San Juan, Puerto Rico-3-day-itinerary

August 4, 2024

Day 1: Old San Juan

9:00 AM: Start the day at La Fortaleza, the oldest executive mansion in the Americas, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
10:00 AM: Explore the historic district of Old San Juan, including the colorful streets, colonial architecture, and local shops.

Head to El Jibarito for traditional Puerto Rican cuisine, including mofongo (mashed plantains) and arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas).

Visit the San Juan Cathedral, a beautiful example of Spanish colonial architecture.
Explore the nearby Paseo de la Princesa, a scenic walkway along the San Juan Bay.

Enjoy dinner at Marmalade Restaurant & Wine Bar, offering contemporary American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
End the day by taking a stroll along the boardwalk, enjoying the street performers and live music.

Day 2: Beaches and Paseo del Mar

Head to Ocean Park Beach, a beautiful beach with calm waters perfect for swimming or snorkeling.
Visit the nearby Condado Lagoon, a picturesque spot for a leisurely walk or picnic.

Grab lunch at La Estación, a casual restaurant serving up fresh seafood and sandwiches.

Visit the Paseo del Mar, a scenic waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and stunning views of the ocean.
Take a stroll along the beach and enjoy the sunset.

Enjoy dinner at El Quenepo, a seafood restaurant serving up fresh catches and local specialties.
End the day by taking a sunset cruise (optional) or simply relaxing on the beach.

Day 3: Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Luquillo Beach

Visit the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a stunning 16th-century fort that is one of the most iconic landmarks in Puerto Rico.
Explore the nearby Fortin San Cristóbal, another impressive fort with stunning views.

Head to La Parroquia for traditional Puerto Rican cuisine and live music.
Alternatively, try some delicious fried dough (alcapurrias) at a street vendor near Luquillo Beach.

Visit Luquillo Beach, known as the “Shrimp Bucket” due to its abundance of fresh seafood.
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach or take a dip in the ocean.

Where to Stay:

Hotel El Convento: A charming boutique hotel located in Old San Juan, with beautiful architecture and stunning views.
La Concha Resort & Spa: A luxurious resort located on Condado Beach, offering upscale amenities and stunning ocean views.

Getting Around:

Taxis: Widely available throughout the island.
Ride-hailing services: Uber and Lyft operate in San Juan.
Walking and biking: Old San Juan is pedestrian-friendly, while bicycles are a great way to explore other areas of the city.

Tips and Other Things to Know:

Weather: San Juan has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 70-90°F (21-32°C) throughout the year.
Currency: US dollars are widely accepted; however, it’s a good idea to have some local currency on hand for small purchases.
Language: Spanish is the primary language spoken in Puerto Rico, but many locals speak English.
Safety: Take normal precautions to ensure your safety, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings.

Other Attractions:

Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico: A museum showcasing a diverse collection of art from the island’s history.
Teatro Tapia: A historic theater hosting various cultural events and performances.
San Juan National Historic Site: A park that preserves several historical sites, including La Fortaleza and Castillo San Felipe del Morro.