Puerto Rico 4 Day Itinerary

Puerto Rico 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: San Juan Exploration

  • Morning: Start your day at Old San Juan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk along the colorful streets, visit La Fortaleza (a 16th-century fort), and explore the San Juan Cathedral.
  • Afternoon: Head to El Morro, a 16th-century fort with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Don’t miss the nearby La Bombonera, a famous pastry shop.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in La Placita de Santurce, a vibrant neighborhood with a mix of art, culture, and cuisine.

Day 2: Nature Escapes

  • Morning: Visit El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System. Hike to La Mina Falls or explore the El Portal Visitor Center.
  • Afternoon: Head to Luquillo Beach, a picturesque beach with crystal-clear waters and a variety of food kiosks serving local cuisine.
  • Evening: Return to San Juan and enjoy the city’s nightlife, perhaps starting at La Cubanita, a popular spot for cocktails and live music.

Day 3: Coastal Adventures

  • Morning: Drive to Fajardo (about an hour east of San Juan) and take a ferry to Vieques Island. Visit Media Luna Beach, known for its picturesque sunsets.
  • Afternoon: Explore Mosquito Bay, also known as Bioluminescent Bay, where you can kayak or take a guided tour to see the bay’s glowing waters.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of Vieques’ many restaurants, such as El Quenepo.

Day 4: Culture and History

  • Morning: Visit the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico, which features a collection of Puerto Rican art from the 17th century to the present.
  • Afternoon: Head to Ponce, a city on the southern coast known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Visit the Ponce Art Museum and explore the historic center.
  • Evening: Return to San Juan and enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the city’s many excellent restaurants.

Things to Know:

  • Puerto Rico is a US territory, so US citizens do not need a passport or visa to visit.
  • The official languages are Spanish and English, but you may encounter some Spanish-only speakers outside of tourist areas.
  • The local currency is the US dollar.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in San Juan’s Old Town, where pickpocketing can occur.

Transportation:

  • Rent a Car: This is the best way to explore the island, with many rental companies available at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU).
  • Public Transportation: The T5 bus system connects San Juan to other cities and towns.
  • Taxis: Available at airports and in tourist areas.

Other Tips:

  • Be prepared for variable weather, including rain showers and high humidity.
  • Try some of the local cuisine, such as mofongo, arroz con gandules, or empanadas.
  • Respect the island’s natural environment and wildlife.
  • Don’t forget to try some of the excellent rum and coffee products!