City Guide: San Juan, Puerto Rico
Looking for things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico? Check out my favorite beaches, places to stay, and what to eat and where to drink in this island capital!
Must-Sees
Visiting San Juan, Puerto Rico for the first time? Soak up the sum in one of the oldest cities in the Americas.
Old San Juan
Every corner tells a story in Viejo (Old) San Juan, the capital’s historic heart. The rainbow-hued colonial buildings that trim the cobblestone streets date as far back as the 16th century. Around every turn, you’ll find photogenic street art and hear salsa music spilling out of buzzing bars.
Isla Verde Beach
Relax on the golden sands of Isla Verde Beach, located in Carolina just outside San Juan. Enjoy turquoise waters, palm trees, and a variety of beach activities.
El Yunque National Forest
Discover the beauty of the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, El Yunque. Hike to hidden waterfalls, swim in natural pools,
La Placita
La Plaza del Mercado de Santurce, simply known as “La Placita,” transforms from a sleepy marketplace in the daytime, to the city’s hottest dance spot come nightfall. Whether you’re in the mood for live salsa, reggaeton, or some electronic beats, La Placita has you covered.
Condado Beach
Experience the upscale feel of Condado Beach in San Juan. Relax on breezy shores, sunbathe, and enjoy the luxury hotels nearby.
El Escambrón
Visit the Blue Flag beach of El Escambrón near Viejo San Juan. Snorkel among coral reefs, swim in the rolling waves, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
Ocean Park Beach
Relax at Ocean Park Beach, a local favorite in San Juan.
Santurce
Explore the vibrant street art scene in the Santurce neighborhood of San Juan. Take a DIY street art tour along Calle Cerra to see incredible murals
Casa Bacardí
Uncover the secrets of rum on a distillery tour at Casa Bacardí. Learn about the history of rum production and enjoy mixology master classes.
DISTRITO T-Mobile
Laguna del Condado
📸 Sign ¡Boricua!
📸 Callejón de la Puerta con la Bandera
Where to Eat
Cocina al Fondo
Princesa - Cocina Cultura
La Pradera
La Casita Blanca
Pinky's Calle Loíza
Berlingeri
El Jibarito
Cayo Caribe - Condado
Chocobar Cortés
Kisoro restaurant sushi bar
Where to Drink
La Factoría
El Batey Bar
Los 3 Cuernos
Antiguo 26
El CAFETÍN
Barrachina
Where To Stay
Dreamcatcher Hotel
San Juan’s only vegetarian boutique hotel, offering full apartments starting at $300 per night for four peop
Caribe Hilton Hotel
Luxury hotel ideal for both leisure and business travelers, featuring bright and serene rooms and suites with modern amenities. The hotel offers three outdoor pools, a private beach, fitness center, dining options, and event spaces. Birthplace of the Piña Colada.
TROPICALIA by DW
Everything Else!
Handmade Avarcas and Espadrilles
Make custom espadrilles
El POP Santurce
Local vendor market best on weekends
Cultura Bicicleta (Coop)
Go on a bike tour or rent bikes
Loíza
Day trip to understand African heritage on the island
📸 Callejón de la Puerta con la Bandera
maps.google.com