again. It is the largest fortress built by the Spanish in the New World. It is part of the San Juan National Historic Site.

Just outside of the old city walls to the north of the city between Castillo San Cristobal and Cementerio Santa María Magdalena de Pazzi is the colorful neighborhood of La Perla. This neighborhood had a justified reputation for being dangerous but has improved in recent years. Still, it might be better to tour it during the day when you can appreciate its vibrant colors. It has an art studio for local artists called Colectivo Perlarte, a mallacon along the water’s edge, and a number of small rustic bars.

The original name of Puerto Rico before the conquest of the Spanish was Boricua, and that name has been reused now by the tourism board to describe “a way of life, a state of mind, a rhythm and flavor that is distinctly Puerto Rico.” On one recent trip to the island, I arrived only slightly ahead of Hurricane Fiona. I came to live to be a temporary digital nomad in Puerto Rico for a week. As I arrived, businesses were shuttering, but the music was still playing. There is something seductive about Puerto Rico, and specifically about Old San Juan.

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by Chris Christensen

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Explore Old San Juan: El Morro, Fort San Cristóbal & More

As the largest home-based cruise port in the world, San Juan dazzles visitors with its lush beaches, vibrant culture and extravagant nightlife. But the city’s grandeur doesn’t just end there: explore 500 years of history at Old San Juan, visit the majestic El Morro fort, and experience a unique blend of past and present by wandering the cobblestone streets of colonial San Juan. San Juan has something for everyone, whether you’re in the mood to explore historical sites or relax on the sandy beaches.

So, let’s begin our trip by taking a look at the twelve most popular attractions this Puerto Rican capital has to offer.

10 Popular Tourist Attractions in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Old san juan (san juan viejo).

Explore the past by strolling around Old San Juan (San Juan Viejo), the second oldest city in the Americas and the oldest city under the US flag. Here, 500 years of history line the streets with impressive colonial 16th- and 17th-century buildings, now filled with various tourist establishments and shops. Visiting the World Cultural Heritage Site is more than just appreciating the architecture; you can witness a unique mix of contemporary Puerto Rican culture and the traditional charm of Old San Juan.

🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction

Fuerte San Felipe del Morro (El Morro)

A must-visit when in San Juan is the Fuerte San Felipe del Morro (El Morro), an iconic fortress guarding the entrance to San Juan Bay. Charming sentry boxes, called “garitas,” dot the fort, which has become a symbol for Puerto Rico. Spanning 250 years of construction, El Morro is one of the largest Spanish forts in the Caribbean and is a National Historic Site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy panoramic views from the fort towards San Juan or out to the sea and experience the true majesty of El Morro.

🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction 📞 Phone: +1 787-729-6960 🕙 Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM 🎟️ Entrance fees: $10 per person (16 years old and over), free for 15 years old and under

Castillo de San Cristóbal (Fort San Cristóbal)

Also, Castillo de San Cristóbal (Fort San Cristóbal) is impressive within the San Juan National Historic Site. Built to guard the eastern gate of San Juan, it is bigger and more elaborate than El Morro and is the largest fort the Spanish ever built in the New World. Spanning 27 acres and featuring five interconnecting sections, Fort San Cristóbal also reveals lovely views of San Juan and out to the ocean, making it worth the visit.

🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction 📞 Phone: +1 787-729-6777 🕙 Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM 🎟️ Entrance fees: $10 per person (16 years old and over), free for 15 years old and under

San Juan Cemetery (Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery)

Another highlight of the area is the San Juan Cemetery (Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery), set high up above the ocean and adjacent to El Morro. Here you can find an array of ornate tombs and a beautiful circular red-domed Neoclassical chapel dedicated to Mary Magdalene. Many of Puerto Rico’s early colonists are also buried here, and the cemetery offers stunning views out to the ocean and toward El Morro.

San Juan Cathedral (Catedral de San Juan)

The San Juan Cathedral, located in the city’s historic center, provides visitors with a taste of religious history. Started in 1540, the cathedral is one of the oldest cathedrals in the Americas. Inside, admire various details like its main altar, which features decorative elements in golden wood, while the side altars boast ornate religious statues that tell the story of the Bible. Step further into the cathedral to appreciate the artwork and craftsmanship of its pulpit, crafted by local artisans.

🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction 📞 Phone: +1 787-722-0861 🕙 Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM 🎟️ Entrance fees: Free

El Convento

Els Convento is a historic landmark in San Juan, Puerto Rico, deeply connected to the city’s colonial legacy. The building dates back to 1651 and was originally a Franciscan monastery. While the building has gone through several iterations and has been used for different purposes over the nearly four centuries since it was built, it became an official UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. Today, El Convento is a popular tourist attraction in Old San Juan, offering visitors a chance to experience a piece of Puerto Rico’s rich past.

Visitors to El Convento can explore the old monastery, which includes a small museum, several ornate rooms, and a memorial to the original Franciscan founders. For those looking to learn more about the historical significance of El Convento, there are guided tours that discuss the building’s various uses and its various feats. A visit to El Convento will both educate and captivate visitors, giving them a better understanding of the city’s past.

The grounds of El Convento are also a picturesque spot to take in the sights of San Juan. With lush gardens, cobblestone walkways, and a view of the nearby El Morro fort, the area is an inviting place to spend an afternoon. From the courtyard of El Convento, visitors can also get an amazing view of the nearby San Cristóbal fort and the local cemetery.

🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction 📞 Phone: +1 787-723-9020 🌐 Website: https://www.elconvento.com/ 🕙 Hours: N/A 🎟️ Entrance fees: N/A

La Fortaleza

La Fortaleza, the official residence of the governor of Puerto Rico, is one of the oldest buildings in San Juan, with roots dating back to the 16th century. The building, constructed in 1533, today symbolizes the city’s colonial past and government. It is listed on the US National Register of Historic Places and is an official UNESCO World Heritage Site member.

La Fortaleza offers a unique look into Puerto Rico’s history and the city of San Juan. Tourists can explore the various rooms of the Spanish Renaissance-style building, many of which maintain the same furnishings and decorations they had when they were first built. The building also houses a museum, where visitors can learn more about the city’s colonial roots.

The grounds of La Fortaleza are a beautiful spot to explore, with lush vegetation and a variety of exotic plants. Visitors can take in the beauty of the surrounding area as well as get a fantastic view of the nearby El Morro Fort and the San Cristobal Fort. The area is also great to take in some of the many festivals and ceremonies held throughout the year.

🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction 📞 Phone: +1 787-721-7000

Casa Blanca

Casa Blanca, or the White House, is a historic building located in Old San Juan. Built-in 1521, it is one of the oldest buildings in the city, having served at one point as the official residence of the Spanish Governor of Puerto Rico. When the US took control of the island in 1898, the building became known as the White House and served as the residence of the US President until the 1940s.

Today, Casa Blanca is a popular tourist attraction in Old San Juan and a great way to learn more about Puerto Rico’s history. Visitors to the building can explore the various rooms of the Spanish-style mansion and see the large collection of antiques, artwork, and furniture that make up the interior.

The grounds around Casa Blanca offer a peaceful, relaxing spot to enjoy the city’s beauty. Visitors can stroll along the lush grounds or enjoy gorgeous views from any outdoor terraces. With a view of the nearby El Morro Fort and the San Cristobal Fort, Casa Blanca is a great place to take in the sights of San Juan.

🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction 📞 Phone: (787) 725-1454 🕙 Hours: Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM (closed on Sundays) 🎟️ Entrance fees: Adults: $5, children under 12 years old: free

Old San Juan Beach

Old San Juan Beach is a picturesque beach in San Juan’s heart. The beach is popular with both locals and tourists, offering crystal clear waters, white sand beaches, and incredible views of the nearby El Morro fort. It’s also a great spot to catch a glimpse of some of San Juan’s famous wild horses.

At Old San Juan Beach, visitors can sunbathe on the white sand, take a dip in the crystal clear ocean, and explore the rocky coast. Those looking for more of a thrill can try their hand at kayaking, windsurfing, and sailing.

The beach area is also a great place to take in the sights of San Juan. With views of the fort, the nearby cemetery, and the San Cristobal fort, there are plenty of photo opportunities to capture some of the city’s most stunning landmarks. After a day at the beach, visitors can also explore the nearby galleries and restaurants in Old San Juan or simply enjoy the sunset over the ocean.

🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction 🕙 Hours: Open 24 hours 🎟️ Entrance fees: Free

El Teatro Tapia

El Teatro Tapia is a historical theater located in the heart of Old San Juan, which is one of the tourist attractions in Old San Juan. Founded in 1832 by Pascual Abad and named after the dramatist Alejandro Tapia, the theater has been a hub of culture and entertainment in the city ever since.

Today, El Teatro Tapia remains one of the city’s premier destinations for theater and other live performances. The theater offers everything from classical concertos to plays, ballets and operas. Visitors to El Teatro Tapia can participate in the performances or interactive workshops and classes.

The theater is also a beautiful spot to soak in the culture of San Juan. Its traditional interior, which has remained largely unchanged since the 19th century, is a reminder of the city’s past. The nearby El Morro Fort and the San Cristobal Fort also offer excellent views from the theater as well.

🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction 📞 Phone: (787) 224-9365 🕙 Hours: Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on weekends) 🎟️ Entrance fees: Ticket prices vary depending on the event.

Visiting San Juan is like walking through history; we have shared the list of the top 10 attractions in Old San Juan. The city is a treasure of architectural gems from the 16th-century Fortaleza to the 18th-century Iglesia de San José. For those looking for more modern attractions, the Plaza las Americas presents a chance for a spot of retail therapy. When it’s time to rest and relax, there are plenty of luxurious and quaint hotels to choose from. No matter what type of vacation experience you desire, San Juan offers something for everyone.

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The 21 Best Things to Do in Old San Juan

When many people think of visiting Puerto Rico, Old San Juan is often one of the first things that comes to mind. Except for the beaches, of course. Old San Juan is a historical town that feels like a proper city despite being a part of this lovely Caribbean island. It is full of centuries-old structures and colorful buildings, and is a great place to spend a few days while visiting Puerto Rico. If you want to learn more, keep reading for the 21 best things to do in Old San Juan. 

Table of Contents

Brief History | Old San Juan

Juan Ponce de León, known today as the founder of Old San Juan, originally settled in a settlement known as Caparra in 1508. Ponce de León and his settlers abandoned this site the following year and moved to a site that they called Puerto Rico, or “rich port” in English. In 1521, the new city was specifically named “San Juan Bautista de Puerto Rico”, in honor of John the Baptist from the Bible.  

The first fortification on the site was Casa Blanca – which was the original home of Ponce de León’s descendants. Throughout the 16th century many of the historical sites that are well-known today were constructed as well. Through the time of early European settlement until the 19th century, most inhabitants of the island still lived within the city walls. However, the city experienced pretty rapid growth after the eastern side of the city walls were demolished in 1897.

In the 1940s, many of the original colonial buildings had fallen into disrepair and there was talk of demolishing them to build new contemporary buildings. But Anthropologist Ricardo Alegría fought to change local zoning laws to remodel the existing structures and maintain the architectural integrity of the city. As a result, San Juan is now a major tourist destination because of this local colonial aesthetic. 

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Know Before You Go

Getting There: If you are from the United States, this city is quite easy to visit, as use of a passport is not required. You are most likely to visit by plane, arriving at the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport. In addition, Old San Juan is a popular cruise port, so arrival by cruise ship is quite popular as well. If you are looking for a more structured itinerary, visit my 4 Days in Puerto Rico post. 

Where to Stay: There are many quaint and unique hotels throughout Old San Juan. I recommend that you consider the following boutique stays while in the city: 

Casa Blanca Hotel : This boutique hotel is a top-rated hotel in Old San Juan, and is located on the well-known Calle Fortaleza. It has some old charm, and features very beautifully decorations throughout the property. Guests are typically most pleased with the hospitality, cleanliness, and proximity to major attractions.

Hotel El Convento: This hotel has an interesting history, as it began as a Carmelite convent over 350 years ago. It features rooms that are designed in the Spanish colonial style and is often the choice of world leaders and celebrities when they visit the island. Don’t worry – the price is still pretty reasonable though! Guests are quite pleased with the hospitality of the staff, the impressive architecture of the building, and the location of the building. 

Getting Around : Getting around Old San Juan is quite easy by foot – in fact, unless you are spending a lot of time outside of Old San Juan, you should plan to primarily get around by walking. Know that Uber is a common method of transportation in the area as well. 

Experience Colonial Historical Sites

1 | La Fortaleza

La Fortaleza was built between 1533 and 1540 to defend San Juan’s harbor. It is also known as Palacio de Santa Catalina, and currently serves as the official residence of Puerto Rico’s governor. As such, it is the oldest executive mansion in continuous use in the Americas. This site was originally built as as a defense for European settlers against Island Caribs (original island inhabitants) and other European colonizers. You can visit La Fortaleza on a guided tour that covers the on site gardens and the building interiors (when the government is not in session. Click here for more information. 

Be sure not to miss La Calle de la Fortaleza right outside the main building, as it is typically lined with umbrellas that change colors throughout the year. 

2 | San Juan National Historic Site

The San Juan National Historic site is managed by the National Park Service, and includes the Castillo San Felipe Del Morro (El Morro) and the accompanying Paseo Del Morro. Together with La Fortaleza, this is a UNESCO World Heritage Site – 1 of only 12 in the United States. It is here that you’ll find the San Juan Gate, which was once the only way to get inside the fully walled city. 

As a history buff, I can honestly say that this is one of my favorite places in Old San Juan. This citadel is huge and you could spend hours there getting lost in the maze of rooms and detailed explanations of daily life for the soldiers who once lived there. The citadel was built between the 16th and 18th centuries, as an expansion of the original fortress (La Fortaleza). 

The site served as an active military site for the Spanish until 1898, then transferred to the US when America began their occupation of the island. However, since 1961, it became part of the National Park Service to be preserved as a museum. No pre-booking is necessary to visit, just walk right up and pay a fee to visit the site. For the latest on prices and hours, click here . 

3 | Castillo de San Cristóbal

Castillo San Cristóbal is another fortress in Old San Juan that is also part of the larger San Juan National Historic Site . It is located on the eastern side of the city, while Castillo San Felipe is located on the western side. When it reached its largest size in 1783, it was the largest fortification built by the Spanish in the Americas. It covered 27 acres of land! 

The size that you see today is about a third smaller than it was during the 18th century, as part of the fortification was demolished in 1897 to improve traffic to and from the walled city. This fortress helped the Spanish stave off attacks from other colonizers in the area such as the Dutch and English. This castillo became part of the National Park Service at the same time as the other did (mentioned above). 

4 | La Casa Blanca

As mentioned above, this house was built in 1521 to be the home of Ponce de León, the city’s first governor. Unfortunately, he died while on an expedition to Florida without moving it. However, it did continue to serve as the home for his descendants until the mid-18th century. It features period-specific furnishings, gardens, and nice views of the water. Note, it is not open everyday, so be sure to check the online schedule before visiting. 

5 | Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista

This lovely cathedral was first constructed in 1521, but as it was made of wood, it did not survive a hurricane that hit the island in 1540. It was rebuilt out of more sturdy materials that same year, and has undergone  some reconstruction projects over the years since. 

This cathedral is the final resting place of Juan Ponce de León and also has a shrine to the first Caribbean-born layperson to be beatified. In addition, it is the 2nd oldest church in the Americas, and the oldest in the US. 

Visit this cathedral to see the beautiful interiors, the wax-covered first century mummy of St. Pio, and if you so desire, experience a mass. 

6 | Capilla del Santo Cristo de la Salud 

This chapel, titled “Chapel of the Holy Christ of Health” in English, is a tiny chapel that sits on a cliff right off of Fortaleza Street. It was constructed in 1753 to celebrate the miracle of a rider on a horse who survived a fall off the cliff in the place where the chapel now sits. Now, many faithful visitors have come to this chapel to pray for healing. Inside you’ll find many tiny ornaments that represent a part of the body – all added by believers who have sought their own miracles at the temple. 

Note, the chapel is only open to visitors on Tuesday or on religious days. 

7 | See the City Walls by Sailing Old San Juan

As you can tell from the attractions mentioned prior, the city was very well fortified. The old city walls are very impressive, and maybe best taken in from the water. In order to do this, I highly recommend that you take a sail around the waters that surround the city. My friends and I did a sunset tour around Old San Juan and had a wonderful time! Here are a few options for sailing around the city:

• Daytime Sailing Experience – Old San Juan Sailing Tour : This tour allows you to sail aboard the “Amazing Grace” a ship that is built to resemble those used by pirates in the early 19th century. This tour lasts 1.5 hours and gives you an outside look at sites such as El Morro , La Fortalez, and Paseo de la Princesa . Click here to book this tour !
• Sunset Sailing Experience – Sunset Sail by San Juan Historical Bay : This tour is similar to the above, but done on a smaller boat just for you and your traveling party. You’ll take off a little before sunset to see the relevant sites, and then you’ll be able to take in the lovely view as the sun sets over the water.  Click here to book this tour!

Whichever option  you choose, be sure to check on what is provided by the tour and what is not. I recommend having a few of your own snacks and drinks available (and music if you have speakers on hand). 

8 | Tour the Heart of Old San Juan

I think that seeing any city for the first time without learning more about the city’s history is a lost opportunity. On your first visit, I recommend taking a walking tour of Old San Juan to learn more about the city’s history, local culture, and where the best places to eat are located. Another great thing about local tours is that you have the chance to learn about hidden gems or experiences “off the beaten path” from locals who know the city well and love it. 

Here are a few tours that I recommend:

• Old San Juan Walking Tour : This is a great tour to experience if you want to get your bearings in Old San Juan. This tour will take you to all the sites previously mentioned in this post, as well as La Muralla, and the Old San Juan Casino.  Book the Old San Juan Walking Tour here !
• Old San Juan Best Kept Secrets Tour:  If you have been to Old San Juan before, or are interested in exploring areas less traveled, then this is the tour for you! This tour will provide background information on how the city was built, and provide an inside perspective by allowing you to visit private residences, convents, and other places that have limited access.  Book the Best Kept Secrets Tour here !

9 | Plaza De Armas

This plaza or “square” in English is the oldest in Old San Juan and was originally designed as the main city square. Inside this part of the city you’ll see City Hall, and the work of art known as “The Four Seasons”. This features four statues representing each season, and all now feature around the fountain found in the middle of the square. These statues were originally found at the four corners of the square, however. 

If you are in need of anything pertinent while traveling in Old San Juan, I recommend stopping in this square for you needs. The square features stores like TJ Maxx, a drug store, ATMs, and a cute little pastry kiosk that is perfect for a quick breakfast run. 

I’ll note this was one of my favorite places to take a stroll while staying in Old San Juan. 

Experience the Food, Drink, and Nightlife

10 | Barrachina

Barrachina is a restaurant full of charm that is just one block away from La Fortaleza. It has served patrons for over 50 years, and is known as the official birthplace of the piña colada – first served there in 1963 by don Ramon Portas Mingot. The cuisine served here is very classifically Puerto Rican – you’ll find plenty of mofongo and seafood options on the menu.

In addition to serving as a restaurant and bar, Barrachina also offers some additional (and useful) services to visiting tourists. These services include luggage storage, free wi-fi, special service offers for cruise passengers, and a nearby taxi stand. 

Click here for more information on Barrachina. 

11 | Take a Food Tour

Old San Juan is full of delicious food options, but if you are new to Puerto Rican food, or are just a good ‘ol foodie, I recommend you explore the food scene more by going on a food tour. Here are a few options that I think that you should check out:

• Old San Juan Walking and Food Tasting: This dinnertime tour will give you the chance to try out many classic Puerto Rican dishes. These include mofongo, local pastries (there are many varieties), local coffee, and hand-churned ice cream. There are two things that make this tour an attractive option: (1) The tour size is kept small so that it feels intimate and you get to know your local guide, and (2) You will get a chance to see many of the city’s landmarks while on the tour as well. Book the Walking and Food Tasting tour here!
• San Juan Drive Around Lunch Tour : This lunchtime tour will drive you to neighborhoods both inside and outside Old San Juan. You’ll need to bring your appetite as the experience includes three full sit-down meals during this three-hour tour! During this experience, you’ll be led by an epicurean guide to learn more about how Puerto Rican food incorporates Caribbean, Latin American, African, Taíno Indian, North American, and European food cultures all together.  Book the Drive Around Lunch Tour here !

12 | Food Trucks

If you are short on time and want to grab food on the go, food trucks are a popular option with the locals in San Juan. A few trucks that have excellent ratings include:

• El Churry – This one is located just a short ride outside the center and is best known for the “mixto” sandwich served there.
• El Herradero – This place is located near El Churry, and is best known for their “papas locas”. This is essentially something like french fries smothered in a lot of delicious toppings. 
• Kabanas – This truck is your stop for burgers and tacos, and even provides covered seating. 
• Miramar Food Truck Park – This is cheating a little bit, but if you drive outside to larger San Juan, you’ll find this park that regularly features several food trucks of all types / food tastes.

13 | Mono Stereo Bar 

This place, which feel a little like an old house with different rooms of restaurants and bars, is a really cool spot to check out at night. Visit here for the music, really delicious food, and beverages. I do believe the food stands rorate, but while there we ate from this wonderful place called Pincheria Clandestina . The tacos were impeccable! 

14 | Birra & Empanadas

This place has more of a “hole in the wall” type of vibe…which means it offers great food for less fuss. The empanadas served here were absolutely delicious! I highly recommend this place if you just want to stop to hang with the locals for a bit or if you want to pick up some food to take on the go.

15 | Chocobar

Chocobar is a very interesting restaurant – what makes it unique is that they include chocolate in some way in all the items on their menu. If you love chocolate and are looking for something a little different, this is a great option for you. As an example of some of the creativity seen here is a grilled cheese sandwich made with “chocolate butter”. It was excellent. 

In addition, you can buy hot chocolate that comes with a piece of cheddar cheese. It’s actually a local speciality – and although it may sound strange, it is quite tasty.

16 | Anita La Mamma del Gelato

Anita’s is a gelateria that began in the Mediterranean before expanding with more branches. One of these branches can be found right by La Fortaleza, and as you can imagine, is quite popular. 

There are a large variety of unique flavors and options for vegans, and other dietary restrictions as well. After a hot day of touring Old San Juan, this is a great place to cool off with both the ice cream (and the very powerful AC).

17 | Experience Live Music

Puerto Rico is a lively place full of places to experience live music and dancing. If you are looking for a place that provides one or both, here are a few options to consider:

• Nuyorican Cafe – This spot features mostly bohemian and salsa music, and is situated in the heart of the historic district.
• La Placita del Mercado de Santurce – This area functions as a marketplace during the day, but becomes a hangout spot in the evening. You’ll find lots of places to eat and drink area the area.
• El Local – This place is open from 8PM to 2AM, and features karaoke nights in addition to live music. You can find out about upcoming performances on their Instagram account. 
• Carli’s Fine Bistro & Piano – This is an upscale restaurant that offers live music from Thursday – Saturday nights each week. 

Explore The Nearby Beach

18 | Excambrón Beach

San Juan is probably best known for the very popular and more touristy Condado Beach and Isla Verde. But if you would like to stay closer to Old San Juan and get more of a local feel, I recommend that you head to Excambrón Beach. It’s right at the eastern edge of Old San Juan and is pretty family friendly. A really nice place for a quick dip in the Atlantic Ocean.

One note, if you plan to uber here, know that some drivers will note pick you up if you have not fully dried off yet. 

Additional Attractions

19 | La Casa Estrecha

The name for this tiny house translates to “The Narrow House” in English. It certainly lives up to the name as it measures about 5 feet from wall to wall. It is literally one of the most narrow houses in the world.

Before it was a house, the area where it sits was an alley. It was subsequently turned into a house when the alley fell out of use. The history of the house is a little hidden, but it is thought that it may have once been used as slave quarters.

Visit the home today to see the art gallery that focuses on the work of local artists and to also experience the impressive views of the San Juan Bay from the building’s second story. 

20 | San Juan Sound

If you are into music, San Juan Sound is probably the perfect place for you to visit. It was once the home to the first radio station in Puerto Rico (WKAQ)…which as the second in Latin America and the fifth in the entire world! In addition, this is also where artists used to record music as well. 

The building became empty for nearly a century, but was then reopened by producer/drummer Matteo Burr in 2015. Today, the site offers live performances, private recording sessions, and partners with schools across the island. San Juan Sound also features a “spooky” jukebox that turns on even if no one is touching it. 

To visit, you should plan to make an appointment via Instagram DM (@SanJuanSoundPR). While there you can experience a tour of the building, classes, shows, and other community events. 

21 | Old San Juan Cemetery

This cemetery is officially titled “The Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery, but has taken on the shorter moniker in the heading. It is now the final resting places of Puerto Rico’s most famous citizens, and provides excellent views of El Morro, La Perla, and the ocean. 

Throughout the site, you will see beautiful white gravestones and if you face towards the city, you will have a nice backdrop of many of the color buildings there as well. 

Old San Juan City Map

To get familiar with the locations of most of the places in Old San Juan mentioned in this post, please see the map below:

Final Tips | The Best Things to Do in Old San Juan

That concludes this list of the Best Things to Do in Old San Juan. Here are a few final tips as you plan your visit:

• Be sure to learn some basic Spanish words / phrases before you visit. It goes a long way with the locals. Click here for my post on Spanish for travel
• Know that the best times of year to visit are the months from December to March. If you don’t mind a little rain, you can plan to visit through May. But be aware that hurricane season lasts from June through November. 

With the friendliness of the local Puerto Ricans and the plethora of things to do, I am certain that you will enjoy your time in Old San Juan. 

I hope you’ve found this post helpful! If you are interested in more posts on locations in Latin America, please check out this page. 

More Posts on Puerto Rico

• 4 Days in Puerto Rico
• Historical Sites in Puerto Rico

Christen Thomas is the founder of TravelWanderGrow, established in 2018. She has lived abroad and traveled extensively to over 30 countries. In addition, she is a certified Travel Advisor and is an expert in planning trips focused on city history and culture. As a frequent traveler, she also shares tips on how to prepare to travel well and how to save money while doing so.

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The Best Things to Do in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico’s oldest settlement is a maze of colorful streets, gorgeous scenery, and so much more. Use this list to find great things to do in Old San Juan! 

For a budget-friendly getaway that doesn’t require a passport (for you Americans), you can’t do better than the sunny shores and stunning landscapes of Puerto Rico. PR, as we’ll call her for ease, is a convenient and inexpensive flight from the mainland. Within just a couple of hours, you’ll be ankle-deep in perfect, white sand overlooking clear, Caribbean waters. Old San Juan is PR’s charming capital city, and it is a maze of colorful streets, beautiful cathedrals, old-world forts, and gorgeous Spanish Colonial architecture. You’ll have no problem finding plenty of great things to do in Old San Juan! 

Founded in 1521, Old San Juan celebrated its 500th year in 2021, and the festivities are set to continue until June 2022! It is the oldest city under the sovereignty of the United States, so it has some pretty awesome history to explore. Christopher Columbus had claimed the spot for Spain in 1493, making it one of the first European establishments in the “new world.” The food scene is vibrant and varied. Old San Juan has a rich cultural heritage that is always on display and easy to enjoy. It’s surrounded by beautiful beaches, and there are plenty of watersports to keep you active. Alright, PR is awesome. You get it. So, let’s dive into some of the best things to do (and eat) in Old San Juan.

Explore Old San Juan !

For the perfect way to experience Old San Juan, download our app and navigate to our Old San Juan scavenger hunt ! You’ll find your inner Ponce de Leon as you navigate cobblestone streets in search of treasure … in the form of historic buildings and other attractions! We’ll lead you through Puerta de la Bandera and Plaza San Jose, as you learn about the vibrant culture and torrid history of this little Caribbean island. Trust us, there’s no better way to explore Old San Juan!

Things To Do in Old San Juan

Disclaimer: Covid-19 has undoubtedly changed the world and made travel a bit hard. Many of the tours and restaurants on this list will have varied hours, limited occupancy, and limited options in 2022. As these things change daily, we really can’t provide all that information. That being said, make sure to check each website for your intended activities and make sure it is available during your trip. We recommend booking advanced tickets as soon as possible due to lower capacities.

1. Take the sightseeing trolley.

While San Juan is very walkable, if you only have a short amount of time in the city, or you have a hate/hate relationship with hills, there’s a convenient trolley! The trolley system is free, and you can hop on and off as you like. The route is numbered and runs through the heart of Old San Juan, and we recommend that you stop at the Puerto Rico Tourism Office to grab a handy map. Many visitors, especially those coming in on the cruise ships, like to start their trolley tour on stop #12. This is also the starting point for one of the best guided walking tours in Puerto Rico. 

If you’re coming in on a cruise, just take a left after exiting the boat, and head for the Ochoa Building to get your map, then you will soon find Paseo de la Princesa and stop #12. The city is easy to get around, so feel free to wander. 

2. Stroll the colorful streets.

The streets of Old San Juan are delightfully colorful, with true Caribbean flair. Pastel mansions, with bright white trim, that line many of the streets downtown, are perfect for gawking. Grab a popsicle or piña colada (more on that later) and get to steppin’. Look out for Umbrella Street (which had letters instead of umbrellas, last we checked). It’s a fun spot to get that Insta photo, and the colors and theme change regularly to represent important cultural and social issues. They are located along the beautiful La Fortaleza Street that leads to the Governor’s Mansion. 

3. Visit Castillo San Felipe del Morro.

This fort is the symbol of Puerto Rico, the most identifiable structure, and a joy to tour! It hangs out over the Bay of San Juan, jutting out into the sea in imposing form! Its 140-foot walls were long considered impenetrable, as they could bombard oncoming ships with a barrage of artillery fire from above. Construction started in 1539 but wasn’t finished until 1790.

The English and the Dutch put the walls to the test throughout the 16th century, including an attack by the formidable Sir Francis Drake. After a momentary defeat by the English, on its landside, the Fort got a new sister fort (more on that later).

The fort sits on a lush green hill where locals and neighborhood children love to fly kites in the ocean breeze. The old walls and its artillery windows are now home to giant iguanas that pretty much rule the roost these days. Once inside the fort, you will have the absolute best views of the surrounding sea and rocky coastline below. It makes for some epic photos. Look for submarines in the World War II watchtower (it looks like something out of Star Wars.) Explore the military kitchens, the chapel, and even the soldier’s living quarters. They are outfitted with period-appropriate furniture, clothing, and weaponry, and it’s the best place to learn about the turbulent history of Puerto Rico. 

From here, take the trolley to “the other fort.”

4. Visit Castillo de San Cristobal.

If you ask the locals, they will probably call this castle, “the other castle.” But, don’t let that fool you, Castillo de San Cristobal is certainly worth your time. It’s the biggest European fortification in all the Americas, covering over 27 acres. The Castillo was constructed between 1634 and 1765 … after those attacks by the Dutch and English. It rises 150 feet above the walls of San Juan. This fort’s job was to protect the heart of the city from land attacks from the east. Castillo de San Cristobal defended the San Juan Bay for centuries and is now, along with El Morro, part of the great San Juan National Historic Site of Defense and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Touring the Castillo is included on a combination ticket to El Morro. Make sure to go down and see the tunnels and the dungeon! The current Visitor Center is in a bunker built by US soldiers during World War II.

5. See the Old San Juan Gate.

Take a walk down Paseo la Princesa and enter the grand city as seafarers would have 200 years ago. La Puerta de San Juan is the only remaining vestige of the original 6 city gates and is a popular landmark. Each of the city gates had a different function, and this one was for ceremonial processions of important people. Dignitaries would enter the gates, head up the tree-lined, cobblestone streets, to Catedral San Juan Bautista to thank God for a safe sea journey.

To be honest, the little red gate isn’t that much to see, but it’s a good starting point for walking tours to the cathedral and beautiful sculpture gardens nearby. So, check it off the list real quick and move along! There’s a giant Banyan Tree just outside the gate, dripping with Spanish moss that is not only beautiful but a great place to snag a photo! 

You can also continue from the gate to walk along the base of the giant wall of Castillo San Felipe del Morro on the Paseo del Morro. The beautiful path strolls along the shore, and the ocean breeze is a nice break from the city heat. It’s a dead-end, so you will just have to turn around when you get to the end and enjoy the views in the opposite direction!

6. Go on a sculpture hunt.

Old San Juan is home to some truly strange and wonderful sculpture gardens. The city boasts several beautiful plazas, including La Rogativa, near the San Juan Gate. La Rogativa has a famous sculpture of a bishop and seven women. Legend says that the British were set to attack the city in 1797, but they mistook the bishop and his procession of women as soldiers and decided not to attack. The bronze beauty commemorates that day when a priest and some girls defended the city walls and scared away a whole army.

Raices Fountain is another beauty at the end of Paseo de la Princesa that commemorates the cultural heritage of the islands. Plaza de Armas, on San Jose Street, features a century-old fountain with 4 statues, representing the 4 seasons. The plaza is a common gathering area, outside of City Hall, and is popular with families who come to feed the pigeons.

These are all great, but the best sculptures in Old San Juan are in Parque De La Cathedral, where you will find unique and corky statues of cat beasts. The funny works of art appear to be cat/giraffes and cat/chickens. Some of them wear funky glasses, and they are whimsical and weird in all the right ways!

7. Visit Capilla del Cristo Chapel.

Nestled in the southwest corner of San Juan’s city walls, sits the unassuming little cathedral of Capilla del Cristo. It isn’t something that would even catch your eye if you weren’t looking for it. However, inside is a glimmering, silver altar and lovely paintings by famed Puerto Rican artist, Jose Campeche. 

The chapel is steeped in lore, and there are several local legends about how it came to be built. One popular legend states that during the celebrations of San Juan Bautista in 1753, Baltazar Montanez was racing his horse down Calle del Cristo. He lost control of the steed and went barrelling over the cliff wall. From his balcony nearby, the Spanish Secretary of Government, Don Mateo Pratts saw the whole thing happen and allegedly cried out, “Christ of Good Health, save him.” 

The horse did not survive, but Baltazar did. That same year, the rider built the little chapel, at the point of his fall, in gratitude to the “Christ of Good Health.” It has been a holy sight ever since for those looking for healing or hope. You can see their tiny silver charms, or Milagros, representing a need or a miracle they have received, hanging all about the chapel.

8. Explore the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista.

From the street, the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, though much larger than the previously mentioned chapel, doesn’t look that imposing either. However, it’s the second-oldest cathedral in all of the Western Hemisphere, and the oldest on United States soil. It was built in 1540, and one step inside delights the eye with wonderful, late Medieval architecture, a stunning ceiling, and beautiful art to peruse. The church also houses the tomb of Juan Ponce de Leon, legendary explorer and first governor of Puerto Rico. Though it pales in comparison to the grand cathedrals of Europe or later ones in Mexico, there’s a peaceful elegance about the little church, and it’s definitely worth a visit!

9. Enjoy a night stroll on Paseo de la Princesa.

You have probably recognized that the Paseo de la Princesa shows up a lot when talking about Downtown San Juan. It’s a pretty popular sightseeing strip during the day, but it doesn’t slow down at night! The Paseo is a hotspot for nightlife with live music almost every night of the week. It’s mostly local stuff, so you get a great insight into what Puerto Ricans listen to and love. The street will generally be filled with vendors selling all manner of wares. You can easily hop from food stall to food stall and enjoy an authentic street food dinner! If you see some dancing, feel free to join in! 

10. See how well you can salsa!

Now that we got you thinking about dancing, PR is a great place to learn salsa. Our favorite spot is an up-and-coming attraction in its own right. La Perla neighborhood is a former shantytown from the 19th-century, and it has a torrid history. It started as a barriotsalsa of outcasts and slaves in the early days, forced to live in dwellings outside the city walls. By the 20th-century, it had developed a pretty rough reputation, as violence was common in the underserved and disadvantaged areas.

In recent years, the district has undergone a massive revitalization. The houses have been painted bright colors and murals have been added to the plazas. Businesses are moving in, and La Perla is starting to take advantage of their primo, waterfront property. In 2017, the famous music video, Despacito, was filmed in the neighborhood, drawing international attention. You can now book guided tours with locals to explore all the rehabilitation efforts that are going on in this once outcasted village.

For a little local nightlife, head for La 39 Bar , a chinchorros, or a traditional rustic bar. It’s a popular little joint on the rooftop of a home, and if you visit on Sunday evenings, you can join all the locals from Old San Juan for some traditional and lively dancing. We’ve heard a dirty rumor that La 39 has been closed during the pandemic, so ask around before you go if this is your only reason for heading to La Perla.

Another popular spot to Salsa and enjoy live music is Nuyorican Café. It’s within the city walls, on San Francisco Street, and is popular with locals and tourists. It’s a fun atmosphere, and you’re sure to learn some new moves!

11. Enjoy a cigar.

Sure Cuba is the king, but you can get a pretty good Puerto Rican cigar, for a good price, with the street vendors. You can even buy a few as souvenirs to bring home for friends and family. While we are talking about the best Puerto Rican souvenirs, make sure to grab some Don Q rums. The Coconut and Limon flavors are to die for. 

12. Try the national meal.

Mofongo is a savory dish beloved all over the island. It usually consists of mashed plantains, garlic, and pork rinds. The tasty mixture is balled and fried to perfection. It’s then topped with a meat sauce, usually pork, but it can be chicken, beef, or even seafood. 

Café Manolin is a budget-friendly cafeteria that serves up tasty Mofongo, or everything is good at El Jibarito. Both are well-known around town for traditional fare. Orozco’s mofongo is also a stellar option.

13. Go out on the bay for a sunset sail.

Sailing around San Juan Bay is a romantic way to spend the evening. There are several tour operators that offer a sunset cruise. Sail Old San Juan has been providing wonderful private charters and group tours for over 25 years, and they are amazing. 

If you want a little more control of your day, then head for East Island Excursions and book one of their Mini Boat Adventure Tours. These thirteen-foot inflatable powerboats are easy to operate and can hold up to four passengers each. The 90-minute tour will give you access to the historic sites of Old San Juan from a unique perspective, and you’ll explore several landmarks together with your guide!

14. Dive in for a deep-sea fishing expedition.

The waters surrounding Puerto Rico are teeming with Snook, Tarpons, Snapper, Marlin, Tuna, and even sharks. The experts at Caribbean Fishing Academy have several amazing tours to choose from. You can take an in-shore or deep-sea expedition for whatever amount of time works for your itinerary. They seriously offer so many options! While you may need to pack the sunscreen and some anti-nausea pills, a day out to sea is both fun and hopefully rewards you with a giant catch!

15. Admire the street art at La Puerta de la Bandera.

Like much of the Caribbean, Old San Juan loves its murals. While most are playful and aquatic, others take a serious political tone. When strolling the streets of the city, keep an eye out for urban art. The most famous piece is on a dilapidated structure on San José Street. It was painted by artist Rosenda Álvarez as commentary on the economic crisis PR has faced in the last decade. One glance at her version of the Puerto Rican flag, its bright red and blue replaced by black, and it’s not hard to see what message she was trying to convey. 

Another must-see work is on the intersection of C. San Agustin and Ave Luis Munoz Riviera. The 5,000 square foot, tile mural is dedicated to an absolute superhero of Puerto Rican society- women’s crusader, educator, and Goodwill Ambassador for the United States, Felisa Rincon de Gautier. If you know anything about her life, you know she was a powerhouse and deserves every bit of that 5,000 sqft.

16. Visit the Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery.

This Colonial-era cemetery is where all the elite and famous of PR society are laid to rest. It’s just outside the city walls, overlooking the sea, which is quite a nice place to be laid to rest. While some of you may find it weird to have a cemetery on a travel guide, Santa Maria’s is beautiful. It was constructed in 1863 and the graves are more like works of sculpture than the boring headstones we are used to in the U.S. Go on in and admire the artwork, respectfully of course!

17. Kayak the Condado Bay.

Puerto Rico has several bioluminescent bays, but most of them are on the other side of the island from San Juan. That hasn’t stopped Night Kayak , they just got glow-in-the-dark kayaks and SUPs. You will set out in the dark of night into Condado Lagoon and explore the open waters on a clear kayak with LED lights or a glow-in-the-dark SUP. With the water beneath you illuminated, you will have a chance to see baitfish, starfish, and even stingrays. 

If you have time, head over to Laguna Grande or Fajardo for real bioluminescence. But, if you’re on a tight time schedule, this is the next best thing!

18. Have a piña colada.

You probably know by now, if you have been reading about Puerto Rico at all, that it’s the birthplace of the oh-so-tasty piña colada. That is not really debated, but the story of its creation is certainly fought over. Some say a bartender at the Caribe Hilton mixed up the rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice concoction first, in 1954. Other legends say it goes way farther back to the early 1800s when Roberto Cofresí whipped them up for his crew to boost their morale, but the recipe was lost upon his death. The San Juan restaurant Barrachina claims that their bartender, Don Ramon Portas Mingot, invented it in 1963. So, who knows?

Whoever made it first, the piña colada embodies the essence of the islands. It’s clean, cool, fruity, and beautiful. It just feels right. You can get the pineapple dream at any bar on the island or from the numerous cocktail trucks hanging out in popular tourist areas like Condado Beach. You should probably just try them all. Visit Caribe Hilton and Barrachina. Not only are they both historic San Juan hotels, that are landmarks in their own right, but you can perform your own cocktail experiment. You might not figure out who made it first, but you can vote on who makes it best!

19. Take a day trip to El Yunque Rainforest.

Okay. Okay. We are supposed to be talking about things to do in San Juan, we know. But, you cannot visit Puerto Rico without taking a few short day trips, especially since you can tour most of Old San Juan in a day, or two at max.

El Yunque National Forest is the only tropical rainforest in the United States. The entrance is about 45 mins from the city and easily reached by a rental car. Renting a car in PR is easy, affordable, and the driving is very similar to the U.S. mainland. If you’re not comfortable with driving, you can book a guided full-day tour from Old San Juan through several companies.

The park consists of 29,000 acres, making it one of the smallest US National Forests, but one of the most biodiverse. Keep your eye out for Coqui frogs and parrots. The forest is a wonderland of hiking trails through lush green landscapes and thundering waterfalls. The water is cold and refreshing on a hot Caribbean day, and you’re welcome to jump in for a swim. Visit the Yokahu Observation Tower for an incredible view over the forested mountains. 

20. Visit the Islands of Culebra or Vieques.

Some of the best beaches in Puerto Rico are on the adjoining islands. Flamenco Beach, on Culebra, is world-famous and one of the most beautiful beaches on earth, as long as you don’t mind sharing it with about a million other people. Mosquito Bay, on Vieques, is one of the best bioluminescent bays, and Vieques has wild horses! 

The best part is you can take a quick, local ferry from Ceiba, and the trip to both islands takes a little over 30 minutes. It’s a cheap beach escape, and you can purchase advanced tickets in San Juan at Autoridad de Transporte Marítimo (ATM) . 

21. Strap on your snorkel.

Snorkeling is a must on the island. Either bring your own or buy one when you get there to keep with you at all times. You can certainly book snorkeling tours as well, but it’s more convenient and economical to have your own. Baitfish and Giant Orange Starfish are often visible just off-shore in the shallow, clear waters. You will find plenty to explore. 

22. Try kitesurfing!

If you’re a surfer or a watersports lover and you haven’t tried kitesurfing yet, what are you even doing with your life? As mentioned earlier, PR is the perfect place for flying a kite (of any kind). Isla Verde and Ocean Park are popular areas for the sport. You can take a course with 15 Knots Kiteboarding School , located just 5 mins from the international airport, which is convenient! 

They aren’t just convenient though, they have been at this game for a long time and do an excellent job. They take pride in teaching you well and making sure you succeed. Lessons are not cheap, but if you’re interested in picking up the sport, this is the place to do it. If not, it’s still fun to watch all the high-flying athletes perform!

23. Have a chocolate grilled cheese.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have a whole meal made of chocolate? Not just a meal, but the whole menu at Chocobar Cortés is all chocolate-based. Any food item you can imagine, they can make with chocolate, and though it sounds disgusting, they manage to somehow make it delicious.

Not only are the food and drinks tasty, but the atmosphere is lovely too. Oh, and did we mention, they produce all their own chocolate! The business didn’t start as a restaurant at all. It began as a cocoa bean farm. It was founded in 1929 and has been bringing chocolate from farm to bar since 2013. You must try the traditional hot chocolate and the grilled chicken sandwich with chili-cocoa seasoning!

24. Slide into the local speak-easy.

If you want some low-key nightlife, head for La Factoria . The bar took the spot of a San Juan legend, Hijos de Borinquen. Look out for the old sign painted on the interior wall. There’s no sign outside, so you have to know where you’re going. The location is unmarked, but not hard to find. The bar has been listed on the list of “The World’s 50 Best Bars” for the past five years in a row and has been nominated for the prestigious James Beard award, among several other international bar awards. It boasts the best live music in town, perfect craft cocktails, and several secret passages that lead to six different bars, each with its own menu and atmosphere. It’s a bar within a bar, within a bar, and we love it!

25. Score some food truck tripleta.

Old San Juan, and Puerto Rico in general, will not let you down in the street food department. Utilize them! Food trucks and stalls are the way to experience traditional food on a budget. One of the best street foods is the tripleta. What is a tripleta you ask? It’s a sandwich. That doesn’t sound too exciting, but trust, it’s seriously good. 

Tripleta in a roundabout way means triple. It’s similar to a club sandwich in the states in that it has multiple types of meat—three to be exact. The tripleta features grilled steak, chicken, and some sort of pork, so all the meat food groups are covered. 

The meat stack is wrapped in a giant soft bun made of sweet potato bread. It often also has chips and some sort of condiments like mayonnaise or ketchup. You can snag one of these at any time of day. They are usually open pretty late for the Condado party crowd. 

26. Indulge on piraguas or paletas.

Puerto Rico gets pretty hot in the summer months. During a full day of sightseeing in the summer sun, you’re likely going to need a good cool down. Luckily, piraguas are available on every corner, though they seem to be dying out a little. Look for the small carts bearing their name. Piraguas are basically like slushies or snow cones. They are flavored with local fruits and syrups and provide the perfect sweet, cold treat. 

“Paletas” is the Spanish word for popsicle, and San Juan has a wonderful specialty popsicle shop. Señor Paleta is glorious. Their popsicles are not only expertly curated for taste, but they are a work of art. They aren’t just traditional frozen fruit pops. You can get fudge, Dulce de leche, or strawberry cheesecake. They are dipped, lavished in toppings, and full of flavor, more like a bowl of ice cream. A popsicle for Señor Paleta is so beautiful you will almost feel bad eating it … almost!

27. Visit Ocean Lab Brewing Co.

Medalla is the go-to beer in Puerto Rico. It’s budget-friendly and pretty tasty. However, San Juan has not missed out on the craft beer craze. There are several small breweries on the island popping out delightful brews. Ocean Lab Brewing Co. is probably the most popular and largest. It sits on a lovely stretch of beach with a fun atmosphere. Their “front yard” is the Vivo Beach Club which includes a gaming section, cool seating areas around the large pool, and a vibrant atmosphere with loud music. 

The club and brewing company hosts frequent large gatherings each week, often featuring live music. You will find the Ocean Lab beers all over the island, and you can take a guided tour of the brewery on Saturdays. This is the best place to taste the brew, right off the tap in the place of their making!

28. Take the Bacardi Rum Factory Tour.

If you really love the brewery tour, then consider heading for the Bacardi Rum Factory and watching the distilling process. The factory offers rum tasting tours, Casa Bacardi Bar Visits, and even mixology classes. You will be a rum expert after a day here! They have a beautiful property, a friendly staff, and educational tours. Rum is certainly the alcohol of choice in PR, so if you really want to have the Puerto Rican experience, you must have a little rum!

29. Take a food tour.

If finding somewhere to eat is the major argument in your family or relationship, then consider taking one of San Juan’s awesome food tours. You will eat your way through the city in a well-planned and expertly curated tour. The Classic Old San Juan Food Tour is class-A good eats. Their choices are spot-on, and we think you’ll love them! 

This tour offers you the chance to explore all the culinary flavors that make up Puerto Rico’s multi-cultural food scene. African and Spanish influences intermingle with indigenous flavors to create a mash-up that will tantalize your tastebuds! It’s one of the best food tours out there.

30. Lay around on Condado Beach.

You can’t visit PR without some beach time. The closest major beach to Old San Juan is Condado. It’s a very Miami Beach kind of vibe with several upscale hotels, infinity pools, and a curated beach. It’s a nice place to hang out for a day with a fancy piña colada and umbrella or do some shopping. 

The other large tourist beach is Isla Verde. It’s also lined with high-rise hotels and boutique spots. It’s farther from the city, and closer to the airport, but is a nice place to catch some sun. 

Our favorite is the local beach of Piñones. It’s just a bit farther than Isla Verde and easily reached by rental car. The beach is stunning! It’s a swatch of white sand, lined with a hill of palm trees behind. The water is perfectly clear. You get a view of the city skyline ahead of you. The waves are perfect for boogie boards and family fun. It even has its own natural, stillwater pool where you can relax from the waves or let the littles play safely. 

There are no beach amenities. It’s wild and beautiful, but the street on the other side of the palm-lined hill is heavily-populated by amazing, local food trucks. So, no worries, you won’t go hungry or thirsty on your beach day. Just park along the street with all the locals and walk over the little hill. You will see plenty of heavily-trodden walking paths to follow. 

Closing Thoughts

Puerto Rico has been hit hard of late, with much of the island being destroyed in 2017 by Hurricane Maria. They have fought hard and bounced back though, and the tourist infrastructure is up in full force. The island is a Caribbean paradise with incredible food, a diverse ecosystem and landscape, and friendly and welcoming culture. If you are considering PR, think no further. Book your ticket. You won’t regret it!

Looking for an active spring break destination? Check out “ The Most Adventurous Spring Break Trips In The World ” for some epic ideas.

Puerto Rico is popular with kitesurfers, but so is Baja! If you want the ultimate road trip, review our list of “ The Best Things to do in Baja California, Mexico .”

Frequently Asked Questions

This beautiful Spanish-colonial city has cobblestone streets and colorful architecture. Things to do in Old San Juan  include visiting the historical forts of San Felipe del Morro and San Cristobal.

The oldest settlement in Puerto Rico is a stunning seaside city! Outdoor things to do in Old San Juan  include competing on a scavenger hunt , kitesurfing, snorkeling, kayaking, or just enjoying the beaches.

Puerto Rico has a rich cultural history that is reflected in its food. One of the best things to do in Old San Juan is to take an organized food tour or hit up the many food trucks to try the cuisine!

Featured Products & Activities

14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Written by Lana Law Updated Jan 12, 2024

San Juan is a beautiful capital city with soft-sand beaches, a multitude of cultural attractions, and a vibe that could easily make it a destination for an entire vacation. Historic forts, colonial architecture, fine dining, museums, and many more things to do are all within easy walking distance. Beachfront luxury hotels and resorts can be found right in San Juan and neighboring districts.

At the heart of the city is Old San Juan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , where colonial architecture mixes with contemporary Puerto Rican culture. The old buildings are now home to many of the city's attractions and tourist establishments.

San Juan is also a major cruise ship destination and is known for being one of the largest home-based cruise ports in the world . Depending on the number of cruise ships in port, the city can either be very quiet or extremely lively.

Plan your sightseeing with our list of top attractions in San Juan.

See also: Where to Stay in San Juan

Old San Juan (San Juan Viejo)

Fuerte san felipe del morro (el morro), castillo de san cristóbal (fort san cristóbal), paseo de la princesa, san juan cemetery (santa maria magdalena de pazzis cemetery), san juan cathedral (catedral de san juan), museo de las américas, condado and ocean park beach, isla verde beach, la fortaleza, museo de arte de puerto rico, san jose church (iglesia de san josé), puerto rico museum of contemporary art (museo de arte contemporáneo de puerto rico), plaza las americas, map of tourist attractions in san juan, puerto rico, where to stay in san juan for sightseeing.

Wandering the streets of Old San Juan is the main attraction of a visit here. It may be historic but it never gets old.

Showcasing almost 500 years of history, the area is a window to the past, with historic forts and Spanish colonial architecture setting the scene. This World Cultural Heritage Site is the second oldest city in the Americas and the oldest city under the US flag.

The seven-square-block area contains more than 400 beautifully restored 16th- and 17th-century colonial buildings, many of which contain shops, restaurants, museums, hotels, and other public buildings.

The most dramatic feature, and the real showpiece of Old San Juan is the Fuerte San Felipe del Morro , known more commonly as El Morro , set out on a point of land overlooking the sea in the San Juan National Historic Site.

Experience the city's real charm by simply wandering the streets, admiring the old architecture, and enjoying a meal on an outdoor patio. Other highlights are Fortaleza , the San Juan Cathedral , and Castillo de San Cristóbal .

As you stroll, be sure to pop into some of the museums, many of which are worth stepping into just to appreciate the architecture of the structure housing the collections. This whole area can be explored on foot, although the walk out to El Morro fort adds considerably more to the length of a walking tour.

Protecting the entrance to San Juan Bay, the fort, commonly referred to as El Morro, is dramatically perched above the sea on a point of land jutting out into the ocean.

A designated National Historic Site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site , El Morro was built in 1539. Construction continued for another 250 years to make it one of the largest Spanish forts in the Caribbean. A majority of the additional construction took place between the 1760s and 1780s, when many of the walls you see today were added.

The fort today is a maze of ramps, outposts, barracks, dungeons, and tunnels, dotted with small, circular sentry boxes called "garitas." These garitas are unique to Puerto Rican forts and have become a national symbol.

The area approaching the fort is an open lawn looking out to incredible views on every side, either back towards San Juan, including a view to San Juan Cemetery, or out to sea. This huge space is a popular area to fly kites in the steady breezes off the ocean.

El Morro is a National Park and an admission is charged to enter.

While El Morro gets all the fame, Castillo de San Cristóbal is equally fascinating and well worth a visit. San Cristobal is bigger than El Morro, and is the largest fort the Spanish ever built in the New World.

Spread over 27 acres, it features five independent units connected by moat and tunnel, each designed to be self-sufficient should the others fall. The fort was built between 1634 and 1790 to guard the eastern gate to what is today, Old San Juan. It was designed to protect against a land attack , making it quite different from El Morro, which was designed to guard against attacks by sea.

Depending on how hot it is, you can walk from El Morro to Castillo de San Cristobal in about 25 minutes . If it's too hot for you, plan on a lunch stop along the way. One option we like, if you're looking for an authentic vibe is La Verguenza restaurant . Head up the stairs to the balcony area for amazing views out over the ocean while chowing down on fish tacos.

Your national park admission is good for here and El Morro.

This pleasant walkway winds its way along the bayfront and provides exceptional views out over the water. With its wide sidewalks, the Paseo de la Princesa, dating from 1853, is the perfect place to visit for a stroll after spending time in the narrow streets and alleys of Old San Juan.

Along the way, you'll pass by tinkling fountains with impressive statues. If the heat gets to be a little too much, cool down under large trees that provide welcome relief from the sun. On one side of the street is the bay and on the other, the steep city walls.

Positioned along the coast, adjacent to El Morro , and high above the ocean, is the beautiful San Juan Cemetery. Elaborate tombstones, statues, above-ground graves, and a circular red-domed Neoclassical chapel dedicated to Mary Magdalene are some of what makes this cemetery. Most outstanding though is the captivating seaside setting.

You can gaze over the cemetery in the distance from El Morro. This is one of the most fascinating views from the fort, looking out over the entire shore, including the cemetery. You can also look over the cemetery from above by walking down Cemetery Street and crossing the lawn.

The chapel in the cemetery dates to the 19th century, and many of Puerto Rico's earliest colonists are buried here.

Dating back to 1540, the Catedral de San Juan Bautista, also known as the Cathedral of San Juan, is one of the most important religious sites in Puerto Rico . The church is famous for being the final resting place of Ponce de Leon, the Spaniard who undertook the quest for the Fountain of Youth.

One of the lesser-known facts about the church is that it is the second oldest structure in the Western Hemisphere . However, the church has aged well, with the generous support of its parishioners. Inside it's immaculate, and the stained-glass windows glow as brightly, if not more so, than the day they were created.

The Catedral de San Juan Bautista is a working church and the seat of the Archdiocese of Puerto Rico.

You can appreciate the view of the building from a bench below the shady trees in the small Plaza de la Catedral, just across the street. Or, if you happen to be staying at El Convento Hotel, also across the street from the cathedral, you can enjoy a great view over the structure from the pool deck.

Address: Calle del Cristo #151-153, San Juan

Housed in former army barracks dating from 1880, the Museo de las Americas, in Old San Juan, explores the history of Puerto Rico, with a focus on the art, the ethnic groups, and the colonization of the country. Permanent exhibits offer a solid overview of the country's history, but temporary exhibits round out the experience, with interesting themes that include anything from contemporary art to traditional practices. This museum is a good place to start before embarking on a tour of the country's cultural and historic sites.

In front of the museum is a lovely space with flowers, grass, and a fountain that looks out to El Morro and the ocean. At the front of the grounds is a statue of Don Ricardo Alegria.

Address: Calle Beneficencia, San Juan

The Condado district lies on a piece of land between the Atlantic Ocean and Laguna Condado. The district was originally developed as San Juan's first tourist zone in the 1950s, creating a mini Miami Beach on the doorsteps of the city.

This is a modern area and a real contrast to Old San Juan. The main reason to visit Condado is for the beach or dining.

The main axis of the town is Avenida Ashford, along which stand a number of luxury hotels and resorts. Condado offers a broad selection of accommodations and facilities in all price ranges.

In the eastern area of the district is Ocean Park, a one-mile-wide beach encompassing residential homes and beach retreats. The white-sand beach is clean and very popular with locals. There are no facilities or change rooms here.

Condado is also home to the huge Convention Center , with shopping, theaters, restaurants, and space for festivals and exhibitions.

If you want to step off a plane and be on the beach in mere minutes, Isla Verde is the place to stay. A gorgeous Blue Flag-certified beach of golden brown sand is protected from the large waves by a large offshore reef. Hotels and condos line the beach and finding a place to stay is easy.

If you are staying in Old Town and are looking for a day on the beach, this is one of the best places to come, head to Carolina Beach, chair and umbrella rentals are available and parking is easy to come by in the large lot. If you are looking for pools and more of a vibe, the Vivo Beach Club is located nearby.

Isla Verde Beach is located east of Condado and Ocean Park, count on a 15-minute ride from Old San Juan.

La Fortaleza was completed in 1540 as a defense against the Carib Indians and other foreign invaders. It was occupied twice by invaders; first by the Earl of Cumberland in 1598 and then by the Dutch General Bowdoin Hendrick in 1625 when fire damaged the building.

The Fortaleza eventually lost its military value and became the residence of Puerto Rican governors , a role it still maintains today. La Fortaleza is the oldest governor's mansion still used as such in the Western Hemisphere, with more than 150 governors having lived or stayed here. The building itself has undergone many changes in its long history. The result is a blend of 16th-century military architecture with the refinements of the 19th century.

You can only visit the museum on a tour. Check at the Visitor Information Center for tour details. La Fortaleza and the surrounding streets are sometimes closed to the public without notice. Barricades are erected and security will stop you from going anywhere near the building.

Address: 52 Calle Fortaleza, San Juan

The Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico is one of the highlights of San Juan, and is a prominent player in the Caribbean cultural scene. The building, which was opened in 2000, was constructed around a 1920s hospital building. The older portion of the building displays the museum's permanent collection and is the first thing you will see as you enter.

The main focus of the permanent collection is work from the 17th century through to contemporary works . A good way to get a better understanding of all the cherished pieces is to take one of the free tours offered on Saturday at 10am or Sunday at 2pm.

The newer portion (the east wing) is a five-story structure containing a multi-story atrium, a theater with seating for up to 400 people, a sculpture garden, and a popular restaurant. Other rooms are available for workshops and exhibitions. In total, the museum contains more than 130,000 feet of space used to display the excellent permanent collection in 24 halls and to host temporary exhibitions.

Address: 299 Avenida de Diego, Santurce

Dominican friars built the Iglesia de San José in 1532, making it one of the earliest examples of Spanish Gothic architecture in the Americas. Unlike the San Juan Cathedral, this church is quite small, with a modest façade, but the vaulted interior gives it an airy feel.

For almost 300 years, the Spanish explorer Ponce de León was buried here until his body was moved to the San Juan Cathedral in 1913. The 18th-century Puerto Rican artist, José Campeche, is also buried here.

Beside the church is Plaza de San José , a pleasant open area with a few tables and umbrellas for eating.

You can walk from the church, past the Galeria Nacional Instituto de Cultura Puertorriquena, and through the Plaza del Quinto Centenario, which looks out over the ocean. The plaza has an interesting clay and granite totem pole called El Tótem Telúrico . Created by Puerto Rican artist Jaime Suárez, it celebrates the 500th anniversary of Columbus' first voyage to the New World.

From here you can walk down Cemetery Street to see the cemetery, or out to El Morro.

Address: Calle San Sebastián, San Juan

Founded in 1984, this museum is the place to see the work of Puerto Rico's finest modern-day artists. Changing exhibits showcase the museum's collection of modern island-made prints, paintings, posters, and sculptures. Some of the most notable artists to have their work on display include Myrna Baez and Naomi Ruiz, among many others.

Located far from the Old City inside Sacred Heart University in the Barat building, the museum can be tricky to find. As the exhibits change frequently, be sure to contact the museum or visit their excellent website to find out about the most current exhibits.

Address: Edificio Histórico Rafael M. Labra, Ave. Juan Ponce de León, esquina Ave. Roberto H. Todd, Parada 18, Santurce

When the culture, beaches, and heat of San Juan have taken their toll and it's time for a little escape, the Plaza las Americas might be the answer. This modern indoor shopping plaza is the place to come for a little retail therapy or to pick up something that was left at home or lost at the airport.

This is not the place to find traditional Puerto Rican souvenirs and trinkets; this is a large mall with US chain stores, the latest fashions, American restaurants, movie theaters, and some unique stores. It is considered by Puerto Ricans to be the best mall in Puerto Rico. Although it might not be at the top of the must-do list, this is a great rainy-day option.

Address: 525 Ave Franklin Delano Roosevelt, San Juan

We recommend these charming hotels, near top attractions and the cobbled streets of Old San Juan:

• Condado Vanderbilt Hotel : This 5-star luxury beachfront hotel is one of the best hotels in the city. Created in Spanish Revival-style, it offers butler service, an ocean-view pool, and a deluxe spa. Located in Condado, it's just a short drive from Old San Juan.
• Decanter Hotel : This mid-range hotel in Old San Juan is set in a 19th-century colonial-style building with a rooftop terrace and 24-hour concierge.
• CasaBlanca Hotel : For something a little quainter, try this affordable boutique hotel. Its decor is Moroccan themed, and the property features a rooftop deck with soaking tubs. This is a great choice for a romantic getaway.

More on Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico: Old San Juan Guided Walking Tour

Exploring the captivating history and vibrant culture of Old San Juan has never been easier. With a guided walking tour , visitors can enjoy the charm of this iconic Puerto Rican destination. Led by knowledgeable local guides , the tour offers a comprehensive experience, delving into the stories behind landmarks like the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista and the impressive El Morro Fortress. Strolling through the cobblestone streets , participants can expect personalized insights and engaging anecdotes, all while enjoying the convenience of a flexible scheduling and refund policy . Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to uncover the essence of this vibrant Caribbean city, this tour promises to leave you intrigued and eager to…

• Explore the historic Spanish colonial architecture of Old San Juan on a 3-hour guided walking tour led by a local expert.
• Visit iconic landmarks like the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, El Morro Fortress, and La Fortaleza, the official residence of the Puerto Rican governor.
• Gain insights into Christopher Columbus’s significance and San Juan’s rich history and culture from the knowledgeable local guide.
• Tour offered in both English and Spanish, with private transportation included for hassle-free exploration of the cobblestone streets.
• Personalized experience for groups of up to 4 participants, with a starting price of CZK 9,434 per group and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Tour Overview and Details

The Old San Juan Guided Walking Tour offers a 3-hour exploration of the historic city, with prices starting from $10 per group (up to 4 participants).

This activity allows visitors to discover the area with a local guide, who’ll lead them through the colorful Spanish colonial architecture dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries.

The tour includes visits to the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista , the oldest Catholic church in America, as well as outside views of El Morro and La Fortaleza, two iconic landmarks.

Plus, guests will stroll along the Paseo de la Princesa, enjoying views of the bay.

The experience is available in English and Spanish, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Tour Highlights

Visitors can explore Old San Juan’s most iconic landmarks, including the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista – the oldest Catholic church in America. The tour also provides outside views of the impressive El Morro fortress and La Fortaleza, the official residence of Puerto Rico’s governor. Participants will stroll along the beautiful Paseo de la Princesa, overlooking the bay, and learn about Christopher Columbus’s significance and San Juan’s original name. The guide will share insights into Puerto Rico’s Spanish-American post-war history, ensuring guests depart with a deeper understanding of the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Experience and Local Insights

With the iconic landmarks explored, the tour truly immerses guests in Old San Juan’s rich history and culture through the local guide’s insightful commentary.

Participants can expect to walk through the city’s well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture from the 16th and 17th centuries, gaining a deeper understanding of San Juan’s past from a local perspective.

The guide shares stories and anecdotes that bring the historic district to life, offering a uniquely authentic experience.

Visitors learn about the city’s Spanish-American post-war history and the significance of Christopher Columbus’s voyages, all while strolling the charming streets.

Inclusions and Accessibility

A private guide leads the walking tour, providing an intimate and personalized experience for participants.

Transportation is included, ensuring a convenient and hassle-free exploration of Old San Juan. However, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the historical nature of the cobblestone streets and uneven terrain.

The tour’s inclusions and accessibility features are:

Private guide included to provide in-depth knowledge and a local perspective.

Transportation provided for a seamless and stress-free experience.

Opportunity to explore the vibrant Spanish colonial architecture and historical landmarks.

Limited accessibility due to the tour’s focus on the old, charming streets of San Juan.

Customer Feedback

The tour’s excellent customer reviews speak to its quality, with an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 10 reviews.

A reviewer from the U.S., Brian, praised the guide William for his deep knowledge and kindness , describing the tour as a highlight of his family’s trip and a memorable experience.

Other travelers have echoed these sentiments, highlighting the guide’s expertise in bringing the history and culture of Old San Juan to life.

Participants have appreciated the tailored experiences that cater to their interests, as well as the seamless logistics of the tour.

With its combination of insightful commentary, immersive exploration, and exceptional service, the Old San Juan Guided Walking Tour consistently delivers a top-notch experience for visitors to Puerto Rico.

Meeting Point and Cancellation

The guided tour meets at the Cuartel de Ballajá in Old San Juan, located at 00901 Puerto Rico. The meeting point is conveniently situated, allowing easy access to the historic district.

Participants can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in planning their trip.

Here’s what you need to know about the meeting point and cancellation policy:

The Cuartel de Ballajá is a well-known landmark, serving as the starting point for the tour.

The tour can accommodate up to 4 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

Cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour are subject to a full refund, giving you peace of mind.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so it’s essential to consider accessibility needs.

Languages and Duration

According to the information provided, the guided walking tour of Old San Juan is offered in both English and Spanish, catering to the diverse language preferences of participants.

Plus, the tour duration spans approximately 3 hours , allowing ample time to explore the historic district thoroughly.

Visitors have the opportunity to enjoy the rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks of Old San Juan while accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide .

Whether you’re fluent in English or Spanish, this tour caters to your needs, ensuring you can fully engage with the captivating stories and insights shared throughout the experience.

Group Size and Pricing

This walking tour offers a competitively priced option for groups of up to 4 participants, with a cost starting from CZK 9,434 per group.

Customers have the flexibility to reserve their spot in advance and pay later, making the booking process convenient.

The private guide service and transportation provided ensure a personalized and hassle-free experience for visitors exploring the rich historical treasures of Old San Juan.

Key details about the group size and pricing include:

Maximum group size of 4 participants

Starting price of CZK 9,434 per group

Option to reserve now and pay later

Private guide and transportation included

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the weather like during the tour.

The weather during the tour is typically warm, with average temperatures ranging from 75°F to 85°F. Visitors should expect sunshine and low humidity, making for a comfortable walking experience. Occasional light rain showers may occur, so bringing a light jacket is recommended.

Can We Stop for Lunch or Refreshments During the Tour?

Yes, the tour typically includes stops for participants to purchase refreshments or have lunch at their own expense. The guide can recommend local cafes or eateries along the walking route that offer authentic cuisine and beverages.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Tour Route?

There are public restroom facilities located along the tour route at various historical sites and landmarks. Participants can utilize these restrooms during scheduled stops throughout the 3-hour walking tour.

How Challenging Is the Walking Involved in the Tour?

The walking involved in this tour is relatively moderate, with participants covering several miles at a relaxed pace. While not overly strenuous, individuals with mobility issues may find certain sections challenging. Comfortable shoes are recommended for a pleasant and enjoyable experience.

Can We Take Photos During the Tour for Personal Use?

Yes, participants are encouraged to take photos during the tour for personal use. The tour allows ample opportunities to capture the vibrant architecture, historic landmarks, and scenic views that make up the experience.

The Old San Juan guided walking tour offers a captivating immersion into the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Led by knowledgeable local guides, this experience provides personalized insights into iconic landmarks, charming cobblestone streets, and the unique character of this historic destination.

With flexible group sizes, languages, and a hassle-free cancellation policy , it’s an engaging and accessible way to uncover the essence of Old San Juan.

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