San Juan

Puerto Rico, The Caribbean

San Juan is among the oldest European-founded cities in the Americas, blending deep historical roots with Caribbean life. Its compact size makes it easy to explore by foot or short rides, yet it offers a wide range of neighborhoods, fortresses, beaches, and cultural scenes. This guide walks you through what to expect, how to move around, and how to shape your time there.

History

San Juan was founded in 1521 by Spanish colonists, making it the second-oldest European-established capital in the Americas after Santo Domingo. Its location on the north coast of Puerto Rico made it a key military and trade outpost for the Spanish Empire. The construction of massive fortifications, like Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal, helped protect the city against invasions from rival powers.

For centuries, San Juan played a central role in Spain’s control over the Caribbean. Many of its fortresses, walls, and colonial buildings have survived and are now part of the San Juan National Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking through Old San Juan today still reflects much of that colonial past, alongside the city’s later evolution into Puerto Rico’s political, cultural, and economic hub.

Why Visit San Juan?

San Juan brings together different aspects of Puerto Rico in one place. History is visible in its forts and pastel-colored streets, while the beaches are close enough to reach on foot or by a short drive. The city also acts as a cultural center, with neighborhoods like Santurce offering murals, galleries, and live music. For those looking for variety, San Juan is also a good base for exploring nearby natural areas, from tropical rainforests to smaller islands.

In short, it’s a destination where you can walk through 16th-century streets in the morning, relax at the beach in the afternoon, and explore modern nightlife in the evening.

Getting Around San Juan

On Foot: Old San Juan is very walkable, with most main attractions located within a few blocks of each other. Comfortable shoes are essential because of uneven cobblestones.
Public Transport: Buses operate in the metro area, but routes and schedules can be limited. They work better for residents than visitors.
Rideshare & Taxis: Uber operates in San Juan and is often the easiest way to move between neighborhoods like Condado, Miramar, and Santurce. Taxis are also available but less common outside busy spots.
Car Rental: Renting a car is useful if you plan day trips outside San Juan (like El Yunque or beaches farther east). Within Old San Juan, parking can be difficult.

When to Visit & Weather

Like much of Puerto Rico, San Juan has a tropical climate. Expect warm temperatures year-round with frequent rain showers in summer months. Hurricane season runs June through November. Shoulder seasons (spring and early fall) may offer fewer crowds and milder rain risk.

What to Pack

Comfortable walking shoes (cobblestones in Old San Juan can be uneven)
Lightweight, breathable clothing
Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
Rain cover or compact umbrella
Swimsuit and towel for beach or rainforest visits

Must-see Attractions & Things to do in San Juan

Wondering what to wear or when to go? Check our Puerto Rico travel guide to discover more!

Check Puerto Rico Travel Guide

Are you ready to start discovering San Juan?

If you prefer organized experiences, tours can be a good way to explore San Juan and beyond without handling logistics. This is the list of our recommended tours

Are you ready to start discovering San Juan?

If you prefer organized experiences, tours can be a good way to explore San Juan and beyond without handling logistics. This is the list of our recommended tours