11 BEST THINGS TO DO IN SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO
Wondering what the best things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico are? Here’s a list of my favorites!
San Juan is easily one of my favorite places I’ve visited. Even though we usually only have one day there (thanks to cruises), I’m always so excited to come back. These are the things we always try to do when we’re in San Juan, and the ones I’d definitely recommend to you too!
This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you.
IS SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO WORTH VISITING?
San Juan is easily one of the best places you can visit in the Caribbean. I fell in love with it the very first time I set foot there. Between its history, culture, and beaches, it has something for everyone. You’ll find a colorful Old Town full of amazing landmarks, some of the most beautiful beaches in Puerto Rico, and if you’re looking for adventure, there are plenty of them just outside the city. On top of that, the food is amazing (don’t miss out on authentic Puerto Rican dishes and cocktails!), and the nightlife is just as lively. San Juan is a destination you’ll definitely fall in love with!
BEST THINGS TO DO IN SAN JUAN:
Wander through Old San Juan
As a European (and Croatian specifically), I’ve seen my fair share of Old Towns, and I have to say San Juan’s is absolutely incredible. One of the best things to do here is just wander through the colorful streets of Old San Juan. The Old Town is full of charm, with pastel-painted buildings, wrought-iron balconies, and blue cobblestone streets that make every corner picture-perfect.
At times it feels like you’re in Europe, and then suddenly like you’re in South America. As you explore more, you’ll come across lively plazas where locals gather, cafés serving strong Puerto Rican coffee, and bars offering some truly great cocktails.
The neighborhood is also filled with boutique shops, galleries, and artisan markets where you can pick up handmade crafts or souvenirs. Overall, the streets of Old San Juan are amazing on their own, but there are also several landmarks in the Old Town that deserve a special mention, because they’re just that good!
Walk down the Paseo de la Princesa
I love a nice walk by the waterfront, and one of the most scenic strolls in San Juan is along Paseo de la Princesa. This 19th-century promenade starts at Plaza Licenciado Eugenio and runs alongside the old city walls all the way to the Old Gate. It’s lined with shady trees, fountains, and vendors selling crafts and snacks.
The Paseo is the center of cultural activity, so it’s the perfect place to people-watch, shop for handmade souvenirs, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. We usually do this walk right after getting off the cruise before heading deeper into Old Town. It’s also a beautiful spot for photos, so definitely come prepared!
Explore Castillo San Felipe del Morro
Probably my favorite landmark, and also San Juan’s most famous one, is Castillo San Felipe del Morro, or just El Morro. It was built back in the 1500s to protect the city from sea invasions, and today it’s part of the San Juan National Historic Site and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It’s such a cool place to explore. You can walk through its tunnels, dungeons, and barracks, and climb up to the ramparts for some of the most amazing views of the ocean and San Juan Bay. Honestly, these are some of the best views you can get in the whole city.
What I also love is the huge green lawn in front of El Morro. People come here to picnic, nap, or just relax, and you’ll often see locals playing games or flying kites. We always come back here for sunset, because the views are absolutely incredible.
Visit Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery
While you might not expect a cemetery to be on a list of places to visit, this one is truly special. It’s right next to El Morro and is one of San Juan’s most peaceful and striking landmarks. The cemetery overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, and what makes it so unique are the bright white tombs, colorful statues, and mausoleums that really stand out against the blue ocean in the background.
Many important Puerto Rican figures, like artists, writers, and politicians, are buried here, so it’s also a place of remembrance. You can take a quiet walk through its pathways any day between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Enjoy a drink at La Vergüenza
La Vergüenza is a bar right in Old San Juan that we really enjoy visiting. It’s known for its creative cocktails, lively atmosphere, and great views. Whether you go during the day to sit on their lovely terrace or in the evening for some nightlife, it’s always a good time. They also serve food, which we haven’t tried yet, but it looks really good. It’s quite popular, so you might have to wait for a table, but I’d still definitely recommend stopping by!
Explore Castillo San Cristóbal
El Morro isn’t the only fortress San Juan has. On the eastern edge of Old San Juan, you’ll find Castillo San Cristóbal, another impressive fortress that gives you a glimpse into Puerto Rico’s colonial past. It was built to protect the city from land-based attacks and is the largest fortification in the Americas.
You can explore tunnels, ramparts, and historic barracks while enjoying great views of the city and streets below. Personally, I like El Morro more, but since one ticket gets you into both fortresses, it’s worth checking out Castillo San Cristóbal as well!
Go shopping in the Old San Juan
San Juan is a paradise for shoppers, and every time I visit, I have a hard time not buying everything I like. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it here, from local markets with souvenirs and Puerto Rican products to fancy boutiques and luxury shops. There are also tons of artisan stores where you can pick up handmade jewelry, artwork, leather goods, and traditional crafts, perfect for unique souvenirs. Don’t miss the local markets, where you can try tropical fruits, spices, and handcrafted items while chatting with friendly vendors. I always end up doing some serious damage shopping in San Juan, so be warned!
Take tons of photos
San Juan is a photographer’s dream, and we can confirm that without hesitation. The pastel-colored buildings, cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, and stunning ocean views make nearly every corner picture-perfect. Sunrise and sunset are especially magical, so don’t miss the sunset at El Morro for some incredible shots. Beyond that, you’ll find endless opportunities to capture colorful architecture, vibrant street art, and the sparkling Caribbean waters.
Go to the beach
When visiting San Juan, you have to spend some time on one of its beautiful beaches. Just a few minutes from Old San Juan, you’ll find soft sand and crystal-clear waters perfect for relaxing, swimming, or enjoying the sun. Condado Beach is a favorite for its lively atmosphere and nearby restaurants, while Isla Verde Beach is great for calm waters, ideal for paddleboarding, jet skiing, or just lounging under a palm tree.
Visit Casa Bacardí
A trip to San Juan isn’t complete without visiting Casa Bacardí, the world-famous rum distillery just across the bay from Old San Juan. Here, you can tour the historic facility, learn about the Bacardí family legacy, the rum-making process, and Puerto Rico’s role in crafting this iconic spirit. You’ll get to taste their signature rums and expertly made cocktails, and if you’re feeling hands-on, you can even join an interactive mixology class to make your own. Getting there is easy, you can take a ferry, Uber, or drive yourself so it’s a convenient and fun activity to add to your San Juan trip.
Visit El Yunque Rainforest
Finally, if you’re up for a short drive from San Juan, El Yunque Rainforest is a must-visit. It’s perfect for nature lovers and anyone craving a bit of adventure, with cascading waterfalls, winding hiking trails, and unique plants and wildlife found nowhere else in the world. You can hike to scenic viewpoints, swim in natural pools beneath waterfalls, or simply enjoy a peaceful walk through the forest. It’s an unforgettable experience, and you can easily book tours to make the most of your visit right here:
