San Juan, located along Puerto Rico’s stunning coastline, provides an excellent blend of history, culture, and sheer tropical joy. Whether you’re a history buff looking to explore the cobblestone alleys of Old San Juan, a foodie looking to eat scrumptious mofongo, or a beach bum looking for the perfect spot to soak up the sun, this lively city has something for everyone. From the majestic Castillo San Felipe del Morro to the vibrant street art of Santurce, we’ll share our top picks for the finest things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico, so you’re ready for whatever adventure this Caribbean city has to offer.
Take a Walking Tour of Old San Juan
While we believe in traveling and experiencing places on your own, it’s always helpful to know what you’re looking at, and there’s no better way to receive a crash course on all Old San Juan than to join up for a walking tour! Sign up for this two-hour history-themed guided walking tour of Old San Juan to learn about the island’s connections to the United States, West Africa, Spain, and other countries. During the trip, you’ll travel the old cobblestone streets and see the city’s othe Northern Hemisphere’s tiniest houses.On the trip, you’ll travel through the old cobblestone streets and learn about the city’s historic defense system and fortifications before seeing the outside of La Casa Estrecha, one of the Northern Hemisphere’s tiniest houses.
Explore the Ramparts of Castillo San Felipe del Morro
While we believe in traveling and experiencing places on your own, it’s always helpful to know what you’re looking at, and there’s no better way to receive a crash course on all Old San Juan than to join up for a walking tour! Sign up for this two-hour history-themed guided walking tour of Old San Juan to learn about the island’s connections to the United States, West Africa, Spain, and other countries. During the trip, you’ll travel the old cobblestone streets and see the city’s othe Northern Hemisphere’s tiniest houses.The beautiful Castillo San Felipe del Morro, popularly known as El Morro, is a must-see attraction for any visitor to San Juan. This 16th-century stronghold is located on a rocky peninsula commanding the entrance to San Juan Bay. Its majestic stone walls and expansive grounds illustrate the tale of Puerto Rico’s long history, from its days as a Spanish colony to its role in defending the island from foreign invaders. Even more astonishing is that this fort has only ever been attacked once, in 1598, when the Earl of Cumberland entered the city and pillaged the churches and towns.
See the Devil’s Sentry Box at Castillo San Cristóbal
San Juan’s Castillo San Cristóbal, which is situated in the center of Old San Juan, is definitely a must-see. The greatest Spanish castle constructed in the Americas is this magnificent 18th-century bastion. Visitors will be taken back in time to a period of maritime conflicts, pirate raids, and conquests as they explore the stone walls and courtyards. Photograph enthusiasts will love the castle’s breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. Along with the Garita del Diablo, visitors may explore a maze of tunnels, barracks, and guns inside the stronghold. Devil’s Sentry Box, sometimes called Garita del Diablo, is a fabled location where soldiers formerly stood sentry above the sea. There are a lot of stories about this guard station, but one of them states that a soldier by the name of Sanchez vanished from it in a strange way, taking just his uniform and gun with him. Some allege the devil stole him, while others say it was a ruse for him to flee with his love.
Wander the Tombstones at Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis
Situated atop a precipice with a view of the Atlantic Ocean, this historic cemetery serves as both a breathtaking architectural and cultural landmark and the final resting place for numerous notable Puerto Ricans, such as artists, military commanders, governors, and renowned poet Julia de Burgos. The breathtaking ocean vistas and the elaborate 19th-century tombstones with their elaborate carvings and sculptures will wow visitors to Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis. One of the finest free things to do in San Juan is visit this cemetery, which provides visitors with a memorable and one-of-a-kind view into the heart of the city.
Marvel at the Catedral de San Juan Bautista
The magnificent Catedral de San Juan Bautista, the oldest church constructed in the United States and the second-oldest in the Western Hemisphere, is situated amid the vibrant colonial architecture and bustling plazas of Old San Juan. You will be welcomed by lofty ceilings decorated with elaborate carvings, breathtaking stained glass windows, sacred treasures, and a sense of serenity and tranquillity as soon as you enter this gothic 16th-century church. Highlights are the wax-coated mummy of Christian martyr Saint Pius (San Pio) and the magnificent marble mausoleum of Spanish explorer and the island’s first governor, Juan Ponce de León. Before climbing to the rooftop for expansive views of the cathedral’s surroundings, stop to examine the minute details of its Gothic front, a magnificent example of Spanish colonial architecture.
Take a Tour of La Fortaleza
La Fortaleza, sometimes referred to as Palacio de Santa Catalina, is a fantastic destination in San Juan for those who enjoy both architecture and history. With its exquisite colonial architecture and immaculately kept grounds, this historic gem transports you to the 16th century and feels like a time machine. La Fortaleza was first erected as one of the city’s defense systems, and it didn’t fare well against pirate invasions, English invaders, and Dutch invaders. The oldest executive mansion still in continuous use in the Western Hemisphere, it was subsequently transformed into the governor’s mansion.
