Enjoy a tropical beach vacation in San Juan and explore the many historic sites in one of the oldest cities in the Americas.
The oldest part of the city, known as Old San Juan (El Viejo San Juan), is a small island connected to the mainland by bridges. Here, you’ll find many of the city’s most popular attractions, historic buildings, restaurants and shops.
Visit the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico, which has a wide range of exhibits, regular cultural events and a beautiful botanical garden. Just a short walk away is the Catedral de San Juan where you can attend a Spanish mass or view the final resting place of Ponce de Leon, a Spanish explorer and the first Governor of Puerto Rico.
No trip to the area is complete without a visit to the San Juan National Historic Site. This massive complex is World Heritage listed and includes many of the city’s defensive walls and fortresses. Plan to spend several hours here as you can explore dungeons and tunnels, and climb towers for 140-feet-(42-meter) high views of the city.
San Juan is well known for its excellent shopping, so make the time to wander along the Calle del Cristo, Old San Juan’s popular shopping street. You’ll find famous international boutiques alongside merchants selling local goods.
Those looking to relax on the beach should head east of Old San Juan to Isla Verde. This beach is close to the main attractions, but far enough away to be a good place for some peace and quiet. For those with children, Luquillo Beach, where coral reefs protect a lagoon, is a great option.
Despite severe traffic congestion, residents and visitors to San Juan primarily travel by car, although a free tourist trolley runs in Old San Juan. Some areas offer a metro system and public buses, but the best option for visitors is usually either walking the shorter distances or taking advantage of a local trolley or taxi service.
San Juan
Where to stay in San Juan
Condado
Oceanfront and upscale, Condado boasts picturesque beaches alongside hotels, nightclubs, casinos, and shops. Stroll through La Ventana al Mar park, and enjoy easy access to public transport via T21 and D53 bus routes.
Old San Juan
The fascinating museums and captivating waterfront views are top of the list for many visitors to Old San Juan. A stop by Port of San Juan or Pier 1 might round out your trip.
Santurce
Bask in the sun on Atlantic Ocean beaches and experience vibrant nightlife at La Placita de Santurce, while exploring museums like the Museum of Art of Puerto Rico. Enjoy easy access to public transportation via bus lines and the Tren Urbano.
San Juan Antiguo
The stunning beaches and popular shops are just a few highlights of San Juan Antiguo. Make a stop by Port of San Juan or Castillo de San Cristobal while you're exploring the area.
Ocean Park
Upscale beachfront community with trendy beachgoers, Ocean Park offers kitesurfing and windsurfing opportunities. Stroll along Calle Loíza for bars, restaurants, and boutiques or unwind at nearby Parque Barbosa.
Hato Rey Norte
Hato Rey Norte is a destination travelers like for its restaurants, and you might hop aboard the metro at Roosevelt Station or Hato Rey Station to explore sights like Plaza las Americas.
Reviewed on May 22, 2024
Reviewed on May 21, 2024
Reviewed on May 21, 2024
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Reviewed on May 3, 2024
Reviewed on May 19, 2024
Popular places to visit
Port of San Juan
Explore the waterfront in San Juan with a trip to Port of San Juan. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its acclaimed art scene.
Luquillo Beach
Sample local street food or doze under a palm tree on this picturesque stretch of coast.
Condado Beach
This beach within the bustling city of San Juan is the perfect place to relax for a few hours.
Dorado Beach
If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Dorado Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to San Juan. While you're in the area, stroll along the seaside.
Escambron Beach
Swim in calm waters among colorful fish at a picturesque beach that is regularly voted one of the best in Puerto Rico.
Carolina Beach
Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Carolina Beach during your travels in Carolina? Amble around this romantic area's seaside and enjoy its lively bars.
Things to do
Puerto Rico Bio Bay Kayak Adventure Tour
San Juan: Old San Juan Sunset Cruise with Drinks & Transfer
San Juan Catamaran Sunset Sail with Drinks Included
Reviews of San Juan
2/5 - Disappointing
Being driven around I noticed a lot of property with added security ie: barbed wire, caged balconies. Not an atmosphere of a safe destination.
4/5 - Good
No Wifi at airport and cruise port and taxi service expensive.
5/5 - Excellent
Loved Old San Juan. Great to walk around the town, see the fort and at night loved the La Cueva Del Mar restaurant. Uber was amazing and so were the drivers. Would love to come again.
5/5 - Excellent
An amazing place to step back into history. Great dining options and shopping.
3/5 - Okay
Disappointing
4/5 - Good
San Juan looks like a place that has a lot of character and culture and would be somewhere you would want to explore if you had more time to do so.