Old San Juan
The Basics
Old San Juan is a staple in city sightseeing tours, which offer an easy way to get an overview of the historic city and typically pass by other must-see sites such as La Fortaleza, the Capilla del Cristo, and the Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery. More tailored options include food tours and walking tours with a private guide, while Segway tours or cruises on San Jose Bay are also popular alternatives in San Juan.
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Things to Know Before You Go
The neighborhood is a must-see for history buffs and those seeking postcard-worthy views.
Visitors flock to Old San Juan year-round, so be prepared for crowds, especially in the busy summer season.
Wear comfortable walking shoes to help navigate the cobblestones, and pack lightweight clothing and sun protection for the near constant warm weather.
Old San Juan may not be easy to access for wheelchair users, but alternative transportation options exist in the neighborhood.
How to Get There
Old San Juan is located on an islet, attached to the mainland of Puerto Rico by three bridges. If you’re coming from the mainland or the airport, book an airport transfer or drive over the bridges. Those arriving as Caribbean cruise ship passengers will likely dock at one of the many cruise ship piers in the neighborhood. Once in Old San Juan, getting around the area is easy by foot or taxi, and a free, accessible trolley system also runs through the area.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
Old San Juan is most popular during winter and summer, when vacationers flock to this classic Caribbean destination. This is especially true for visitors from the United States who can travel to and from Puerto Rico without a passport. If planning a spring trip, expect temperatures hovering around 80°F (26°C) and diminished crowds.
Other San Juan Neighborhoods
Old San Juan is perhaps the best-known of Puerto Rico's San Juan neighborhoods, but it's far from the only one. Venture slightly farther afield to upscale Miramar, home to two marinas; make your way to Condado, known for beachside condos; or stop in at Ocean Park, where you'll find some overlooked but beautiful beaches.
- San Juan Cathedral (Catedral de San Juan Bautista)
- Museum of the Americas (Museo de las Américas)
- Chapel of Christ (Capilla del Cristo)
- San Juan National Historic Site (Sitio Histórico Nacional de San Juan)
- Paseo de la Princesa
- La Fortaleza (The Fortress)
- Castillo San Felipe del Morro
- Castillo San Cristobal
- Old San Juan Piers
- Bacardi Rum Factory (Casa Bacardi)
- Fine Arts Miramar
- Luis A. Ferré Performing Arts Center (Centro de Bellas Artes Luis A. Ferré)
- San Juan Bay
- Museum of Art of Puerto Rico (Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico)
- La Calle Loiza