Planning one week in Puerto Rico? This 7-day itinerary takes you from vibrant city streets to lush rainforests, coastal hideaways, and cultural gems across the Island. Whether it’s your first trip or a return visit, you’ll experience the best of Puerto Rico—flavors, sights, and adventures included.
Tip: For exploring beyond San Juan, renting a car is highly recommended. Be sure to call ahead for reservations and opening hours at popular spots.
When to Go and What to Pack for a Week on the Island
The ideal time for a 7-day Puerto Rico itinerary is between December and April, when the weather is warm and dry. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting in May or November, though the weather remains fantastic year-round. Hurricane season, from June to November, is best avoided for a more relaxing trip.
When it comes to packing, bring light, breathable clothing for daytime exploration and a swimsuit for beach time or water activities. Comfortable shoes are a must for walking through historic streets or hiking nature trails, while sunscreen and sunglasses will protect you from the sun. Don’t forget bug repellent for rainforest adventures, and a light jacket or sweater will be handy for cooler evenings, especially in the mountains.
Old San Juan is a mandatory stop for all visitors.
Day 1 & 2: Explore Old San Juan
Your 7-day Puerto Rico itinerary kicks off with a deep dive into the heart of Puerto Rican culture—Old San Juan. From colorful streets and historic landmarks to vibrant nightlife, this area offers a blend of history, art, and local flavor, making it an essential stop for any Puerto Rico adventure.
Must-See Sights in Old San Juan
Old San Juan is a must-visit on your Puerto Rico 7 day itinerary. Start with the iconic Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a 500-year-old Spanish fort offering panoramic views of the coastline. Wander through El Cuartel de Ballajá and visit the Museo de Las Américas to learn about Puerto Rico’s rich history. Don’t miss the Gate of San Juan and La Rogativa, perfect for photo ops.
Dining in San Juan
Indulge in the flavors of Puerto Rico with a delicious meal. Barrachina, known for its legendary piña colada, is a great choice for traditional Puerto Rican fare. For a twist on local favorites, check out Chocobar or Pirilo for chocolate-infused dishes or artisan pizzas, respectively. For a casual bite, visit El Jibarito or Café Manolín, where you’ll find hearty meals reflecting the island's culinary traditions.
Sip rum or take a mixology class at Casa BACARDÍ.
Rum Tasting at Casa BACARDÍ
Finish your cultural immersion with a visit to Casa BACARDÍ in Cataño. Take a rum tasting tour, or sign up for a mixology class and learn how to craft the perfect cocktail. You can even personalize a bottle of BACARDÍ as a unique souvenir from your Puerto Rico trip.
San Juan’s Nightlife
After a day of exploring, dive into the nightlife scene. Head to La Placita de Santurce, a bustling marketplace by day and lively social hub by night. For clubbing, check out Fifty-Eight or the San Juan Marriott’s lobby bar for live music and dancing.
Day 3: Visit El Yunque Rainforest
A visit to El Yunque National Forest is a must on any Puerto Rico itinerary. Just under an hour from San Juan, this lush rainforest is home to scenic trails, waterfalls, and panoramic views you won’t find anywhere else in the U.S.
What to See
Begin at the El Portal Visitor Center, where you can gather maps and information about the forest's biodiversity. Popular hiking trails include the Mt. Britton Trail, leading to a stone tower with panoramic views, and the Big Tree Trail, which takes you to the picturesque La Mina Falls. For a more challenging hike, the El Yunque Trail ascends to the forest's peak, offering breathtaking vistas.
Tips for Visiting El Yunque
Weather changes quickly here—expect rain even on sunny days. Wear comfortable hiking shoes, pack water, sunscreen, and bug spray, and bring a light rain jacket. Stick to marked trails to help preserve the forest, and never leave trash behind.
Many travelers pair El Yunque with a stop at the Luquillo kiosks for beachside eats, or a quick swim at La Coca Trail’s natural pools (conditions permitting).
Explore the caverns at Río Camuy Cave Park.
Days 4 & 5: Head to the West Region
The West region of Puerto Rico is where the pace slows, the sunsets glow, and the waves roll in. Known for its surf towns, scenic drives, and laidback vibe, it’s the perfect place to reset mid-itinerary. From historic pit stops to coastal adventures, these two days are all about exploring beyond the city and soaking in the Island’s natural beauty.
Scenic Stops on the Way
On your drive west from San Juan, plan to detour at Río Camuy Cave Park, a massive cave system carved by the third-largest underground river in the world. You’ll learn about Puerto Rico’s geology, native Taíno heritage, and lush interior landscape.
Continue along the coast and stretch your legs at Túnel de Guajataca, a historic railroad tunnel that opens to ocean views, or pull over at Cara del Indio, a dramatic rock carving honoring Taíno chief Mabodamaca. These make for quick yet memorable stops before arriving in Rincón.
Beaches & Water Adventures
In Rincón, you’ll find some of Puerto Rico’s best beaches. Domes Beach is ideal for experienced surfers, while Sandy Beach and Steps Beach are great for swimming, snorkeling, or simply sunbathing. If you’re looking for a quiet moment, paddleboard in the calm waters or try a morning yoga class at Barefoot Yoga.
At Túnel de Guajataca, a former railroad tunnel opens up to a stunning turquoise beach.
What to Do & See in Rincón
This beach town is famous for its laidback charm. On the way, make a quick stop at Mirador de Guajataca, for one of the most breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. Visit Punta Higüera Lighthouse Park to watch the sun set over the Atlantic (and maybe catch a glimpse of whales in winter). Art lovers can explore the Secret Garden Art Gallery, while adventurers can book horseback rides or surf lessons through local outfitters like Rincón Surfing School or Sail Rincón.
Where to Eat & Stay
Start your day at The English Rose, a hilltop favorite with panoramic views and a hearty breakfast menu. For dinner, try La Copa Llena or Tamboo Beside the Pointe for beachside dining, or go big with steak and rodeo vibes at Cowboys Cantina. When it comes to lodging, options range from boutique resorts like Rincón of the Seas and Villa Cofresí to charming rentals near the beach.
Day 6: Discover Ponce, the Pearl of the South
Ponce, known as La Perla del Sur, blends rich history, vibrant art, and classic Caribbean charm. Located on Puerto Rico’s southern coast, this city offers a totally different vibe from San Juan and Rincón—think neoclassical architecture, rum legacy, and a buzzing arts scene, all anchored around a charming town square.
Must-See Cultural Landmarks
Start your visit in Plaza Las Delicias, the heart of the city. Here you'll find the bold red-and-black Parque de Bombas, a historic firehouse turned museum, and the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe, surrounded by lion statues and fountains.
A short drive away is Castillo Serrallés, a hilltop mansion with gardens and panoramic views, once home to the family behind Don Q Rum. Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Museo de Arte de Ponce, home to over 4,000 works, including Flaming June by Lord Frederic Leighton.
Inside view of the Ponce Museum of Art.
Ponce’s Street Art & Local Flavor
Take a stroll through the city to admire murals from Ponce es Ley, an annual urban art festival that’s left colorful marks all over downtown. Cool off with a scoop from King’s Cream, a local favorite for tropical ice cream, before heading down to the seaside boardwalk at La Guancha for casual eats and people-watching.
Where to Eat in Ponce
For upscale comida criolla with a twist, book a table at La Cava Restaurant. Craving Italian? Campioni Pizza Birra & Tapas blends local ingredients with Mediterranean flair. Down by the pier, you’ll find laidback kiosks offering classic fritters and cold drinks with ocean views.
Enjoy a view of the Caribbean Sea from La Guancha in Ponce.
Day 7: One Last Sunrise, One Last Bite
The final day is all about soaking in those last moments of island life. Whether you’re flying out of Ponce’s La Mercedita Airport (PSE) or heading back to San Juan for your flight from Luis Muñoz Marín (SJU), you’ve got time for a final slow morning.
Ease into the day with breakfast at a local café—Panadería España in Ponce or Café Don Juan if you’re back in the metro area. Prefer to wake up by the sea? Take a final stroll along La Guancha or one of Rincón’s beaches to say goodbye to the ocean.
Puerto Rico has a way of staying with you. So go ahead—start dreaming about your next visit. We’ll see you again.
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