What are some tourist attractions in San Juan?
Tourist Attractions in San Juan
- Castillo De San Cristobal. Known as Fort San Cristobal, it is the largest fortification in San Juan and comes under one of the monuments of San Juan National Historical Site.
- Casa Bacardi. ...
- Castillo San Felipe Del Morro. ...
- San Juan Cathedral. ...
- Paseo De La Princesa. ...
- Condado Beach. ...
- Palomino Island. ...
- Plaza Las Americas. ...
- Museo De Las Americas. ...
- Casa Cortes. ...
What are the most popular attractions in Puerto Rico?
Top 3 Attractions in Puerto Rico
- El Yunque. The oldest Forest Reserve in the Western Hemisphere, El Yunque is a nature lover’s dream, a beautiful rainforest, full of lush vegetation, clear running streams, secluded waterfalls, Puerto ...
- Castillo de San Felipe del Morro. ...
- Rio Camuy Caves and Arecibo Observatory. ...
What is there to do in San Juan Puerto Rico?
The Top 12 Things to Do in San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Wander the Colorful Streets of Old San Juan. ...
- Fly a Kite at Castillo San Felipe del Morro. ...
- Stroll Along the Paseo la Princesa-. ...
- Visit the Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery. ...
- Sunset Sailing on San Juan Bay. ...
- Visit the Outdoor Galleries in Old San Juan. ...
- Rum Tasting at the Bacardi Factory. ...
- Swim at Condado Beach. ...
- Check out the Street Art Scene in Santurce. ...
What is the best restaurant in San Juan?
Best Restaurants in San Juan, Puerto Rico - Wicked Lily, Casita Miramar, Kaffe Haus, Alambique, La Carreta, Santaella, Cocina Abierta, Pinky's, Marmalade, Muzzarella
What are 2 popular tourist attractions in Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico Top 10 AttractionsCastillo San Felipe del Morro. El Morro was initially fortified in 1539 and completed in 1589. ... El Yunque Natural Rainforest. ... Camuy Caves. ... Old San Juan. ... Museo de Arte de Ponce. ... Bioluminescent Mosquito Bay, Vieques. ... Playa Mar Chiquita, Manatí ... Playa Flamenco, Culebra.More items...
What should I not miss in Puerto Rico?
10 Things You Shouldn't Miss on Puerto RicoOld San Juan. Founded by Spanish colonists in 1521, the 7 square block area contains a wealth of history, culture, restaurants and shopping. ... El Morro and San Cristobal. ... El Yunque. ... Drink a Piña Colada. ... Eat. ... Roadside Food Stands. ... Rum. ... Check Out the Non-Tourtisty Areas.More items...•
What is San Juan popular for?
San Juan is the largest processing center of the island, the metropolitan area has facilities for petroleum and sugar refining, brewing and distilling and produces cement, pharmaceuticals, metal products clothing, and tobacco. The port is one of the busiest in the Caribbean.
Is San Juan Puerto Rico worth visiting?
San Juan is an interesting and diverse city that has a lot to offer its visitors. It deserves to be a stand alone destination, not just a travel hub for cruise ship passengers. Sure, it has fantastic white sandy beaches and tall palm trees, but you'd expect that from a Caribbean island.
What is the most beautiful place in Puerto Rico?
The Most Beautiful Destinations in Puerto RicoOld San Juan. Cathedral. ... Playa Flamenco. Natural Feature. ... El Yunque National Park. Forest, Park. ... Mosquito Bioluminescent Bay. Natural Feature. ... Rincón. Natural Feature, Architectural Landmark. ... Isla Desecheo. Natural Feature. ... Ponce. ... Río Camuy Cave Park.More items...•
What food is Puerto Rico famous for?
The vibrancy of Puerto Rican culture comes alive in its dishes, a celebration of flavors that visitors have the opportunity to indulge in. Some of the favorites are mofongo, tostones, pasteles, arroz con gandules, tembleque, and coquito.
What is special about San Juan Puerto Rico?
As the second-oldest European-founded city in the Americas, San Juan is the beating heart of history and culture in Puerto Rico. A place where the Old World meets the new in fascinating ways, San Juan is also a hub of more modern pursuits, including shopping, dining, and nightlife.
Is it OK to travel to Puerto Rico right now?
Given Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, the destination is excluded from the CDC requirement and you do not need to provide a negative COVID-19 test result to return to the mainland United States. The CDC still recommends getting tested 3 – 5 days after arrival and staying home for 7 days post-travel.
Is San Juan safe to travel alone?
It's a good idea to be cautious, especially when traveling alone, but San Juan is mostly a safe city to visit, as Solo Traveler World finds.
Is Puerto Rico expensive to visit?
Puerto Rico isn't a cheap destination in comparison with other Caribbean islands, but solo travelers can spend a week in San Juan for $700, and couples for $1,200. Budget travelers can save even more by cooking their meals or traveling in the low season.
Why you shouldn't go to Puerto Rico?
safety concerns In Puerto Rico. There are safety concerns, however. Like Mexico and some other Caribbean islands, there's a high level of gun crime, drug trafficking and gang activity, and the homicide rate is relatively high.
How many days do you need in San Juan Puerto Rico?
Five days to visit Puerto Rico is enough to cover some of the main attractions of Puerto Rico including Old San Juan, Condado, Isla Verde, El Yunque, Vieques, and Culebra but, visitors wouldn't get the chance to visit places where they can experience the Puerto Rican culture outside the tourist zone.
What to do in San Juan on a sunny day?
If you're eager for a little fun under the sun, you'll enjoy these outdoor activities:ATV Countryside Adventure with Plantation VisitPrivate EASY S...
What is San Juan famous for?
Brace yourself for long days of sightseeing, because these local icons are waiting to be discovered:San Juan GateSan Juan CathedralLa Fortaleza
What should I not miss in San Juan?
If you want to see the best of this destination, find time for these attractions in your itinerary:Puerto Rico Convention CenterHiram Bithorn Stadi...
Are there cheap things to do in San Juan?
Keep more of your hard-earned coin in your pocket with these fun and frugal things to do:Old San Juan: Let the city's buildings tell you their stor...
What can you do in San Juan for free?
You'll hardly have time to grab your wallet out of your bag with so many wonderful free things to do:San Juan GateSan Juan CathedralConvento de Los...
What are the must see places in San Juan?
Must-see sights like the Capilla del Cristo, statue of La Rogativa, Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery, and San Juan Cathedral will turn every visitor into a history buff. Be sure to visit La Fortaleza, the oldest governor’s residence in the Western Hemisphere. For added context and local color, consider taking a walking tour ...
Where to go for a hammam in Puerto Rico?
Enjoy the only hammam (a Turkish-style bath) in Puerto Rico at the Condado Vanderbilt Spa, or float in the dense waters of the island’s only saltwater flotarium at Cloud Spa, which also offers massage and reflexology. Experience Puerto Rico's vibrant nightlife at hotspots like La Factoría in Old San Juan.
What is the beating heart of Puerto Rico?
As the second-oldest European-founded city in the Americas, San Juan is the beating heart of history and culture in Puerto Rico. A place where the Old World meets the new in fascinating ways, San Juan is also a hub of more modern pursuits, including shopping, dining, and nightlife .
What is the largest shopping mall in the Caribbean?
San Juan is home to the largest shopping mall in the Caribbean, Plaza Las Américas, where you’ll surely find what you are looking for (and then some). With a wide range of department stores, small shops, chain retailers, specialty boutiques, and even a movie theater, this mall lives its slogan: The Center of Everything.
Where is the statue of the Conquistadors in Puerto Rico?
La Rogativa, a famous bronze statue located in the Plazuela de la Rogativa in San Juan.
What streets are lit up with string lights in San Juan?
And in Old San Juan, streets such as South Fortaleza (SoFo) and Calle San Sebastián are set aglow with neon and string lights after dark, as some of the best and most unique bars in the world open their doors to visitors from all over the globe.
Where is the Museo de las Américas?
Institutions like the Puerto Rico Museum of Contemporary Art and the Sports Museum of Puerto Rico give you an immersive journey into the island’s past and present. Escambrón Beach in San Juan.
Where to vacation in New San Juan?
Condado is the most popular tourist vacation destination in New San Juan. Condado is a cosmopolitan destination boasting some of the trendiest and most luxurious waterfront resorts and hotels. Condado offers visitors: excellent dining options, lounges, casinos, nightclubs, and beautiful event venues. Pack light and bring empty luggage, just steps from Condado Beach, you’ll be shopping at high-end boutiques and shops including Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Cartier, and Salvatore Ferragamo. Condado is a great location for couples and families wanting beachfront accommodations.
Where to stop after arriving at San Juan airport?
The tourism office is a great place to stop after arriving at the airport or beginning your walking tour of Old San Juan. The staff is ready to help you and answer any questions you may have. See locations and maps of tourist offices.
What does the red flag mean in Puerto Rico?
The current flag of Puerto Rico was officially adopted in 1922. The red stripes are symbolic of the “blood” that nourishes the three branches of its government; Legislative, Executive, and Judiciary. More about the Puerto Rico Flag .
What is the most visited tourist destination in the world?
San Juan is the financial and industrial center of the island and the most visited tourist destination. The tourist areas span over 8 miles of the beautiful Atlantic coastline, from historic Old San Juan to the beaches of Isla Verde in the neighboring town of Carolina.
Is San Juan water safe?
San Juan Puerto Rico Tap Water, and around most of the island, is “city water” and safe to drink, tastes good, and meets the same requirements set by the EPA for the United States. The Puerto Rico Water Company, Autoridad de Acueductos y Alcantarillados (AAA), uses the latest technology to filter and purify drinking water for San Juan and other towns throughout Puerto Rico. For water quality information, visit their website at acueductospr.com . As in the U.S., if a business or home uses well water (rural areas only), they are responsible for monitoring its quality and safety.
Is San Juan a metropolis?
The New San Juan, the metropolis of the Caribbean, is constantly growing and moving forward. Our capital city offers the amenities and entertainment of a modern and lively city with the added allures of tropical beaches, luxurious beachfront hotels, world-class dining, shopping, and sizzling nightlife . Condado, Ocean Park, nearby Isla Verde , are ...
Is a passport required for Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico is a Free Commonwealth of the United States, so no passport is required for citizens of the U.S.A. With daily flights offered from major cities in the United States, travel to San Juan is convenient and affordable.
What to do in Old San Juan?
One of the highlights of being in Old San Juan is that you can spend your morning exploring the city and your afternoon soaking up the sun on one of the many beaches. Head to Escambrón Beach for a day of splashing around in the water and snorkeling with vibrant fish around colorful coral reefs. Or, venture over to Ocean Park Beach, and join in on a fun game of volleyball, football or paddle tennis with the local residents. Condado Beach is a stunning beach, perfect for enjoying the sunshine. And if you're more interested in the views than getting a tan, there is a small park nearby lined with many restaurant options to satisfy any craving you may have. Close by, the Condado Lagoon is a great place to get on the water and paddleboard or go for a dip in the calm San Juan Bay Estuary.
Where to go on a cruise in San Juan?
Venture out to Isla de Cabras, a small island that extends over the bay of San Juan. Palm trees and crystal-clear water await you on this little tiny oasis paradise. You can get here by car and enjoy an afternoon of gorgeous views over San Juan. Sit back and relax with a picnic and watch as cruise ships sail past you. The small island is home to the Fortin San Juan de la Cruz, which is part of the San Juan National Historic Site, and there is a ton of great stuff to enjoy with the family. After exploring, put on your bathing suit and enjoy a dip in the beautiful blue ocean.
What is the national dish of Puerto Rico?
Enjoy a juicy churrasco (skirt steak) paired with mofongo (mashed plantains) or Arroz con Gandules (yellow rice mixed with pigeon peas and pork), the national dish of Puerto Rico. And if you're looking for something fresh and light, order some seafood caught earlier that day at one of the many sushi restaurants.
What is the most beautiful plaza in San Juan?
San Juan is full of beautiful plazas, but the most beautiful of them all is Plaza La Rogativa. Enjoy 180-degree views of San Juan Bay and look out to El Yunque and Isla de Cabras in the distance. But don't forget to stop and admire the beautiful La Rogativa, which is the crown jewel of sculptures in Old San Juan. Made out of bronze by Lindsay Daen, the stunning statue's name means "The Procession" and tells a story of a Catholic Bishop and his followers who made a procession during an invasion by the British in 1797. It now serves as an excellent spot to admire the sunset and also acts as a popular wedding location for small services when visiting San Juan, Puerto Rico.
What is the name of the building that the governor of San Juan built?
1. COLORFUL CORNERS. San Juan has plenty of photo-worthy spots scattered around the city. But the one that steals the show is Calle Fortaleza . A blue and white building, acting as the governor's residence, is surrounded by pink and yellow buildings built in the traditional Spanish colonial style.
What is the name of the island in San Juan?
The small island is home to the Fortin San Juan de la Cruz, which is part of the San Juan National Historic Site, and there is a ton of great stuff to enjoy with the family. After exploring, put on your bathing suit and enjoy a dip in the beautiful blue ocean. 12. DON'T FORGET TO LOOK UP.
Where to learn about Puerto Rico?
Learn about San Juan Puerto Rico’s history and culture at the Museum of the Americas, which used to be infantry barracks and is housed in a stunning building. Take a guided tour at the Museum of History, Anthropology and Art. Or, visit the Sports Museum of Puerto Rico and learn about the legends in baseball, boxing and more who came from ...
What are the best art galleries in Puerto Rico?
Widely considered to be among the best galleries in Puerto Rico, they include the Walter Otero Contemporary Art Gallery, Galeria Botello, and Galeria Petrus, to name a few.
Where to go for a bike ride in San Juan?
Luis Muñoz Marin Park. Perfect for taking a stroll or going for a bicycle ride on a sunny day, Luis Muñoz Marin Park in San Juan has a lot for visitors to enjoy. It’s home to one of the great cycling routes in the capital, and is named after the first elected governor of Puerto Rico.
What is the Puerto Rico Museum of Art?
The Puerto Rico Museum of Art is home to a variety of artwork, and has pieces from many talented Puerto Rican artists in its collection including Antonio Martorell and Lorenzo Homar. Open since 2000, this museum is a must-visit attraction for art and museum lovers visiting San Juan, and has several educational programs that visitors of different ages can enjoy.
What is the oldest theater in Puerto Rico?
The Tapia Theater is the oldest permanent theater of Puerto Rico – once its construction was complete, it was inaugurated in the year 1832. During the nineteenth and early twentieth century it was known as the ‘Municipal Theater’ or ‘Coliseum’. It is located in Old San Juan, at the entrance of the Islet, Fortaleza Street across from Plaza Colón, and is named after the Puerto Rican writer Alejandro Tapia y Rivera.
What is the capital of Puerto Rico?
San Juan, Puerto Rico ‘s capital city, is famous for its beauty, gastronomy, shopping, and the historic district of Old San Juan. There’s a lot for visitors see and do in the city, and it lives up to the hype. Check out the following attractions when in town and you’ll want to keep coming back for more.
What is the San Juan Botanical Garden?
The Jardín Botánico belongs to the University of Puerto Rico, and is home to diverse flora and fauna as well as two small ponds and a sculpture garden. You don’t want to miss everything on site, so do bring comfortable shoes for walking and exploring. Add to Plan. Give us feedback.
What is the name of the building in Old San Juan?
Plaza de Armas. Among the attractions lining the Plaza de Armas in Old San Juan are the Casa Alcaldía de San Juan (City Hall), as well as places to eat, shops and other government buildings – the Casa Alcaldía de San Juan in particular is a delight for architecture lovers taking a walking tour in the historic district.
San Juan Attractions
Smaller cities have a charisma about them you won't find in their larger counterparts. Check out all the exciting things to see and do in San Juan before you head away so you can make the most of your escape. You'll soon see that bigger doesn't always mean better!
Free Things to Do in San Juan
Some say the best things in life are free. Discover the following around San Juan:
Read travel guides and advice on visiting San Juan
A new year means the chance to try new things. So, make 2020 your year of travel adventures!
How long has San Juan been around?
For all that it lacks, Old San Juan has an incredible 500 years of history, beautiful colonial architecture liberally splashed with tropical colors and timeless magic that makes it one of the most enchanting destinations in the Caribbean. You could spend many happy hours just walking around the walled city.
Where is Calle de la Fortaleza in San Juan?
317 Calle de la Fortaleza, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico. Get directions. Phone +1 787-724-3969. Web Visit website. Take a look at the best lounges, bars, and clubs in San Juan. You'll find several of them in Old San Juan, a city known for its active nightlife.
Where is Paseo de la Princesa in Puerto Rico?
Paseo de la Princesa, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico. Get directions. Paseo La Princesa is a broad promenade that stretches from near the docks at the foot of the city and leads to the lovely Raíces Fountain.
What is the phone number for Puerto Rico?
Phone +1 787-729-6960. Web Visit website. Perhaps nothing captures the history of Puerto Rico more than Old San Juan's massive fortresses. El Morro and Castillo de San Cristobal are among the most visited attractions on the island for a good reason.
Where is Sofo in San Juan?
In Old San Juan, Fortaleza Street has carved out a reputation as a Restaurant Row that includes some of the best restaurants in town. In fact, South Fortaleza, or "SoFo," as it's known, even has its own biannual culinary festival.
When did the British attack San Juan?
In 1797, the British attacked Old San Juan, but a quick-thinking priest led the outnumbered soldiers on a religious procession through the city. The British mistook the citizens for reinforcements and abandoned their attack. 08 of 10.
Is there anything wrong with a T-shirt in Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico has terrific hand-crafted souvenirs. There's nothing wrong with a T-shirt or a shot glass, but if you want something original, this island has lovely arts and crafts, and you can find plenty of options in Old San Juan.
Trace 500 years of San Juan history
Over the past five years, San Juan has been in the throes of a renaissance.
Explore the iconic fort at El Morro
Built over the span of two centuries to repel Puerto Rico’s seaborne aggressors, El Morro – the city’s crown jewel – kept the Spanish flag flying over San Juan for almost 400 years until American troops poured into the city in 1898.
Dance salsa at La Factoría
One of San Juan’s must-visit cocktail bars, La Factoría rejuvenated the city’s bar scene when it opened in 2013. Now La Factoría is an international phenomenon, thanks in no small part to the iconic reggaetón hit “Despacito.” Graffiti-etched passageways link to a chic lounge, a sultry wine bar and a salsa dance floor.
Surf and snorkel at Balneario Escambrón
Surfers of all stripes are drawn to San Juan’s consistent swells, diverse breaks and laid-back vibe. Perched on the northern end of Puerta de Tierra, just outside Old San Juan, Playa Escambrón – known locally as La Ocho – is considered San Juan’s best balneario (public beach).
Take a Casa Bacardí rum tour
A short ferry and taxi ride from the main islet of Old San Juan is Casa Bacardí, the rum giant’s flagship factory and spiritual home since the Bacardi family fled from Cuba to Puerto Rico in 1936.
Shop and dine local along Calle Loíza
Dubbed the “Avenue of the Arts,” Calle Loíza overflows with stylish cafes, eclectic restaurants and concept stores that channel Puerto Rico’s #apoyololocal (shop local) movement.
Sample locally grown coffee at Hacienda Pomarrosa
Head out of bustling San Juan to experience Puerto Rico’s dramatic topography on a day trip to the foot of the island’s highest mountain, Cerro de Punta.
What to do in San Juan with kids?
One of the best things to do in San Juan with kids is exploring the wonders and beauty of the great outdoors with Acampa Nature Adventures. De pending on what you want to do, you can enjoy camping, going on boat rides, hiking, and the like. Other activities you can enjoy are zip-lining, rappelling, and exploring magnificent waterfalls.
What is the address of Viejo San Juan?
Viejo San Juan. San Juan, PR 00901. (787) 710-8280. Old San Juan, established in the early 1500s, is a colorful, historic district. It is locally known as Viejo San Juan and features numerous historical landmarks for you to explore.
What are the best things to do in Albergue Olimpico?
One of its best features is a phenomenal water park, Ola Marina.
When is San Juan 2021?
David Reeve. June 25, 2021. San Juan, the gorgeous capital city of Puerto Rico, rests on the shores of the North Atlantic Ocean. Go on an epic adventure that your children will never forget as you do countless entertaining and thrilling things together. Like, going on a nature excursion, beating the heat at a waterpark, ...
Is Puerto Rico a World Heritage Site?
It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and greatly represents the history and culture of Puerto Rico. Schedule a tour of the area and discover its awe-striking forts, like Castillo San Cristóbal, constructed in the 18th-century, and El Cañuelo, founded in the 17th-century.