The Puerto Rican capital of San Juan seamlessly weaves together the historic and the modern, with streets first cobbled in the era of Cervantes and neighborhoods that hum with contemporary life.
Bursting with charm, Old San Juan’s confection of rainbow-colored buildings unfurls to a dramatic palm-fringed coastline where monumental fortresses stand sentry. The diverse blocks enclosed within the 3-mile-long (5km) city walls overflow with bold street art and farm-to-table restaurants that celebrate Puerto Rico’s rich cultural heritage.
Channeling an “all-things local” philosophy, San Juan’s emerging entrepreneurs and trendsetters are riding a wave of creativity. Across the city, bars and clubs rock to the sound of salsa, reggaeton, and Latin trap as mixologists craft innovative cocktails from fresh local produce. Exploring the city’s prized landmarks is just the beginning. Many of San Juan’s signature experiences involve simply falling into the daily rituals of the city’s distinctive neighborhoods. Here’s our list of the top things to do in San Juan.
Trace 500 Years of San Juan History
In recent years, San Juan has been in the throes of a renaissance. Following the devastation of Hurricane María in 2017, the city’s palpable spirit of resilience and recovery reached a dazzling crescendo in 2022 when San Juan celebrated its 500th anniversary. The Museo de San Juan offers exhibits and art that trace the island’s history from the Caparra ruins to modern-day neighborhoods.
The outstanding Museo de las Américas stands as a testament to the historical importance of the second-oldest European settlement in the New World. Evocatively housed in former military barracks, the museum’s well-curated displays chronicle the island’s rich African heritage, indigenous culture, and tumultuous colonial period in thought-provoking ways.
Tour Old San Juan’s Impressive Architecture
Small but perfectly formed, Old San Juan is a historical repository of beautifully preserved colonnaded buildings, historic plazas, and streets cobbled with ballast from Spanish galleons. Walls from the 16th century enclose a seven-by-seven grid of streets that brim with flower-filled patios, eclectic boutiques, contemporary art galleries, and engaging spaces.
Two strategically positioned fortresses—built by the Spanish to thwart buccaneering Brits and Danes—guard the bay like giant sandcastles. A surfeit of architectural showpieces includes the venerable Gothic-style Catedral de San Juan Bautista, built in 1540, and the palatial fort of La Fortaleza, the eye-catching official residence of Puerto Rico’s governor.
Explore the Iconic Fort at El Morro
Built over the span of two centuries to repel Puerto Rico’s seaborne aggressors, El Morro—San Juan’s crown jewel—kept the Spanish flag flying over the city for almost 400 years until American troops arrived in 1898.
Majestically rising above the northwestern point of the Old San Juan peninsula, this 16th-century site became a national monument in 1961. El Morro towers 140ft (43m) above the Atlantic Ocean and forms a fascinating labyrinth of dungeons, vaults, barracks, turrets, lookouts, and secret passageways. These fortifications came close to bankrupting the Spanish crown, which funded their construction.
Drink Cocktails and Dance Salsa at La Factoría
One of San Juan’s must-visit cocktail bars, La Factoría rejuvenated the city’s bar scene when it opened in 2013. Now, La Factoría is an international phenomenon, thanks in no small part to being the music-video location for the iconic reggaeton hit “Despacito.” Graffiti-etched passageways link to a chic lounge, a sultry wine bar, and a salsa dance floor.
The common theme is terrific music and virtuosic mixology. A house favorite is the Lavender Mule, a potent combination of house-made ginger beer and lavender-infused syrup.
Shop and Dine Local Along Arty Calle Loíza
Dubbed the “Avenue of the Arts,” Calle Loíza overflows with stylish cafes, eclectic restaurants, and concept stores that channel Puerto Rico’s #apoyololocal (shop local) movement.
The collaborative zeal and resilience of Loíza’s female entrepreneurs have defined the island’s recovery post-Hurricane María. Here, you can peruse the ocean-inspired dresses of local designers, savor robust cortadito coffee made with locally produced beans, and rejuvenate with tropical-fruit smoothies.
Eat at Santaella, One of Puerto Rico’s Best Restaurants
A stone’s throw from La Placita de Santurce, José Santaella’s restaurant is a trend-driven venue to experience contemporary Puerto Rican cuisine. Located inside a former hardware store, the spot features an industrial décor contrasting with flamboyant tropical murals and Caribbean dishes that fuse authentic local flavors and international cooking styles.
From the menu, try the succulent jumbo shrimp drizzled with garlic cream sauce or the sashimi-grade ahi tuna skewers, perfectly spiced. The signature trifongo adds yucca and sweet plantains to the traditional mofongo recipe, making it a must-try.
Party the Night Away in Santurce
The revitalized neighborhood of Santurce bursts with color and creativity; the hub of this rapidly gentrifying barrio is La Placita, a historic farmers market by day and a vibrant outdoor party by night.
In the evening, groups of friends spill out onto the streets, and families gather at the many bars and restaurants surrounding the square. As the night progresses, everything kicks up a notch, as musicians take to the makeshift stage with spirited salsa dancing.
Surf and Snorkel at San Juan’s Best Beach, Balneario Escambrón
Surfers are drawn to San Juan’s consistent swells and laid-back vibe. The local favorite, Balneario Escambrón, combines dramatic scenery with family-friendly recreation. Beautiful palm-shaded sands are protected by a coral reef, providing rewarding snorkeling opportunities.
Take a Casa Bacardí Rum Tour
A short ferry and taxi ride from Old San Juan is Casa Bacardí, the rum giant’s flagship factory and spiritual home since the Bacardi family fled from Cuba to Puerto Rico in 1936. The distillery produces a staggering volume of rum each day. The Bacardi Visitor Center is a must-see, housing an interactive history of both the company and rum.
Sample Locally Grown Coffee at Hacienda Pomarrosa
Head out of bustling San Juan to experience Puerto Rico’s dramatic topography. Hacienda Pomarrosa is a family-run specialty coffee farm operating daily tours within peaceful, panoramic surroundings. The tours explore the history of coffee and offer tastings.
