San Juan, Puerto Rico-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning:
    • Arrive at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU)
    • Transfer to your hotel in Old San Juan
    • Check-in at La Concha Resort & Spa, a luxurious beachfront property with modern amenities
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit El Morro, a 16th-century Spanish fort and UNESCO World Heritage Site, for breathtaking views of the city and ocean (open from 9am-5pm)
    • Explore the narrow streets and historic architecture of Old San Juan
    • Enjoy lunch at La Bombonera, a local institution serving traditional Puerto Rican cuisine in a charming atmosphere
  • Evening:
    • Stroll along Paseo de la Princesa, a scenic promenade with shops, restaurants, and street performers
    • Try some fresh seafood at Bar La Estación, a casual restaurant serving affordable and delicious meals

Things to Know:

  • Puerto Rico is an US territory, so no passport required for US citizens.
  • The local currency is the US dollar.

Day 2: Beaches and Water Sports

  • Morning:
    • Head to Condado Beach, one of San Juan’s most popular beaches (open from 8am-5pm)
    • Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the coastline
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit Ocean Park Beach, another scenic beach with crystal-clear waters and amenities like food vendors and showers
    • Enjoy lunch at La Casita, a beachside eatery serving seafood and local specialties
  • Evening:
    • Relax on your hotel’s private beach or by the pool
    • Treat yourself to dinner at Marmalade Restaurant & Wine Bar, known for its creative cuisine and extensive wine list

Things to Do:

  • Take a Snuba Tour to explore the underwater world without scuba gear (starts from $80/person)
  • Visit the San Juan Bay Maritime Museum (open from 9am-5pm) to learn about the island’s maritime history

Day 3: History and Culture

  • Morning:
    • Visit the Casa Blanca, a historic house-turned-museum showcasing San Juan’s colonial past
    • Explore the adjacent Paseo de la Princesa for more scenic views of the city
  • Afternoon:
    • Stop by the San Juan Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture in the heart of Old San Juan (open from 9am-5pm)
    • Visit the Museo de las Américas, a museum showcasing art and artifacts from Latin America and the Caribbean (open from 10am-5pm)
  • Evening:
    • Enjoy traditional Puerto Rican cuisine at El Jibarito, a family-owned restaurant with delicious mofongo
    • Experience live music at Bacardi Distillery, which offers free tours and sampling of its famous rum

Things to Know:

  • Be prepared for occasional power outages, as Puerto Rico’s electrical grid is still recovering from Hurricane Maria.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting historic sites.

Day 4: Adventure and Nature

  • Morning:
    • Take a Canyoneering Tour with guides through the island’s lush forests and canyons (starts from $100/person)
    • Visit the Rio Camuy Cave Park, featuring an impressive cave system with unique rock formations
  • Afternoon:
    • Explore the nearby Munchoa National Forest, offering scenic hiking trails and picturesque waterfalls
    • Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park or return to your hotel for some downtime

Things to Do:

  • Visit the San Juan Botanical Garden (open from 9am-5pm) for a peaceful oasis amidst the city’s bustle
  • Take a Sunset Sail around San Juan Bay for an unforgettable experience ($40/person)

Day 5: Shopping and Departure

  • Morning:
    • Visit the Plaza de las Américas, one of San Juan’s premier shopping centers with a mix of local boutiques, international brands, and dining options
    • Pick up souvenirs or last-minute gifts at La Galeria, an upscale mall featuring high-end retailers and art galleries
  • Afternoon:
    • Transfer to the airport for your departure flight (approximately 30 minutes away)
    • Depart with unforgettable memories of your time in San Juan!

Transportation:

  • Rent a car from San Juan Car Rental or National Car Rental, which offers convenient locations near airports and hotels
  • Use public transportation, such as buses ($0.75-$1) or taxis (approximately $10-$20)
  • Consider booking a Private Driver for the day to explore San Juan with a local guide

Tips:

  • Be mindful of the island’s ongoing recovery efforts from Hurricane Maria and support local businesses whenever possible.
  • Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes for outdoor exploration!
  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to connect with locals and enhance your experience.

Accommodations:

  • La Concha Resort & Spa: A 5-star beachfront property offering luxurious amenities and scenic views
  • The St. Regis Bahia Beach: A high-end resort featuring upscale rooms, a golf course, and exceptional service

I hope this itinerary helps you plan an unforgettable adventure in San Juan!