A comprehensive guide to discovering San Juan

Contents of This Guide

• Organize Your Journey
• Reservation Tips
• Local Language
• Top Destinations
• Activities to Enjoy
• 10 Must-See Instagram Spots
• Set the Atmosphere

Organize Your Journey

Flights, Accommodations & Rental Cars

First, let’s determine how you’ll reach your destination. Explore customized insights from your departure airport to San Juan, including average airfare, ideal booking times, and what constitutes a great deal.

Browse flights

Next, discover your accommodation options. From city-center hotels to beachfront rentals, find places that fit your Puerto Rican vibe.

Browse accommodations

Lastly, if you intend to explore areas beyond the city, we suggest renting a car for your stay—this way, you can visit all the attractions you desire without any transportation concerns.

Explore car rentals

Best Time to Visit

The peak season for travel to Puerto Rico is during the winter, which means prices in the city tend to soar (and crowds increase). According to our latest data, spring is an excellent time to visit, offering more affordable airfare. This season falls at the tail end of winter's rush and just before the summer rains arrive. With temperatures ranging from 82-85°F, it’s perfect for beach outings without the extreme heat. If you’re searching for reasons to visit San Juan, here are some of its famous festivals:

• San Sebastian Street Festival (January)
• Festival del Frío (February)
• Festival de la Piña Paradisíaca (May)
• Festival de Teatro Puertorriqueño e Internacional (May – June)
• Festival de Santiago Apóstol (July)
• Festival Nacional Indígena (November)

Alongside annual festivals, here are some spring events that might be worth experiencing during your visit:

• Viernes de Salsa en Isabela: Every Friday throughout the year, Isabela’s town square transforms into a lively dance floor with live music; join us starting at 7 PM to showcase your Salsa skills.
• Pro Arte Musical: Puerto Rico’s oldest cultural non-profit, dedicated to promoting chamber music on the island, occurring from March 27 – May 15, 2022.
• 25th Tropical Music Festival: Celebrate 25 years of iconic Latin music, scheduled for April 28 – May 2, 2022.
• Mojito Fest: Visit the Convention Center for an evening featuring over 40 restaurants and bartenders from the island showcasing their specialties to accompany the world’s #1 cocktail, taking place on May 28, 2022.

Getting from the Airport to the City

Important Information

• Puerto Rico is open with certain restrictions. Fully vaccinated travelers from the US can enter without limitations. Unvaccinated US visitors must quarantine upon arrival. For more information on COVID-19 regulations in PR, check our Travel Restrictions map for the latest updates before you travel.
• Restaurants and bars are operational, but masks are recommended in public areas, enclosed spaces, and on public transport.
• In San Juan, taxis and the #53 bus are economical and convenient ways to navigate the city. Rideshare options are available, albeit limited across the island.
• If you plan to venture outside the city, consider renting a car. As Puerto Rico is a US territory, all road signs will be familiar. Car rentals are accessible at the airport and throughout the city; it’s advisable to book ahead if you choose this option.
• While known for its stunning beaches, Puerto Rico boasts a diverse ecosystem. El Yunque National Rainforest is a popular destination for both locals and visitors to experience the island’s natural beauty—we'll cover this more later.
• Engage with the locals. Puerto Ricans are famously warm, friendly, and stylish. They are often eager to share local knowledge, teach you some phrases, or offer recommendations.
• Safety Tips: San Juan has areas where travelers should remain cautious at night. In Old San Juan, avoid the La Perla neighborhood (near El Morro) after dark, as well as most of Puerta de Tierra (beyond the hotels). Also, refrain from swimming at midnight—the beaches are dark and unprotected, making such activities risky. Generally, practice safety as you would in any city: keep valuables secure at home and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

 Cost

Tips for Booking

*Monthly median airfare is calculated based on travel dates from 01/01/2021 to 12/31/2021 for searches made within 180 days of travel. This analysis includes all coach, round-trip flights originating in the US or Canada and arriving at SJU during this timeframe. Our ‘when to book’ guidance was derived from comparing median airfare for search dates on 01/01/2022 to the same dates in previous years and for travel dates between 03/01/2022 and 04/30/2022.

Essential Local Phrases

Dust off your Spanish phrasebook, or if you’re keen on learning, check out our partnership with Babbel to discover savings on your subscription. Otherwise, here are some key phrases to help you blend in with the locals:

• Qué tal? (kay tahl): What’s up?/How’s it going?
• Boricua. (bore-ee-quwah): Puerto Rican (a term for the local people).
• Wepa. (way-pah): An expression of joy.
• Acho/Chacho. (ah-cho/cha-cho): A casual term derived from “muchacho,” often used in conversation (similar to “Well…” in English). When asked as a question, it can mean “What’s up?”.
• Chavos. (cha-vohs): Cash.
• Mano! (mah-no): An informal greeting, like “hey, bro!”.
• Ni pa. (nee-pah): No way.
• Tú sabes. (too sah-beys): You know.

Top Destinations

Important: Explore this map to discover the various neighborhoods of the city.

San Juan is primarily split into two distinct areas: Old San Juan and New San Juan. As their names suggest, Old San Juan is known for its historic architecture, museums, and cobbled streets, while New San Juan boasts luxurious beach resorts, lively nightlife, and modern conveniences. Experience both areas during your visit and choose your favorite version of San Juan.

Old San Juan

Old San Juan, with its deep historical roots and scenic beauty, has become a beloved destination in the Caribbean. Situated on the peninsula between the Atlantic Ocean and San Juan Bay, the area is bordered by ancient walls that once defended against invaders. You’ll find stunning churches, waterfront promenades, lush gardens, and lively plazas alongside a vibrant modern scene filled with galleries, theaters, bars, and restaurants.

El Morro, the historic fort, is a stunning site often filled with families flying their colorful kites on breezy days. For a splash of color, wander the cobblestone streets of the charming downtown, where local farmers’ markets mingle with pastel-colored buildings. You might also visit the end of Cristo Street and drop by the Parque de Las Palomas to feed hundreds of pigeons. For a taste of local cuisine, stop at Barrachina for dishes like seafood mofongo or ceviche served with crispy tostones and rice. This restaurant is also known as the birthplace of the Piña Colada, so be sure to enjoy a refreshing cocktail with your meal. For a great outdoor drinking experience, visit Al Fresco, a rooftop wine bar with amazing views and delicious cocktails. If you're looking for more dining suggestions, consider Mario Pagan Restaurant for a romantic setting or Tacos & Tequila for great bites with a view. For additional dining inspiration and reservations, check out OpenTable.

For a lively nightlife scene, head to La Factoria. This renowned dance club and music venue features live salsa on Monday nights and serves innovative cocktails like the lavender mule or Lion’s Tale. Recognized as one of the Top 50 bars in the world, it attracts artists and musicians alike. It’s also the filming location for a popular music video featuring a catchy Spanish dance hit.

New San Juan

The New San Juan area perfectly blends vibrant city life with a tropical beach paradise. It consists of around six unique neighborhoods, each offering its own distinct vibe.

Condado

This neighborhood is the top vacation hotspot for tourists in New San Juan. The cosmopolitan area boasts trendy dining, lively nightlife, and luxurious beachfront lodgings. High-end boutiques line the streets leading to the stunning Condado Beach. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Condado Lagoon, you’ll find the Window of the Sea Park (Ventana al Mar), where visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean amid tranquil surroundings. Avenida Ashford, one of Condado's main streets, exudes Miami Beach vibes with its modern luxury residences and vibrant nightlife. For cocktails with a view, visit Oceano—this beachfront mansion is the ideal spot for a night out.

Ocean Park

With a laid-back vibe, Ocean Park in San Juan offers more budget-friendly beachfront accommodations compared to other areas. It’s the perfect place to enjoy water sports like kiteboarding and surfing. Visit 15 Knots for lessons and rentals. Ocean Park features numerous boutique hotels and guest houses just steps away from the beach. For more excitement, head to Calle Loiza, where you can stop by OM Studio for a blowout and shop at Tereques La Tiendita. After a day on the sand, refresh yourself with a signature drink from Cocobanana, a blend of coconut milk, brown sugar, bananas, and toasted almonds. In the evening, enjoy a creative pizza at LOIZA 2050, featuring crusts made from coconut and pumpkin alongside traditional toppings.

Miramar

Miramar is an upscale residential area known for housing the island’s renowned, high-tech Convention Center. The neighborhood boasts two marinas and is linked to Old San Juan by a scenic bayside promenade. Art enthusiasts can visit Casa Aboy, a historic home transformed into a photography gallery. Catch a film at Caribbean Cinemas, where you can enjoy new releases, art films, and live performances of ballet and opera. If you’re out late and craving delicious arroz, Los Pinos is open 24/7.

Isla Verde

Isla Verde is San Juan's beach district, renowned for its stunning shores and opulent hotels. If you're on the lookout for all-inclusive hotel deals, this is the place to be. Just east of the main beach lies Pine Grove Beach, a local favorite. For those seeking surf, head further east to discover where the waves start to roll in. Immerse yourself in culture at the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico, showcasing artwork spanning from the 17th century to modern times.

Hato Rey

Hato Rey primarily comprises the city's financial district, characterized by towering skyscrapers, a federal complex, and numerous business and banking offices. The area is highlighted by the Puerto Rico Coliseum, a venue that has welcomed prominent figures in music, comedy, and dance.

Rio Piedras

Rio Piedras features the stunning University of Puerto Rico and the iconic Roosevelt Bell Tower, honoring Theodore Roosevelt for his generous contributions to the school’s construction. You can also explore the verdant UPR Botanical Gardens. Don’t miss the Rio Piedras Marketplace, where you can find fresh, locally grown produce alongside charming shops and restaurants.

Things to Do

Experience a block party

La Placita de Santurce serves as the nightlife hub of San Juan. Set in a historic market plaza, it's the perfect spot to visit late at night for drinks, food, and an electrifying salsa party. Here, you can truly feel the pulse and spirit of Puerto Rican culture. And be sure to try a fresh mojito before you leave — you won’t find them as delicious back home.

Mytouring in the Bioluminescent Bay

Spend a morning or afternoon at a rum distillery

Rum reigns as the beloved spirit of the Caribbean, and Puerto Rico is home to a wealth of distilleries where you can delve into the history of rum, see how it's crafted, and sample delicious cocktails made on-site. Noteworthy distilleries include Casa Bacardi, Hacienda Santa Ana, and PitoRico, all of which are great spots to discover while visiting PR. While Don Q, Puerto Rico's most famous rum, doesn't have a public distillery, you can explore the Serrallés Castle Museum to learn about the sugar cane and rum history, followed by enjoying a refreshing Don Q cocktail when you return to your hotel.

Savor gourmet coffee

If rum isn't your preference, check out one of San Juan's gourmet coffee spots. A standout is Hacienda Pomarrosa, located atop a winding mountain road. Book a tour to discover how the coffee is cultivated and roasted while enjoying breathtaking views of the Puerto Rican countryside.

Explore the trails of El Yunque National Rainforest

Explore the extensive hiking trails in the northeastern region of Puerto Rico within the vibrant El Yunque Rainforest. Here, adventurers can swim beneath stunning waterfalls, admire the diverse wildlife, and ascend the Yokahu Observation Tower for breathtaking 360-degree views of the lush landscape. Thirsty after soaking in the scenery? Grab a freshly cracked coconut from a roadside stand — all you need is a straw.

Embark on a scenic road trip

La Ruta Panorámica Luis Muñoz Marín offers a remarkable journey that showcases the breathtaking views of rural Puerto Rico, featuring barbecue spots, waterfalls, and coffee plantations along the way.

Discover the 17th-century forts

Old San Juan is still protected by ancient stone walls and fortresses that shielded the city from assaults between the 16th and 19th centuries. Notable sites include the Castillo de San Felipe del Morro (El Morro) and the Castillo de San Cristóbal. The vistas overlooking the Atlantic are unmatched anywhere else on the island.

Discover the island’s caves

Cueva Ventana is easily accessible by car, followed by a short 15-minute hike to reach the cave entrance. The cave floors can be slick, so make sure to wear shoes with good traction. Don’t forget your water bottles! Admission now includes flashlights, but arrive early — the final tour departs at 2 PM.

Ole – custom hat shop

Create your own bespoke hat at this charming family-run hat boutique in Old San Juan. You can also find local artwork, shoes, and woven baskets available for purchase.

Dine at Perla

The unique shell design is surrounded by reflective surfaces and adorned with hand-blown glass lamps that illuminate the ceiling, located right next to La Concha hotel.

Top 10 Most Instagrammable Spots in San Juan

Set the Atmosphere

San Juan serves as the setting for some of the most alluring films in cinema history. Experience a preview of the city by watching these movies before your visit.

Feeling the San Juan vibe? Check out this playlist for your trip planning, leisurely strolls around the city, or getting pumped for a night out.

“Crafted in Puerto Rico” Spotify

This article was first published on February 1, 2019.