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What to Do in San Juan

Tour the Forts

San Juan is home to two notable forts built by Spanish engineers during the 16th and 17th centuries, which offer a taste of history. The Castillo San Felipe del Morro is the more popular option, but the Castillo de San Cristobal is the larger of the two. Pro tip: if you keep your receipt at the El Morro, you won’t have to pay for the Castillo de San Cristobal.

Walk along the Paseo de la Princesa

The Paseo de la Princesa is a central pedestrian walkway just outside the walls of Old San Juan. The promenade is lined by trees, sculptures, and benches, as well as by artists and food vendors. As you walk, take in the breathtaking views of San Juan Bay, then stop at the Princesa Gastrobar for a drink of locally made rum.

Relax on the Beaches

Calm, turquoise water. White-sand beaches. If you’re looking to relax, then spend the day on one of San Juan’s beaches. The Playa Ocean Park, the El Alambique, and the Isla Verde beaches are among the most popular. Sunbathe in the Caribbean sunlight, swim in the waters, or rent a jet ski; whatever you do on the San Juan beaches, it'll be worth your while.

What to See in San Juan

Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery

Cemeteries might not be at the top of your vacation to-do list, but in San Juan, it should be. This cemetery, located near the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, is a sight to behold. With beautiful marble tombstones and a red-domed chapel dedicated to Mary Magdalene, it is said that spirits cross the cemetery to get to the afterlife. Reflect quietly among this popular tourist destination.

La Fortaleza (The Fortress)

With its distinct blue-and-white walls, this UNESCO world heritage site occupies one of the most strategic military spots in the Caribbean. First built in 1540 and used to defend against invaders, it is now the residence of Puerto Rican governors, a position it has held for over 150 years. Guided tours will take you through the beautiful building and will teach you all about its long history.

Catedral Metropolitana Basílica de San Juan Bautista

Built-in 1521 and still operational today, this Roman Catholic cathedral is the second-oldest cathedral in the Americas. Constructed near the docks so that travelers could thank God for their safe voyage, the cathedral is an impressive landmark indeed. The yellow décor and the black-and-white floors create an ornate atmosphere inside, where you can peruse many historical artifacts.

Where to Stay in San Juan

Viejo San Juan (Old San Juan)

The heart of San Juan, Old San Juan is a highly recommended area to stay during your visit. Colonial-style buildings surround cobblestone streets in this beautiful area. Close to some of the best attractions in San Juan, Old San Juan also contains a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and shops. Stroll through the romantic streets, then make your way to the waterfront for some rest and relaxation.

Isla Verde

Some 7 miles east of San Juan, Isla Verde contains some of the best beaches and nightlife in the area. Surrounded by lush greenery and azure waters, it is a perfect spot to take in stunning scenery. The area is full of bars, clubs, and restaurants for nightlife enthusiasts and foodies, as well as malls for those who want to shop.

Santurce

For those looking for a cheaper area, you might want to check out Santurce, just a twelve-minute bus ride away from San Juan. Colorful hotels and guest houses line the hip streets of this artistic area. Many of the walls are covered in street art, so there’s always something to see. Less touristy and expensive than some of the other areas, it also offers galleries, trendy bars, and shops.

Tour the Forts

San Juan is home to two notable forts built by Spanish engineers during the 16th and 17th centuries, which offer a taste of history. The Castillo San Felipe del Morro is the more popular option, but the Castillo de San Cristobal is the larger of the two. Pro tip: if you keep your receipt at the El Morro, you won’t have to pay for the Castillo de San Cristobal.

Walk along the Paseo de la Princesa

The Paseo de la Princesa is a central pedestrian walkway just outside the walls of Old San Juan. The promenade is lined by trees, sculptures, and benches, as well as by artists and food vendors. As you walk, take in the breathtaking views of San Juan Bay, then stop at the Princesa Gastrobar for a drink of locally made rum.

Relax on the Beaches

Calm, turquoise water. White-sand beaches. If you’re looking to relax, then spend the day on one of San Juan’s beaches. The Playa Ocean Park, the El Alambique, and the Isla Verde beaches are among the most popular. Sunbathe in the Caribbean sunlight, swim in the waters, or rent a jet ski; whatever you do on the San Juan beaches, it'll be worth your while.

Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery

Cemeteries might not be at the top of your vacation to-do list, but in San Juan, it should be. This cemetery, located near the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, is a sight to behold. With beautiful marble tombstones and a red-domed chapel dedicated to Mary Magdalene, it is said that spirits cross the cemetery to get to the afterlife. Reflect quietly among this popular tourist destination.

La Fortaleza (The Fortress)

With its distinct blue-and-white walls, this UNESCO world heritage site occupies one of the most strategic military spots in the Caribbean. First built in 1540 and used to defend against invaders, it is now the residence of Puerto Rican governors, a position it has held for over 150 years. Guided tours will take you through the beautiful building and will teach you all about its long history.

Catedral Metropolitana Basílica de San Juan Bautista

Built-in 1521 and still operational today, this Roman Catholic cathedral is the second-oldest cathedral in the Americas. Constructed near the docks so that travelers could thank God for their safe voyage, the cathedral is an impressive landmark indeed. The yellow décor and the black-and-white floors create an ornate atmosphere inside, where you can peruse many historical artifacts.

Viejo San Juan (Old San Juan)

The heart of San Juan, Old San Juan is a highly recommended area to stay during your visit. Colonial-style buildings surround cobblestone streets in this beautiful area. Close to some of the best attractions in San Juan, Old San Juan also contains a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and shops. Stroll through the romantic streets, then make your way to the waterfront for some rest and relaxation.

Isla Verde

Some 7 miles east of San Juan, Isla Verde contains some of the best beaches and nightlife in the area. Surrounded by lush greenery and azure waters, it is a perfect spot to take in stunning scenery. The area is full of bars, clubs, and restaurants for nightlife enthusiasts and foodies, as well as malls for those who want to shop.

Santurce

For those looking for a cheaper area, you might want to check out Santurce, just a twelve-minute bus ride away from San Juan. Colorful hotels and guest houses line the hip streets of this artistic area. Many of the walls are covered in street art, so there’s always something to see. Less touristy and expensive than some of the other areas, it also offers galleries, trendy bars, and shops.

More Destinations to Explore

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