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.
Plaza de Armas
San Juan’s hub of civic life is also one of the most popular social destinations, where locals come to drink coffee and trade stories.
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.
Calle Fortaleza
During your visit to San Juan, you can enjoy retail therapy at Calle Fortaleza. While in this walkable area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.
Things to do
El Yunque Waterslide and Waterfall Tour with Food and Photos
San Juan: Casa Bacardi Distillery Tour
Puerto Rico: UTV and Can-Am Sightseeing Tours
San Juan: Old San Juan Sunset Cruise with Drinks & Transfer
Old San Juan Bar Crawl: Experience Local Hotspots
Carolina: ATV Adventure at Campo Rico Ranch with Guide
Top hotels in Old San Juan
Hotel Rumbao, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
This was a great place to stay the only negative is the pool area the outdoor furniture needs updating, and some days the housekeepers didn’t show up but other than that it was a great room and excellent location
Reviewed on 9 Jan 2026
Armas Hotel
Adelaida was extremely helpful! I created a problem, she solved quickly with a smile!
Reviewed on 5 Jan 2026
Alma San Juan
Excellent stay, close to everything, clean room,
Reviewed on 3 Jan 2026
La Terraza de San Juan
Nice place to stay
Reviewed on 31 Dec 2025
El Colonial - Adults Only
Friendly staff and great location right in the heart of Old San Juan. Despite what Hotels.com says you dont need to wait for an email from the hotel or arrange anything with them ahead of time. The front task is staffed 24/7 and they were wonderful. This place is about a 10 minute walk to the cruise ...
Reviewed on 3 Jan 2026
Hotel Milano
Had a great stay at Hotel Milano. It was so easy to access restaurants, attractions, dessert places cafes, and pharmacies. To top it off, before and during my visit the staff have been incredibly helpful, attentive and friendly. Will definitely stay again.
Reviewed on 7 Jan 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.
