San Juan, Puerto Rico-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Old San Juan Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU)
  • Take a taxi or Uber to your hotel in Old San Juan ( approx. $20-30)

Afternoon

  • Check-in at Hotel El Convento (or similar) and freshen up
  • Visit La Fortaleza, the oldest fort in the New World (free admission)
  • Walk along Paseo de la Princesa, a scenic promenade with great views of the bay
  • Explore the colorful streets of Old San Juan, admiring the Spanish colonial architecture

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at La Bombonera, a local institution serving traditional Puerto Rican cuisine (approx. $20-30 per person)
  • Take a stroll along Calle de la Fortaleza, lined with shops, bars, and restaurants

Day 2: Beach Day and El Yunque National Forest

Morning

  • Spend the morning relaxing at Condado Beach, one of San Juan’s most popular beaches
  • Grab lunch at La Parroquia, a beachside eatery serving seafood and sandwiches (approx. $15-25 per person)

Afternoon

  • Visit El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System (free admission, but parking fees apply)
  • Hike to La Mina Falls, a scenic waterfall and swimming hole
  • Return to San Juan in the evening

Day 3: Cultural Experiences

Morning

  • Visit the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico (MAPR), featuring local art and exhibits (free admission)
  • Stop by the Teatro Tapia, a historic theater hosting cultural performances (free admission)

Afternoon

  • Take a guided tour of the Casa Blanca Museum, the oldest house in San Juan (approx. $10-15 per person)
  • Explore the San Juan Bautista Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture (free admission)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Marmalade Restaurant & Wine Bar, serving innovative, farm-to-table cuisine (approx. $30-50 per person)
  • Catch a live music or dance performance at La Placita de Santurce, a vibrant cultural hub

Day 4: Luquillo Beach and Bioluminescent Bay

Morning

  • Drive to Luquillo Beach (approx. 30-40 minutes), famous for its picturesque views and local food kiosks
  • Try some delicious alcapurrias (deep-fried meat or seafood fillings) at one of the many food stalls (approx. $5-10 per person)

Afternoon

  • Visit Mosquito Bay, a bioluminescent bay in Fajardo (approx. 1-hour drive)
  • Take a guided kayak tour to witness the magical glow of the bay’s microorganisms (approx. $60-80 per person)

Day 5: San Juan Neighborhoods

Morning

  • Explore Santurce, a trendy neighborhood filled with street art, cafes, and boutiques
  • Visit La Estación, a former train station turned cultural center (free admission)

Afternoon

  • Head to Ocean Park, a scenic beachside neighborhood with beautiful views
  • Stop by El Mercado de Santurce, a bustling marketplace selling local goods and souvenirs

Evening

  • Dine at Bodega Chic, a chic eatery serving modern Puerto Rican cuisine (approx. $25-40 per person)
  • Enjoy cocktails at La Cubanita, a stylish bar with live music (approx. $10-20 per person)

Day 6: Day Trip to Caguas

Morning

  • Drive to Caguas (approx. 30-40 minutes), known for its natural attractions
  • Visit the Jardín Botánico, a beautiful botanical garden featuring tropical plants and flowers (free admission)

Afternoon

  • Explore the Río Cañas, a scenic river with opportunities for kayaking or swimming
  • Return to San Juan in the evening

Day 7: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions
  • Check-out of your hotel and head to the airport (approx. $20-30 by taxi or Uber)

Tips and Essentials

  • Transportation: Rent a car for Day 4 and 6, or use public transportation (T5 bus) and taxis/Uber for shorter trips.
  • Currency: US dollar is widely accepted in Puerto Rico.
  • Language: Spanish is the primary language, but many locals speak English.
  • Safety: Take normal precautions to ensure your safety, especially at night.
  • Weather: San Juan has a tropical savanna climate, with high temperatures and humidity year-round. Pack accordingly.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel El Convento: A historic hotel in the heart of Old San Juan, offering comfortable rooms and excellent service.
  • Airbnb: Consider staying in an apartment or house in a neighborhood like Santurce or Ocean Park for a more local experience.

Additional Resources

  • Discover Puerto Rico: The official tourism website, featuring travel guides, maps, and attractions.
  • San Juan Tourism: A comprehensive guide to San Juan’s neighborhoods, attractions, and activities.