San Juan Puerto Rico 4 Day Itinerary

July 18, 2024

San Juan, Puerto Rico 4-Day Itinerary

Morning: Start your day at Café con Arte, a charming café in the heart of Old San Juan, serving delicious coffee and pastries.
9:00 AM: Visit La Fortaleza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest fort in the New World. Take a guided tour to learn about its rich history.
11:00 AM: Explore the colorful streets of Old San Juan, admiring the Spanish colonial architecture and visiting famous landmarks like La Casa Blanca and Plaza de Armas.
Lunch: Head to El Jibarito, a local institution serving traditional Puerto Rican cuisine, including their famous mofongo.
Afternoon: Visit the San Juan Cathedral, a beautiful Gothic-style church that dates back to 1521.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Marmalade Restaurant & Wine Bar, offering creative, farm-to-table cuisine.

Morning: Spend the morning relaxing on Condado Beach, a picturesque beach with calm waters perfect for swimming.
11:00 AM: Head to El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System. Take a hike to La Mina Falls or explore the forest’s many scenic trails.
Lunch: Grab a bite at La Estación, a food truck park with a variety of options, including vegan and gluten-free choices.
Afternoon: Visit Luquillo Beach, famous for its picturesque views and delicious food kiosks. Try some local cuisine like alcapurrias or empanadas.
Evening: Return to Old San Juan and enjoy cocktails at La Placita de Santurce, a trendy outdoor bar with live music.

Morning: Visit Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a 16th-century fort that offers stunning views of the city.
12:00 PM: Head to La Parroquia, a popular spot for lunch, offering traditional Puerto Rican dishes like arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas).
Afternoon: Explore the trendy neighborhood of Santurce, known for its street art and vibrant atmosphere. Visit Calle Cerra, a colorful street filled with murals and local shops.
Evening: Experience San Juan’s nightlife in La Placita de Santurce, where you’ll find live music, bars, and clubs.

Morning: Spend the morning relaxing on Escambrón Beach, a scenic beach with clear waters perfect for swimming.
11:00 AM: Take a guided tour to Mosquito Bay (also known as Vieques Biobay), a bioluminescent bay where you can kayak or swim in the glowing waters.
Lunch: Enjoy seafood at El Faro, a beachfront restaurant with stunning views.
Afternoon: Return to Old San Juan and visit Galeries Plaza, a shopping center with local boutiques and art galleries.

Accommodations

Hotel El Convento: A historic hotel in the heart of Old San Juan, offering luxurious rooms and a rooftop pool.
Airbnb: Consider staying in a charming apartment or house in Old San Juan or Santurce, for a more local experience.

Rental Car: Rent a car to explore the island at your own pace. Companies like Avis and Hertz have locations at the airport.
Public Transportation: Use buses ( AMA ) or taxis to get around San Juan. You can also walk or bike in Old San Juan.

Language: While many locals speak English, learning some basic Spanish phrases will enhance your experience.
Currency: The US dollar is the official currency in Puerto Rico.
Safety: Take normal precautions to stay safe, such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping valuables secure.
Hurricane Season: San Juan is prone to hurricanes from June to November. Check weather forecasts before traveling.

Snorkeling or Scuba Diving: Explore Puerto Rico’s beautiful coral reefs and marine life with companies like Sea Ventures.
Food Tours: Take a guided tour to sample local cuisine and learn about the island’s culinary history.
Surfing or Paddleboarding: Rent equipment and take lessons from companies like Puerto Rico Surf School.