Puerto Rico
While Old San Juan is an urban environment, nearby natural areas present opportunities for outdoor activities and adrenaline-pumping experiences.
Mainly walking. The Paseo del Morro is an easy, flat walk along the city walls (approximately 1.5 miles round trip), with ocean views. The cobblestone streets of Old San Juan involve moderate inclines and declines.
A short drive from San Juan, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. It contains numerous hiking trails: Easy (Angelito Trail), Moderate (El Yunque Peak Trail, La Mina Trail), and Difficult (some unpaved, slippery trails for experienced hikers).
Always check trail conditions for El Yunque. La Mina Trail has been closed for repairs; verify current status on the NPS website.
Always check trail conditions before hiking. Certain activities (e.g., ziplining) require travel outside Old San Juan. Bioluminescent bay tours depend on moon cycles for best viewing.
Engage with Puerto Rican culture through hands-on experiences and performances.
Many bars and clubs in Old San Juan and nearby Santurce (especially around La Placita) host live salsa music and dancing. Some venues present informal lessons for beginners.
Some restaurants or cultural centers present traditional bomba and plena dance performances, demonstrating Afro-Puerto Rican rhythms and movements.
Check the schedule of this historic theater for local and international theatrical productions, concerts, and dance performances.
Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián is a major street festival held in January. Noches de Galería (art gallery walks) are often held on the first Tuesday of each month.
Old San Juan comes alive at night. La Factoría (multi-bar venue), Patio de Sam (live music), and Taberna Lúpulo (craft beer bar) are popular spots. La Placita de Santurce transforms into a bustling street party district on weekend nights.
Old San Juan presents diverse shopping experiences. Traditional markets (Plaza del Mercado) and pop-up artisan markets appear in plazas. Artisan shops along Calle Cristo and Calle Fortaleza sell handmade jewelry, ceramics, paintings, and wood carvings. Calle del Cristo features high-end boutiques and designer stores.
Find opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation during your Old San Juan visit.
Old San Juan itself does not have large public beaches or beach clubs. Some boutique hotels may feature small plunge pools or rooftop pools for guests.
For beach access, visitors typically go to nearby Condado, Isla Verde, or Escambrón Beach. These locations present larger beach areas and resort amenities.
Enjoy the serene views of San Juan Bay from Paseo de la Princesa or from a harbor tour, a calm alternative to ocean swimming.
La Factoría (multi-bar venue, live salsa, jazz), Patio de Sam (relaxed, open-air setting), Taberna Lúpulo (craft beer bar, often live music). Santurce (La Placita) transforms into a bustling street party district with live music and DJs.
Teatro Tapia hosts a variety of plays, concerts, and dance performances throughout the year. Check its schedule for local and international productions. Cultural centers also host events.
La Factoría has dedicated spaces for dancing. La Taberna del Pirata is known for its lively atmosphere. La Placita de Santurce is a hub for salsa and reggaeton dancing on weekend nights. Organize your own pub crawl or join organized tours.
Old San Juan presents diverse shopping experiences, from traditional markets to high-end boutiques.
Pique (hot sauce), local coffee (rich flavor), Puerto Rican rum (Don Q, Bacardi, Ron del Barrilito). Hand-carved santos (religious figures), colorful vejigante masks (carnival masks), hammocks, and ceramics make unique gifts.
Calle del Cristo features several high-end boutiques and designer stores (Coach, Ralph Lauren), alongside local upscale boutiques offering fashion and accessories.
Support local artisans and businesses directly to confirm fair wages and sustainable practices. Look for "Hecho en Puerto Rico" (Made in Puerto Rico) labels, indicating island-made products.
As an U.S. Territory, customs regulations are the same as for the U.S. Mainland. Shipping services (USPS, FedEx, UPS) are available in San Juan. Be aware of any restrictions on agricultural products or items made from endangered species when returning home.
When visiting artisan shops, take time to talk to the artists. Their insights enrich your experience and understanding of their craft. This personal connection adds value to your purchases.
Old San Juan presents a diverse range of activities, ensuring that every traveler finds engaging experiences. From historical deep dives to lively nights, the city creates memorable pursuits.
Old San Juan presents a diverse range of activities, ensuring that every traveler finds engaging experiences. From historical deep dives to lively nights, the city creates memorable pursuits.
