Callejón, Old San Juan, where cobblestone streets often lead to impromptu dance parties.
San Juan
Experience San Juan, Puerto Rico's capital and center of history and culture.
What was once the crown jewel of the Spanish Empire is now the Island's historic and cultural center, as well as the most popular launching point for Puerto Rico vacations. Founded in 1521, San Juan is the oldest European-founded city in the Americas, but is home to much more than just history.
Only 15 minutes from SJU airport, San Juan blends elements of the Old World (cobblestone streets and colonial architecture) with all the amenities of modern urban life (craft cocktails, contemporary dining, amazing shopping, and vibrant nightlife). Immerse yourself in the culture and explore the wealth of art, food, adventure, and beauty that is waiting to be discovered.
La Fortaleza, now the Puerto Rico governor's residence.
Historical Landmarks
The Old World comes alive at fortresses like El Morro and San Cristóbal. These impressive citadels are part of the San Juan National Historic Site and are two of the largest fortifications built by the Spaniards in the Caribbean during the 16th century. Other important landmarks include Museo Casa Blanca (the one-time residence of the family of Juan Ponce de León that was built in 1521), the San Juan Cathedral, the Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery, and the Museo de las Américas.
Shopping
Many local designers and artists have shops and boutiques in Condado, where you can browse stores like Mademoiselle, featuring European brands; Nono Maldonado, one of Puerto Rico's premier designers; and 1054 Ashford Avenue, featuring some of the world's top luxury brands. You’ll also find some of the biggest shopping malls and outlets in the Caribbean, carrying big name brands from around the world.
Puerto Rico is a perfect place to practice your dancing!
Nightlife
Old San Juan’s vibrant nightlife is waiting at spots like La Factoría, one of the top 50 bars in the world; La Taberna Lúpulo, pioneers in Puerto Rican micro-brewing; or Los Tres Cuernos, where you can take a chichaíto shot in many flavors. Puerto Rico is the home of the piña colada and since there are competing claims whether it was invented at Barrachina or the Caribe Hilton, you should try both.
In Santurce, Calle Loíza is a street known for its great bar-hopping. Make sure to stop at Piso Viejo to check out their live bands and salsa classes, and El Tap to try their 15 local beers on tap. Also, don’t miss La Placita de Santurce, the area’s famous market known for its live music and great dancing, where you join the party in the bars or on the street.
You'll taste a range of local foods on a Spoon Food Tour.
Dining
The gastronomical options in San Juan are endless – from traditional locations like Hecho en Casa and Princesa Gastrobar (try the mofongo) to more eclectic restaurants like Casa Cortés ChocoBar, with unexpected ways to mix chocolate into every dish. Throughout the city you’ll find exceptional chef-driven dining experiences, humble-but-delicious local spots specializing in traditional Puerto Rican dishes, and adventurous eateries fusing Caribbean and international flavors in exciting ways.
Sorted are in Puerto Rico using your recommendations to find the best food this beautiful island has to offer.
Enjoy tropical cocktails with a view from the rooftop pool of Hotel Palacio Provincial.
Where to Stay
San Juan’s hotels and resorts offer a variety of experiences and price points to satisfy the needs of every traveler. Hotel El Convento is a beautiful 17th-century convent that’s been converted into a modern luxury hotel. The Decanter is a pet-friendly hotel that blends contemporary architecture with a whimsical twist. Other places like CasaBlanca Hotel, the Gallery Inn, and Sheraton Old San Juan also provide plenty of comfort and charm. If you’re looking for lavish beachfront accommodations, Condado is the place for you. In the heart of this district sits the Condado Vanderbilt, a full-service resort that has been recognized as one of the best resorts in the Caribbean and boasts the only hammam spa in the Caribbean.
Beyond the numerous hotel options throughout the city, you'll also find alternative lodging such as vacation rentals hosted by providers like Airbnb and HomeAway, among others.
Puerto Rico's cocktail scene is a fuego (on fire), literally, at Gallo Negro in San Juan.
Great Cocktail Bars in San Juan
A new generation of bartenders is transforming Puerto Rico into a premier drinking destination.
12 Restaurants in San Juan You Can’t Miss
Puerto Rico’s capital city is a true dining destination.
Queer Q&A: Ien Grave, DJ and Promoter
In this interview, Ien chats about the music scene in San Juan and the LGBTQ community on the island.
San Juan blends elements of the Old World with all the amenities of modern urban life.
Things to Do in San Juan
Explore the treasures of this colonial-yet-cosmopolitan city.
Where to Go Out Dancing in San Juan
Don't forget to pack your dancing shoes when traveling to Puerto Rico.
Santurce has become Puerto Rico’s version of Wynwood Arts district in Miami.
Exploring the Santurce Neighborhood
Journey through one of San Juan’s lively arts districts.
A Street Art Tour of Santurce
Discover the San Juan neighborhood that has emerged as the capital of art in the Caribbean.
The streets of La Placita de Santurce come alive after the sun sets.
Guide to La Placita Restaurants, Bars & Nightlife
La Placita de Santurce in San Juan is a hub for great restaurants, intriguing bars, and all-night salsa dancing.
The cocktail scene at La Factoría.
Best Places to Experience Nightlife in San Juan
Looking for a party? You'll always be able to find one in the vibrant nightlife scene of San Juan!
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