Old San Juan Travel Guide
San Juan
Visit Old San Juan
Popular places to visit
Castillo San Felipe del Morro
This walled fortress was once used to protect Puerto Rico from invading colonies, and today offers visitors a dramatic reminder of that history.
San Juan Gate
Enter San Juan through the last remaining gateway from the city’s walls and discover the military history of its atmospheric Old Town.
La Fortaleza
The official residence of the governor of Puerto Rico is a vast mansion and fortress that is open to the public on guided tours.
Castillo de San Cristobal
Marvel at a Spanish fortification on the edge of Old San Juan, a place full of haunting myths, fascinating history and stunning photography spots.
Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista
Discover the curious relics and gorgeous stained-glass windows of Old San Juan’s religious treasure, a 16th-century cathedral with a colorful history.
Puerta de San Juan
Learn about the local history of San Juan when you take a trip to Puerta de San Juan. Experience the area's acclaimed art galleries and fascinating museums.
Things to do
Best of Old San Juan Walking Tour with El Morro Entry
From Carolina: Horse Riding at a Private Ranch
FlyDining: 4 Course Sunset & City Light Dinner Over Old San Juan
El Yunque Waterslide and Waterfall beach Tour with Food n Photos
FlyDining: Social Hour with Ocean View and Tropical Breeze
San Juan: Casa Bacardi Distillery Tour
Top hotels in Old San Juan
Armas Hotel
"Great area to stay in, many shops and eats close by and very friendly staff. Very clean and housekeeping was very nice as well. Would definitely recommend to others and will stay here again!!"
Reviewed on 22 May 2026
Hotel Rumbao, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
"The location is good but the restaurant is poor"
Reviewed on 17 May 2026
Alma San Juan
"Location, location, location! Alma was the perfect place to stay for exploring Old San Juan. If you enjoy a luxurious spa feel in a boutique hotel with delicious food, drinks and views from the rooftop restaurant, then I highly recommend Alma San Juan."
Reviewed on 22 May 2026
Hotel Milano
"The staff was friendly and the property was very clean. However they are going through a remodel so there were few amenities and check-in took a while because there had been a glitch in the system. I look forward to booking again when the remodel is completed."
Reviewed on 21 May 2026
CasaBlanca Hotel
"My husband and I stayed for 4 weeknights in May 2026 on vacation and found the CasaBlanca to be good value for the comfort of the room, the hotel amenities, and beautiful decor throughout. We made frequent use of the free coffee and filtered water in the lobby, and spent every evening in the rooftop ..."
Reviewed on 22 May 2026
El Colonial - Adults Only
"This hotel needs more renovation and maintainence. The staff were helpful."
Reviewed on 21 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Old San Juan
San Juan Antiguo
Amazing beaches interesting history and top sights from Port of San Juan to Pier 4 – discover San Juan Antiguo, a destination also famous for its shopping.
San Francisco
If you're spending some time in San Francisco, Calle Fortaleza and Plaza de Colon are top sights worth seeing.
Catedral
While visiting Catedral, you might make a stop by sights like Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista and Plaza de Armas.
Puerta de Tierra
Travellers to Puerta de Tierra praise its stunning beaches. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to stop by Port of San Juan and Escambron Beach.
Isla Grande
While visiting Isla Grande, you might make a stop by sights like Coca-Cola Music Hall and Distrito T-Mobile.
Miramar
The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Miramar. A stop by Conservatory of Music of Puerto Rico or Laguna del Condado might round out your trip.
