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Puerto Rico ⏐ San Juan Puerto Rico ⏐ Things to Do in Puerto Rico ⏐ Best Things to Do in San Juan

New Sky Dining Experience in San Juan

San Juan, the capital city of Puerto Rico, is one of the top places to vacation in Puerto Rico , offering world-class attractions, beautiful beaches, rich cultural experiences, and natural wonders just a short drive away.  Whether you’re planning a romantic vacation, holding a business meeting or convention, or planning a fabulous vacation with family and friends, Puerto Rico will surely satisfy your travel wishes with extraordinary experiences.  This guide presents all the best things to do and attractions in San Juan with something for everyone in the family. 

Please Note: To make your planning easier , we have listed the best things to do and attractions in San Juan and the neighboring towns of Carolina and Cataño.  This is especially important for cruisers and travelers spending just a few days in the city who don’t wish to spend much time traveling to places.  Please see our “ Fantastic Day Trips from San Juan ” article for great places and attractions to visit near San Juan and around the island. 

Walk the Streets & Fall in Love with Old San Juan

The simplicity of walking becomes an extraordinary experience in Old San Juan .  Drop the map and get lost around 7 colorful blocks, each step leading to hidden gems, vibrant plazas, and colorful buildings that transport you to another era, revealing a story from the past.  Let the blue cobblestone streets guide you to enchanting shops, local artisanal crafts, delicious dining options, and interesting museums.  Walking in Old San Juan will immerse you in a rich vibrant culture, where you can dance, laugh, play, and relax at a square or the grounds of El Morro watching mesmerizing sunsets.   The architecture is captivating, your eyes will wander at the adorned wrought-iron balconies of colonial homes painted in candy colors.  Old San Juan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site enchants visitors as they explore a perfect blend of European and Caribbean influences.  Whether you’re traveling with kids or enjoying a romantic vacation, Old San Juan will create unforgettable memories.

You can explore Old San Juan on your own, but a tour guide will enhance your experience with stories and history facts to enhance your visit.  After the tour, you can explore more places at your leisure.  See our guide to best things to do and places to visit in Old San Juan .

Top Rated Tours in Old San Juan

Swim & snorkel with sea turtles at escambron marine park.

Right in the city of San Juan, the whole family can enjoy one of the most magical activities in tropical waters… swimming with gorgeous sea turtles and colorful schools of tropical fish.   Just minutes from Condado and Old San Juan, you can have the magical experience of swimming alongside gorgeous sea turtles at Escambron Marine Park located inside Balneario Escambron Beach .   Sea turtles gracefully swim across turquoise waters, you can observe them being playful on the grassy bottom,  as schools of tropical fish around them make it evident they’ve become friends…

One of the best parts of this experience is that the water on the beach cove is calm (under normal weather) making it a family-friendly activity and great for snorkeling beginners.  This beach is also popular among scuba divers, a perfect spot for learning.

See Video Inspiration

Top Snorkeling – Escambron Beach – San Juan, Puerto Rico

Explore the forts & scenic promenades 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.

Walking Tours with Fort Visit

Relax & play at san juan beaches.

San Juan, a vibrant city, boasts a gorgeous coastline where you can swim with sea turtles, chill as you sip on the best Piña Coladas in the world, enjoy a variety of watersports as well as take romantic walks on intimate beaches.  Just a short drive from San Juan, you can spend a full day beach hopping on more pristine beaches… the type you dream of on a cold winter or stressful day.

Read our guide for the best beaches in San Juan , which includes fun beach activities, a map to help you plan, and the best beachfront resorts in the capital city.

Fun Beach Tours in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Tour a rum distillery.

Puerto Rico is known as the “Capital of Rum”, producing most of the rum consumed in the United States.  Not far from San Juan you can enjoy tours to various rum distilleries, for an opportunity to learn the rich history and taste the exquisite flavors of Puerto Rico’s world-renowned rums. Delve into the art of rum-making, gaining a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and tradition behind each bottle.  A short distance from San Juan you can book a tour of Casa Bacardi Distillery , the world’s largest rum distillery, making premium rum since 1862.  Ron de Barrilito at Hacienda Santa Ana is the maker of the oldest rum in Puerto Rico.

Whether you’re a connoisseur or simply curious, these tours offer an unforgettable experience for couples and groups alike.  Choose a tasting tour to try the most delectable rums.  

Top Rated Bacardi Distillery Tours

Take a sunset cruise on the historic san juan bay.

The constant trade winds carry the sail through the historic San Juan Bay, passing the stunning city walls and captivating architecture of Castillo San Felipe del Morro, the way conquistadors sailed into the city five centuries ago before entering the city gates.  Other sights you’ll see are Casa Bacardi Distillery, the colorful city line and San Juan de la Cruz Fort on the west side point of the bay at Isla de Cabras Island.

For a special sailing experience, book a sunset sailing tour when the setting sun lights up the city with a golden glow.

Award Winning Sailing Tour

Return home with travel bragging rights for experiencing a sunset sailing tour by SailPR , which proudly earned a spot on the coveted Traveler’s Choice Best of the Best by TripAdvisor for Best Sailing in the World … #20 in 2022 & #7 in 2021

Top Rated Sailing Experiences in San Juan, Puerto Rico

If you like piña colada... 🎶.

… you’ll LOVE San Juan, after all, it was born right here, in the capital city of Puerto Rico.  In 1978, the Piña Colada was declared the official drink of Puerto Rico.  Two places still argue about where it was invented… but residents and visitors surely agree there’s no better place in the world to enjoy them.  Learn more about the birth of Piña Colada, where to have an authentic one and recipe .

Have an Adventure at Hacienda Campo Rico

Located next door in the town of Carolina, just 35 minutes from tourist districts in San Juan, families, groups and solo travelers can head to the elegant Hacienda Campo Rico offering unforgettable activities for the adventurous spirit.  Soar through the treetops on a zipline, laugh your way through rugged terrain on an off-road ride, or ride the lush trails on the back of graceful Paso Fino horses.  

Top Rated Fun Tours at Hacienda Campo Rico

More fun atv / utv tours from san juan.

Related Guide:   Best Things to Do in Puerto Rico

Go Kayaking, Paddleboarding alongside Manatees at Laguna del Condado

One of the best ways to get to know a place is to speak to the locals; if you did, residents who love nature and long for quiet will tell you about Laguna del Condado (Condado Lagoon) , one of the most beloved places in San Juan.  The Condado Lagoon is located in the district of Condado within walking distance of the Condado tourist district.  The lagoon is an estuary reserve for Caribbean Manatees where mammals and humans perfectly share the waters of the lagoon.  Manatees are gentle creatures, so don’t be scared when you see a manatee swim by as you kayak or paddleboard.  At Laguna del Condado , you’ll see sights of romantic couples enjoying a floating picnic on the water, families paddleboarding and kayaking, and solo residents practicing the art of yoga on paddleboards.  When the skies turn dark, residents and visitors alike enjoy the quiet of the waters that glisten with the city lights.

We recommend you book a tour with a friendly guide for the best experience and safety.  Tours are available such as kayaking, paddle boarding, fun water bikes, and romantic floating picnics.  One of the most booked and top-reviewed tours in San Juan is night kayaking with LED lights, resembling the magical bioluminescent bays of Puerto Rico.

Top Activities & Experiences at Condado Lagoon 

Get immersed in the vibrant culture of puerto rico.

For residents of Puerto Rico , San Juan is the epicenter of culture , music, food, and traditions, there’s always a reason to celebrate, dance, and gather with family and friends.   Although San Juan is a popular tourist destination, you’ll be visiting a real pulsing community, not a touristy cookie-cutter Caribbean destination.   We invite visitors to get immersed in San Juan’s vibrant cultural tapestry of rhythms,  flavors, history, and heritage.  Attend cultural festivals, learn to the dance to sounds of salsa, bomba, and plena, sample traditional dishes, wander through colorful streets, visit local markets, tour rum distilleries, visit art museums, and more. 

Top Rated Cultural Things to Do in San Juan

Photography lovers....

If you enjoy taking photographs to share with friends and family, you’ll find plenty of colorful and scenic spots around Old San Juan sure to get much attention on social media.  The most scenic spots are the grounds and Garitas of Castillo San Felipe del Morro , Parque de Las Palomas , the narrowest house in the Americas , the flag at Calle Imperial, the umbrellas / hanging artwork at Fortaleza Street , the views from Castillo San Cristobal at the corner of Calle Norgazaray and the scenic Paseo de La Princesa .

Have a Relaxed Tour of Old San Juan with Professional Photos – One suggestion we have made in our guides is to put away your phone, and go “old school” by allowing photographers to follow you naturally or take you to great spots to take professional photos.  Imagine not worrying about taking the perfect photo, so you can focus all your energy on simply enjoying the moment with your loved ones.  For photo lovers, a walking photography tour of Old San Juan may be the perfect experience, see below for top rated tours.

Popular Photography Session Experiences in Old San Juan

Go shopping in san juan.

San Juan offers a great variety of shops ranging from local art galleries, unique souvenir shops, boutiques, and luxury stores.  Head to Ashford Avenue in Condado, for boutiques and a few high-end stores.  Head to Plaza Las Américas , the biggest mall in the Caribbean with a great variety of stores.  The Mall of San Juan , the city’s newest mall is a smaller mall with high-end stores and a really nice food court.   In Old San Juan, you’ll find many typical souvenir shops, but if you look more closely as you walk the city, you’ll find some of the most unique and interesting shops with exquisite jewelry, clothing, artisans, art galleries, and the popular authentic Panama hats.  Learn more about Shopping in San Juan .

Shopping Tours in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Go windsurfing in san juan.

Learn to Windsurf in San Juan

Get ready to ride the waves to the warm trade winds under the sunny Puerto Rican skies.  Head to Las Marias, the best windsurfing spot in San Juan where you can glide across the turquoise waters.  If you’ve never windsurfed, you’ll be happy to learn that San Juan has some amazing instructors ready to give you an unforgettable experience.  After you get on that board, we are pretty confident you’ll want to come back to Puerto Rico to repeat the adventure and perhaps try other windsurfing spots around the island. 

Learn How to Scuba Dive in San Juan

Take the challenge and take scuba diving lessons to fully enjoy the pleasures of the Caribbean.  The Escambron Marine Park is a popular scuba diving site for beginners and tourists offering colorful marine life with easy access from Escambron Beach in San Juan.  This is a great activity for couples and families wishing to have an out-of-the-ordinary vacation experience sure to ignite a passion for exploring the wonders underneath the water of Puerto Rico and other destinations you may visit in the future.

Top Rated Learning to Scuba Dive Experiences

More video inspiration.

Relax at a Plaza

We invite you to take a pause as you explore the streets of Old San Juan, and enjoy one of the Puerto Rican traditions of relaxing at the plaza.  Life seems to slow down at a plaza, where a cup of Cafe con Leche (coffee with warm milk) and a delicious Quesito (crispy pastry stuffed with cream cheese), goes great with conversation as you admire the architecture of this colorful European-inspired place in the Caribbean.  Plazas are common in Europe, when the Spanish colonized the island, they brought this wonderful urban design and tradition to the island.  You can find a plaza in each of the municipalities around the island at the historic city centers.  For Puerto Ricans plazas are like open living spaces where residents gather and most cultural activities are celebrated.  During holidays, the best Puerto Rican musical bands and local talents come to sing to the rhythms of salsa, bomba, and plena, turning the plaza into a dance floor.  There’s always something fun and exciting happening at the plazas, Puerto Ricans are always seeking a reason to celebrate life.

+ Main Plazas to Visit in San Juan, Puerto Rico

The Capital of San Juan has five main squares:

• Plaza de Colon
• Plaza de Armas de San Juan
• Plaza de La Catedral
• Plaza San Jos e
• Plaza Barrandilla . 

Plaza de Armas is one of the most visited plazas, surrounded by elegant historic buildings, statues, restaurants, and cafes.  Children will love feeding the playful pigeons during the day.  Throughout the city, you’ll find smaller courtyards, some offering the most scenic vistas where you can appreciate the San Juan Bay and watch the sunset.

More Places to Visit in San Juan, Puerto Rico

• Luis Muñoz Rivera Park
• Mall de San Juan
• Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico
• Museo de Arte Contemporaneo de Puerto Rico
• Plaza Las Americas Mall
• Puerto Rico Convention Center

See Guides to more Fun & Interesting Things to Do in San Juan & Around the Island of Puerto Rico

San juan things to do guides.

• Daytrips from San Juan Puerto Rico
• Food & Cultural Experiences in San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Best Things to Do at Night in San Juan Puerto Rico
• Romantic Things to Do in San Juan Puerto Rico
• Top Attractions in San Juan 

Islands & Regions of PR

• Best Islands to Visit in Puerto Rico
• Puerto Rico East Coast Things to Do
• Puerto Rico North Coast Things to Do
• Puerto Rico West Coast Things to Do
• Puerto Rico South Coast Things to Do

Popular Beach Towns in PR

• Culebra Island
• Isla Verde , Puerto Rico
• Rincon , Puerto Rico
• Isabela , Puerto Rico
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Map - Best Things to Do & Attractions in San Juan

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Privacy overview.

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

• Things To Do

If you travel to Puerto Rico, you can’t miss visiting San Juan.

San Juan is the capital city of Puerto Rico, and is home to iconic beaches and centuries-old architecture. 

As a local, I can tell you first hand that the oldest city in the United States has lots to offer.

In this article, I will cover the 40 best things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico:

1. Explore Old San Juan

Old San Juan is a neighborhood of San Juan full of historic fortresses and culture.

Old San Juan should be on your “to do” list when visiting the city for vacation. 

Explore El Morro Fort, La Perla, the San Juan Cathedral, and many more historic monuments.

Learn more in our article Old San Juan – All You Need To Know .

2. Explore Condado Beach

Condado is a beachfront community and one of the neighborhoods of San Juan. Condado Beach is the largest and most popular beach in the tourist area.

Condado is located between La Concha and The Marriott Resort .

Learn more in our article Condado – All You Need To Know .

Try your luck in a casino.

There are many casinos to choose from in San Juan.

It doesn’t matter if you choose the Condado Plaza Casino or the Casino of Santurce (among others) either way you’ll have a blast.

For more ideas of what to do at night, read our article Nightlife In San Juan .

4. Shopping

There are plenty of malls in the San Juan area. 

Including Plaza Las Americas — the largest mall in the Caribbean and Mall of San Juan (for high-end shopping).

Besides the malls, there are plenty of areas full of stores in San Juan where you can go shopping.

Check out our article 21 Essential Things To Pack For Puerto Rico before your trip to make sure you are prepared.

5. Visit the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo

Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC) to experience a new view of contemporary art.

You’ll enjoy exhibits of Puerto Rico’s community that includes social issues and cultural currents.

Learn more about museums around the island in our article 12 Best Museums In Puerto Rico .

6. Visit La Placita

The interesting thing about La Placita is that it’s a shapeshifter.

During the day, La Placita is a picturesque marketplace where you can find the best vegetables and fruits. 

But at night it turns into a party place where you can drink and dance all night.

7. Bioluminescent Bay Tour

Puerto Rico is home to three bioluminescent bays , one of which is the brightest in the world.

Although these bio bays are not in San Juan, Laguna Grande Bioluminescent Bay is the closest, located about an hour from San Juan.

Make sure to visit at least one bio bay during your trip to Puerto Rico. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Check out our article Bioluminescent Bays Puerto Rico – All You Need To Know to learn more.

8. Visit Ocean Park Beach

Ocean Park is one of the beaches of Condado.

This beautiful beach is most popular for water sports and travelers who like to stay active.

You can bodyboard and kite surf in the water and also do a little jogging in the surroundings.

9. Visit a Fine Arts Theater

Enjoy the latest releases of independent and foreign films in comfortable seating and a relaxed atmosphere.

There are a few Fine Arts Theaters you can choose from in San Juan — including Fine Arts Café, Fine Arts Popular, and Fine Arts Miramar.

10. Bar hopping Calle Loiza

Visit Calle Loiza for a great night out.

Calle Loiza is located in the Condado neighborhood of San Juan.  

This street is lined with pubs, nightclubs, and bars. You will enjoy the party ambiance and its street art at the same time.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Yonathan Chefito Kruz (@chefito_kruz)

Photo Credit: @chefito_kruz

11. Paddleboard in Condado Lagoon

The Condado Lagoon is perfect for paddle boarding.

If you are into water sports I recommend paddle boarding in the lagoon of Condado.

You don’t need to make a reservation to experience the amazing view while enjoying paddle boarding.

12. Visit T-Mobile District

This entertainment center is one of a kind!

There is only one place in Puerto Rico where you can catch a movie, dine in a fine restaurant, and zipline all in the same place.

13. Check out the Convention Boulevard 

Visit this monumental structure.

Convention Boulevard is mostly used for big events like concerts, auto expos, big conferences, and so on. 

But even when there are no scheduled activities on Convention Boulevard it’s still an amazing sight.

14. Bicycle riding in Condado

Enjoy the sights in an eco-friendly style.

Rent your bike and experience San Juan while riding a bicycle.  

Either because you want to better appreciate the views or because you want to help the planet, bicycle riding in San Juan is a must-do!

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Bike Rent Puerto Rico (@bikerentpuertorico)

Photo Credit: @bikerentpuertorico

15. Explore urban art in Santurce

Enjoy the street art of San Juan.

This amazing urban art can be found on Calle Cerra in the Santurce neighborhood where you’ll find the most popular murals.

You can walk around yourself or take a tour.

16. Try Puerto Rican ice cream

Try the ice cream and frozen yogurt from Puerto Rico.

You can choose from various ice cream shops like Cool Hope Creamery, Peccas, Señor Paletas, and many more.

You can also enjoy either a delicious breakfast or brunch with coffee and/or tea.

17. Surfing

Surfing in San Juan is a great experience.

Visit “La 8” (The 8), the perfect beach area for experienced surfers because of its largest waves. 

Located at the entrance of Old San Juan — right beside Escambrón Beach.

Pine Grove Beach in Isla Verde is known as the best spot for beginner surfers.

For more info about surfing in Puerto Rico, make sure to read the article The Best Surf Spots in Puerto Rico .

18. Snorkeling

Snorkel with sea turtles!

Experience the coral reefs, sea turtles, and many tropical fish of Puerto Rico. 

You can book the San Juan guided snorkel tour of Escambrón Beach, or enjoy it by yourself in Condado Beach and many others.

Be sure to read our article The 25 Best Snorkel Spots in Puerto Rico .

19. Kayaking  

There are many kayaking spots in San Juan.

Rent your kayak for the day and enjoy the tropical waters.

You can also go night kayaking and experience an amazing kayaking-led light tour.

20. Centro de Bellas Artes

Visit the Centro de Bellas Artes.

Enjoy Puerto Rican theater plays, classic music festivals, and theater events in this scenic musical center.

If you enjoy theater plays there are many other theaters in San Juan like Teatro Tapia and the Francisco Arriví.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Kenny Merle (@kenijen)

21. El 24 Market Place

Visit 24 Market Place for a fun night out.

The 24 (as locals call it) is a sports bar/meeting point. Enjoy many events in this social hang-out spot.

You will also love their bakery/Deli/Restaurant food.

You can’t miss visiting 24 Market Place on your next visit to Puerto Rico.

22. Scooter around Condado

Experience the views from a new perspective.

You only have to download the Bird app on your phone to unblock the scooter of your choice and off you go!

Rent one of the coolest electric scooters and ride the Condado streets for a unique experience.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Skootel (@skootelrides)

Photo Credit: @skootelrides

23. Chinchorreando, Roosevelt Avenue

Visit this restaurant/bar for a night full of music and delicious food.

Experience the Puerto Rican way to hang out! Enjoy a different event every night.

Taste a delicious dinner while drinking and dancing.

24. Karaoke

Show off your singing skills or sing out of tune.

Visit one of the many karaoke bars in San Juan and have a blast with your friends and family.

You can choose between Daiquiri Lounge, El Quincé, or El Local en Santurce.

25. La Playita, Condado

Check out the smallest beach in Condado, La Playita (Little Beach).

Enjoy its waveless waters right next to the Condado Lagoon.

You can relax in the sand or swim the whole day.

26. Spa 

Take a relaxing massage or a facial in one of the spa centers of San Juan.

Visit one of the Spa Centers of San Juan like Euforia Spa Center and spoil yourself.

Experience aromatherapy, body wraps, or acupuncture.

Check out Euforia Spa Center in the following video:

27. Ashford Avenue

This avenue is full of Miami Vice vibes.

Experience this nonstop nightlife avenue lined with restaurants, nightclubs, and stores.

You can also find most of the San Juan hotels on Ashford Avenue.

28. El Ultimo Trolley Beach

Another amazing beach in Condado.

Known as a good spot for surfers and an entry point to Ocean Park Beach.

The beach’s mid-size waves make a perfect place to surf for experts and beginner surfers alike.

Check out Playa Ultimo Trolley in the following video:

29. Parque del Indio

This park is perfect for the whole family.

Enjoy the awesome features of this relaxing park with a stunning ocean view.

Bring your kids and spend the day in Parque del Indio.

30. Kasalta Bakery

You must try the Kasalta Bakery breakfast!

Even President Barack Obama had his breakfast here the last time he visited Puerto Rico.

Experience a mouthwatering blend of Spanish and Caribbean cuisine. 

Their menu offers hot soup, Spanish mallorcas , Cuban sandwiches, and more.  

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Linny’s Lunchbox👅 (@linnyslunchbox)

Photo Credit: @linnyslunchbox

31. Miramar food truck park

An exciting spot to try out.

Visit this food truck park to try a diversity of food and cocktails.

From Mexican food to artisanal beers, anything you fancy you may find it here. 

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Miramar Food Truck Park (@miramarfoodtruckpark)

Photo Credit: @miramarfoodtruckpark

32. Club Brava 

The most exclusive nightclub in San Juan is located in the iconic Fairmont El San Juan Hotel and Casino .

The favorite of many celebrities, this ultra lounge nightclub offers a selective ambiance.

Spend the night like a celebrity in Club Brava.  The place to see and be seen. 

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Club Brava (@clubbrava)

Photo Credit: @clubbrava

For table reservations text or WhatsApp at 787-674-8000.

33. Try the famous Piña Colada

Try the Piña Colada where it was invented!

This famous tropical drink was created right here in Puerto Rico in 1954 and it’s available almost everywhere on the island.

But if you want to go directly to the place of its creation, check out Barrachina.

34. Visit Chocobar Cortés

Chocolate Cortés is the largest chocolate manufacturer in the Caribbean.

When visiting Puerto Rico you should not only try the Cortés chocolate but you should also visit Chocobar Cortés in Old San Juan.

There, you will taste their delicious chocolate and a variety of food and cocktails.

35. Parque Luis Muñoz Marín

Visit Parque Luis Muñoz Marín.

Complete with playgrounds, biking lanes, water areas, and a dog park! This is the place to take your kids and family for a fun day.

You can also rent a gazebo for the day.

36. Bistro Cafe

The perfect breakfast and lunch place.

Visit Bistro Café with your friends and family to enjoy a delicious breakfast in a relaxing atmosphere. 

Try the Moca waffles and Nutella French toast!

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Bistro Café | Since: 2011 (@bistrocaferest)

37. Lote 23, Santurce

Experience this gastronomic park.

Lote 23 is known for highlighting Puerto Rico’s culture and cuisine. 

Hop from kiosk to kiosk in this vibrant food hub while enjoying a diverse variety of food, coffee, and drinks.

38. Drum Circle Ocean Park

Experience the magic of a full moon.

Every Full moon locals gather in Ocean Park Beach, Condado to share stories and celebrate the magic of the full moon.

A unique experience!

39. Sobao – Los Cidrines (sandwiches)

Sobao is where you will find the best bread in Puerto Rico!

Visit this bakery/restaurant for the best sandwiches around.

Be sure to try the Pepito Sandwich!

40. Parque Luis Muñoz Rivera

Take a walk in this park to appreciate its impressive trees and sculptures.

Besides being the perfect place to relax, this park is excellent for photography and videomaking due to its stunning grounds.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Jorge Rigau (@rigauarquitectos)

FAQ section

What are three things you could do in san juan puerto rico.

The three most popular things to do in San Juan are to visit Old San Juan, enjoy its amazing beaches, and experience the nightlife of Ashford Avenue.

Is three days enough in San Juan Puerto Rico?

Three days is perfect for an introductory experience! If you want to fully appreciate all San Juan has to offer I would recommend at least 4 days.

Final thoughts

San Juan is the capital of Puerto Rico and has many things to do.  

I recommend that you check out Old San Juan and Condado whilst you are in San Juan.

I also recommend that you visit a bio bay. There are three bio bays in Puerto Rico, with one being just an hour from San Juan. Check out our article to learn more about Puerto Rico’s bioluminescent bays .

For a broader experience in Puerto Rico be sure to read our article about 45 Best Things Do do in Puerto Rico .

Dimary Hernández Soto

Writer at PuertoRico.com. I have lived in Puerto Rico my entire life. When I’m not writing, I work in the healthcare industry as a Quality Control Specialist. After Hurricane Maria, my teammates and I were responsible for ensuring that life support equipment reached patients in need around the island.

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14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Written by Lana Law Updated Jan 12, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

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

1. Old San Juan (San Juan Viejo)

2. fuerte san felipe del morro (el morro), 3. castillo de san cristóbal (fort san cristóbal), 4. paseo de la princesa, 5. san juan cemetery (santa maria magdalena de pazzis cemetery), 6. san juan cathedral (catedral de san juan), 7. museo de las américas, 8. condado and ocean park beach, 9. isla verde beach, 10. la fortaleza, 11. museo de arte de puerto rico, 12. san jose church (iglesia de san josé), 13. puerto rico museum of contemporary art (museo de arte contemporáneo de puerto rico), 14. 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

Visit San Juan, Puerto Rico | Things to Do & Where to Stay

Updated January 2021

An island set in the Caribbean, it is home to stunning beaches, rainforests, and a bustling historic center. San Juan, Puerto Rico is one of the best places to visit for a vacation or weekend getaway.

In September, the Category 4 Hurricane Maria devastated the island of Puerto Rico, making it the worst storm to ever hit. Along with most of its resources, from potable water to electricity, tourism was also wiped out.

Through the recovery, there’s great news. Puerto Rico announced shortly after that they are officially open for business, with San Juan being the most recovered. What does this mean for you?

There’s never been a better time to visit, support local businesses, and help the island recover through tourism dollars. A quote in a recent NY Times article that stood out to me from Carla Campos Vida, the interim executive director of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, was this:

 “Tourism is vital to Puerto Rico’s full recovery, and the best way to support the island is by continuing to visit, stay at hotels, eat at restaurants, and buy from local businesses.”

Puerto Rico may be one of the most diverse destinations you can visit in the Caribbean. Part of it has to do with its landscape that is comprised of everything from mountain ranges to waterfalls. Then you have San Juan, and it’s absolutely a charming capital city.

Puerto Rico has always been a special place. With happening bars, live salsa, late nights dancing in La Placita, and the electrifying streets of Old San Juan — there’s truly a contagious energy. It’s hard not to fall in love, I guess that’s why they call it “la Isla del Encanto.”

Now is the time to visit Puerto Rico — do it with respect and reverence and love the island today like never before.

( As an Airbnb Associate, I may earn a small commission when you book through these links.  Your support helps me to continue creating content like this.)

Visiting San Juan, Puerto Rico

What to Know Before Visiting Puerto Rico

The ease of travel.

If you’re an American, you will not need a passport to visit. The local currency is the US Dollar. There are several direct flights to San Juan each day and it makes for an easy getaway from the US. English is common, but a few words in Spanish is always appreciated.

Travel Guidelines

Puerto Rico is accepting visitors. To enter, you do need a negative molecular test no more than 72 hours prior to visiting. Please find the most current entry requirements here.

Transportation

Uber is readily available to use in the area if you’re visiting though I would recommend renting a car if you plan to get out of the city. The island is easily navigated so if you plan to explore, a car will help. Old San Juan is rather walkable and is perfectly explored by foot.

Other Good Things to Know

You should tip at restaurants, hotels, and taxis. The dress code is not always beach-attire. Many restaurants require dress shirts and closed shoes, so be sure to check ahead!

Where to Stay in San Juan, Puerto Rico

For Puerto Rico, I always recommend a few nights in Old San Juan and then a few nights on the beach.

The area of Condado is a great and close option to the airport where there is a stunning beach and you’re close to other water activities. You could also consider staying in the Isla Verde area. Here’s where I would stay:

Condado Vanderbilt Hotel : As an oceanfront hotel, it has one of the best addresses in Condado. The luxury rooms outfitted with modern amenities are the perfect escape for those looking to be close to the water’s edge.

Their infinity pool that overlooks the ocean is a particular favorite, as there’s not a better place to catch the sunset. At night the VC Lounge transforms into an intimate space where there are live music and cocktails served.

Hotel El Convento : In the heart of Old San Juan lies one of the most historic and architecturally-stunning hotels in Puerto Rico. The Hotel El Convento was transformed from a former convent to the luxury hotel it is today, where the inner courtyard sits as the center of the action.

The lush greenery drapes over the yellow walls, and of course, their rooftop pool is a must experience for time to cool-off during the summer. Its location serves as the ideal place to call home while exploring the quaint streets of Old San Juan.

Looking for more San Juan hotels? Search here:

Airbnbs in san juan.

There are also some incredible Airbnbs for rent in San Juan should you choose to book a private home. One of the most popular bookings is at Casa Elena or this incredible treehouse. You can search for more Airbnbs here:

Things to Do in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Explore old san juan.

This is one of the best experiences in town and it’s free! Put a good pair of walking shoes on, grab a map, and wind through the tiny and colorful streets. You can even explore the historic Castillo de San Cristóbal and Castillo San Felipe del Morro.

There are plenty of shops, restaurants and more to do. You will be so impressed with the pastel colors and charming passageways. Be sure to bring your camera.

Spend the Day at the Beach

Head to the beach at Condado, where it’s a perfect place to hang out for the afternoon. I’d recommend taking an Uber to get here.

Take a Day Trip to an Island

Go explore the neighboring islands, like Cayo Icacos or Palomino on a catamaran tour with East Island Excursions. This was one of my favorite things to do while visiting San Juan, Puerto Rico. We headed out for the day, snorkeled with the fish, and enjoyed the pristine waters.

Tour the El Yunque Rainforest

While there has been some damage to the rainforest, El Yunque is still a wonderful place to visit on a day trip. I’d recommend a guided tour or just taking a car out to do one of the lower sections. There are waterfalls and it is overall just a stunning place to visit.

Other Things to Do

Some other ideas is to stop by Bacardi Distillery for a tour and tasting. You can head to an island like Vieques for the day. One other popular day trip is to go towards the west side of the island and see sights like Cueva de Indio, Playa Boca and the popular San Sebastian waterfall.

To break up your trip, you could also stay out towards Dorado Beach. One of my favorite stay was at the Ritz-Carlton Reserve.

Restaurants in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Lote 23: This place is one you can’t miss while in Puerto Rico. A cluster of multiple restaurants have opened food carts in a beautiful, outdoor space. Head here for a quick bite, a draft beer, or try it all!

El Jibarito : If you’re looking for a locals-only spot in Old San Juan, be sure to head here. Their chuleta is incredible and mofongo a hit. I would have eaten here once a day.

La Factoria: It seems that old roads lead here, whether it’s to eat their incredible tapas-style food, taste their award-winning drinks, or dance through their multiple rooms of music. If you’re staying in Old San Juan, this is the place to be.

1919 Restaurant: Located inside the Condado Vanderbilt, this upscale restaurant was one of the best meals I had in Condado. I’d recommend doing the elegant Chef’s tasting and wine pairing — it’s an evening of culinary perfection.

Senor Paleta : Artisanal popsicles with yummy flavors!

Ola Oceanfront : Yes brunch is a thing in Puerto Rico and Ola Oceanfront is the place to come for Sunday brunch.

Patio del Nispero : Inside the Hotel El Convento, their courtyard transforms into a beautifully-lit dining area. You can come drinks and stay for dinner, where the chef uses local ingredients to prepare modern twists on classics.

Pinky’s Calle Loiza: An eatery well-known for their papaya smoothie.

La Casita Blanca: An institution for Puerto Rico and a great local spot.

Café Comunión: Head here for a cup of coffee or a quick breakfast.

Garabato Bar & Grill: Though the nights here often transform to a party, it’s a great spot to start a night out for a drink and small bites.

Marmalade: One of the high-end, reservation needed restaurants in Old San Juan.

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I trust World Nomads for a few reasons. They’ve reimbursed me personally on a few occasions for trip delay and cancellation. Their price point is affordable as well.

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Ps — are you booking a trip soon use my booking checklist.

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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13 Things to Do in San Juan, Puerto Rico: Our Ultimate Travel Guide

You may not need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico, but the island still feels worlds away—especially the capital of San Juan, with its pastel-colored buildings, flavor-packed cuisine, and steamy salsa music. If you're thinking of planning a trip there soon (or need 13 reasons to convince you to go), check out our ultimate guide to San Juan, Puerto Rico.

See recent posts by Terry Ward

Condado Vanderbilt

This oceanfront grande dame, originally built in 1919 by a Vanderbilt family member, sits three miles from Old San Juan and is a perfect base for splitting time between town and the beach. A $200 million renovation in 2014 brought in Puerto Rico’s first hammam and new pool lounge areas in addition to a refresh of its 219 rooms, many of which have balconies or terraces with sea views. Even if you don’t plan to stay, be sure to take a stroll along the property's oceanfront promenade followed by a four-course prix-fixe dinner at 1919, considered one of the finest restaurants in all of the Caribbean.

Hotel El Convento

This former 17th-century convent turned 58-room boutique hotel puts you in the heart of the city’s most atmospheric dining and entertainment district. Inside, old-world touches like beamed ceilings and terra cotta tile floors nod to the area’s colonial past, but the creature comforts are all decadently modern, including a private beach club, two stylish restaurants that serve Spanish-style tapas and Puerto Rican cuisine, and a rooftop plunge pool and terrace, where the city's style set comes to enjoy sundowner cocktails and views over Old San Juan.

The Ritz-Carlton, San Juan

You'll find this sumptuous Ritz-Carlton property sprawled across eight oceanfront acres on Isla Verde, six miles east of Old San Juan. Spend your mornings taking a surf lesson on the beach or playing the tables in the hotel’s casino before heading into town for a tour of historic sites and fabulous local dining. Otherwise, five onsite restaurants include an outpost of BLT Steak while the 12,000-square-foot spa has treatments inspired by the island’s El Yunque Rainforest. (JS Tip: Try the river stone massage.)

RELATED: The 10 Best Hotels in Puerto Rico

Restaurant Raices

Every Puerto Rican and their brother will suggest you try out Restaurant Raices in Old San Juan. Heed their advice (and ours) and go. Here, it’s all about mofongo , a hearty, mashed, plantain-based Afro-Puerto Rican dish that's piled high in tall wooden bowls. The addition of flavors like mahi and shrimp guarantee it’s like none you’ve ever tried back on the mainland. The countryside hacienda-style décor and costumed servers add to the fun, as do the pitchers of sangria. For an affordable, authentic, and atmospheric dining experience, it’s an all-around winner.

1919 Restaurant

Despite prices that match the prestige of chef Juan Jose Cuevas at its helm (whose has worked at multiple Michelin-starred restaurants around the world throughout his career), 1919 Restaurant is worth the splurge for a meal you're sure to remember long after your table is cleared. An elegant dining room inside the Condado Vanderbilt Hotel with spectacular ocean views sets the stage for simple but elegant dishes like snapper crudo and longaniza (Spanish sausage), which use mostly locally sourced and artisanal ingredients. Book well in advance for both three-course lunches or four-course dinners and prepare to be wowed.

Cocina Abierta

The Condado crowds descend in droves on this open-kitchen restaurant with a big city vibe. Argentinean chef Martin Louzao takes a page from Puerto Rico’s multi-culti history to showcase the island’s diverse cuisine influences, which include European, South American, African, and Asian flavors. Try the catch of the day—fried tempura style—paired with a sea urchin beurre blanc and yucca purée or Bolivian rabbit stew with Andean potatoes.

Old San Juan

Honeymooners, European backpackers, cruise ship passengers, Caribbean yachters basking in shore leave—you’ll find them all enjoying the 16th- and 17th-century Spanish colonial facades, cobblestone streets, forts, and bars that pack into the seven blocks that comprise San Juan’s atmospheric old quarter. Climb the 16th-century fortress, Castillo San Felipe del Morro, for ocean views, then refresh with a cold beer at a curb-side café.

San Juan’s vibrant art scene plays out on the streets of Santurce, the neighborhood between Condado and Isla Verde, where colorful, edgy murals can be found on every surface—from dilapidated buildings to alongside highways. Head to Loiza Street, the main drag, and browse its countless casual little cafés, hipster bars, and vintage boutiques.

Photos courtesy of Bar Gitano

La Factoria

A bit old-world, a bit East Village, and a bit San Juan: that’s the mashup at this cult favorite cocktail bar in Old San Juan, known as much for its atmosphere—think old-school salsa, vintage furniture, and paint-peeling walls—as it is for its craft cocktails, which are on par with anything you’d find in a major metropolis (psst: try the lavender mule). The crowd is predominantly artists and musicians along with the occasional smug-looking tourist, proud that they’ve discovered such a find. Be sure you find your way to the wine bar, accessed via a hidden door (a red light bulb on the wall will indicate it's open for business).

La Coctelera

This gastro-bar in artsy Santurce occupies an industrial space on Loiza Street, and really comes to life at night. Come for the shared plates, which pair perfectly with innovative cocktails like the Tesla, a mix of vodka, gin, limoncello, tonic, and fresh lemon juice that you sip from a lightbulb with a straw.

For tapas, cold beers, and warm vibes, head to this Spanish tasca-inspired spot in Condado, defined by its exposed brick walls and busy outdoor terrace that's seemingly always packed with both tourists and locals. Snack on bacon-wrapped dates and chorizo while downing the excellent house-made sangria.

Photos courtesy of Concalma

Unique backpacks, messenger bags, and beachy designer totes are among the fair-trade items for sale at this boutique in Old San Juan. The shop was opened by a designer after several island factories closed down. Their aim: provide a storefront for bespoke pieces made at an all-women factory in the mountains of central Puerto Rico.

Caribbean antiques hunters flock to this cave of wonders of a shop on San Jose Street, one of the biggest antiques bastions in the Caribbean that's well-known for its 18th- and 19th-century European and Asian finds. Religious artifacts, original oil paintings, and one-of-a-kind furniture pieces are among the loot, collected mostly from estate sales in Puerto Rico and the mainland.

• How to Plan a Beach Vacay in Puerto Rico’s Outer Islands
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Abundant historical opportunities make for an excellent destination for all types of travelers © Alex W. / Shutterstock

Lonely Planet has partnered with San Juan-based travel community Platea to provide comprehensive guides, curated lists and insider tips for your next trip to Puerto Rico.

A visit to San Juan is an excellent idea any time of the year. The vibrant capital city of Puerto Rico possesses a litany of lures. Year-round balmy weather, a thriving culinary and bar culture, varied accommodations and abundant historical opportunities make for an excellent destination for all types of travelers.

Opportunities to explore history present themselves all over the island. This year, Puerto Rico celebrates the 500th anniversary of the founding of Old San Juan , the oldest city in the U.S.

Part of the celebrations (which are a year late due to COVID-19) includes two special exhibits at the Museo de San Juan that trace Puerto Rico’s history and art, as well as a two-hour walking tour of Old San Juan. Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro), Castillo de San Cristóbal, La Fortaleza and other historic sites await visitors to Old San Juan. 

The island also ranks as one of the most affordable Caribbean islands to visit. You can save even more money, depending on what time of the year you visit. San Juan plays host to several festivals and events throughout the year, but there’s always something happening. 

Here’s our guide to exploring San Juan’s most popular hot spots any time of the year.

Enjoy beautiful weather during high season: December to March

Avoid a lot of the rain and humidity from December to March. The average temperatures are in the low 80s. Winter months bring North Americans to the island to escape cold weather, driving higher prices for flights and hotel stays in the Metro area. 

Additionally, San Juan is one of the Caribbean’s busiest cruise ports, receiving throngs of cruise ship visitors regularly. Sunny days and milder temperatures make relaxing beach days and outdoor excursions even more enjoyable. If you’re planning a Christmas visit, book well in advance. Hotels fill up quickly months in advance.

Save a few dollars during shoulder season: mid-April to June

Perhaps the optimal time for visiting Puerto Rico is the shoulder season. Winter crowds have left, cooler, dry temperatures remain, and discounted hotel rooms and cheaper flights are in relatively good supply. Tours and restaurants are typically easier to secure during shoulder season, which can make for a more relaxing experience. 

A foodies guide to San Juan

Less crowds during the offseason: July to November

June and July are high-season months for Puerto Ricans, but generally offseason for international travelers. Fewer crowds provide a better opportunity to experience the island’s food, culture and local customs at a more relaxed pace. 

Because it’s the preferred beach season by Puerto Ricans, you’ll likely share the sand with more locals. It’s a perfect chance to meet new people and create meaningful connections. Your new friends can share off-the-grid places to eat and explore that you might not have learned about otherwise.

When is hurricane season in Puerto Rico? 

Although hurricane season officially runs from June 1 to November 30, hurricanes rarely disrupt travel plans and reliable forecasts allow for effective planning. Historically, the most damaging storms have occurred during the months of August and December.

San Juan’s hottest bars for cool cocktails and tropical nights 

January is for closing out the holiday season 

January is one of Puerto Rico’s coldest months. In San Juan, average daytime temperatures hover around 84 degrees Fahrenheit and night-time temperatures can dip to the low 60s.  Key events : Three Kings Day occurs on January 6 to commemorate the Wise Men; San Sebastián Street Festival is the unofficial closing of the world’s longest holiday season.

February draws the crowds 

This is one of the busiest months for tourism in Puerto Rico. The weather during February is almost ideal, but prices tend to be higher. Restaurants and hotels offer special deals near Valentine’s Day, so be on the lookout for discounted packages when you’re booking your accommodations.

March is when the American spring breakers descend 

March is popular for American spring breakers and travelers escaping colder climates. It will also be more crowded at major tourist attractions in San Juan, so it’s wise to plan ahead. Key event: Taste of Rum Festival

April is the perfect time to hit the beach 

April is prime beach time thanks to warmer daytime temperatures.  Key events : Good Friday and Easter Sunday celebrations occur islandwide

May is ideal for families 

Enjoy a slower pace and sunny weather during the month of May. Key events : Saborea Puerto Rico and  Puerto Rican Danza Week

June is best for outdoor activities 

Make the most of your time in San Juan in June. During this month, the days are usually the longest between dawn and sunset. Key event: Noche de San Juan 

July is for budget travelers

A visit during July awards travelers with offseason hotel rates and fewer crowds around the pool. 

August is rainy season 

This month brings the island’s hottest and wettest weather of the year.  Key events : San Juan International Billfish Tournament and SOFO Culinary Fest

September offers beachy solitude 

You’ll likely have the beach all to yourself after Labor Day. Generally, Puerto Ricans don’t go to the beach after that because it’s too cold for them. Key event : Coffee and Chocolate Expo

October is crowd free 

Fall is an ideal time to visit San Juan. Typically crowded Metro area beaches like Atlantic, Condado and Isla Verde see fewer visitors.

November is filling your belly 

Thanksgiving isn’t a recognized holiday on the island. However, many restaurants – especially those located within resorts – offer a special Thanksgiving menu. We recommend you book ahead to secure your special dining experience.

December is filled with holiday celebrations  

Christmastime is an exciting time to visit Puerto Rico . Locals here celebrate one of the world’s longest holiday seasons. Festivities begin the day after Thanksgiving and generally end three weeks after New Year’s Day.  Key events : Old San Juan's White Christmas Festival and Lighting of the Town of Bethlehem

You might also like: 

Best classes and workshops in San Juan Top 5 day trips from San Juan  Best hikes in El Yunque National Forest   

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The Complete Guide For Visiting San Juan Puerto Rico

Posted on Last updated: June 7, 2024

Thinking of visiting San Juan Puerto Rico ? If you are looking for an island getaway but don’t want to wait around for your friends’ two-week vacation? Why not just set out on a solo adventure ! San Juan is a perfect place to visit on your own with safe vibes, easy-to-get-around transportation, and plenty to keep you busy. If you’re into sunny weather and captivating culture, look no further than Puerto Rico. After all, they don’t call it the “Isle of Enchantment” for nothing.

Founded in 1521 by Juan Ponce de León, San Juan is the capital of Puerto Rico with rich Spanish and French traditions. The city is divided into different sections, including Old San Juan, Tourist Beach Area, and outlying communities (Rio Piedras, Hato Rey, Puerta de Tierra, and Santurce). When planning your trip, you’ll be looking to mostly visit Old San Juan and the Beach Area.

After a major category 5 hurricane devastated the island in 2017, Puerto Rico as a country has been steadily recovering. Fortunately, the City of San Juan bounced back quickly and is fully open for business with a healthy appetite for tourism!

Did You Get Travel Insurance Yet? The Insurance companies I recommend are  Hey Mondo and Safety Wing Hey Mondo  is great if you are looking for a great value flexible policy. They offer single-trip cover, annual multi-trip cover, and long-term travel cover. Safety Wing  is great value, with monthly coverage starting at $45.08. It’s super easy to use, and it just renews each month. I currently use them as they offer me free cover for my son as part of my policy. Read my full  travel insurance post  here, where I go into detail about all companies. 

Top Things To Do When Visiting San Juan Puerto Rico

San Juan is jam-packed with things for you to do when planning one day in San Juan . Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, salsa dance the night away, or stuff your face with Caribbean food, San Juan is the place for you.

Quick Tip:  Book accommodation, tours, and transport ahead of time online to save money and stress.  Best San Juan Tours :  Click here to check out the top San Juan tours Best San Juan Accommodation: Click here to check out the best accommodation in San Juan Best San Juan Transport: Click here to book a bus, ferry, or train in San Juan

Visit San Juan Beaches

It’s no secret that San Juan is famous for its beaches. And some of the best beaches in San Juan, Puerto Rico are right in the heart of San Juan, including Condado Beach, Ocean Park, and Isla Verde.

Condado has a Miami Beach vibe with plenty of parties and beautiful people. Head a little east of Condado Beach along the coast, and you’ll find Ocean Park which is a bit quieter. Ocean Park is the place to hang out on a Sunday afternoon to watch the kite surfers with a beer in hand.

Keep heading east of Condado and Ocean Park to find Isla Verde, which was named by USA Today as a “Best Urban Beach.” It’s just a few minutes drive from the airport with a family vibe and lined with plenty of walkable hotels, restaurants, and shops.

Wander Around Old San Juan

Head to historic Old San Juan to immerse yourself in Puerto Rican culture. You can easily get lost walking along the cobblestone streets with cocktail bars, restaurants, shady plazas, and brightly colored houses dating back to the 16th century.

Old San Juan makes for a perfect day trip to visit San Felipe del Morro and Cristóbal fortresses (if you’re into history). On most sunny days, you can find families sitting on the giant lawn in front of San Felipe del Morro flying kites and enjoying the ocean view.

At night, you’ll find live music on nearly every street, dance floors dedicated to salsa, and rooftop wine bars where you can sip a glass and people-watch below.

Visit La Perla

La Perla is a shanty downtown located along the northern historic wall of Old San Juan , about 650 yards long. It’s filled with brightly colored houses down the slope from Calle Norzagaray. It’s been known in the past as a dangerous neighborhood; however, the area is experiencing a revival with new restaurants and shops starting to pop up. While I wouldn’t recommend walking the streets at night, La Perla is perfectly safe to visit during the day.

You might recognize La Perla which was made famous as the on-site location of Luis Fonsi’s “Despacito” video. It’s become more of a tourist attraction since the video, but it’s still worth visiting to take a walk along the rocky coast. My must-eat recommendation for La Perla is a restaurant called La Garita which boasts expansive ocean views while you eat your lunch of fresh ceviche and mofongo (mashed plantains).

Check out the Street Art

In an effort to revitalize the Santurce area of San Juan, a street art movement has taken place to support the revival. The area is home to the Santurce Es Ley (“Santurce is Law”) Project, which has now turned into an international festival with visiting artists. Put on your walking shoes, and head to Calle Cerra where you can take a self-guided walking tour taking in impressive street murals on nearly every wall and corner.

Snorkeling Day Trip to Culebra

No trip to Puerto Rico would be complete without spending some time out on the water. Just east of San Juan, you’ll find a small island of its own: Culebra .

Every one of the San Juan day tours to Culebra will take you to stunning Flamenco Beach. You’ll be able to get out into the water, walk along the beach on a sheltered horseshoe-shaped bay, and snorkel one of the most beautiful reefs in the Caribbean. It’s no wonder Flamenco Beach is consistently ranked as one of the “World’s Best Beaches.”

To book your day trip, I recommend checking out East Island Excursions which is one of the most reputable tour companies on the island.

El Yunque Rainforest

If you’re up for an adventure, about an hour’s drive away from San Juan you’ll find El Yunque Rainforest , the only national rainforest located in the United States . Yunque is one of the smallest known rainforests, but it’s incredibly diverse with hundreds of animal and plant species. It’s well worth the drive to set out on a trail and explore the lush rainforest and massive waterfalls.

Nightlife in San Juan

Once you’ve taken a nap from your day of exploring, it’s time to experience the abundant nightlife in San Juan. My favorite nightlife spot to visit is La Factoria found in Old San Juan . La Factoria was recently named one of the “Best 50 Bars in the World” where you can find live salsa dancing on several nights a week.

Another great nightlight spot is right in the center of the city: La Placita. This area is a big open-air square packed with bars, live music, restaurants, food trucks, and people dancing in the streets. You can almost always find a lively party here on most nights of the week.

If you love rum cocktails and are looking to learn a bit more about San Juan culture, check out Spoon Food Tours’ “Sip & Savor Cocktail Tour.” This tour lasts a couple of hours beginning at 5:30 pm where your guide leads a group bar crawl around Old San Juan, explaining more about the city’s history while you sip rum cocktails along the way.

Transportation in San Juan

San Juan has a great public transportation system with an active bus line that can take you around all of the main parts of the city, including getting from the center of the city to Old San Juan and back.

One of the best ways to get around San Juan is by using Uber. The app is very active in San Juan and actually quite cheap. Be aware that the city currently has a rule that does not allow Uber to pick you up at the airport. You CAN be dropped off at the airport through Uber; however, you will need to get a local taxi or rent a car to leave the airport once you land.

The Best Area To Stay In San Juan Puerto Rico

You’ll find no shortage of places to stay around San Juan for all types of budgets . When planning your trip, I recommend looking in the following areas as they are the safest, most walkable, and you will find the most things to do: Old San Juan , Condado, Ocean Park, and Isla Verde.

Outsite (Low-Mid, Old San Juan)

This is a 13-bedroom, fully renovated mansion-like house located on a quiet street in Old San Juan directly across from the ocean. Outsite is a co-living space where other solo travelers and digital nomads stay for a few nights up to a few weeks. The house has a shared kitchen, courtyard, and co-working space if you need to hop on a laptop and get some work done.

Intercontinental Hotel (Mid, Isla Verde)

Only a 1.2-mile drive from the Luis Munoz Marin International Airport, you’ll find the Intercontinental Hotel located in Isla Verde. You can walk just steps from your room to the beach where you can enjoy the hotel’s beach amenities. The Intercontinental also has plenty of on-site restaurants and a full-service spa to enjoy.

El Convento (High, Old San Juan)

If you’re looking to spoil yourself for a few nights, this is the hotel to stay. El Convento is located in Old San Juan just steps away from historic landmarks and nightlife. It was the first “Small Luxury Hotel of the World” located in Puerto Rico and also the oldest member of the “Historic Hotels of America.”

The hotel has a relationship with the Courtyard Marriott in the Isla Verde Beach Area , so you can take advantage of their umbrellas and chairs when you’re ready to hit the beach.

La Concha Renaissance Hotel (High, Condado)

Located right on Condado Beach, La Concha is a well-known luxury hotel within walking distance to everything San Juan has to offer. It’s an architectural landmark that’s been renovated for the 21st century. Is anyone down to sip a cocktail in the infinity pool overlooking the ocean while watching a sunset? Yes, please!

Safety Tips For San Juan

Most areas of San Juan are very safe for solo travelers to visit. You’ll find plenty of solo travelers enjoying the beaches, visiting the museums, and sightseeing around San Juan.

If you decide to head out at night solo, be sure to exercise caution, just as you would in any major city. When walking at night, I would recommend staying near the more touristy areas that are closer to the water (Old San Juan, Condado, Ocean Park). Crime is definitely existent in San Juan; however, you’ll find that the majority of locals are friendly and helpful.

San Juan Travel Guide Planning

🚗 Where can I book bus or private transportation while I’m in San Juan?

I strongly recommend using Bookaway . You can book online with local operators and have 24/7 customer support.

🎫 Where can I buy tickets for museums, attractions, and tours in San Juan?

 I recommend either Viator  or GetYour Guide . They have a lot of options!

👩‍⚕️ What is the best insurance to have while traveling?

I recommend using Heymondo for a great value policy. The app also offers you 24/7 Dr Chat. For Digital Nomads check out SafetyWing  digital nomad insurance.

I have also written a blog post covering all my recommended travel insurance here

✈️ Any flight recommendations?

WayAWay offers you cheap flights with cashback. You can use this code CLAIRE22 to get 10% off. Otherwise Skyscanner or Expedia are my go-to flight searching platforms.

📱What do you use for internet connection while traveling?

I’m a big fan of personal WiFi devices and they have saved my ass so many times when traveling. I wrote a full review of the top travel WiFi devices you can read here . I personally use GlocalMe  as I can either pop in a physical sim card or use their local carrier.

With regards to my phone connection, I use e-sims while traveling, so rather than having to swap out my regular sim card I can download the app and buy a virtual sim card. I recommend using either Airhub or Alosim . Both have great coverage of multiple countries and are very easy to use.

🛏️ What is the best platform to use for booking accommodation?

The 3 best platforms that I normally use are Booking.com , Hotels.com , and Expedia  They offer great deals and multiple options. I always check all three to be sure of the best deals.

🛅 Do you have any luggage recommendations for traveling?

I do have a complete list of the best packing and luggage products that I recommend, you can check the list here . I’m currently traveling with this suitcase and this backpack. 

Tips for Solo Travelers in San Juan

If you’ve decided to set out on an adventure as a solo traveler , congrats! Many are too nervous to take the plunge, but I highly recommend it. Here are a few tips to consider during your solo trip:

-Look into booking a group tour through a local tour company or the Airbnb Experiences app . Taking a group tour is a great way to meet other travelers.

-Consider booking a hostel or co-living space, like Outsite in Old San Juan. These accommodations host travelers who tend to be traveling alone and have the same “solo travel” mindset as you.

-Talk to people! Even if you’re just in a coffee shop waiting in line, strike up a conversation with the baristas or others waiting for their coffee. This is a great way to find “insider info” on the best areas to visit in a new city and breaks down the barrier of feeling like you’re “alone” while you travel.

-Learn at least a little bit of the language. Puerto Rico’s official languages are both English and Spanish; however, every Puerto Rican will appreciate your effort in trying to use your Spanish skills . Speaking more of the local language is a sure way to make better connections with locals.

I took this course ran by my friends at Heart of Travel.

Final Thoughts

Traveling solo lets you explore at your own pace and discover a new city through a pair of fresh eyes. San Juan is the perfect place to visit when you’re ready to head out on an adventure or weekend getaway as a solo traveler.

You’ll find that most of the tourist areas of San Juan are walkable, safe to visit, and will entice you with its mix of charm and authentic Caribbean culture. So, what are you waiting for?

Wes is a freelance writer and blogger who writes about travel and the digital nomad life on his blog Wes Meets World. When he’s not traveling, he enjoys spending time at home in Kentucky with his chihuahua, Auggie, and drinking copious amounts of espresso.

www.WesMeetsWorld.com

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Weekend Escape: The Ultimate Guide for Your First Visit to San Juan, Puerto Rico

Have you ever arrived at a destination with a sinking feeling?

As the verdant green mountains and sparkling turquoise waters of San Juan came into view from my window seat, only thoughts of “I’ve made a huge mistake” echoed in my mind.

However, it wasn’t the prospect of exploring San Juan for the first time that filled me with regret; rather, it was the realization that my time on this enchanting island would be far too short to fully indulge in all the experiences on my extensive list.

I have been begging Michael to go to Puerto Rico for years . Access to the island was much more convenient when we lived in Florida , and just like how most people don’t visit museums and attractions in their hometown because “they’ll still be there tomorrow,” we felt compelled to visit other destinations first.

And then we moved to North Carolina , which offers fewer flights to the island with less competition between airlines and higher fares (that’s changing soon, though, Charlotte friends!).

After years of late-night searching on Google Flights , I spotted a flight with a fare that matched our schedule and budget, and soon we were off to explore San Juan for the weekend.

Equipped with a self-made itinerary curated over years of reading and dreaming about the island, we set off for one of the most magical trips in recent memory – and, naturally, a deep desire to return over and over again.

If you’re here, it’s likely because you’re dreaming of a visit, too. Let’s turn those dreams into reality:

ABOUT SAN JUAN

San Juan’s history is complex and often challenging, combining indigenous heritage, European colonization, and centuries of cultural exchange. Long before the arrival of European explorers, the island of Puerto Rico was inhabited by the Taíno people. These indigenous inhabitants lived in harmony with the lush tropical landscape, cultivating crops, crafting intricate pottery, and developing a rich cultural heritage. However, the arrival of Spanish explorers in the early 16th century marked a profound shift in the island’s history. Led by Juan Ponce de León, the Spanish established the settlement of Caparra in 1508, to the west of the modern city of San Juan. This period of colonization brought disease, displacement, forced servitude, and violence, leading to the decline of the Taíno population and the imposition of Spanish rule.

The Taíno cultural legacy endured, influencing the language, cuisine, and traditions of Puerto Rico. Over the centuries, San Juan evolved into a vibrant colonial city strengthened by its iconic fortifications, El Morro and San Cristóbal. In 1898, following the Spanish-American War, Puerto Rico, including San Juan, came under United States control as part of the Treaty of Paris, marking a new chapter in the city’s history. This transition brought about significant changes to San Juan’s political and social landscape, as the city became a strategic outpost for the United States in the Caribbean. Despite this shift in sovereignty, San Juan’s cultural identity remained resilient and diverse, blending Spanish, African, and indigenous influences with American influence.

Throughout its history, San Juan has weathered hurricanes, earthquakes, and wars, yet it has emerged as a thriving cultural and commercial hub in the Caribbean. From the colorful streets of Old San Juan to the bustling neighborhoods of Condado and Santurce, San Juan continues to enchant visitors with its culture and undeniable charm.

WHY VISIT SAN JUAN?

Flying to San Juan from the mainland U.S. is a breeze – just like any other domestic destination, Americans don’t need a passport to enter. When traveling for just a weekend, it’s a great benefit to be able to skip the lengthy process of clearing Border Control (though you will have to go through a quick Customs and Agriculture inspection).

But that’s just how you get to and from San Juan – what about after you arrive?

San Juan offers more cultural, natural, and culinary opportunities than a visitor could even dream of. With a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, this city is the perfect introduction for travelers seeking the heart and soul of Puerto Rico.

A weekend is not enough time to see and explore it all, but it’s a start. Today I’m sharing my first-timers guide to San Juan, prioritizing local experiences and cuisine.

A note for my regular readers: my visit to San Juan was about the same number of days as most of the other destinations on this website, but expect this guide to be much longer! I recommend pouring yourself a piña colada before you begin reading (the drink was invented in Puerto Rico, after all). Salud !

THINGS TO DO IN SAN JUAN

Wander Old San Juan

With limited time, Michael and I opted not to visit El Morro (shocked? It’s okay to skip things that are on others’ “must-do” lists but not your own), and instead spent hours wandering the old city and soaking in the atmosphere.

Cobblestone streets, vibrant architecture, and weatherworn Garitas  define the Old San Juan cityscape, and it’s no wonder this part of the city has become a popular backdrop for photographers. Don your most comfortable shoes, grab your camera, and head out for a leisurely stroll. Don’t forget to look up and down (those cobblestone streets are uneven at times!).

I’m always content to see what’s around the next corner and decide if I want to amble that way, but if you prefer a little direction for your wanderings, here are some great spots to loop into your walk:

• The Paseo de la Princesa, a scenic promenade crowned by the iconic fountain Fuente Raíces 
• San Juan Bautista Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in the U.S.
• “I Love PR” Signs, which can be found here
• Plaza Felisa Rincón De Gautier, for benches with shade trees
• Mural of the Puerto Rican flag, on Calle Imperial

Old San Juan is also where you’ll find my next recommendation, but only on Saturday mornings…

Enjoy the freshest produce and products

On Saturday mornings you’ll find Mercado Agrícola Natural alongside Museo de las Américas (if you’re arriving by Uber, I recommend setting the museum as your destination). Here, vendors line the sidewalks with booths full of fresh produce, prepared foods, and other homemade products.

As travelers without a kitchen or means to wash and prepare fresh greens and fruits, we still found plenty at the market to enjoy. A just-squeezed juice and an empanadilla is the perfect cure for a late night out (ask me how I know). Mercado Agrícola Natural is open Saturdays from 8 a.m. until noon.

Experience the local art scene

The Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico (Museum of Puerto Rican Art) is housed in such an impressive building that it is hard to believe it was once a hospital. Yet right in the San Mateo subbarrio is a diverse collection of Puerto Rican art spanning centuries of artistic expression, giving visitors the chance to take a captivating journey through local art history.

In addition to its impressive permanent collection, the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico hosts rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and community events that celebrate and promote the arts. Take a look at the calendar to see if any events spark your interest during your stay in the city.

Don’t leave without spending a few minutes in the sculpture gardens behind the museum (if it’s not too hot!). Inside or out, this museum serves as an inspiring setting for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike to explore, learn, and appreciate the beauty of Puerto Rican art. Admission to the gardens is free; current admission prices for the galleries can be found here .

Drink in Puerto Rico’s oldest distillery

Just twenty minutes from Old San Juan is Puerto Rico’s oldest distillery – and chances are, it’s not the rum brand you most associate with the island. After studying the art of craft spirits in France, Pedro Fernández returned to Puerto Rico to apply those same principles to rum. Soon, Ron del Barrilito (meaning “rum from the little barrel,” referencing the tiny casks Fernández aged his rum in) was born. The rest, as they say, is history… but why haven’t we heard of this brand before?

After nearly a century and a half, Ron del Barrilito has expanded its production and its footprint, including distribution outside of Puerto Rico and the launch of onsite rum experiences. Michael and I hailed an Uber to the town of Bayamón to take part in the distillery’s Rum Tasting Tour , but before the tour even began, we had the chance to choose a craft cocktail from the impressive menu . The Traveler and the Floral Oak were the perfect introduction to the spirit, each expertly prepared before our eyes.

After savoring our cocktails, we were called to the entrance to meet for our tour. This sixty-minute tour starts with an informative stroll through Hacienda Santa Ana to learn the legacy of the Fernández family before heading to the distillery to learn how rum is made and to stroll the aisles of the spirit aging in barrels. The dates stamped on each made for a fun impromptu scavenger hunt – some of the rums aging inside are older than I am!

True to its name, the tour concludes with a tasting in an air-conditioned (!) tasting room. Our tour guide led us through the brand’s rums, from the base level Two Stars (best in cocktails) to the crown jewel of the collection, the Five Stars (at $750+ per bottle, it’s the type of rum you bring out for very, very special occasions). Moving down the line, the rum grew more and more refined, challenging everything I thought I knew about the spirit. With limited quantities of the Five Stars rum, this just might be a “now or never” travel experience. Reservations are highly recommended; in accordance with Puerto Rico’s drinking age, all participants must be 18+.

Pick out a (wearable) souvenir

For me, shopping is not the travel draw it once was, so a retail stop must be pretty unique in order for me to wander in. In San Juan, three shops fit the bill:

At CALETA Locally Made , watch artisans at work while you shop locally-made jewelry. I landed on one of their handcrafted leather bracelets, which they kindly adjusted to fit my wrist in just a few moments while we chatted about the city’s restaurant scene.

With a curated selection of linen sets, Moni & Coli is the perfect spot to pick out a vacation outfit. It was far too hot on the day of my visit to even think about trying on clothes, but the gorgeous selection was still fun to browse.

Try and you still won’t miss Collective Request , a boutique in a bright pink building in Old San Juan. The clothing selection here is lovely, but the accessories steal the show. Don’t miss Men Collective , just up a flight of stairs.

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK IN SAN JUAN

A James Beard Semifinalist in an unexpected place

You’d never know it, but tucked in the back corner of the Miramar Food Truck Park is a James Beard Semifinalist. Chef Ruben Guzman of Leña Eh was nominated in early 2024 in the category of Best Chef: South, and once you order from the piping hot open-fire grill, you’ll see why.

The star of the show here is the Choripán, a locally-made chorizo topped with zingy chimichurri and shoved into a brioche bun flooded with puddles of butter that have collected in the bottom. An order comes with two, and it’s more than enough decadence for two people to share. The fries pale in comparison, but honestly, so would anything else.

Grab a drink from the bar and explore the other food trucks if you’re still hungry (I regret being too full to do so, so have something extra for me!). If you’re lucky, you may get to enjoy some live music while you fuel up for the rest of your evening activities at nearby bars.

Take a chance on a no-reservations restaurant

Unintentionally, another James Beard nominee appears in this guide: Chef Gabriel Hernandez of Verde Mesa (Green Table). As San Juan’s first farm-to-table restaurant, this chic restaurant is an ideal spot for the traveler looking to dine truly local.

The restaurant interior is cool and glimmering, and despite standing on a busy Old San Juan street, it feels hidden and secluded (like being in a cave, if a cave were sunlit and ornately decorated). Verde Mesa famously doesn’t accept reservations, but arriving at opening time on a Saturday allowed us to be seated right away. From the start, the service here is exceptional – almost too good – and our water glasses were never empty.

Not used to dining at such an early hour, we skipped over some of the delicious-sounding appetizers and botanical elixirs, diving straight into our main courses. Our Moroccan-style entrees complemented one another beautifully, and I appreciated our server preemptively bringing over extra plates so we could share. As usual, we squabbled a bit over who chose the better item, but of course, I did (though Michael disagreed once more while reading this).

Be sure to save room for Verde Mesa’s iconic Purple Cloud dessert, which features a mountain of whipped cream studded with airy meringue and tinted purple with berry compote. You might not be able to finish it (it’s a lot of dairy for the stomach on a hot day), but you’ll be so glad you tried. No reservations.

An elevated take on Puerto Rican cuisine

Good things come in threes, right? Helmed by James Beard award winner Chef Natalia Vallejo, Cocina al Fondo strives to bring local flavors and ingredients to the table. It’s always delightful to see elevated versions of the local cuisine, especially in the most welcoming and approachable setting.

I have no idea what the restaurant looks like inside, but the patio space feels a lot like sharing a meal in a friend’s backyard. Fruit trees drape over the softly lit dining area (causing a small ruckus when a mango dropped suddenly and a fellow diner practically tackled it to claim it), and mismatched tables and chairs added to the ambiance. Service was warm and friendly without being overbearing or hovering, just how I prefer.

Our meal began – as all meals should, in my opinion – with a great cocktail. The Torito + Plata combined red pepper and citrus with tequila in a way I’ve never experienced before. It paired perfectly with the Chicharrones de Pollo (chicken chicharron – kind of like your favorite fried chicken but with the crispiest skin) Michael selected, cutting through the fat.

For our mains, we both veered away from our predictable choices a bit, which was a pleasant surprise. Michael’s rice and rabbit dish was a hit, and my pork loin “empanada” was actually more of a schnitzel. Unexpected, sure, but delicious. Dessert is a must, especially when chocolate and hazelnut are involved. Reservations are highly recommended .

Finally , some mofongo

I can’t believe it took me days (plural!) to have the chance to try mofongo in Puerto Rico. Not only that, I had to actively seek out the most popular dish on the entire island to even taste it. Never one to let an opportunity pass me by, Michael and I hit the streets of Old San Juan on our last full day in the city to find a spot serving it up quickly and on the cheap.

While you can easily find decadent versions of mofongo stuffed with meat and seafood in generous portions for $20+; with only three hours until dinner, it made the most sense to go the simple route. El Jibarito fit the bill for us perfectly, with a hearty portion of unadorned mofongo available to purchase for takeout. While we waited for our order, we surveyed the dining room crowd of mostly locals, enjoying a down-to-earth good meal.

But what is mofongo? Everyone has their own recipe, but at its core, this Puerto Rican staple is a mix of mashed fried green plantains with garlic, oil, and (sometimes) chicharrón. Starchy and flavorful, it’s a dish full of comfort. If I had to compare it to anything, I would say you might consider it a cousin of mashed potatoes (if your mashed potatoes were a little crispy and had pork rinds in them).

A meal worth celebrating

I have an entire post dedicated to Marmalade headed your way soon, so I won’t spend as much time writing about this essential Old San Juan restaurant in this guide. But I will say that Marmalade lives up to the hype, and deserves its spot on every San Juan list of recommendations.

Cathedral-like interiors with modern furniture set the scene for an incredible procession of courses. The set menu guides diners through the meal, creating their own epicurean journey by selecting an option from each page. This is where Michael and I delighted in predicting which item the other would order from the list, and being right each time thanks to fifteen years of history together.

I can’t think of a better way to honor San Juan’s present and its future than with a celebration meal at Marmalade – find my full review of the restaurant experience here .

San Juan Coffee Shops

If you’re used to drinking filter coffee at home, it’s time to switch to espresso beverages, because you’re very unlikely to find it on the menu at most establishments in Puerto Rico (not sure what to switch to? An Americano is your closest bet, or you may occasionally find cold brew on the menu). My go-to during our time in the city was a Cortadito, which is espresso “cut” (hence the name!) with milk at about a 50-50 ratio. Here are a couple of standout coffee shops from my visit:

Café con Cé , which offered the full hipster coffee shop experience, down to the selection of vegan pastries and unique finds from local artists. In addition to visiting twice and making friends with one of the cats out front, I also picked up a bag of locally grown and roasted beans as a souvenir (I recommend you do the same!).

La Coffeetera , which is equal parts brunch spot and coffee shop. We made use of both sides of La Coffeetera by sipping on cortaditos while waiting for a takeout breakfast to fuel up for our day of hiking in El Yunque (but that’s a story for a different post!).

What I wouldn’t give to have a walkup window like the one at Cafe Nineteen in my Charlotte neighborhood… This tiny Santurce spot sends out perfectly executed coffee drinks from inside, and from the looks of it, simple and tasty menu items, too.

San Juan Bars and Nightlife

La Factoría has only been around for about a decade, but this labyrinthine bar (or rather, a series of bars) has climbed its way to the top of practically everybody’s San Juan nightlife list. And you know what? It deserves the attention it has garnered. There’s a bar here for every type of bargoer, from a salsa bar with a packed floor of strangers twirling each other around to one with pulsing electronic music you can feel in your veins to a tucked away speakeasy. Find your usual vibe or shake things up a bit. La Factoría is open every day, but lines form on the weekends.

Fair warning, it might take a while to flag down a bartender for a cocktail at Machete (it appears to help if you are strikingly beautiful, which explains why I stood waiting at the bar for a solid fifteen minutes and Michael… never snagged the bartender’s attention at all), but once you do, you’ll appreciate the handcrafted cocktail even more. Hang inside and soak up the youthful vibes, or pour your drink in one of the plastic cups by the door to take it to-go, dealer’s choice.

For more casual hangs on the streets of Santurce, head to Esquina El Watusi or La Placita . The former is a corner store serving up cocktails and beer to go so you can quickly get back to hanging out on the street outside. La Placita (The Little Place) is somewhat legendary among locals as a hub for nightlife, and a downpour on the night of our visit did little to curb the desire to dance in the streets. This square of bars and clubs surrounding a daytime market comes alive at night, although only until 2 a.m. thanks to a curfew launched in 2023. If, after a while, you decide you want to escape the nightlife at La Placita for a bit, you can always head around the corner to Jungle Bird . By the same owners of La Factoría, it’s a bit of a tiki bar oasis in the sea of dancing people, serving well-made cocktails in lush surroundings.

No matter where you choose to spend your Friday or Saturday night in San Juan, do so safely. Don’t drink and drive, and always use your city smarts.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAN JUAN

I’m thrilled to share not one, but two great properties with you today. Both are beautiful and I highly recommend each, but it’s up to you to choose the hotel that suits your style best:

An oasis in Santurce

For a boutique hotel experience on a budget, look no further than Santurce’s Dream Inn . This eye-catching hotel in a hip location offers a design-forward stay without sacrificing comfort and amenities. The rooms are outfitted with everything travelers need, and a few great extras: beach towels, coolers, sunscreen, and more. Eco-minded travelers will appreciate that sustainability is at the heart of the hotel’s practices, seen firsthand via refillable bath products, solar-heated showers, and a water-filling station in the lobby (not to mention the building’s conscious design, which filters and and light!).

Beyond the room, Dream Inn’s rooftop deck is perfect for lounging while enjoying spectacular views of the city below. If it gets too hot, you can always make your way down to the pool to cool off!

Looking for more? You can read more about what to expect during a stay at Dream Inn in my dedicated review .

A hotel in the heart of it all

At a slightly higher nightly rate, El Colonial in Old San Juan offers one particular amenity that justifies the price.

Are you ready for it?

An open bar.

Yes, the lobby bar is stocked with liquor, wine, and beer, and staffed by a bartender ready to make you a drink. You’ll make use of this amenity from the start, as guests are warmly greeted with a welcome drink of rum and passionfruit to enjoy in the lobby while your bags are brought up the stairs (there’s no elevator) to your room.

Rooms are simply decorated, allowing the weatherworn doors and beautiful tile floor of our Juliette Balconet room to shine. But I think it’s fair to say that the best parts of staying at El Colonial are all outside of the room. The rooftop deck is a splendid place to relax with a cold beverage, drinking in the views of Old San Juan and the port. Cozy nooks with seats and tables are scattered throughout the hotel, ready to be enjoyed while reading the paper. And then there’s the bar itself, which acts as a place to meet and spark connections with other guests.

All of this comes with a stipulation, of course: Guests must be 23 and up to stay here.

Learn more in my full review of El Colonial .

WITH MORE TIME IN SAN JUAN

Can I be honest with you? My list of places still left to visit in San Juan is longer than my list of places I visited in the city, which can only mean one thing: I need to return! For the sake of this post, I’ll try to tighten my list down a little bit:

• Attractions such as the market at La Plaza del Mercado de Santurce, touring La Fortaleza , spending a day at a local beach, visiting Museo de las Americas , and exploring the city’s forts
• Relaxing in cafes and restaurants like Café Botánico , Bebo’s Café , Café Comunión , Casita Miramar , La Alcapurria Quemá , and Celeste
• Shopping at cute boutiques including La Tigre and LUCA
• Ending the night at bars like Botánico , La Taberna Lúpulo , Deshistoria: Birra & Empanadas , Pio Pio , La Penúltima , and El Bar Bero
• Heading out to explore more of the main island, and hopping on a ferry to visit Culebra and Vieques

As always, be sure to leave a comment and let us know if you make it to any of these spots before I do!

TRAVEL TIPS FOR SAN JUAN

While I could probably write an entire blog post on travel tips for this incredible city, an abbreviated list will have to do:

The best time to visit San Juan

Well, that depends on your priorities. With milder temperatures, winter is high season on the island, and many people flock to the city to escape their snowy homes. This comes at a cost of course – you should expect high prices to match the quantity of visitors.

Shoulder season is always my preferred time to visit any destination, bringing relatively comfortable weather and gentler fares. If you’re like me, April and May are your best bets.

Low season coincides with hurricane season, so if you’re looking for rock-bottom prices, summer is your time to visit (just be prepared for high temperatures and lots of rain!).

How to get to San Juan

Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport is easily reached by many destinations in the Americas (including, of course, many of its Caribbean neighbors). It is also a common port of call on Caribbean cruises, though typically those arrive and depart on the same day. Arriving by car? Several major highways flow right into the city, from all corners of the island.

Getting around the city

I have great news: you don’t need a car to get around San Juan .

I have less great news: public transit is unreliable.

Uber should by and large be your transit method of choice when exploring San Juan, and I highly recommend exploring neighborhood by neighborhood to keep your transportation costs down. As cell service is widely available in the city (and your service should be covered if you’re coming from the U.S.), Uber is generally convenient and reliable – but we did encounter a few exceptions to the rule. The first UberX (the cheapest option) requested at the airport showed an estimated arrival time of 52 minutes with a price of $35. We quickly canceled and rebooked an Uber Comfort, which had dropped in price and arrived just a few moments later.

Situations like this occurred several times over the weekend, though the rest of any canceled trips were at the choice of the driver. When this happened, I found that upgrading to Uber Comfort or Uber Black was worth spending a few extra dollars.

To add another layer of complexity, I noticed that while in Puerto Rico, the Uber app often refused to find the destination location by name (regardless of whether I typed the name in Spanish or English). I often resorted to typing in the exact address or a nearby destination to get us close to our desired destination.

I’m sure I overuse the phrase “[ name of city ] is a city of neighborhoods,” but it applies to San Juan, as well. The city is divided into many barrios and subbarrios, and as a weekend visitor, you certainly won’t have time to explore them all. The destinations in this guide largely fall into the neighborhoods of Viejo San Juan and Santurce (Ocean Park, Miramar, Gandul, Condadito, etc.).

Language and culture

Or rather, lenguaje y cultura .

While the U.S. as a whole does not have an official language ( it’s true !), Puerto Rico’s official languages are Spanish and English. That tracks with my experience in San Juan; with the exception of popular restaurants and attractions, most conversations begin in Spanish before transitioning to English.

In the city, most of the people I interacted with spoke enough English for us to order or ask a question (Michael and I both understand and speak some Spanish, though his is better than mine), but I recommend brushing up on your Spanish before you go.

When entering any establishment, it’s a courtesy to greet the staff with a buenos días or buenas tardes (or a shortened buenas , if you’re not sure what time it is!), and to always say por favor  and gracias . Now is also a good time to mention that businesses in Puerto Rico don’t necessarily run on a strict schedule like on the mainland, so don’t get upset if you arrive to find a business closed during their posted open hours. Just take it as an opportunity to visit another business on your list.

Lastly, if you know anything about Puerto Rico’s history and relationship with the U.S., you’ll understand why you may see graffiti with phrases like “Gringos go home.” It is an immense privilege to visit this destination domestically, and it’s important to not ignore the financial and environmental impact of multinational corporations as well as the effect of gentrification from wealthy foreigners and mainlanders moving in and driving up housing costs. Take the time to learn from and listen to locals, if they decide to share.

For obvious reasons, I can’t guarantee your safety at any destination you visit. But (!) I can honestly say that I never encountered a situation where I felt unsafe in San Juan. From exploring Old San Juan during the day to a late-night street party at La Placita, I never encountered any issues.

It’s pretty well publicized at this point, but in case you haven’t encountered this information before, I feel obligated to reiterate: do not take photos of La Perla .

You may have seen this magnetic neighborhood featured in the music video for Despacito, and it’s easy to see why so many are drawn to the colorful maze of houses and buildings (it’s also incredibly easy to wander into, as we nearly did without realizing a couple of times). However, this neighborhood is just that – a neighborhood – and should be respected as people’s private residences. It is also a well-known spot to source drugs, and for that reason, you should also not take photos.

If you decide to visit La Perla, do so during the day, don’t take any photos , be respectful of the people around you, and if anyone asks you to leave, go. Does it sound dramatic to put so many stipulations on visiting a neighborhood in San Juan? You be the judge .

As for other health and safety concerns, be sure to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated (the sun is fierce!). Leave your high heels at home – Puerto Rico’s streets and sidewalks are not always smooth and flat. My full Puerto Rico packing list is here , but in the meantime, close-toed shoes or stable sandals are a great choice.

Money matters

My largely U.S.-based audience will appreciate that Puerto Rico’s currency is the U.S. Dollar. Most places accept credit cards as well as mobile pay, but it’s not universal – and even then, a minimum spend may be required. To save time at your destination, visit your local bank or ATM to withdraw cash to have on hand (bonus points for having small bills!).

Tipping culture mirrors that of the mainland, and you should expect to leave a 15-20% tip on restaurant/bar bills and to tip your Uber/taxi driver and tour guides. Keep a few small bills handy for places that don’t accept credit cards.

Prices for hotels, restaurants, and tours are comparable to most larger American cities. Generally speaking, I would budget around $10 for a quick-service meal, $13 for a craft cocktail, $15-20 for an entree at a mid-range restaurant, and upwards of $100-200 for fine dining. Of course you can find cheaper options, but I would plan your travel budget around these numbers so you don’t face sticker shock.

What about transportation? For the duration of our time in San Juan, three nights plus our trip to and from the airport, our total Uber cost (including tip) was $152.53. Prices ranged from $5.17 for a short daytime trip to $27.45 for an Uber Comfort from the airport.

Responsible travel

Is there such a thing as ethical travel? Almost certainly not. It’s no secret that travel consumes a large amount of resources, but we can do our best to travel as responsibly as reasonably possible. During your visit to San Juan, prioritize supporting local businesses, dining at places that source food from the region, staying at non-chain hotels, tipping generously, and watching your waste.

Tap water in Puerto Rico has to adhere to the same standards as the mainland U.S., and unless an advisory is in place, is generally regarded as safe to drink (so fill up your reusable bottle whenever you have the chance!). As for the other type of waste (we’re all friends here, right? Right ?), your hotel or rental should advise you whether or not to throw your toilet paper in the toilet. When in doubt, toss it in the bin or ask your host. I mean, it’s far less embarrassing than the alternative…

FINAL THOUGHTS ON VISITING SAN JUAN FOR THE FIRST TIME

I have just one final takeaway for you today: Your first visit to San Juan is certainly not going to be your last.

San Juan’s warm hospitality and welcoming spirit make your first visit feel like coming home to an old friend. With a lifetime’s worth of things to see and do, the opportunity to fall in love with this enchanting city is never-ending. I know this visit is the first of many .

(Oh – and if you’ve been wondering “ Where’s the beach? ” this whole time, don’t worry. You’ll find it in my upcoming guide to the island’s east coast!).

Questions for you

Have you ever left a destination with an immediate desire to return?

Which spot on this list are you most excited to visit first?

Looking for more? You may also like:

• Culinary Paradise: A Review of Marmalade in San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Checking In: A Review of Dream Inn in San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Checking In: A Review of El Colonial Hotel in San Juan, Puerto Rico
• 13 Things You Should Know Before Renting a Car in Puerto Rico
• Traveling Light: A Packing List for Five Nights in San Juan, Puerto Rico
• From Canopy to Coast: A Perfect Two-Night Rainforest and Beach Itinerary for Puerto Rico’s East Coast
• Four Days in St. Croix Travel Guide
• Traveling Light: St. Croix Packing List
• Travel Guide: Four Days in Cartagena, Colombia
• Rosario Islands Day Trip: A Review of Islabela Eco Resort
• Traveling Light: Cartagena, Colombia Packing List
• 13 Things You Should Know Before You Book a Flight with Avelo Airlines
• 14 Things You Should Know Before You Fly Frontier Airlines for the First Time
• 15 Things Travelers Should Know Before Flying Spirit Airlines for the First Time
• Travel Guides by Destination
• Checking In: Boutique Hotel Reviews
• My Travel Essentials
• Shop My Closet
• Exclusive Discounts + Promo Codes

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Review Highlights

“ The flavors of the bone marrow , bourbon bacon jam, and caper salad complimented eachother so well. ” in 7 reviews

“ I had difficulty on deciding on my meal, but decided to go with the Pollo Frito which comes with brussel sprouts and mashed potatoes. ” in 2 reviews

“ I had to order some drinks after looking at their creative cocktail menu and it didn't disappoint . ” in 2 reviews

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Calle Cerra 619

San Juan, Puerto Rico 00907

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Chef José Esteban Rivero regresa a PR para crear PROLE Cocina & Barra, restaurante y barra contemporánea en una comunidad única. ¡Nos vemos en la Calle Cerra! …

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The BEST restaurant we've been to in Puerto Rico! This place was so beautiful and intimate, the service was top notch and the food was incredible! We ordered whipped ricotta, mussels, and street corn croquettes. The ricotta and mussels were absolutely amazing! The croquettes were also good, but the other dishes were the stars of the show! For dinner we ordered Salmon, Tuna Tartare, and duck. Every dish was expertly crafted and the flavors all blended perfectly! You could taste the freshness in every bite you took. The butter cake for dessert was also delicious! Do not miss this gem!

I might have found my new favorite restaurant with this one. Prole did everything right, my goodness. I'm talking about from the moment we walked in to the second we left everything was amazing. The service is always a huge part of the experience and our waiter made us feel right at home. Sadly I forgot his name because me and the boys got drunk that night . One thing I will never forget is this experience though. We obviously ordered a lot of food and boy did we devour all of it. There wasn't anything that was put in front that wasn't delicious. If I had to pick my favorites though it is easily the bone marrow, Brussel sprouts, and the Wagyu striploin, SOOOOOOO GOOD!!! Had a few cocktails that I didn't take photos of but I ended with the best one which was the Tokyo with love, absolutely amazing. I'll be visiting Prole every single time I come into town. Love love LOVE this restaurant. Great staff, amazing food, fantastic experience!!!

See all photos from Kenneth B. for PROLE

Stumbled upon this restaurant by mistake, and it was the best mistake that could've been made. Hands down the best meal I've had my whole week stay in Puerto Rico. I ordered the seared salmon with ginger soy marinade, Chinese five spice carrot purée, and grilled asparagus. The Salmon was cooked perfectly. It had a very nice seasoning and although, it was char cooked was still super tender. The carrot purée had amazing texture consistency. It was silky yet creamy and had just the right amount of seasoning without over powering any flavors from the salmon, but instead plated well together. The service and ambiance were also five stars in my book. The mood of the place is definitely good for date nights and the servers were all very friendly and attentive.

Great meal and excellent service! Fun outing in Miramar. We had the butternut squash risotto and the tuna tartar with curry sauce--both flavorful and delicious! Staff was great and patrons were all lovely! Great little gem. Highly recommend.

Tonight I arrived at the restaurant with one of my invited guests to be told my reservation was canceled, , for 6 people!!! The hostess was useless even after being confronted with my reservation on my phone. We were literally, kicked out of there, even when the restaurant was just opened for the night and absolutely empty. Thank goodness for my dear friend José Santaella who saved my day after this fiasco; Prole has a long way to go to meet other fine establishment's long standing/ amazing relationships with faithful customers of first class city favorites. Let's hope it survives its poor management! Lucy Rodriguez Bacardi & Angie Menda

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Business Owner

Oct 11, 2023

It makes us so sad to read this! The only reason we were unable to accommodate your reservation is because it was cancelled on your part, obliviously by mistake, as I tried to explain and show Lucy multiple times via the Open Table platform. I spoke to Lucy and a man; Angie never made it to our doors. The reservation was made on Open Table on 9/28/23 at 1:32PM. At 1:36PM it was cancelled, by the person who made it. All our tables had reservations that evening, or we would have absolutely accommodated. We would not take a reservation away from someone who was confirmed. How would you feel if I took your table away because someone else made a mistake and accidentally cancelled their reservation? I did not kick Lucy out. I offered her seating at the Bar because, as I explained, thankfully all our tables were full of upcoming reservations for the evening, but that did not suffice. Lucy was extremely rude, left me with words in my mouth and ran out. We’re a small restaurant, run by young entrepreneurs who care a lot about what we do, and the fact that you would go out of your way to write something like this when the mistake was made by whoever made the reservation is really unfair.

Came in with a large group (with a reservation) and the staff was wonderful! Our server (Evelyn) was gracious and attentive the entire meal. Several shared appetizers seemed to disappear from the table as quickly as they arrived and the duck I had for an entre was EXCEPTIONAL. As I mentioned, we were a large group and they accommodated us in the corner where we did not feel on display or intrusive to the other patrons. I would absolutely recommend this dining experience

Quality of food is excellent - similar to quality you would find in great restaurants in Los Angeles and Vegas. Waiters at the bar were superb. All staff were attentive and service was great. A must for any foodie. Nice ambience. Valet parking available next door.

Excellent food. One of the best restaurants I have visited in Puerto Rico. Unique dishes and very tasty. Very charming and quaint atmosphere.

Dec 13, 2023

Hi Amy! Thank you for visiting our restaurant and for taking the time to leave this lovely review. We really appreciate it and hope to see you again soon.

Very cute place with creative cocktails and great service. We tried three different starters a main and a dessert that were all very good. Great spot!

Lovely spot for a nicer dinner in San Juan. This is the place I'm most likely to recommend to friends if they're visiting. I recommend planning ahead and making reservations because most of the places we tried were busy and we were happy we planned this meal. We enjoyed pretty much everything we ordered - from the cocktails to the coffee with dessert. The Pineapple Express, bone marrow and mussels were a highlight for me. The swordfish was good but a little dull compared to the other entrees. It's possible I just forgot how dense swordfish is. I prefer seared fish unless it's super light and flaky.

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Beachfront Development Site in Park Boulevard FOR SALE

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1 C. Guerrero Noble, San Juan, PR 00913

Marketing description.

Occupying a 1,452.15 square meters beachfront site within the highly desirable Park Boulevard Development in San Juan, Puerto Rico.​ It's prime beachfront location along with its zoning overlay makes this property an ideal development site.​ This property is ideal for single-family dwelling or development of a beach apartment complex or townhouses, among other development options.​ Don’t miss this prime residential development opportunity in San Juan!

Location Description

Park Boulevard is a beach front community with predominant residential character, located between the Condado Sector to the west and the Isla Verde Sector to the east, both being residential, tourist and commercial oriented neighborhoods, influencing the Property's neighborhood positively.​ The immediate vicinity consists of various gated, high-end developments with beach access, community gazebos, playgrounds, tennis courts, and pools.​ Residents within the area enjoy breathtaking views, proximity to large sandy beaches, beautiful reefs, and pristine waters perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, kiteboarding, and other water activities.​

Investment Highlights

Ask Price: $4,600,000 or Best Offer

Site Area: 1,452.15 square meters or 15,630.81 square feet

Zoning: RT-3 (medium-density residential-tourist)

Flood Zone: X (minimum risk area)

Tax Code #: 041-043-159-18

# of Stories: 2

Construction materials: Reinforced concrete

Gross Living Area: 3,606 square feet

The neighborhood is characterized by a strong demand and a lack of supply of new construction, making this asset an ideal development site.

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