San Juan | Keytours Vacations

Discover San Juan's Wonders

San Juan, Puerto Rico, seamlessly blends rich colonial heritage with vibrant contemporary culture. As the bustling capital city, it is steeped in history with stunning Spanish colonial architecture and historic fortifications like El Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal, standing guard over the coast. The city's colorful streets in Old San Juan offer an enchanting walk through pastel-colored buildings and cobblestone roads, leading to bustling plazas, charming cafes, and local artisan shops. Beyond the historic core, San Juan pulses with a lively urban energy, featuring trendy restaurants, chic boutiques, and a dynamic nightlife scene. The beaches of Condado and Isla Verde beckon with golden sands and crystal-clear waters, making San Juan a compelling mix of the old and new, where every corner offers a taste of its broad cultural palette.

Current Weather

90.81 °F - Rain Min/Max: 89.38 °F / 93.49 °FFeels: 103.41 °F Humidity: 68%5 Day Forecast

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Description

San Juan is a bustling metropolis that has evolved from its nearly 500 year-old colonial roots to become one of the most important cities in the Americas. Spanish colonists, who called it Ciudad Puerto Rico (or “Rich Port City”), founded the 77 square-mile city in 1521. The city is divided into neighborhoods such as Old San Juan, Puerta de Tierra, Miramar, Santurce and Río Piedras, where most of the cultural attractions are concentrated. The Condado and Ocean Park neighborhoods are ideal destinations for beach lovers, who can enjoy their spectacular turquoise-blue waters and white, sandy shores. The two neighborhoods are also known for their world-class hotels and late-night entertainment. At the heart of the city is Old San Juan, a magnificent 47 square-mile islet that is connected to the rest of the town via two bridges. The walled city is host to Spanish-era architectural sites, such as La Fortaleza, the oldest executive mansion in continuous use in the Americas. In the area, you will also find residential neighborhoods, historic forts like San Felipe del Morro and Fuerte San Cristóbal, and inviting public plazas. Tours of the historic sites are available all day, every day, and offered in both Spanish and English. Visitors who don’t just come in search of history are often attracted by the bustling nightlife and shopping. It is said that the arrival of some of the world’s most fashionable designers – Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Salvatore Ferragamo –has transformed Ashford Avenue (in the Condado district) into a mini replica of Miami’s South Beach. And speaking of shopping, San Juan is also home to the Caribbean’s largest shopping center, Plaza Las Américas.

Useful information

Population:

San Juan: 335,468 (2019) Puerto Rico: 3.194 million (2019)

Currency:

US Dollar, $ 1 = 100 cents

Emergency Info:

911

Opening Hours:

Most businesses are open Monday through Saturday from 9am to 9pm and 11am to 5pm on Sundays. Restaurants, stores and entertainment venues in San Juan’s tourist districts are allowed to operate 24 hours a day.

Do & See

Arecibo Observatory

The Arecibo Observatory was the world's largest radar radio telescope for over 60 years, until in 2016 a larger one was constructed in China. It was operated by the National Astronomy and Ionosphere Center of Cornell University for many years, and today makes for a great visit for science enthusiasts.

Balneario de Carolina

Carolina Beach is the perfect beach for a family vacation, where both tourists and locals can spend a marvellous day. In the summer months it is especially popular among locals. Restrooms and shower facilities are provided here. Also a small water park can be found off the 2nd parking lot.

Capilla del Cristo

This small chapel is the embodiment of a centuries-old urban legend. It is said that the cliff-side abbey was built after an unknown horse rider galloped up the Old San Juan street and fell off the edge. It has been restored several times but still proudly shows signs of its age.

Casa Bacardí

The Bacardí family built a small rum distillery here in the 1950s. Today it's the world's largest, capable of producing more than 20 million cases a year. A basic tour of the visitor center includes one free drink, or you can opt for a mixology class or rum tasting.

Casa Blanca Museum

This mansion, built in 1521, was designed to protect governor Ponce de León, who, ironically, never lived there. The Spanish militia seized the house in 1779. Almost 100 years later, the U.S. military took it over and kept it until 1966, after which it was transformed into a museum.

La Fortaleza

This magnificent mansion is the home and office of the governor of Puerto Rico and the governor's family. It has been in continuous use since it was built in 1540. The structure is also known as the Palacio de Santa Catalina (Saint Catalina’s Palace) as it integrates a chapel in keeping with the highly Catholic culture.

Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico

The Puerto Rico Museum of Art, which boasts more than ten exhibit halls, includes permanent collections and a compilation of Puerto Rican art from the 17th century to the present. There is also a lovely garden with a pond where you can relax and engage in some people-watching.

Museo de las Americas

The museum, which was built in 1992, hosts permanent exhibits exploring New World art and its African heritage, as well as indigenous and archaeological artifacts. It also hosts exhibits by local artists, creative workshops and other events for the community.

Dining

311 (Trois Cent Onze)

This elegant French restaurant in the heart of Old San Juan offers authentic French cuisine complimented by an excellent wine selection. The dishes are refined, delicate and full of flavor, and include vegan and vegetarian options and a selection of fine desserts.

Carli's Fine Bistro & Piano

Carli's Fine Bistro & Piano is a place with an atmosphere built around music. The bistro is owned by Carli, a musician who makes sure that whether you spend your time indoors or outdoors, your dining experience will be high-quality. From the menu you can find tasty dishes like Caribbean tapas, pasta dishes, fish and steak.

El Hamburger

If you’re in the mood for a big, juicy burger, stay away from the fast-food restaurants, and hit this place instead. El Hamburger offers fast service, a great open-air atmosphere and even better prices. Try different types of cheese on your paddy, including Swiss, American or blue, and be sure to add bacon.

El Jibarito

The menus are handwritten and the tables wobble, but sanjuaneros have favored this casual, no-frills, family-run restaurant – tucked away on a quiet cobbled street – for years. The bistec encebollado, goat fricassee, and shredded beef stew are among the specialties on the menu of typical Puerto Rican comida criolla dishes. The tiny back porch is filled with plants, and the dining room is filled with fanciful depictions of life on the street outside.

El Patio De Sam

A great selection of more than 30 beers, including the locally brewed Medalla, makes this a popular "come as you are" spot, whether at the end of the workweek or after a long day of sightseeing. The menu consists mostly of American and Puerto Rican fare.

Istanbul Restaurant

As the name indicates, this is a Turkish restaurant serving mouth-watering dishes like mixed grill, shish kebab, Anatolian casserole and other yummy delicacies. The food is always freshly made and the staff are attentive and friendly.

La Cucina di Ivo

A pretty courtyard just steps from the cathedral has been transformed into this traditional trattoria. The kitchen turns out specialities of the chef´s native city of Milan. The menu offers mouth-watering Italian dishes like risotto, pasta, meat and fish dishes.

La Mallorquina

This eatery was established in 1848, which makes it the oldest still-functioning restaurant in “the New World”. The house specialty is the “asopao,” a thick, savory, rice-based Puerto Rican soup that is cooked either with chicken or seafood. A must try for those who would like to experience something new.

Cafes

Cafe Cuatro Sombras

Cafe Cuatro Sobras has excellent coffee, there’s no doubt about that. The coffee beans they use are 100% arabica, straight from the mountains of Yauco. Apart from the great coffee, the service is also friendly and efficient so stop by and have a great time while sipping on your favorite coffee.

Cafe Manolín Old San Juan

Café Manolín is a 60-year-old institution in the district of Old San Juan. The cafe offers a complete menu of moderately-priced breakfast staples and lunch specialties. Ordering dessert and freshly brewed coffee in typical Puerto Rican fashion is an absolute must.

Cafeteria Mallorca

This old-fashioned diner offers its guests the special Mallorca, which is a sweet pastry that's buttered, grilled, and then sprinkled with powdered sugar. If you are not up for sweets now, stop by for breakfast and have a lovely time with your friends and family.

St. Germain Bistro & Cafe

The interior of this cafe is inviting, and customers will certainly experience its feel-good ambiance when sitting inside, sipping on a cup of hot chocolate. Stop by and make your stay a whole experience by trying out some of the nicest coffees on the menu.

Bars & Nightlife

Club Brava

Club Brava is a place where you can start your evening off in an energetic fashion, dancing until your feet hurt. Once you've reached the stage where you need to catch your breath and get some refreshments, then you can head upstairs to the Ultra Lounge.

Club Kronos

One of the most popular clubs in San Juan, Club Kronos has a lot to offer. Are you planning on going out this weekend? On Fridays and Saturdays, this place awaits you with different themed nights. Salsa, hip hop, reggaeton, and even electronic music are all among their repertoire.

El Batey

Cool, crusty and unashamedly divey, El Batey is a cavernous drinking joint whose walls are covered in graffiti, and the low-key lighting and undeniably good vibes will have you groping in your pockets for spare change to light up the suitably retro jukebox.

La Factoría

The "La Factoría" describes itself as a Craft Cocktail Bar with great music in Old San Juan. You will find DJs, acoustic guitar players, sing-a-long sets, amazing cocktails and tapas for when you need a bite to eat to keep you going. It is one of the city's premier local music performance venues.

La Taberna Lúpulo

This beautiful old corner bar has been updated with Puerto Rico's best selection of microbrews. The line-up on the 30 taps is ever-changing and includes some of America's best and most unusual brews. La Taberna Lúpulo is the place to go for beer-lovers.

Los 3 Cuernos

The draw at Los 3 Cuernos is the flavored chichaítos, an inexpensive Puerto Rican favorite of rum and anise liquor. It’s tasty, sweet, and decidedly strong, and you have a choice of 25 flavors, including passion fruit, coconut, and ginger.

Shopping

Abitto

Located in the heart of Condado's fashion district, Abitto offers world-renowned couture for both men and women. Fashion brands such as John Galliano, Versace, Alexander McQueen, YS can be found here. Abitto also provides beautiful accessories like bags, wallets, shoes and belts.

Galeria Exodo

This beautiful gallery features pieces created by some of Puerto Rico's best contemporary artists, including, among many others, Emanuel Torres. Galeria Exodo offers accessible, original and affordable works of art for everyone, making them a great souvenir.

Ole Curiosidades

Ole Curiosidades is a beloved old-school hat shop with a wonderful and varied selection of custom-fit creations and truly authentic Panama hats. The friendly staff will be happy to help you to pick out the shape, color and right hatband for you to get.

Plaza Carolina

Plaza Carolina houses American standards such as JC Penney, Best Buy, Forever 21 and Sears among its 240 shops. Plaza Carolina is the second biggest shopping center in Puerto Rico, so will be sure to find what you are looking for. There are many dining options to choose from, as well.

Plaza Las Americas

Excellent shopping and great deals can be found in any one of the 300 stores inside Plaza Las Américas, the Caribbean’s largest mall. The sprawling 2.1 million-square-foot shopping center will definitely take more than one day to explore. Aéropostale, Gap, A/X Armani Exchange, Chico’s, Tous and Tommy Hilfiger are some of the shops that more than 26 million visitors hit every year.

Spicy Caribbee

Spicy Caribbee opened its doors in June 1988 and has since established itself in firmly in the city. It is a charming little spice shop with a friendly and helpful staff. Besides spices, you will also find tropical jams, tea, chocolate, Puerto Rican coffee and fragrances.

The Cigar House

Situated in the historic district of Old San Juan, The Cigar House features the largest and most varied selection of cigars in the entire Caribbean. The shop offers a great variety of cigars and a comfy lounge with a full bar in which to enjoy your purchases.

The Mall of San Juan

This state-of-the-art, two-level mall features shops like Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue. Besides shopping, there are exquisite dining and entertainment options as well as a children's play area. Other stores you will find here include: Victoria's Secret, Tory Burch, Versace, H&M, lululemon athletica, Louis Vuitton, LUSH, Jimmy Choo, Pandora, Zara, Pottery Barn, and more.

Tourist Information

Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport

San Juan is mainly served by the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, which is located about three miles (five kilometers) southeast of San Juan. Upon arriving, visitors are offered several ways of getting to the city: Shuttles are provided by most large hotels, as well as by private companies, and taxis and car rental companies can be found at all terminals. The local AMA buses run from the airport to the city, departing from the departures level at terminals A and D.

Public Transport

Getting around in San Juan is an adventure, especially since drivers can be quite aggressive and tend to drive fast. Distance is measured both in miles and kilometers. For the most part, getting around San Juan is rather easy, provided that the traffic is light. There are peak times, especially in the morning and early afternoon when traffic jams are the norm. Autoridad Metropolitana de Autobuses: There is a public bus system in place, which is quite affordable. The bus system operates 30 routes along the San Juan area and several other municipalities. Unfortunately, the buses are not always on time so you need to have plenty of time to use them. Buses run from 4:30am to 10pm, Monday to Friday and from 5:30am to 10pm on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.

Taxi

At the airport, visitors are greeted by a fleet of white tourist cabs, which offer fixed fares on specific routes. There are metered taxis available outside the established zones, with standard fees that vary according to distance, number of passengers, number of pieces of luggage and the duration of the trip. Puerto Rico Tourist Taxi +1 787 969 3260 www.cabspr.com Astro Taxi +1 787 727 8888 AA American Taxi, Inc. +1 787 982 3466 Cooperativa de Servicio Capetillo Taxi +1 787 758 7000 / +1 787 758 7004 Cooperativa Rochdale Radio Taxi +1 787 721 1900

Electricity

120V AC, 60Hz

Pharmacy

The good thing about being in the San Juan area is that there will always be a pharmacy that is open 24 hours, and normally very conveniently-located. Drugstores such as Walgreens sell over-the-counter medication and will usually dispatch prescription drugs rather quickly. Urgent medical and dental care are also available at several area hospitals and clinics, including the Ashford Presbyterian Hospital in the Condado area, and smaller neighborhood treatment facilities.

Post Office

Puerto Rico uses the U.S. Postal Service, which operates numerous branches throughout the San Juan area. Stamps are available at pharmacies and retailers in the tourist district. Post Office business hours are normally Monday through Friday from 8am to 4pm and – depending on the location – on Saturdays from 8am to 12pm.

Telephone

Country code: +1 Area code: 787

Time Zone

San Juan is in the Atlantic time zone, and all times are reflected in Atlantic time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit San Juan, Puerto Rico?

The best time to visit San Juan, Puerto Rico, is from mid-April to June. During this period, the weather is pleasantly warm, and the city is less crowded compared to the peak winter season. Additionally, hotel rates tend to be more affordable, and you can enjoy the vibrant local festivals and events that occur during these months.

How many days should I spend in San Juan to see the main attractions?

A 3 to 4-day stay in San Juan is ideal to explore the main attractions. This timeframe allows you to visit Old San Juan's historic sites, such as El Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal, enjoy the beaches, and experience the local cuisine and nightlife. If you have more time, consider day trips to nearby attractions like El Yunque National Forest or the bioluminescent bay in Fajardo.

What are the must-see attractions in San Juan, Puerto Rico?

San Juan boasts a variety of must-see attractions, including: - Old San Juan: Explore the colorful colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. - El Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal: Historic forts with stunning ocean views. - La Fortaleza: The governor's mansion and a UNESCO World Heritage site. - Condado Beach: A popular spot for sunbathing and water sports. - Santurce: Known for its vibrant street art and cultural scene.

What is the best way to get around San Juan, Puerto Rico?

The best way to get around San Juan is by using a combination of walking, public transportation, and rideshares. Old San Juan is very walkable, with most attractions within easy reach. For longer distances, the local bus system, known as 'AMA,' and rideshare services like Uber are convenient and affordable options. Renting a car is not necessary unless you plan to explore areas outside the city.

What traditional foods should I try in San Juan, Puerto Rico?

While in San Juan, be sure to try traditional Puerto Rican dishes such as: - Mofongo: Mashed plantains mixed with garlic and pork cracklings. - Lechón Asado: Slow-roasted pork, often served with rice and beans. - Arroz con Gandules: Rice with pigeon peas, a staple side dish. - Tostones: Twice-fried plantain slices, perfect as a snack or side. - Piña Colada: A refreshing cocktail made with rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice.

Are there any cultural events or festivals in San Juan that I should attend?

San Juan hosts several vibrant cultural events and festivals throughout the year. One of the most famous is the San Sebastián Street Festival, held in January, featuring live music, parades, and local artisans. Other notable events include the Casals Festival, a classical music festival in February, and the Puerto Rico Heineken JazzFest in March, showcasing international jazz artists.

What are some safety tips for travelers visiting San Juan, Puerto Rico?

San Juan is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to take standard precautions. Avoid displaying valuables, especially in crowded areas. Stick to well-lit streets at night, and be cautious in less touristy neighborhoods. Use reputable transportation options, and keep an eye on your belongings at the beach. Always stay informed about local advisories and follow any guidance from authorities.

Trips

San Juan Pre or Post Cruise

Puerto Rico and Isla Verde Water Escapade

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