Best Things to Do in San Juan, Puerto Rico

San Juan, the vibrant capital of Puerto Rico, is a city brimming with rich history, stunning architecture, and a dynamic cultural scene. Whether you’re a history buff, a beach lover, or a foodie, San Juan offers something for everyone. This guide will take you through everything you need to know for a memorable trip to this enchanting city.

Note: I visited San Juan, Puerto Rico, back in 2012!

Skip the complete guide and go right to my San Juan, Puerto Rico photos.

Where is San Juan, Puerto Rico?

San Juan is the capital and largest city of Puerto Rico, an unincorporated territory of the United States located in the Caribbean. It is situated on the northeastern coast of the island, facing the Atlantic Ocean.

10 Key Facts about San Juan, Puerto Rico

Capital City: San Juan is the capital and largest city of Puerto Rico, an unincorporated territory of the United States.
Historic Significance: Founded in 1521 by Spanish colonists, San Juan is one of the oldest European-established cities in the Americas.
Old San Juan: The historic district of Old San Juan is renowned for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, colorful buildings, and cobblestone streets.
El Morro and San Cristóbal: The city is home to two significant forts, El Morro and San Cristóbal, which were built by the Spanish to protect the city from invaders.
Cultural Hub: San Juan is a vibrant cultural center, with numerous museums, art galleries, theaters, and music venues celebrating Puerto Rican culture and history.
Economic Center: As the economic and financial hub of Puerto Rico, San Juan hosts many of the island’s banking, manufacturing, and tourism sectors.
Tourism Destination: Known for its beautiful beaches, resorts, and nightlife, San Juan is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year.
San Juan Bay: The city is located on the Atlantic coast and is centered around San Juan Bay, one of the best natural harbors in the Caribbean.
Festivals and Events: San Juan hosts several annual events, such as the San Sebastián Street Festival, which is one of the largest cultural festivals in Puerto Rico.
University of Puerto Rico: The city is home to the University of Puerto Rico’s main campus, which is a leading institution for higher education in the Caribbean.

Top Attractions

La Fortaleza

La Fortaleza, located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is the official residence of the Governor. Built in 1540, it is the oldest executive mansion in continuous use in the Western Hemisphere and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its historic architecture and cultural significance.

San Juan National Historic Site

San Juan National Historic Site, in Puerto Rico, features fortifications including Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal. These 16th-century forts, built by Spanish colonists, protected the island from seaborne attacks. The site offers rich history, stunning views, and a glimpse into Puerto Rico’s colonial past.

San Juan Cathedral

San Juan Cathedral, also known as the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of San Juan Bautista, is one of the oldest buildings in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Constructed in 1540, it features Gothic architecture and houses the tomb of Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León. It’s a significant religious and historical landmark.

Paseo de la Princesa

Paseo de la Princesa is a picturesque promenade in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. Lined with trees and historic statues, it offers stunning views of San Juan Bay. The 19th-century promenade features street vendors, musicians, and the iconic Raíces Fountain, blending history, culture, and scenic beauty.

El Morro

El Morro, or Castillo San Felipe del Morro, is a 16th-century fortress in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, it was built by the Spanish to guard against seaborne invaders. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and popular tourist attraction.

Castillo San Cristóbal

Castillo San Cristóbal, located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a sprawling 18th-century fortress built by the Spanish to protect against land attacks. It is the largest fortification in the Americas, featuring extensive tunnels, bastions, and historic cannons. The site offers rich history and panoramic views.

Santurce

Santurce, a vibrant district in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is renowned for its rich cultural scene, street art, and lively nightlife. Home to galleries, theaters, and music venues, it offers a blend of modern and traditional Puerto Rican culture, making it a hub for creativity and entertainment.

Isla Verde

Isla Verde, located in Carolina near San Juan, Puerto Rico, is famed for its beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Offering water sports, fine dining, and lively bars, it’s a popular destination for tourists seeking both relaxation and excitement in a tropical paradise.

Nature and Parks

El Yunque National Forest

El Yunque National Forest, located near San Juan, Puerto Rico, is the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. It features lush vegetation, diverse wildlife, and stunning waterfalls. Popular for hiking, it offers trails like La Mina and views from Yokahú Tower.

Transportation

Tren Urbano: A rapid transit system with 16 stations connecting San Juan to nearby municipalities. It’s efficient for commuting within the metropolitan area.

Buses (AMA): The Metropolitan Bus Authority (AMA) operates extensive bus routes covering San Juan and surrounding areas. It’s an affordable way to navigate the city.

Taxis: Readily available throughout San Juan, including at major hotels, tourist spots, and the airport. They offer convenient door-to-door service.

Ridesharing: Services like Uber and Lyft operate in San Juan, providing an alternative to traditional taxis.

Publicos: Shared vans or minibusses that follow specific routes, often used for traveling between towns.

Ferries: Operate between Old San Juan and the municipality of Cataño, offering scenic water transportation.

Accommodation

Here are some suggested hotels you could stay at in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Luxury Hotels

The Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, a historic icon in San Juan, Puerto Rico, offers luxury beachfront accommodations. Known for its Spanish Revival architecture, it’s been a preferred retreat for many since 1919.

Fairmont El San Juan Hotel, located on Isla Verde Beach, is a blend of urban vibes and ocean views. It offers luxury lifestyle experiences, including a full-service spa, fitness center, and non-stop gaming at Foxwoods El San Juan Casino.

The Ritz-Carlton, San Juan, located on Isla Verde Beach, offers 416 rooms with luxury amenities. It features a spa, casino, outdoor pool, and five restaurants, providing a memorable stay with impeccable service

Mid-Range Hotels

AC Hotel by Marriott San Juan Condado, located in the heart of San Juan, Puerto Rico, offers a rooftop pool, on-site dining, and high-speed Wi-Fi. It’s a sunny, serene stay near the city’s desired destinations.

Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach Resort, located on Isla Verde Beach, offers luxurious rooms with balconies and ocean views. It features outdoor pools, a 24-hour casino, and free Wi-Fi, providing a vibrant resort-style experience.

Hyatt House San Juan, an extended-stay hotel in Puerto Rico, offers 126 pet-friendly rooms and suites with comfortable furnishings. It features a rooftop pool, on-site dining, and is centrally located near San Juan Airport and Old San Juan.

Budget Stays

Coral by the Sea Hotel, located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a friendly and affordable seaside inn. It offers 68 guestrooms, free Wi-Fi, a business center, and two excellent restaurants serving authentic Puerto Rican cuisine.

Fortaleza Suites, located in the heart of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, offers comfortable colonial-style guestrooms. It’s praised for its large rooms, free Wi-Fi, 24-hour front desk, and laundry services, providing a convenient and charming stay.

Numero Uno Beach House, a bohemian boutique retreat on San Juan’s Ocean Park Beach, offers world-class amenities. It features free Wi-Fi, a sun terrace, and rooms with garden or sea views. It’s an eco-friendly certified property.

Street Food

San Juan, Puerto Rico, is known for its vibrant street food scene. Here are some popular street food items to try:

Alcapurrias

Alcapurrias are popular Puerto Rican fritters, often served as snacks or appetizers. The dough, made from starchy vegetables like mashed green plantains or grated yuca, encases a savory filling of ground meat or pork. These crispy delights are deep-fried to perfection, making them a beloved island treat.

Bacalaítos

Bacalaítos are salted codfish fritters popular in Puerto Rico. Made from shredded codfish mixed with a flour-based batter, they’re fried to crispy perfection. These savory bites are often served as appetizers or enjoyed alongside a meal. The flavor is bold, and they’re a must-try for anyone exploring Puerto Rican cuisine!

Empanadillas

Empanadillas, the petite cousins of empanadas, are a staple in Puerto Rican cuisine. These half-moon pastries, filled with savory or sweet fillings, are perfect for parties. Whether stuffed with meat, cheese, or fruit, their flaky crust and delicious filling make them irresistible treats.

Pinchos

Pinchos, skewered barbecued treats, are popular street food in Puerto Rico. Typically made with marinated chicken or pork, they’re grilled to perfection and often served with a slice of bread. The smoky, juicy flavors of Pinchos make them a favorite at festivals and family gatherings.

Tostones

Tostones, or twice-fried plantains, are a beloved Puerto Rican side dish. Sliced plantains are fried, flattened, then fried again until crispy. Their golden exterior gives way to a soft, starchy interior. Perfectly salty and crunchy, Tostones are a delightful accompaniment to any meal.

Shopping

Here are some suggested shopping areas in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Old San Juan Historic District, the oldest settlement within Puerto Rico, is a National Historic Landmark District. It’s known for its pastel-colored colonial architecture, military forts, and cobblestone streets, offering a unique glimpse into Puerto Rican history.

Condado District, San Juan’s most luxurious area, offers an array of elegant hotels, restaurants, and boutiques. Known for its upscale shopping, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife, it’s a must-visit for travelers seeking a blend of luxury and leisure.

Plaza Las Américas, located in Hato Rey, San Juan, is the largest shopping mall in the Caribbean. It offers over 300 stores, restaurants, a food court, and a cineplex, providing a diverse shopping experience.