Things To Do
🏰 Historic Forts & Landmarks
Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro): Address: 501 Calle Norzagaray, San Juan, PR 00901 This is our personal favorite fort to visit in Old San Juan. Entry to explore the inside of the fort is $10 per person. This iconic 16th-century fortress guards the entrance to San Juan Bay. Explore its six levels and original cannons, and enjoy panoramic ocean views. Castillo San Cristóbal Address: 501 Calle Norzagaray, San Juan, PR 00901 The largest Spanish fort in the Americas, built to protect against land-based attacks. Don't miss the "Devil’s Sentry Box" (Garita del Diablo), steeped in local legend. La Fortaleza (Governor’s Mansion) Address: 54 Calle Fortaleza, San Juan, PR 00901 The oldest executive mansion in continuous use in the Western Hemisphere.
⛪ Cultural & Religious Sites
Catedral de San Juan Bautista Address: 151 Calle del Cristo, San Juan, PR 00901 One of the oldest cathedrals in the Americas, housing the tomb of Juan Ponce de León. Capilla del Santo Cristo de la Salud Address: Calle del Cristo, San Juan, PR 00901 A small 18th-century chapel built atop the city walls, inspired by a miraculous event.
🌆 Scenic Walks & Streets
Calle Fortaleza Location: Extends from La Fortaleza to Plaza Colón in Old San Juan Known for its colorful buildings and hanging umbrellas, perfect for photos. Paseo de la Princesa Address: Paseo de la Princesa, San Juan, PR 00901 A picturesque promenade lined with trees, statues, and vendors, ending at the Raíces Fountain by the bay. Paseo del Morro Address: Begins near the San Juan Gate, San Juan, PR 00901 A coastal trail along the city walls, offering stunning views of the Atlantic and access to El Morro.
🖼️ Museums & Historic Homes
Museo Casa Blanca Address: 1 Calle San Sebastián, San Juan, PR 00926 Originally built for Ponce de León, this 16th-century residence now showcases period furnishings and lush gardens. Museo de las Américas Address: Cuartel de Ballajá, Segundo Piso, San Juan, PR 00926 Located in the historic Cuartel de Ballajá, this museum highlights the art and culture of the Americas.
🍹 Food & Drink Highlights
Barrachina Address: 104 Calle de la Fortaleza, San Juan, PR 00901 Claiming to be the birthplace of the piña colada, it's a must-visit for this tropical treat. Café Manolín Address: 251 Calle San Justo, San Juan, PR 00901 A local favorite for traditional Puerto Rican dishes like mofongo. La Factoría Address: 148 Calle San Sebastián, San Juan, PR 00901 A renowned cocktail bar featured in music videos, offering creative drinks and a lively atmosphere
🏝️ Islands
Culebra: Home to Flamenco Beach, renowned for its white sands and turquoise waters, often ranked among the world's top beaches. Vieques: Famous for Mosquito Bay, the brightest bioluminescent bay globally, offering a magical nighttime experience. 🚕The Ceiba Ferry Terminal is about 1.5 hours from Old San Juan. You can get there by rental car, private shuttle, taxi, or Uber. 🚐 Departure Point & Transportation All ferries to Culebra and Vieques depart from the Ceiba Ferry Terminal. ⏰ Ferry Schedule Ferries operate multiple times daily, starting as early as 4:30 AM and continuing into the evening. Schedules can vary, so we recommend checking the most up-to-date times on the Puerto Rico Ferry website. 🎟️ Ticket Information Online Purchases: Only about 20% of tickets are available in advance online. On-Site Purchases: Most tickets are sold at the Ceiba terminal the day of departure, so plan to arrive early to increase your chances of getting a spot.
🌿 El Yunque Rainforest
🚕 El Yunque Rainforest is about a 45-minute drive from Old San Juan. You can get there by rental car, taxi, Uber, or by booking a guided tour that includes transportation. 🥾 What to Expect Hiking Trails: Ranging from easy walks to moderate hikes with incredible views Waterfalls: Don’t miss La Mina Falls or Juan Diego Falls for a refreshing dip Wildlife: Keep an eye out for coquí frogs, parrots, and other native species 🥾 Self-Guided Exploration El Yunque offers a variety of trails suitable for all experience levels, with clear signage and maps available at the El Portal Visitor Center. Popular trails include: Juan Diego Falls: A short trail leading to a beautiful waterfall. Mt. Britton Trail: A moderate hike culminating in panoramic views from the Mt. Britton Tower. Angelito Trail: An easy walk to natural pools, ideal for a refreshing dip.
