old san juan free walking tour tours

OLD SAN JUAN FREE WALKING TOUR

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  WHAT TO EXPECT:

Enjoy a nice walking tour through Old San Juan, the second oldest city in America and the oldest in the U.S.A. For centuries, the city of Old San Juan was an important military base surrounded by fortifications and walls. This tour invites you to see San Juan through a local’s perspective, learn the history of the forts, walk through the colonial houses, and enjoy the eternal summer of the island and feel the essence and the truth of Puerto Rico. 

- The tour lasts approx. 2 hours -

Free Walking Tour: Old San Juan

*Maximum 5 per booking*

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Duration Varies

Free Walking Tour: Art District

*Santurce through Cerra St.*

1 hr 30 min

Private Tour

Through the Old San Juan

Start in $200

Pick-Your-Trip Tour

Through the Island (Max 3 ppl.)

start in $300

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- For group tours & questions -

+1787-505-5581

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*The tour starts everyday at 10AM*

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A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Old San Juan with Map

October 13, 2019 By Somto Ugwueze 8 Comments

Last updated on April 1, 2023

The streets of Old San Juan were practically built to be strolled for hours. With colorful, Spanish colonial architecture, picture-perfect corners, and mesmerizing views of the Caribbean Sea, you’re bound to have at least a few awe-inspiring moments during your tour of this historic city. Founded in 1521 by Spanish conquistadors, this port city has long been the cultural and commercial hub of Puerto Rico. It is home to some of the country’s most important landmarks, from fortresses to art galleries. Old San Juan is a charming neighborhood at the heart of the city with cobblestone streets, brightly-colored buildings, a plethora of bars and restaurants, and a whole lot of soul. This post will show you how to put together your own walking tour of Old San Juan and experience the must-see sites in the city. It includes a map so that you can follow along on your phone.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, as explained in my disclosure policy

Time required for a tour of Old San Juan

Old San Juan is a compact area so this tour would take you about 60 minutes if you simply walked to each location without stopping. I would budget about 3-4 hours to give you enough time to take in the sites, tour the historic buildings, and enjoy the food. 

Items to bring with you

• Comfortable shoes – some parts of the tour are hilly so it’s a great idea to wear running shoes or something that won’t kill your feet after three hours of walking and climbing fortresses. This is completely up to you. I wore sandals and was mostly fine, except when it came to climbing steep concrete. Next time, I’ll wear definitely wear tennis shoes. 
• Water – stay hydrated, my friends!
• Snacks – pack some fruit, a granola bar, or my go-to travel snack, the WanderBar , a protein bar made specifically for travelers and frequent flyers. I can’t get enough of the Cocoa Crunch flavor.
• Map or GPS – Google maps, Apple maps, or whatever works best for you. Puerto Rico is a US territory so your phone service from any major US carrier should work just fine.
• Camera – you can use your phone camera, but a DSLR will capture those picturesque streets so much better! I always recommend the Nikon D3400 for beginners.

Old San Juan Walking Tour with Map for First-Time Visitors

The best sites to see, food to eat, and things to do in Old San Juan

Castillo San Cristobal

We’ll start at Castillo San Cristobal, the largest fortress that the Spanish built in the New World. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this fortress is part of the San Juan National Historic Site , an area that includes fortresses, bastions, and the old city wall. Castillo San Cristobal was built in 1783 to protect the city from attacks when other European powers were trying to take over. 

You need a ticket to tour the inside of the fortress, but there’s an outside area with bastions overlooking the Caribbean Sea that anyone can visit. The ticket is $7 and is valid for two days to allow you to see other parts of the San Juan National Historic Site. 

There are three levels to this fortress: the lowest level, the main firing battery, and the observation deck at the top. To get into the fortress, you have to go through some dingy tunnels at the lowest level. Along the way, there are dimly lit rooms, including a dungeon where prisoners were kept for execution. It was creepy, to say the least. 

Once you get past the tunnels, then everything brightens up – literally. You arrive at the main firing battery with rooms on the periphery that overlook the city. There are plaques explaining what the rooms were used for. Lastly, there’s the top level of the fortress, with breathtaking views overlooking the city. I spent a lot of time here just taking in the scenery.

You can purchase your ticket at the San Juan National Historic Site office or call +1 787 729-6777 . The fortress is open every day of the week from 9 am to 6 pm.

Address : 501 Norzagaray Street San Juan, PR 00901 Hours : 9 am to 6 pm every day Price : $7

Calle de La Fortaleza

Calle Fortaleza is a shopping street in Old San Juan, located by the governor’s mansion. There are tons of little shops and restaurants here. This street used to be an Instagram hotspot when there were umbrellas floating at the top. When I visited San Juan in Old San Juan in July 2019, the umbrellas were unfortunately no longer there. The street was barricaded during my visit to San Juan because of protests against the government due to an political scandal. Not going to complain. People’s livelihoods are more important than my Instagram photos. That said, the umbrellas could be back again, as they are a major tourist attraction. I’ll have to confirm when I visit again.

Address : Calle de la Fortaleza San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico Hours : 24 hours, 7 days a week Price : Free

La Fortaleza

La Fortaleza, also known as Palacio de Santa Catalina, is the official residence of the governor of Puerto Rico. Located at the base of Calle de La Fortaleza, it is the oldest, continuously used governor’s mansion in the western hemisphere. This blue building sits on a fortification by the Caribbean Sea that was built by the Spanish in the 16th century to protect the city against foreign attacks. You can take a free 30-minute tour of the interior, courtyards, and gardens every weekday from 9 am to 4 pm. To book a tour of La Fortaleza before you arrive in San Juan, you can email [email protected] or call +1 (787) 721-7000. Just can also arrive in person at the tourist office next to the mansion and book your tour, although same-day availability is not guaranteed. I didn’t know you could tour this building when I visited so I’m bummed! Now you know. 

Address : 54 Calle Fortaleza Edificio de la Real Audiencia San Juan, PR, 00901 Requirements : Must be at least 21 years and have a valid photo ID Hours : 9 am to 4 pm Price : Free

El Batey Bar

I was looking for some cheap mojitos and found this place on Yelp. When I walked in, I felt like I had stepped into some kind of punk rock tattoo parlor. That’s the vibe of this place – dimly-lit and dingy. With the somewhat pretentious writings on the wall, like ‘Prohibido Joder,’ and “Donald Eres Un Pendejo,” (not that I disagree with this statement), I didn’t have a good feeling about the place at first. 

But it turns out the mojitos were good and cheap. Also, the bartender, Javier, engaged me in a conversation for like an hour. Then, I ended up chatting with some locals at the bar, too. So I ended up liking this bar after all. It’s a great place to unwind and maybe meet new people.  El Batey is known for its casual atmosphere, politically incorrect posters, and affordable drinks.

Address : 101 Calle del Cristo, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico Requirements : Must be at least 21 years and have a valid photo ID Hours : 3 pm to 12 am every day Price : $3-$10

San Se Marisquería Bar de Tapas

San Se Marisqueria is a tapas bar-restaurant located down the street from the co-living community, Outsite San Juan, on Calle San Sebastian, from which it gets its name. This is by far the best restaurant in Old San Juan where I had the privilege of dining. I would recommend their Mofongo , a signature Puerto Rican dish consisting of mashed plantains, and their impeccably-seasoned Pulpo , or octopus (shown above). They are both unbelievably delicious! I’m sure the other items on the menu are equally so.

There is also a bar area serving cheap piňa coladas, mojitos, and other cocktails, which are around the same prices as other San Juan establishments. The food, though, is more expensive than at your average Old San Juan restaurant, but I think this place is definitely worth a visit. You can order takeout, but there’s no delivery.

Address : 152 Calle de San Sebastián, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico Hours : 3 pm to 2 am every day except Tuesday, when it’s closed Price : $3-$10

Calle Imperial

Calle Imperial is one of the iconic streets in Old San Juan with a flag of Puerto Rico on the wall. This flag is no ordinary mural; it has cultural significance. Known as Callejon de la Puerta Bandera, it is a symbol of Puerto Rican identity and pride and one of two flag murals in Old San Juan. The other one, located on Calle San Jose, is black and white. Calle Imperial is one of the most iconic places to snap a photo in San Juan. I wanted to get a photo of myself here and waited for someone to walk by. No one did so I just took a photo of the wall. The struggles of solo travel. Next time, I’ll be sure to take a tripod!

Address : Calle Imperial San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico Hours : 24 hours, 7 days a week Price : Free

Castillo Felipe del Morro

Further west of Castillo San Cristobal is another fort called Castillo Felipe del Morro, simply known as El Morro. This fortress is also part of the San Juan National Historic Center. It has six levels which were built over the course of 200 years, starting in the 1500s.  This place has so much history, it will take you at least 90 minutes to fully tour and appreciate all the parts, from the dungeons in the lower level to the narrow stairwell that leads to the top level to the canons on the roof.

El Morro was one of the original fortifications built by the Spanish to protect San Juan from foreign invaders. Today, it’s popular among locals and tourists alike. The different levels, particularly the higher ones, offer incredible views of the Caribbean Sea and the entire city of San Juan. All around the structure, you’ll find many garitas , or guard posts, which are a great place to snap a photo. 

The best way to experience El Morro is to do a guided tour, like this guided tour of El Morro with an entry ticket that includes stops at other must-see places in Old San Juan. This tour is organized by Get Your Guide, a tour operator I’ve been using since 2016. I love how deeply informative and engaging their tours are, from Spain to China. I always leave their tours with tons of notes on my phone. The local tour guides they employ are knowledgeable and friendly.

Address : 501 Calle Norzagaray, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico Hours : 9 am – 5 pm every day Price : $10

Paseo de la Princesa

Paseo de la Princesa, which translates to Princess Promenade, is a pedestrian walkway by the San Juan Bay. Located in the historic district of Old San Juan, this picturesque promenade was built in 1853. It has undergone various renovations since then. You’ll take in breathtaking views of the San Juan Bay on one side, with the waves from the Caribbean Sea crashing against the shores. On the other side, you’ll get a good look at the majestic fortifications that were built centuries ago to protect the city from invasion.

Beyond the views, you’ll find a long line of street vendors selling everything from empanadas to handmade crafts to beaded jewelry. There is also an famous work of art, the Raíces Fountain, that features paintings of the different ethnic groups that make up Puerto Rican society – the African-descended people, the indigenous Taino people, and the Spanish conquistadors. This promenade is the perfect place to go for a stroll in the afternoon, people watch, and go souvenir shopping.

Address : Paseo de la Princesa, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico Hours : 24 hours, 7 days a week Price : Free

Catedral de San Bautista

Catedral of San Juan Bautista, also known as the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, is the second-oldest cathedral in the Americas. Completed in 1540, this Roman Catholic cathedral finest examples of Spanish colonial architecture. It features a mixture of Gothic and Baroque architecture, with an ornately-decorated altar made of gold. This towering cathedral has played a pivotal role in the cultural and spiritual life of Puerto Ricans for centuries, with many weddings, baptisms, and even state occasions taking place here. The Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León is also buried at this cathedral. There are many churches in San Juan but Catedral de San Bautista is perhaps the most important. That makes it a must-see on your visit to Old San Juan, even if you’re not Catholic. The church is open to the public for free.

Address : 151 Calle del Cristo, San Juan, 00902, Puerto Rico Hours : 9 am – 4 pm every day Price : Free

Plaza de Armas

Plaza de Armas is the main plaza, or public square, in Old San Juan. Originally built as a training facility for the Spanish military, the plaza is now a a place of leisure. Tourists and locals alike gather here to enjoy concerts, festivals, and other cultural events. There are also a few notable structures at this plaza, including a a statue of the Spanish explorer, Juan Ponce de León and a statue of King Juan Carlos I of Spain. At the center, you’ll find a fountain with statues of religious and historical figures. This plaza is a great place to end your tour of San Juan. In the vicinity, you’ll find the San Juan City Hall and the Department of State building of Puerto Rico. You can sit down, relax, and bird watch before returning to your accomodation.

Address : FV8M+48H, San Juan, 00969, Puerto Rico Hours : 24 hours, 7 days a week Price : Free

Want to tour Old San Juan with a local guide?

While I’m a huge fan of self-guided walking tours, I also know the value of having a local guide show you around their city and explain what you are looking at. That’s why I’d recommend doing at least one guided tour of San Juan with a local operator in addition to your own self-guided tour.

One of the perks of doing a guided tour with my favorite tour operator, Get Your Guide, is being able to skip the long lines. If you wait until you arrive in San Juan to buy your tickets, you may be waiting for a long time, especially during the peak summer travel season. With a guided tour, you also get to learn directly from a local about the culture and history of San Juan, allowing you to better appreciate the sites, food, and other attractions. Below are the Get Your Guide tours I’d recommend in Old San Juan.

First, we have a foodie walking tour of Old San Juan that will give you a taste of Puerto Rican cuisine. A local guide will take you to the must-try restaurants in Old San Juan, where you’ll sample 10 delicious bites. You’ll also participate in a culinary class, where you’ll learn how to make the classic mofongo . The 3-hour tour comes with a bonus rum cocktail so that you can try Puerto Rico’s specialty drink.

The second tour I’d recommend is a sunset walking tour of Old San Juan . The sunsets in San Juan are something special, and you’ll get epic photos of the city at this time of the day. During this tour, a local guide will take you to historic places that aren’t included in this self-guided walking tour, such as the iconic Plaza Colón, Plaza de la Barandilla, and the ancient Palacio de la Intendencia. You’ll also discover the urban legend and mystery behind a chapel known as Capilla del Santo Cristo de la Salud. This 2-hour tour will fully immerse you in Puerto Rican culture and history.

Last but not least, it’s a good idea to get off the island and take in the whole scenery from a sailboat! This 90-minute sailing tour of San Juan is one of the best ways to experience the city. You’ll board a topsail and cruise around Old San Juan, taking in the city from a different vantage point. The sailing adventure comes with complimentary drinks, including rum, of course, so that you can unwind while you spot El Morro, La Fortaleza, and other iconic structures in the city. This would be an epic way to conclude your visit to San Juan.

Travel Resources I Love

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For more travel product recommendations, check out my travel essentials page .

One more thing: if you enjoyed this post, please share it!

Somto Ugwueze

Hi! I'm Somto. Two years ago, I stopped making excuses, ditched my indecisive friends, and started booking flights. Today, I'm a full-time solo traveler on a mission to inspire young women to seek new adventures.

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Reader Interactions

January 10, 2020 at 12:43 pm

I just got back from Puerto Rico shortly before Christmas 2019. Visited beautiful Old San Juan, with it’s lovely blue cobblestone streets. You forgot to mention their love of gatos! The cats roam the area and are fed by those that live there. ❤️

July 19, 2020 at 9:51 pm

Hi Peggy, yes, I forgot to mention those gatos! I loved seeing all the cute cats roaming around.

February 3, 2020 at 4:15 pm

Isn’t there a walk outside the walls of the city?

March 9, 2021 at 1:18 am

This is AMAZING!!!! It’s absolutely perfect, exactly what I’ve been looking for! THANK YOU!!! I never ever ever write comments/reviews on websites, but I absolutely had to for this. I’m with a group of 11 friends who wanted to see Old San Juan but didn’t plan anything specific, and I didn’t want to waste the whole day going back and forth. Having this all set up in order is going to save our lives! Thank you!!!

April 23, 2021 at 5:04 pm

Hi Auria, I’m overwhelmed that you found this guide helpful. Keep visiting to find more useful content dedicated to travelers!

June 2, 2021 at 11:42 am

Thanks for creating this blog! It was just what I needed. I was asked to come to Puerto Rico at the last minute for work and decided to bring my 15,16, and 20-year old children. We knew we wanted to visit Old San Juan but didn’t know what to do. Your blog came in handy! We didn’t hit every spot but definitely enjoyed our time. As an update for anyone reading the comments, the tour tickets are now $10 for anyone over 15. 15 and younger are free! Also, there was a food truck near El Morro selling non-alcoholic piña coladas. My children said they were delicious! Keep inspiring us through your travels. You are appreciated!

May 1, 2022 at 8:33 am

Very informative article . Thank you for the order. Will be visiting these places ❤️

March 1, 2023 at 11:04 pm

Thank you for writing this blog!! Very helpful! I am planning a trip with my family. I can’t wait to visit Old San Juan and Puerto Rico! It’s our first time.

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Who Is Somto Seeks?

Hi there, I’m Somtochukwu. Can you try pronouncing that? I've always gone by Somto (Sohm-toe). I'm a child of Nigerian immigrants who decided to pursue her dream of living an extraordinary life. In 2015, I chose faith over fear, packing my bags and moving to Spain with $1,000 in my pocket. This was after being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that caused me to develop a giant bald patch in the middle of my scalp. Living in Spain and traveling around Europe for a year changed my life forever, allowing me to discover the freedom of solo travel and the freedom of working from anywhere. Today, I’m a full-time travel writer whose mission is to help you navigate this big, beautiful world with confidence and have those omg-pinch-me-moments you’ll remember for a lifetime.

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Old San Juan Walking Tour | One Day Puerto Rico Itinerary

Whether you’re visiting San Juan on a cruise or spending a few days in Puerto Rico, an Old San Juan walking tour should be at the top of your list of things to do!

As a former cruise ship worker , San Juan was one of my favorite ports to explore week after week.

One of the best decisions I ever made was taking myself on a self-guided walking tour of Viejo San Juan.

In just 3-4 hours, I was able to hit all of the major historical landmarks and popular photo-ops/ Instagram hotspots– and so can you!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. By making a purchase through one of the links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support and for helping me keep this blog up!

How to use this map: Click on the faded star next to the title to save this map, and click the square in the top left of the map before the title to view location details.

Self-Guided Walking Tour Suggested Routes

A self-guided tour through Old San Juan can be broken down into two main sections:

• The coastal perimeter (marked in black on the map)- Where most of the historical landmarks are located
• The interior streets (marked in burgundy on the map)- Where most of the photo spots, restaurants, and shops are found

If you want to hit all the locations listed on this free Old San Juan walking tour, I recommend breaking down your route into the two sections like I did and doing one after the other (in any order).

For those arriving from the cruise ship port, it may make more sense to walk around the exterior first and then end the day perusing the downtown streets.

I began this tour in the interior section as I took an Uber to Plaza Colon. After walking all the way down to the Umbrella Street, I then made my way clockwise to the listed destinations.

The Coastal Perimeter

Paseo de la princesa.

Paseo de la Princesa is a beautiful promenade lined with fountains, lamp posts, and trees— all accompanied with stunning views of the San Juan Bay.

On this picturesque boardwalk, you’ll find street vendors, art exhibits and shops, restaurants, bars, and even live music.

Address: 54 C. de la Fortaleza, San Juan

Where to stay in Old San Juan: Old San Juan Guest House , El Colonial Adults Only , Casa Sol Bed and Breakfast , Fortel Hostel

La Fortaleza

National Historic Landmark La Fortaleza (The Fortress) was built in the mid-1500s for military defense.

Since its establishment, it has served a number of purposes in addition to a fortress, including a prison, arsenal, and its current function as the governor’s residence.

Because the building is still an active government building, those interested in looking inside can only do so through official guided tours. These 30-minute tours are offered throughout the weekdays.

La Fortaleza can be seen from a distance while on the Paseo de La Princesa as well as at the end of the Umbrella Street (Calle Fortaleza).

Address: 63 C. de la Fortaleza, San Juan

Puerta de San Juan

Puerta de San Juan is the city’s iconic colorful gate that’s found at the northern end of Paseo de la Princesa.

It’s a historical landmark that was previously used to protect the city during colonial times. 

Standing 16 feet tall, the gate is also inscribed with the phrase, “ Benedictus Oui Venit In Nomine Domini ,” which means, “Welcome those who come in the name of God.”

Address: Cll Caleta De San Juan, San Juan

Museo de las Americas (Museum of the Americas)

The Museo de las Americas promotes the history and culture of the Americas through permanent and seasonal exhibits.

Visitors can learn about the indigenous, African, and European influences that shaped the Americas into the multi-faceted countries that they are today due to colonization and modern development.

The museum is actually inside what used to be the military’s barracks (Cuartel de Ballajá) during the colonial period. The beautiful courtyard is definitely a sight to take in!

You can also find unique, local folk art during the museum’s Domingo de Artesanos , which is an art showcase on the first Sunday of every month.

Address: Calle Beneficencia, San Juan

Website: museolasamericas.org

Hours: Thursday- Sunday 11 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Price: General Admission- $6; Under 12 and over 65 years old- $4

Need to rent a car while in Puerto Rico? Get a quote from Discover Cars here

Castillo San Felipe del Morro (“El Morro”)

Castillo San Felipe del Morro (also known as “El Morro” for short) is the island’s trademark fortification built at the tip of the San Juan Bay. 

Completed in 1790, the six-level fortress was strapped with a cannon, and together with another yet smaller fort, Fortín San Juan de la Cruz (“El Cañuelo”), the two structures produced a crossfire that would protect the bay’s entrance from intruders.

There’s so much to explore inside the fortress, from barracks and batteries to panoramic views of the bay.

El Morro’s presence domineers over everything in nearby site.

The vast green lawn that leads up to the fort’s entrance is the perfect location for a picnic, sunbathing session, or just a short break during your walking tour.

Although there are always groups of people hanging out, the area is so spread out that you’ll have no problem finding space for yourself away from others.

Tip: Keep your receipt! El Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal only require one entrance fee for both locations, so you’ll be able to get a 2-for-1 deal as long as your receipt shows that you’ve already paid for one ticket.

Address: Calle del Morro & Calle Norzagaray

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.- 6 p.m.

Price: General Admission- $7; Free for children under 15

Cementerio Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzi

Just outside El Morro you’ll find the Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery.

While it may seem strange that a cemetery is a landmark, the beautiful graveyard overlooking the Atlantic Ocean is definitely with a visit.

The cemetery’s location by the water was chosen as a way to symbolize a person’s spirit crossing over to the afterlife.

To this day, many of Puerto Rico’s most prominent citizens are laid to rest here.

If you don’t feel like going down and walking through the cemetery, it can easily be admired from the path leading to/from El Morro. 

Address: Calle Cementerio, San Juan

Cruising to San Juan? Book or plan your cruise with Cruise Critic — the industry’s top site for deck plans, cruise tips, ship details, and more!

Next to Cementario Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzi and alongside the coast is La Perla, a historical shantytown.

The colorful neighborhood is most widely known recently as the filming location for the 2017 worldwide chart-topper “Despacito” by Puerto Rican artists Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee.

La Perla was first established as the location of a slaughterhouse as both slaughterhouses, cemeteries, and homes of former slaves and non-white servants were required to be outside of the main city center in the late 19th century.

Address: Calle Tiburcio Reyes + Calle Lucila Silva + Calle San Miguel + Calle Bajada Matadero

Castillo de San Cristóbal

Castillo de San Cristóbal is El Morro’s sister fortress that was build to protect the city from land attacks.

It’s the largest Spanish-built fortification built in the New World, spanning roughly 27 acres.

The fortress features several sentry boxes ( garitas) which are strategic lookout points that guards would use to keep an eye out for any potential threats.

Visitors can explore the different levels of the fortification as well as get a breathtaking panoramic view of Old San Juan and the bay.

Address: Calle Norzagaray & Route 25R (Avenida Luis Muñoz Rivera)

The Interior Streets

Plaza colón.

Plaza Colón is the land entrance to Old San Juan and can be recognized by its monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus.

The plaza is a good meeting or drop-off point if you’re taking a taxi or Uber to/from Viejo San Juan.

Address: C. de la Fortaleza & C. de O’Donnell

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Plaza de Armas

Plaza de Armas is one of the city’s main plazas.

On the northern end lies San Juan City Hall, and on the west is the Department of State building.

At this plaza, you’ll find several statues, a fountain, benches, and street vendors selling local pastries and coffee.

Address: C. de San Francisco & Calle San José

Umbrella Street (Calle de la Fortaleza)

Perhaps one of the most Instagrammable locations in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, Fortzaleza Street is home to the iconic and colorful hanging umbrellas.

The popular attraction is located at the end of Calle de la Fortaleza, just in front of La Fortaleza, where the governor resides.

It’s worth noting that the hanging decor changes periodically, so you might not always see vibrant umbrellas.

During one of my visits, the umbrellas were all camouflage patterned to represent the military.

In 2021, the umbrellas were replaced by a large banner with the Puerto Rican flag’s design.

Address: C. de Fortaleza, San Juan

Hotel El Convento

Hotel El Convento is a chic 4-star hotel with a rooftop pool that’s conveniently located in the middle of the city.

But more importantly, the few blocks around the area are absolutely gorgeous and worth checking out if you want some colorful pictures!

Address: 100 C. del Cristo, San Juan

Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista

One block away from Hotel El Convento is the America’s second oldest cathedral, Catedral Basílica Metropolitana de San Juan Bautista, also known in English as the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of Saint John the Baptist.

Built in the mid 1500s, the cathedral is where the body of Ponce de Leon is entombed.

Address: 151 C. del Cristo, San Juan

La Puerta de la Bandera- Puerto Rican Flag Door

Any visitor will quickly see that Old San Juan is an oasis of art, from brightly painted buildings to beautiful murals on doors.

Another iconic photo spot in Puerto Rico is the Flag Door, or La Puerta de la Bandera from local artist Rosenda Álvarez.

Located at 51 Calle San José, a mural of the Puerto Rican flag is painted on the door of an abandoned historical building.

Address: 51 Calle San José, San Juan

Callejon de la Puerta Bandera- Flag Door Alley

Yet another popular Instagram photo location is also of the Puerto Rican flag on a door, but this time in an alley at the end of Calle Imperial.

I stumbled upon this mural without prior research as I was so immersed in the beautiful rainbow buildings in the neighboring streets.

If you have time (and enough energy), I definitely recommend spending a good half hour wandering through the area.

The streets are so colorful and perfect for photo ops.

You could even hire a Puerto Rico photographer for a fun and memorable photoshoot!

Address: Calle Imperial, San Juan

Where to Eat

A favorite restaurant among us cruise ship crew members is the Stuffed Avocado Shop .

While it’s not traditional or local eats by any means, it is the perfect option if you’re looking for a healthy meal with lots of fresh ingredients and greens– especially if you’re visiting San Juan on a cruise!

At this build-your-own-bowl eatery, patrons can choose from a wide and delicious selection of bases, protein, sauces, and toppings.

The menu also has a few “Signature Avocados,” with combinations already made for those unsure of what ingredients to put together.

From cauliflower rice and baby greens to pulled pork and mango tuna, the Stuffed Avocado is both tasty and healthy.

Address: 209 C. de San Francisco, San Juan

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Michelle is a freelance writer who has traveled to all seven continents and 60+ countries through various forms of employment. Over the last ten years, she’s worked as an ESL teacher in Japan, a youth counselor aboard cruise ships, and a hospitality manager in Antarctica.

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A Self Guided Walking Tour of Old San Juan

If you’re looking for an Old San Juan self-guided walking tour itinerary, you’ve come to the right place! Old San Juan is one of the most interesting cities in the USA.

Many cities in the United States have old towns. These can loosely be defined as colonial era towns that have kept their historical charm. There are quite a few scattered around the US. But perhaps the most spectacular of these old towns can be found in the US territory of Puerto Rico.

Old San Juan is the oldest – and in my opinion most beautiful – of all the historic old cities in the US. Founded by the Spanish in 1521, it’s a walking museum. Here we will cover a full day’s self guided walking tour of Old San Juan! 

Old San Juan – What You Need to Know

A brief history of old san juan, puerto rico , your self-guided walking tour of old san juan, avoiding the crowds in old san juan, eat like a local, outside old san juan , old san juan – faqs.

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Where is Old San Juan?

San Juan is the capital of Puerto Rico and located on the central north coast of the island. Old San Juan is the historic part of town, on a peninsula that juts out into the Caribbean Sea. Puerto Rico is an island between the Dominican Republic and The Virgin Islands and it’s about a 2 hour flight to the nearest spot of the mainland US.

How to get there

There are a lot of domestic flights into San Juan and a few international flights. Most major US cities on the east coast fly to San Juan. If your city doesn’t have a direct flight you’ll likely layover in Miami or elsewhere on the east coast. From the airport you can take a bus , taxi, Uber, or rental car to the Old Town, which is about 12km (7.5 miles) from the airport. 

If you’re combining a visit to Old San Juan with other destinations around Puerto Rico, it’s beneficial to have a car. You can use the search bar below to find a great deal on a rental in San Juan.

Parking in Old San Juan

If you’ve got your own wheels then I suggest parking in La Puntilla Parking lot . It’s right outside the old city walls and only $3 per day. It’s closed at night but there is free street parking at night nearby. It’s the perfect place to start your self guided walking tour of Old San Juan.

If you’re staying in the Old Town, though, your hotel might have parking included so be sure to check with your accommodation for parking options.

Puerto Rico speaks Spanish, but in Old San Juan just about everyone will be bilingual and speak English too. If you get outside of San Juan then you start running into places where the locals don’t speak English. 

Puerto Rican Food

Puerto Rico has its own unique cuisine. See the section below on Eat Like a Local.

Puerto Rico is part of the United States and uses the US dollar. Cards are accepted just about everywhere and it’s really not necessary to carry any cash, other than for parking lots and street vendors. San Juan is more expensive than you’d expect. It’s on par with smaller US cities in terms of the cost of everything.

You’d think with the GDP of Puerto Rico being lower than US states that things would be a bit cheaper but that’s not the case. It’s not as expensive as New York or Washington DC, but expect similar prices to midwestern cities.

Since you’re still in the US tipping is still a thing. You will be expected to tip at restaurants in San Juan.

Puerto Rico operates sort of like a state, but it’s not. It is a US territory instead, which means that US federal laws still apply, such as federal minimum wage and social security taxes, but citizens who live in Puerto Rico have no representation in the federal government.

They can join the army and go to war and die for the country, yet can’t vote for president. In 2020 Puerto Ricans voted by a slim majority to become a state, but it remains to be seen if that will ever happen.  

Weather in Old San Juan

Puerto Rico has a tropical climate and it’s hot and humid year-round. Summers are a bit hotter and rainier. San Juan is usually clear while the interior mountains are cloudy. You can reasonably expect San Juan to be hot, humid and sunny. 

You can also reasonably expect to get some rain if you’re there for more than a few days, so be sure to bring an umbrella with you on your trip.

Where to stay

There aren’t really any major hotel brands in Old San Juan. You’ll find a Sheraton on the south coast, but that’s really it. Old San Juan is full of small boutique hotels and holiday rentals instead, which adds to the charm.

They won’t be that much more expensive than staying outside the Old Town in one of the major brand hotels, but there are definitely more options and larger hotels outside. We stayed at Aloft San Juan but don’t recommend it due to loud music from the mall next door till well after midnight. 

Within the old town consider the 352 Guest House Hotel Boutique or the Casa Sol bed and Breakfast . Outside of the old town I like the Hyatt House or the Hyatt Place . They are right next to each other and It’s easy to get to the old town from there. Or check out all the listings on booking.com to find another great option!

Time of year to go

The peak tourist season runs from December to May. The weather is a bit cooler and drier. The summer months are the hottest and wettest but offer an experience with fewer tourists. The ideal time might be late spring to early summer. 

Just be mindful of when cruise ships stop in the port, because if you can avoid a cruise day that would be best. I explain how to avoid cruise days in a section below.

How long to stay in Old San Juan

It’s easy to see Old San Juan in one day. This self guided walking tour is structured around one day in the old town. A trip to San Juan should be combined with a beach vacation to Puerto Rico or a hike through the jungles of El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest system.

Puerto Rico – “rich port” – was first settled in 1508 by the Spanish in a location outside San Juan’s city limits. A year later the settlement was moved to what is now San Juan and the name was officially added in 1521, which is the year the city is considered to be founded. Fortifications were built over the years and helped fend off numerous attacks, especially from the Dutch, French and English. 

For centuries it remained a small Spanish port city, never expanding beyond the original city walls. In 1898 the United States did what the Dutch never could and took Puerto Rico, thus ending the Spanish-American war. However, Puerto Rico did not become a territory until 19 years later. It has remained an American territory now for over 100 years. 

Over the years the colonial houses and buildings in Old San Juan degraded into a state of disarray. What you see today is the result of painstaking restoration of the old buildings that has taken place over the last 80 years. And they’ve done a hell of a job restoring the city to its original charm. These days Old San Juan is mainly a tourist destination. No more fending off invaders! 

If you’re curious what San Juan would have turned into had the Dutch taken over, then be sure to check out my complete guide to Amsterdam !

The Old Town is not large but there is a lot to see and do. Hitting all these spots will log 8-10 miles on your Fitbit. You can choose your own order of precedence, but hitting them in the order I have given below will make for happy feet. Check out the map below for the points of interest you’ll need to hit on this self guided walking tour of Old San Juan. 

The Colorful Streets 

Perhaps the main draw of Old San Juan is not one particular location, but the architecture of the city itself. The buildings are nearly all colonial-era Spanish architecture. The Caribbean has all sorts of old colonial-era cities, like the Zona Colonial in Santo Domingo or the Pietermaai district of Willemstad in Curaçao. But when it comes to colonial architecture, nothing beats San Juan.

This means cute balconies and colorful facades. All the streets are lined with charming houses of eclectic, bright colors. The old city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There is no single street to go for the best views. It depends on how many cars are parked and how crowded the city is. Rest assured there will be no shortage of photo ops on the streets of Old San Juan.

Castillo San Felipe del Moro 

Old San Juan’s most notable attraction is almost certainly Castillo San Felipe del Moro , the city’s original fort. This Spanish fortress was built over the centuries, starting in 1539. It’s an impressive structure and was used to fend off attacks, most notably from the Dutch in 1625.

These days the fort is part of San Juan National Historic Site, managed by the National Park Service. It was last used for military purposes during WW2 and since then has been solely a tourist site. It’s $10 per person to enter unless you have the NPS Interagency Pass or another yearly pass. 

The fort itself is an impressive structure. It rises seven stories from the water below and includes multiple fortifications and lookouts. It really reminded me of the beautiful ancient forts in Malta.

Allow at a bare minimum of an hour to visit the fort, but more if you want to walk along the coast along the promenade back to the Puerto de San Juan, the old city’s main entrance station. 

Castillo de San Cristóbal  

On the other side of Old San Juan lies another Spanish fort, Castillo de San Cristóbal . While not as well known, this fort is actually larger, the largest of its kind in the New World, i.e. the Western Hemisphere.

It was built about 100 years after San Felipe and meant to protect San Juan from land attacks. The two forts are connected by the old city wall that runs between them. 

Entrance to San Cristóbal is included with admission to San Felipe (and vice versa), so be sure to keep your receipt. It’s similar to San Felipe but has more viewpoints over land. This way the Puerto Ricans could see if the Dutch were gonna attack by landing somewhere else on the island and approaching on foot.

The two fortresses worked like a charm and Spain held on to Puerto Rico until it was surrendered to the United States in 1898. 

Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista

The Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista is the oldest church in the United States and the second oldest church in the Americas. While that might pale in comparison to some of the European gothic cathedrals, it’s still nearly 500 years old, dating back to 1540. I only admired it from the outside, but you’re free to walk in and have a look around. It’s not big and will only take a few minutes. 

Casa Blanca 

Casa Blanca is now a museum, but centuries ago this house belonged to famed Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon. It’s San Juan’s oldest house and contains many artifacts from the colonial days of the city. The house has some odd hours so consult the website linked above for the latest information. 

Puerta de San Juan 

Old San Juan’s original entry gate is found at Puerta de San Juan. It’s just an entryway in the city wall, but you can imagine old aristocrats arriving here hundreds of years ago. From here there is a lovely walk along the coast on the promenade. This takes you outside the city wall and eventually to the base of Castillo San Felipe de Moro. 

Situated outside the ancient city wall, La Perla is a former shantytown. Many years ago the slaves and lower class were forced to live outside the walls, thus La Perla was born. It’s full of colorful houses and right on the water, but you can tell the residents are not quite as rich as those inside the wall by one walk through the village.

It was also seriously damaged by hurricane Maria in 2017. Still cool to walk through though and your self guided walking tour of Old San Juan should definitely include a detour here. Just be careful at night, as there have been recent reports of violent crime aimed at tourists.

Musea de las Americas

If you’re into museums, or trying to beat the heat for a bit, pop into Musea de las Americas to learn a little bit about colonial life in Puerto Rico and see some artifacts from those days. 

Guided Tours

If you’d prefer to have a guide walk you around the city and add a bit of historic context onto your day in Old San Juan, then there are numerous short tours available with GetYourGuide , including walking tours as well as sunset cruises and sailing. You can even add on food tours, ziplining and all sorts of other adventurous activities. 

Make no mistake, Old San Juan can get pretty crowded. It’s not a huge area but it is an extremely popular place for American tourists. This is especially true on days when cruise ships dock at the port. The largest cruise ships can hold thousands of people. Now imagine all those people getting off at the same time and walking around Old San Juan.

If you’re not a part of one of these cruises then I highly recommend planning your trip to San Juan on a day where no cruise ships dock at the port. You can see which days have cruises using this link . About 500 cruise ships visit San Juan every year, and the vast majority visit between November and March.

In those months it’s very possible to have a day where three cruises stop at San Juan. And you absolutely do not want to be in town when three cruise ships are docked. So do yourself a favor and plan around the cruises. We were there on a summer day with no cruises and felt like we had the city to ourselves! 

For a small island, Puerto Rico has its own culinary culture. This isn’t intended to be a full rundown of Puerto Rican food but a quick synopsis on some of the main things to try. 

• Mofongo: the most Puerto Rican dish of them all. It’s essentially mashed fried  plantains served with some sort of meat. I’ve never seen it anywhere else in the world. It’s delicious. 
• Empanadas: Puerto Rican empanadas are fried and scrumptious. Don’t have too many though, as they are super unhealthy.
• Tostones and amarillos: deep fried green plantains and ripe plantains, respectively. 
• Arroz y habichuelas: red beans and white rice, served as a side with many meals. 
• Lechón asado: Puerto Rican succulent pig 
• Pastelon: Puerto Rican lasagna, made with plantains 
• Paella: this Spanish staple is found nearly everywhere in Puerto Rico 
• Flan: a vanilla custard cake. Simply amazing. 

Restaurants

There are tons of great restaurants in Old San Juan. Prices are in line with any large American city, and tipping is expected like anywhere else in the US. Most restaurants are indoors, as the narrow old streets don’t allow for much of a patio presence. You can find some rooftop bars and cafes though. 

To eat like a local, head to Cafe Manolin, a no frills ‘50s diner style restaurant with a huge menu. We had lunch there and dinner at Raices, which was recommended by the bartender at our hotel. It’s very popular and we waited over an hour for a table. But the stuffed avocado was excellent and worth the wait. The flan was also to die for. 

Some other restaurants that were recommended to us were Cayo Caribe, Cafe El Punto, and El Patio de Sam. Lastly, if you want to try the original pina colada, head over to Barrachina, where the drink was invented by bartender Ramon Portas Mingot in 1963. 

If you have longer in San Juan there are some more areas of the city that are worth checking out. Though I would say that I don’t recommend a beach vacation in San Juan city – even though there are plenty of beach resorts – due to the possibility of smoggy skies. It’s a big, dense city and you’re likely to get more beautiful skies further outside the city. 

Condado is the main beach area for San Juan. It’s lined with hotels and restaurants and worth a stop if you have a few days in San Juan. Pinky’s is a great spot for breakfast if you are in Condado.

In the Isla Grande region you will find a lot of new hotels (this is where we stayed) and a huge mall that has DJs every night in a common courtyard. Parque Isla Verde contains the airport and a long stretch of beach, as well as many 4 and 5-star hotels. 

The best beaches in Puerto Rico are well outside of San Juan. If you really want to see some amazing sand and water, take a day cruise to Icacos Beach on Cayo Icacos, a small island northwest of mainland Puerto Rico.

To get there you have to drive out of town quite a bit and take a boat to the island. There are tons of organized tours – like this one – so it’s not an issue getting there.

How long does it take to walk around Old San Juan?

Depending on your pace and how long you want to stop at the various sites, it could take anywhere from a few hours (no stops) to a few days if you stop to see everything. 

Do you need a tour guide for Old San Juan? 

No, you don’t need a tour guide for Old San Juan. This article explains how to do a self-guided walking tour of Old San Juan. If you want additional information on history and a knowledgeable local, having a tour guide can be beneficial though. 

Is one day in Old San Juan enough?

Yes, one day in Old San Juan is sufficient to see the highlights of the beautiful old city. 

Is it safe to walk around Old San Juan at night? 

Yes, it’s perfectly safe to walk around Old San Juan at night. It’s a happening place and there are people all over. Just see the next section about places to avoid. 

Where to avoid in Old San Juan?

After dark it’s best to avoid the La Perla neighborhood. Tourists have been known to get mugged and stabbed there in the wee hours of the morning. 

What is the difference between Old San Juan and San Juan? 

Old San Juan is a neighborhood of San Juan, a large city in Puerto Rico. “Old” comes from the fact that it was built in the Spanish colonial era. It’s the original San Juan. Since those days a sprawling metropolis has emerged from the old city, while the old city still retains all its colonial charm. 

Where do I park to access Old San Juan,

As discussed in the introduction, I suggest parking in the La Puntilla Parking lot when visiting Old San Juan. Cheap and right outside the city walls. 

Old San Juan is one of the most picturesque cities in the Americas. Walking the old cobblestone streets makes you think you’re in some historic European city. And if that wasn’t enough, the beautiful Spanish forts that protected the city for centuries really make you feel like you’ve landed in Europe. You’ll have a great time if you follow this Old San Juan self guided walking tour!

Chris Heckmann

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Old San Juan Free Walking Tour: A Guide to Exploring Puerto Rico’s Historic Capital

Key takeaways – old san juan free walking tour, takeaway 1: explore old san juan’s vibrant history and culture through a free walking tour, takeaway 2: customize your exploration with guided or self-guided options, takeaway 3: discover hidden gems beyond old san juan and make it a family affair, our #1 best recommended excursion, our #1 best recommended excursion our pick is the guided led night kayak excursion in condado lagoon, puerto rico because its the most complete tour and one of the highest-rated..

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Our best recommended day trip our pick is the culebra day trip by catamaran from fajardo because its the most complete day trip tours and one of the highest-rated..

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Exploring the vibrant history and culture of old san juan through a free walking tour.

Isn’t it amazing how much a free walking tour in Old San Juan can offer? For those like myself who have experienced it, we’ve found it to be nothing short of an enriching encounter steeped in vibrant history and culture. And you know the best part? You’re able to soak this all in from a local’s perspective! You see, these Old San Juan sightseeing tours , as hearty as they may be, are tailored to bring you an authentic rawness that most other types of tours might miss.

Discovering Historical Forts and Landmarks on Your Journey

In any case, no Old San Juan city tour , guided or otherwise, would be complete without visits to historical forts like the iconic San Cristobal Fort and El Morro. These landmarks stand testament to Puerto Rico’s resilience over centuries. By the way, let’s not forget other noteworthy spots such as Las Palmas Bastion and the Totem. A stroll through quaint colonial houses coupled with sightseeing architectural monuments promises an even richer experience.

Options for Self-Guided Tours: Downloadable Maps and Applications

If you’re anything like me, who enjoys exploring at their own pace – don’t fret! The Old San Juan free walking tour offers several options for self-guided tours. You can easily download maps or applications such as GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities from your favourite App Store for more convenience.

The perks of an Old San Juan self-guided tour!

You see, these downloadable guides break their routes into manageable sections, catered to your interests or time constraints. Now that I think about it, it’s this flexibility that makes these tours so appealing.

Understanding Old San Juan’s Architecture, Traditions, and Hidden Gems with Local Guides

While we’re on the subject of Old San Juan guided tour , let me tell you: These aren’t just any regular tours. Throughout your journey, you’ll unravel the city’s distinctive architecture, vibrant culture and traditions – things only locals would be privy to! It’s uncovering these hidden gems that make these complimentary walking tours of Old San Juan even more astonishing.

Expanding Your Adventure: Other Locations Available via Downloadable Walking Tours

All things considered, why limit yourself to Old San Juan historical walking tour ? There are also downloadable walking tours available that let you explore beyond Old San Juan. For instance, Puerto Rico Day Trips offers a unique guide for its own kind of urban adventure.

Planning Your Trip to Old San Juan: Tips to Maximize Your Visit

In closing, as small as Old San Juan might seem – merely seven square blocks – let me assure you it is rich in attractions. Therefore, it would be worthwhile setting aside enough time on your itinerary for this quaint city and its abundant offerings. By doing so on an old san juan free walking tour or a self-guided one with a handy tourist map of old san juan for walking, , you’re bound to immerse fully in the local flavors while taking back unforgettable memories!

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My personal take about old san juan free walking tour.

• The aromas wafting from street-side cafes
• The awe-inspiring views from El Morro’s sentry boxes
• A warm sea breeze whisper in Acacia streets’
• Late-night music sessions spilling out from La Factoria

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Frequently Asked Questions about Old San Juan Free Walking Tour

1. what can i expect from the old san juan free walking tour.

From the Old San Juan free walking tour, you can expect to explore the city’s vibrant history and culture from a local’s perspective. You will visit historic forts like the San Cristobal Fort and El Morro, as well as landmarks such as the Las Palmas Bastion and the Totem. Walking through colonial houses and architectural monuments will further enrich your experience.

2. Where does the tour usually start?

The tour usually starts at Plaza Colon on Francisco Street, which serves as a convenient meeting point for participants.

3. How long does the tour typically last?

The Old San Juan free walking tours usually average about 2.5 hours in duration, providing ample time to explore and immerse yourself in Puerto Rico’s historic capital.

4. Can I explore Old San Juan at my own pace?

Absolutely! If you prefer exploring at your own pace, there are several options for self-guided tours available. You can download maps or applications like “GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities” from iTunes App Store or Google Play Store for more ease and convenience.

5. Will I only learn about architecture during the tour?

No, you will not only learn about the city’s architecture but also its culture, traditions, and hidden gems that only locals would know of. The guides provide informative insights into various aspects of Old San Juan.

6. Are there any other interesting locations to explore besides Old San Juan?

Absolutely! If you’re interested in venturing beyond Old San Juan, you can download walking tours like Puerto Rico Day Trips, which provide detailed guides for exploring other fascinating locations in Puerto Rico.

Now you know Old San Juan Free Walking Tour , but that’s only the beginning of your journey here at we like PR. If you found this post useful there’s more to learn to get you to the next step of your Puerto Rico journey. If you read our next articles you’ll be a step further than most people.

Before you go…

If you’re a food enthusiast, ensure to check our recommendations for the best food tour in puerto rico . after the delightful culinary journey, you might want to experience the magical bio bay kayak tour in fajardo , which is an absolute must-do when visiting puerto rico..

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Historical Walking Tours in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Immerse yourself in puerto rico culture, history & traditions, old san juan walking tour.

Let’s walk! Explore the historic area of Old San Juan. Step back in time, over 500 years, and learn about the island of Puerto Rico. Visit incredible landmarks while your guide regales you with cultural tales.

• Clock 2 Hours

Why Guests Love Our Old San Juan Walking Tours

Juan was wonderful and so informative! He is knowledgeable about the history of San Juan and PR. He is energetic, witty, and a truly enjoyable person to spend a walk with. He is a gem in San Juan!

Juan Carlos was fantastic. Even after everyone else in my group canceled, he showed up on time to give me a solo tour with a bottle of water (which I was looking for) and a sample of his very own art. His tour was a great start to my adventures in Puerto Rico. He’s a native, perfectly bilingual, and very friendly and accommodating! Highly recommend.

Juan Carlos is great and fun tour guide! I would recommend him to anyone who's looking for a relaxing and comfortable tour!

We had a great time with Juan Carlos on our walking tour. It seemed like we saw the entire island by the time we finished as we circled old San Juan and cut through streets along the way. He even brought us water bottles and some of his own artwork as a souvenir!! We learned all sorts of historical facts and memories we will take home with us.

JC it’s the best tour guide you will find in PR !!! He knows the way around PR. Highly recommend JC whenever you visit Puerto Rico.

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Self-Guided Walking Tour of Old San Juan

One of the best ways to see the city of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico is to walk. Stroll upon the blue cobblestone streets of this oldest city in America and see pastel-colored colonial architecture, historic forts, quaint museums, monuments, and charming plazas with cafes and restaurants.

The city is layered with hundreds of years of Spanish, Taino, and African influences. Take this self-guided walking tour of Old San Juan and immerse yourself in the culture and cuisine of this charming city.

Links to Google Maps are included to help you along your journey.

Welcome to Old San Juan!

Start your walking tour at calle marina.

This walking tour starts at Calle Marina , which is where the cruise ships dock. If you are driving into the city, there’s a reasonably priced parking garage on PR38 . Park in the garage and walk toward the waterfront. Enjoy the beautiful view of the bay!

Plaza Darsenas & Casita de Rones Bar

From the marina head west, with the bay on your left, to Calle Comercio. You will come upon Plaza Darsenas and the Casita de los Rones bar . It serves as a promotion center for the rums of Puerto Rico. Make a stop and grab a refreshing rum cocktail or a bite to eat.

Plaza de Hostos

Continue walking towards Plaza de Hostos . A bust of Eugenio María de Hostos stands proudly. Hostos was an avid supporter of the independence movement for Puerto Rico and Cuba. He dedicated his life to educational causes and advocating women’s is cbum natural rights to higher education.

What are the blue stones?

You may have noticed you’ve been walking on blue stones. Brought over on Spanish ships, they are adoquin , cast from furnace slag, and used as ballast on the ships. The characteristic blue color comes from age and moisture.

El Paseo de la Princesa

Continue strolling on the path toward San Juan’s most beautiful promenade, El Paseo de la Princesa . Originally created in 1853, the Paseo, features a broad brick walkway. It leads visitors through a pleasant tree-lined sculptural and garden showcase.

Look up and see the remains of the original city walls. La Muralla, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is nearly 400 years old. By 1873 masonry walls fully encircled the city and the fortification defended the entire islet. It was considered one of the best fortified cities in the Caribbean and consisted of lookouts and defensive positions.

On weekends, vendors sell local art, handmade jewelry, fried treats, and piragua , a shaved-ice made with tropical fruit syrup.

Puerto Rico Tourism Company

The Puerto Rico Tourism Company will be on your right. This building served as the prison from 1837 to 1960 and visitors can view the original jail cells located in the back courtyard.

Raices Fountain

Along with the lovely views of San Juan Bay you will see the beautiful Raíces or Roots Fountain . The fountain celebrates Puerto Rico’s rich cultural diversity and historical heritage. Sculpted by Spanish artist, Luis Sanguin, Amerindian, African, and Spanish peoples are represented.

Bacardi Factory

Look across the bay you’ll see a few wind turbines spinning. That’s the  Bacardi Rum Factory . To visit the Bacardi Factory from Old San Juan, ride the La Lancha Ferry on Pier 2 to Catano . Continue to the Bacardi Factory by taxi.

Crecimiento Sculptures

Follow the walkway as it bears to the right. A collection of bronze sculptures sit along the outside of the city walls called ‘Crecimiento.’ These are the creation of Carmen Inés Blondet in 1996 and represent the affirmation of life.

The shapes, rising from the ground, convey the idea that the fragility of growth is only an impression and what is truly important has to be eternal.

Queen Isabella Sculpture

Continue following the pathway and view the sculpture of Queen Isabella I of Spain in a courtyard next to the city wall. It’s shaded by a stately ficus tree.

La Puerta de San Juan

As you continue to follow the path you will come upon an immense red gate or La Puerta de San Juan . Build between 1634 and 1638, when the wall was built around the entire city, this massive door was closed at night to protect the city and its inhabitants.

Out of the three that were built, this is the only one that stands to this day. As you walk through the gate, notice the 15-feet thick walls.

A blessing, at the top of the gate, to all visitors as they pass through: “ Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord .”

Caleta San Juan

Walk through the gate and continue straight on San Juan Street or Caleta San Juan . Notice the colors and architecture of these 400-year old homes. The beautiful Moorish title and hidden courtyards make this my favorite street to take a stroll.

Cathedral de San Juan Bautista

At the top of San Juan Street is the graceful gothic Cathedral de San Juan Bautista   or the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist. It is the second oldest church in the western hemisphere and oldest church on US soil. The history of the church begins in 1521 with the beginnings of the Spanish colonialization of the island.

The tomb of Ponce de Leon, the first governor of Puerto Rico is housed in this church. A Spanish conquistador, he led the first European expedition for gold to the Americas in addition to a small island to be later named, Puerto Rico. It was in 1509 he took office as the first Governor of Puerto Rico by appointment of the Spanish crown.

El Convento Hotel

El Convento Hotel is on the diagonal corner of the cathedral.

There have been numerous sightings of ghosts in the guest rooms over the years at El Convento Hotel. A Carmelite convent in the past, the popular ghost story revolves about Doña Ana de Lansos y Menéndez de Valdez, the founder.

Doña Ana was its first mother superior, and many say she never left. She and her nuns walk the halls, it has been reported. It is said that the swishing sound of their robes echoes through this hotel, even centuries after Doña Ana’s death.

El Bate bar

Head up the hill to Cristo Street or Calle de Cristo . If you’re thirsty, stop into El Bate , a little gem, with graffiti-covered walls and business cards hanging from the ceiling. Reasonably priced drinks, this place is a welcome respite from the heat.

San Jose Church

Continue walking up Calle Cristo and on the right is the oldest church in San Juan, the San Jose Church .

Built in 1532, it is one of the finest and oldest examples of Gothic influenced architecture built by the Spanish in the New World. It has recently been renovated.

Institute of Puerto Rican Culture

As the road bears to the left, the Institute of Puerto Rican Cultur e will be on the right. This museum houses the largest collection of Puerto Rican paintings from the eighteenth century to the 1960s.

El Totem Telurico & Plaza del Quinto Centario

Continue walking towards the left and you will see a plaza with a totem pole or El Totem Telurico .  This is Plaza del Quinto Centenario .

In 1992, to honor the 500 year anniversary of Columbus’ first voyage to the Americas, artist Jaime Suarez created this totem with clay. The clay is from different locations of the Americas, signifying the origins of the people .

Look out toward the ocean and you will see El Morro Fort in the distance.

El Morro Fort

A National Historic Site, completed in 1589, El Morro Fort is a stunning six-level fortress. It successfully protected the city from sea invaders.

The three flags waving at the top commemorate Puerto Rico, the US, and the Spanish military. Spectacular views and interesting historical items make this a fascinating place to visit. On weekends you’ll see families flying kites on the lawn.

The colorful neighborhood known as La Perla is located along the ocean to the right of El Morro. Community leaders have been making efforts toward the growth and development of what has for generations been one of the most underserved and economically disadvantaged sectors of San Juan.

This colorful barrio is where the filming for the pop hit “Despacito” took place. Please note that this is a local neighborhood, not a tourist attraction, so respect the privacy of those who live here.

Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery

Before you reach El Morro, you will see the beautiful Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery is the final resting place of many of Puerto Rico’s most prominent natives and residents ; artists, politicians, musicians, and painters.

If you plan to visit the cemetery it can be accessed by walking on Calle Norzagaray to the parking garage located underneath the Plaza del Quinto Centenario . Continue on Calle Del Cementerio and through the underground tunnel to reach the cemetery’s entrance.

Plaza de Beneficencia

In the plaza is a statue in honor of Eugenio Maria de Hostos. Importantly known as “The Great Citizen of the Americas” he was an advocate for Puerto Rico’s independence and an educator, lawyer, philosopher, sociologist, and writer.

Plaza de Ballaja & Museo de las Americas

To fully explore the attractions on this street, you’ll need about 2 hours if you were to visit both museums.

Museo de las Americas

Continue to the  Plaza de Ballaja  and see the  ballajá  or military barracks. Built in 1854 for the Spanish troops and their families. This building is home today of the Museo de las Americas containing pre-Columbian to modern art from the Americas.

Casa Blanca Museum

Continue walking and tucked on the southwest end of Calle Beneficencia and San Sebastian Street on the right, is Casa Blanca , built in 1521 for Juan Ponce de Leon and his family. It is the oldest house on the island. Visitors can tour the lovely gardens, mansion living spaces, a display of artifacts, and historic information.

Side Trip to La Factoria Bar

If you want to make a stop to the famous La Factoria Bar , don’t turn on Calle Sole just yet. Stay on San Sebastian Street and walk 2 blocks. La Factoria is rated as one of the worlds 50-best bars in North America. A labyrinth of six unique rooms, each with different menus and themes, cater to guests looking for a slightly different experience. 

From San Sebastian Street turn onto Calle Sol . Bursting with brightly painted houses and flowers, it’s a favorite of mine. A street that’s really a staircase. Now that’s unusual!

La Rogativa statue

At the bottom of Calle Sol, you’ll see  La Rogativa  statue, made by Lindsay Daen out of bronze. Rogativa means procession. This statue was created to celebrate a famous procession of faith in history.

When the British were about to attack the Spanish army in 1797, the Bishop and towns-women came up with a brilliant plan to protect the city. They held a procession, and s ubsequently, the British gave up the attack thinking the women were Spanish army reinforcements.

Across the street from La Rogativa, there’s a sign that says “limbers .” Next to it there is a small hallway and gated door. Run by a local family, they’ve been selling these sweet-fruit flavored ice treats for years. If no one is at the window, just knock loudly or call out a greeting.

Cristo & Forteleza Streets

Go up Las Monjas Street to Cristo Street . On Cristo Street, turn right. Cristo and Forteleza Streets are the main shopping areas. Outlet shops, Puerto Rican handcrafts, unique souvenirs, high-quality jewelry, and artwork can be found here.

La Forteleza

At the very end of La Forteleza Street, is the official residence of the Governor of Puerto Rico. La Forteleza , built to defend the harbor of San Juan is the oldest executive mansion in continuous use and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Capilla del Santo Cristo

Around the corner from La Forteleza, you’ll see the Capilla del Santo Cristo. Believers who come to the chapel seek miracles for physical illnesses.

The legend says that Baltazar Montanez, in 1753, took part in a traditional horse race, lost control, and plunged off the cliffs. The Spanish Secretary of Government, Don Mateo Pratts, cried out, “ Christ of Good Health, save him !” The young rider, lived. He was miraculously saved, they believed! That same year Montanez built the small chapel on the exact spot where Montanzez fell over the cliff.

Over the years believers have brought tiny silver ornaments, each one representing some ailing part of their body. These small “Milagros,” decorate the walls. They represent the cause of pain for the pilgrim. The church is open on Tuesdays and religious days. 

El Parque las Palomas

Next to the chapel on Calle de Tetuan, is Parque las Palomas or Pigeon Park. Here you can purchase bird food and feed the hundreds of pigeons that flock in the park.

You can choose to END your walking tour here, or continue to on to Fort de San Cristobal, which will put you near the parking garage on PR38.

Fort de San Cristobal

If you wish to visit Fort de San Cristobal , follow these directions from the Parque Las Palomas.

It should be noted that this fort is brilliantly constructed with a number of different units. Connected by tunnels, if one part is invaded, each unit is self-sufficient. In the dungeon, you can see some of the prisoner drawings on the walls. Be sure to take in the beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The self-guided walking tour of Old San Juan has come to an end.

We hope you enjoyed wandering the blue cobblestone streets with perhaps a piragua in hand. What did you think of the stunning architecture? Did you marvel at the 15-foot thick gate? Were you able to explore one of the incredible forts?

Old San Juan is a perfect place for a self-guided walking tour. With a myriad of historical sites and rich architecture, it’s a perfect way to spend the day.

More things to do in Old San Juan:

Take a sunset sail in old san juan bay.

Boulevards and Byways is a participant in the Amazon Services, LLC Associates, and Partner Viator Program s. T he affiliate advertising program provides a means to sustain this blog by linking to affiliate sites at no extra cost to you.

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Printed on 03 Jun 2024 from PuertoRicoDayTrips.com

Self Guided Walking Tour of Old San Juan – Part 1

So you decided to spend some time exploring Old San Juan? You will not be disappointed! The old city is a small area, only 7 square blocks. But there is so much to do and see in that small area that you can spend days there and never see everything. Or if you are in a hurry, you can get an feel for the city in just a few short hours.

Thanks to conservation efforts, this beautiful old city remains largely as it did 300 to 400 years ago (but better, due to many modern conveniences!) with about 400 restored 16th- and 17th-century Spanish colonial buildings.

I will break this tour up into a number of parts. Part one will be your guide from the Casita to El Morro along the Paseo de la Princesa, and up Calle Cristo.

One of the first things you will probably notice about the old city is the streets. The streets here are blue cobblestones ( or many of them were until they started making OSJ a walkable town- now many have been replaced with modern blue/grey pavers).

Our first stop will be at the Puerto Rico Tourism Company Information Center. It is on the far west corner of La Marina street (across from Pier 1 and the Casita -the little yellow rose building). Here you will find air conditioning and a bi-lingual staff to help you plan your day. They can give you ideas and information about what is happening, the hours of operation and other important suggestions, like where to eat.

The Visitor’s Center (phone 787-722-1709) is located across from the Plaza de la Darsena and is open everyday from 9:00am until 5:30pm.

After you have your information and maps, head outside and enjoy the Bahia de San Juan (San Juan Bay). From here, you can see the cruise ships in port. The number of ships vary depending on the season, but it there is usually at least one ship in port at least 4 days a week (always on Saturdays and Sundays).

When you are ready to start your tour, start walking west (to your left if your back is to the bay). In this plaza, you will find nice benches with a view of the bay and little rose colored Casita (which is a RUM BAR!). Also here you will find an outdoor crafts market is usually open all day on weekends and on some week days depending on the cruise ship itineraries.

Continue left down the Paseo de la Princesa . This lovely street is tree lined and has lovely gardens, benches, statuary, and a nice shady restaurant. You will usually find some vendors, and there is a clean public bathroom (50¢) on the left side.

You can’t help but notice the massive City Wall to the right. The city wall or La Muralla was built around the city. Started in the early 1500’s, it is almost 20 feet thick in places and up to 60 feet tall in places. It was constantly being extended as the city grew and was finally completed in 1782. It was built to protect the city against enemy attacks. There is a nice shady garden, some statuary, and a children park for everyone to enjoy.

As you continue along the Paseo, you will come to La Princesa . This lovely building was once the San Juan jail. (Notice that the criminals were kept outside the city walls!). Now restored, it houses the Puerto Rico Tourism Company (phone 787-721-2400). Take a little time and go inside. The building is air conditioned and always has a changing collection of art. Ask for a quick explanation of the jail portion, then go out to the back courtyard and go to the right, through the tiny walk between the buildings to see the jail cells. It is open weekdays.

As you continue down the Paseo, you will see a beautiful fountain with a bronze sculpture by Luis Sanguino called “ Raices “, which symbolizes the island’s cultural roots.

At the end of the promenade, you can see across the bay to Catano. The big golden cream colored building you see (with the distillation “chimneys” and wind turbines) is the Bacardi Rum Factory building. You can take a tour of the Bacardi operation. You can either drive yourself, or take the public transport (bus or La Lancha ferry- whichever is running, from Pier 2 in Old San Juan to Catano and then an Uber or Taxi to the rum factory.

Continue on the Paseo to your right. You will see a metal sculpture that looks like “spikes” on the right. Later on the right is a sculpture of Queen Isabella in a nice little cool sitting area.

Continue along the Paseo. Here you will find the City Gate. You have a choice to either continue on the walk outside of the city wall, or go through the gate into the city.

If you choose the walk along the wall, the trail is called the Paseo del Morro . It is 3/4 mile long one way. This walk follows along the city wall to below El Morro fort . The trail actually ends at El Morro fort. You can go to the end, follow path up to top and enter El Morro Fort area from there. They have steps that will connect the grounds outside the fort to the Paseo. Along the route, you will be able to get many great photos of El Morro , and the Garitas (guard towers). It will be hot, and there are no trees for shade. You can not walk off the trail, it is monitored by guards. You will see many cats on this path. They are protected by the Parks Department – do not touch or feed them. They are spayed/neutered, vaccinated and fed by a local animal organization called Save a Gato . This paseo is open 6:00am-10:00pm daily, but the Fort area entrance is only open 9am – 6pm daily (before or after that you need to walk back along the Paseo to the gate). Bring a hat, water and sun screen!

But our tour will take you through the City Gate. This is the only remaining city gate. It was one of six original massive wooden doors that, centuries ago, were closed at sundown to protect the residents. This pretty red-painted Puerta de San Juan or San Juan Gate is where you re-enter the city. Above the gate is inscribed “Benedictus qui venit in nomine domini”- Latin for “blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord”. As you walk through, notice how the wall is about 15 feet thick. Go straight through the gate and up the hill. You are following the same path many sailors took after a long voyage – straight up the street, to the cathedral, to thank God for a safe journey.

As you are walking up this street, try to peek into any buildings being renovated. These are 400 year old houses that have beautiful Moorish tile work, and lovely open inner courtyards.

Just before you get to the Cathedral, you will pass a small shady park. Here you can sit, relax and people-watch in the cool shade.

The San Juan Cathedral is a 450 year old church. Ponce De Leon is interred here. The building is constantly being restored and it is very pretty – go in and take a look. They ask a donation ($2). Mass is still held here. Open daily.

Once outside the Cathedral (with your back to the cathedral) turn right and continue going up the hill on Cristo Street. Be sure to make stops along the way. There are many restaurants, bars, art galleries and museums – so take your time and explore!

At the top of the hill you will find San Jose Plaza. Here you will find the San Jose Church, which as of 3/21 has finished being restored! The Church is open Tues- Sat 9am – 4pm. It is the oldest church in San Juan and has some wonderful features and art..

In the corner by the church door, you will find the back entrance to the old Dominican Convent. It housed the National Gallery – about 150 artwork pieces from Puerto Rican artists from the last few centuries. This museum is currently closed, but when it reopens, Stop in. It’s definitely time well spent.

Cristo street ends here, so turn left – you will be at the Plaza del Quinto Centenario. This park has a sculpture of a Totem pole and, down the steps, you will see a fountain that the kids love to play in. From here you will see El Morro across the field.

We’ll pick up the tour at El Morro in part 2 of this “self guided walking tour” series of articles.

You can spend many days taking in all that Old San Juan has to offer. Plan on at least one full day.

PuertoRicoDayTrips.com assumes no responsibility regarding your safety when participating in the activities described in this article. Please use common sense! If your mother or that little voice in your head tells you that you are about to do something stupid … then don't do it! Read more about Safety →

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Old San Juan Self Guided Walking Tour Part 1

Old San Juan , Puerto Rico may be small (around 7 square blocks), but there are still lots of attractions to see. You can easily spend a full day exploring the walled city of San Juan, but if you only have a few hours to spare, you can still get a feel for the place.

This self-guided walking tour of Old San Juan will be split into two parts. The first part will take you from near the cruise ship piers at the La Casita (Tourist Information Center) along the Paseo La Princesa, through the San Juan gate and then on to El Morro. In Part 2 we will then head back into Old San Juan and take you to La Fortaleza, the shopping district, San Cristobel Fort and back to the Tourist Information Center. The first thing that you will notice about Old San Juan is that it is a walled city that looks today as it did 300 – 400 years ago, when the Spanish defended the city from the invading British. As you wander around the city, enjoy the Spanish colonial buildings that make up the heart of the city.

To orientate yourself, take a look at the Old San Juan map that highlights attractions and related articles.

The tour starts at the La Casita which is now the Tourist Information Center. The building is located close to the cruise ship piers at Plaza de la Darsena.This is a great place to start your tour of Old San Juan, as you can get information on attractions, maps, restaurants and more from the helpful staff (bilingual).

La Casita is open daily from 8am – 8pm, but the free drinks only start at 1pm and are not available on Thursday / Friday. 787-729-6777

Coqui bonus: Sample a free drink courtesy of ‘Rums of Puerto Rico’

Coqui note: On Saturday / Sunday (late afternoon / evening) the area around the La Casita is a popular spot as local artisans display their crafts and local musicians fill the air with traditional music.

Paseo La Princesa

Further along the promenade you will pass the Old San Juan Jail – La Princesa. No longer a jail, it is the home of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company. The building is open weekdays to the general public, where you can take a tour of the cells.

Continue past the jail towards the Raices fountain; a bronze sculpture fountain designed by Luis Sanguino. This is a great photo opportunity spot .

Past the fountain the Paseo La Princesa continues to follow the city wall and the San Juan Bay. The walkway curves to the right and leads you to The San Juan Gate (city gate).

At this point, you can continue to follow the walkway towards El Morro or head through the large city gate.

Coqui note: The walk towards El Morro is nice with some great photo opportunities of El Morro, but unfortunately it is a dead end and you will need to retrace your steps back to the San Juan Gate

San Juan Gate

Coqui note: The Hotel El Convento has a great tapas restaurant that has an open air courtyard; just in case you are feeling hungry. Also close by is the Children’s Museum, which is open daily except Mondays.

San Juan Cathedral

The small; San Juan Cathedral was built 400 years ago and contains the remains of Ponce De Leon. Mass is offered Daily in Spanish.

With the Cathedral on your right, head up the hill (you are currently on Cristo Street). This street contains craft shops as well as ‘outlet stores’ for Coach, Ralph Lauren and others. There are also art galleries and restaurants to check out if you have the time.

At the top of Cristo Street you will find the Pablo Casals Museum, the African Heritage Museum and the Puerto Rico National Gallery (open daily except Sunday and Monday form 9am – 4:30pm).

At the top of Cristo Street turn left. You should see a large Totem pole. This is the Plaza del Quinto Centenario. The plaza is a popular spot, especially on hot days, due to the fountain, that is a big hit with children.

From the plaza you will see in the distance, the impressive structure of El Morro. El Morro is situated on the cliff edge with a large expansive field in front. If you are fortunate to be here on a weekend with good weather, you should see the field filled with families enjoying the sea breeze, as both young and old fly their kites.

Coqui note: You can purchase small kites from the street vendors located along the roadside.

Coqui caution: If you plan to walk to El Morro when the kites are flying, just be careful. You never know, when one might decide to come back down to earth…

As you approach El Morro you will get a sense of just how impressive this fortress is. Built on 6 levels to defend San Juan from sea attack; the fort was initially completed in 1589, with improvements made to the walls in the 1700’s.

El Morro is a National Historic Site maintained by the US National Park Service. Entrance costs a few dollars and you can either tour the fort on your own or join one of the regular ranger tours that are given in English (on the hour) or Spanish (30mins past the hour). Inside you will find a chapel, kitchen, latrine, barracks, all with informational displays.

El Morrow is open daily from 9am – 5pm (June to November) and 9am – 6pm (December – May). Tel: 787-729-6777

Coqui note: The views from El Morro are striking at any time of the day and you will have plenty of photo opportunities from around the fort. It is also possible to arrange a wedding at the fort.

Coqui note: If you now want to see San Cristobel fort, jump on the free trolley that will take you to San Cristobel. If you are feeling energetic, you can walk along Nozagaray Street with the ocean to your left. (this walk is not recommended at night).

The Self Guided Walking Tour of Old San Juan will continue in Part 2 .

Other ways to see Old San Juan: Take a Segway Tour of Old San Juan See Old San Juan from a Jet Ski or a Carriage Ride Take a Night Time Tour of Old San Juan

Photo resource: Entrance to San Juan by djonemore Paseo La Princesa Promenade by oscalito Street in Old San Juan by caliellis El Morro by philfromottawa

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66 responses.

• Pingback: Self Guided Walking Tour of Old San Juan Part 2 | Visit The Coqui

Is there anyway that I can print all of this out?

Great reading this and am excited to get back to “mi Borinquen querida” after many, many years. Can you send a copy of the tour and map with walking route as others requested?

You should be able to just print the page using the print option in your internet browser.

If you have problems, I have also emailed you a copy

What a great page, pleease e-mail me a copy also. Could you also e-mail a copy of a map with the walking route. We are planning to go there in September. Thank you

Thanks, have sent you an email.

We are going in September. Will the weather be good? Worried about hurricanes. Can you send me a copy of the walking tours and the map? Thanks.

September is hurricane season but that does not mean we will get one, weather should be good unless a Tropical Storm is close to the island.

Best bet is to keep an eye on our weather page and or the National Hurricane Center for latest weather info

Your (part 1 and part 2) walking tours sound amazing. Could you email a copy to me and also the map? We are heading to PR for our first trip in Jan 2013 and look forward to exploring Old San Juan on foot. Thank you for providing such a great tour.

Thanks for the great feedback, hope you have a great trip

Hello coqui,

Found your article extremely interesting and plan to follow your walking tour directions when we visit PR and Old San Juan in Feb. 2013. Would you kindly also email me a copy as well as your walking map? Much appreciated!

Wow. I feel like I was there!! Beautifully written!!!!

Hi Melissa.

Thanks for the comments, much appreciated

What a great tour. I hope to visit Puerto Rico one day and I’ll know where to start. Love the photo, too.

Sharon, thanks for the positive feedback. Hope you make it over one day.

• Pingback: Carnival of Cities for 19 July 2008 » TravelBlog Archive » Family Travel

Thanks for this tour of the highlights. Nice photos too.

Thanks for stopping by

• Pingback: North Carolina Vacations » Blog Archive » Carnival of Cities for 19 July 2008

Thank you for this wonderful tour! We look forward to walking it when we are in San Juan. Could you possibly email a copy to me so we can print it out and take it? Thanks again! Louise

Hope you find the guide useful.

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Thanks for all the info. We are going to SJ April 10th for a week. I can’t wait to take all your advice. Mary

Glad you found the site useful. Hope you have a great time here

• Pingback: San Juan Tourist Zones Taxi Rates | Visit The Coqui

Can you please email the walking tour information to me. Thanks.

• Pingback: Virgin Atlantic Direct Flights London to Puerto Rico | Visit The Coqui

Please mail me a copy of the walking tour. We’d like to take it when we are there in June.

THANK YOU!!!

• Pingback: Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern in Puerto Rico | Visit The Coqui
• Pingback: Old San Juan, Puerto Rico | Visit The Coqui
• Pingback: Paseo de La Princesa in Old San Juan | Visit The Coqui

Nice guide; we plan to give it a try in a few weeks!

To those of you who want to print this all out, just copy and paste into your favorite word processor and print from there. You can even add page breaks to make it easier to use during the walk.

Thanks again!

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pm hours of the shops in old San Juan? we were just there on a cruise and liked walking around so much, we booked another cruise next December [2011] just discovered the cruise ship gets in on a friday, but not until 2pm [and leaves at 10pm]. How late are the shops open on Friday night? [not just the fancy touristy ones, but all the little shops? Thank you

Don’t know the exact closing times, but imagine they will be open late enough, especially when a ship is in town. Enjoy your next visit here

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i would definitely do this with my husband and son during our trip this November. thanks for the information. makes me so excited just reading about all the attractions!

Mary, thanks for checking out the site, keep checking back for more ideas or subscribe for email updates :o)

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Approximately how long does Part 1 of the walking tour take? Part 2? Just the walking not including shopping time? Thanks

Hi it’s been a while since I have walked the exact route in those two guides but I would say about 1 to 1.5 hours each with no stops but I’d recommend you give yourself more time and just enjoy all the sites 😉

Hi there! This is such a great article. My family and I are travelling to San Juan next week. Is it possible you can also email me the walking route for this self guided tour? Thanks a million.

This is awesome !! We will be going on the 10th of next month. Could you email me a copy as well? Along with the map? Thank you sooo much. I love the site!

email sent :o)

Wow. If you still have the walking tour map, I would like a copy. MAny thanks.

You can download this map http://mappery.com/maps/Old-San-Juan-Tourist-Map.gif it does not have the route marked but you will be able to see where things are

Is there a map available that corresponds to the tour?

Could you email a copy of the walking tour. I can’t get it to print properly ( on y end i’m sure). Also do you know if the bacardi tour is open on christmas day. We will be in old san juan on christmas from 12pm-11pm. What can we do besides the walking tour? Thanks

Your walking tour has us very much looking forward to our visit in a few weeks! Would you be able to email me the entire tour with map?

Thanks so much! And thanks for taking the time to pull this together, what a great resource!!

Found your walking tour info to be quite helpful and interesting. We are arriving on Jan. 29 2013. Would appreciate a copy of the tour and a map. Many thanks.

We would love a copy emailed of the tour and the map with your notes as others have requested. I too can’t get it to print quite right. Curious how long the tour takes/distance. We have a 4 and 5 1/2 year old. sounds so fun! Thanks for sharing with all.

Hello! Could you please email the map? We’re leaving for PR tomorow and would LOVE to have this with us as a guide. Thanks!!

I would love an email with the map as well parts 1 and 2 if they are different. Thank you so much, can’t wait to get to walking.

Check your inbox :o)

This sounds great! I would love a copy of the map too! We leave for Puerto Rico Monday. Thank you.

Hello! Thanks for such a wonderful guide. Could you please email the map? We’re planning a trip to San Juan in second week of December and would be very helpful to have this with us as a guide. Thanks!!

Comments are closed.

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Events this weekend in puerto rico – may 24-26, 1797 battle of san juan: 2024 reenactment, national salsa day – puerto rico, circo fest 2024, president’s day weekend in puerto rico, 2024 san sebastian street festival | fiestas de la calle san sebastian.

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Old San Juan Walking Tour

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 2 Hours
• Users Ages: All Ages
• Info Category: San Juan Tour

Stroll through history on this 500yrs old Landmark!

When you visit Puerto Rico, Old San Juan is a must-do. There is a magical feeling to this 500yrs old city, known for its rich history, impressive forts, architecture, gastronomy, beauty, and charm. Old San Juan is a colorful, vibrant city full of life and activity where locals and tourists come together in an endless dance of the old and the new. Discover this city’s amazing history led by our knowledgeable guides that through storytelling will share fun facts and cool stories of how the city came to be. Walk on blue cobblestones, soak up the sun and take hundreds of social media-worthy pictures and videos sure to be the envy of your friends back home.

*Afternoon winter time December – February 3:30pm – 5:30pm 

Sites to visit :

• Plaza Colón
• Paseo la Princesa
• Raíces Fountain
• El Convento
• Capilla del Cristo
• Plaza del Quinto Centenario
• Capilla San José
• Old San Juan Cathedral

Tour includes:

• Bilingual expert guide
• 2 hr. walking experience of Old San Juan
• The meeting point is Plaza Colon in Old San Juan
• 4:15 pm – Meet your guide at Plaza Colon
• 4:30 am – 6:30 pm – Walking tour
• 6:30 pm – Tour ends at Plaza del Quinto Centenario

Not included with the tour, please contact us for transfer arrangements.

Restrictions

• Must be able to walk for 2hrs
• Walking under the sun, please bring protection

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• Tags Up to 44 People
• Users Ages 4+
• Hour Glass 5.5 hrs

Catamaran Day Trip (Icacos Island)

Book our most popular adventure and enjoy a half-day charter full of leisure and white sand beaches as you sail on our catamaran and enjoy world-class snorkeling!

• Most Popular!

OLD SAN JUAN HISTORY WALKING TOUR

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 2 hours
• Users Capacity: Requires a minimum of 5 participants, maximum 15
• Walking Effort Level : This walking tour involves moderate physical activity, requiring a reasonable level of fitness or mobility. Participants must be able to complete this tour without walking aids.
• Wheelchair Accessibility: If you have mobility concerns, feel free to contact us before booking to discuss alternative recommendations for your needs.
• Clock Check-in: Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in before your tour.

Unveil Centuries of History in a Small Group Setting

Our walking tour immerses you in the rich history of Old San Juan. As we stroll through historic landmarks, we share the narratives woven into the streets, exploring themes of indigenous and ancestral cultural heritage, colonization, and mesmerizing architecture.

Join us on this shared adventure, peeling back the layers of Old San Juan’s rich tapestry.

• Chevron down What's Included?
• Guided walking tour of Old San Juan
• Professional Tour Guide certified by the Puerto Rico Tourism Company
• Chevron down What's not Included?
• Entry to Castillo San Cristobal or Castillo San Felipe del Morro is not part of the tour.
• Access to the inside of any buildings during the tour is excluded.
• Tipping is optional but appreciated.
• Chevron down FAQs

To ensure a smooth experience, let’s address some key details:

• Tour Specifics This is a walking tour in its entirety.

If the minimum is not met, we will offer:

• rebooking the same tour at a different time
• rebooking into a Private Tour with 15% discount, based on availability
• full-refund cancellation with 48 hours notice, giving you plenty of time to find an alternative tour.
• Transportation Unfortunately, we do not provide transportation. Please arrange your own to our meeting point.
• Wondering where to park your rental in Old San Juan? You can find parking options at: Doña Fela Parking, La Puntilla Parking, and Multipiso Covadonga.
• Restrooms Restrooms are available along the walking route for your convenience.
• Is there an additional charge associated with this tour? Online purchases include a 6% convenience fee.
• Planning to join us on short notice? Same-day bookings are unavailable, so we recommend securing your reservation in advance for a stress-free experience.
• Languages Spoken Our guides speak English and Spanish. Upon request, we can accommodate tours in both languages to enhance your experience.

Should you have any further inquiries, do not hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected].

Should you have any further inquiries,  do not  hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected]

• Chevron down Health & Safety Policy

Your well-being is our top priority!

At My Puerto Rico Tours, your safety is our paramount concern. Our Health & Safety Policy is designed to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience.

Please take note of the following detailed guidelines:

• Hydration Essentials Remember to carry water to stay adequately hydrated during your activities.
• Footwear Recommendations Opt for comfortable walking shoes to ensure ease and safety.
• Weather-Appropriate Dress Code Choose light, breathable clothing suitable for tropical weather for your comfort.
• Sun Protection Measures Shield yourself from the sun using a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to prioritize your well-being.
• Weather Resilience Commitment Rain or shine, our tours go on. Stay informed on weather conditions to enhance your preparedness.
• Chevron down Cancellation Policy

Customers will receive a full refund with 48 hours notice of cancellation. Cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance will be eligible for a 50% refund. In case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, customers will also receive a full refund.

No-shows or cancellations on the day of the tour will not be eligible for a refund.

To cancel or inquire about rebooking your tour, please contact us:

• Phone: +1 (939) 475-4386
• Email: [email protected]

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

• Chevron down Customer Reviews

Note: We’re Back! 🎉

After a brief hiatus, we’re thrilled to announce our comeback!

We appreciate your patience and continued support. Here’s a glimpse of what our customers have said about their experiences.

Informative, entertaining tour – highly recommended!

First time to Puerto Rico and My Puerto Rico Tours made this an awesome visit.

Thank you for being part of our journey! – Carlos & Alexandra

12 Things To Do In San Juan: Complete Guide To Unforgettable Experiences In Puerto Rico's Capital

D reaming of a sunny, tropical escape? Then look no further than Puerto Rico's capital, San Juan. Surrounded by the clear, turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean, San Juan is teeming with beauty, from its pristine, sandy beaches to its colorful, cobblestone streets.

Founded in 1521 by Spanish settlers, the city has centuries of art, culture, and history to explore. Its beautifully restored 16th- and 17th-century colonial buildings, including fortresses and churches, give visitors an incredible peek into the past. And its free-spirited nature gives rise to countless street art treasures for tourists to admire.

Known as The Walled City, or La Ciudad Amurallada in Spanish, San Juan is a Puerto Rican gem. With an action-packed itinerary of museums, gardens, casinos, beaches, restaurants, and more—the charming city is a wanderlusting traveler's dream.

UPDATE: 2023/06/01 09:51 EST BY BARRY JUMA

More Things To Do In San Juan: Complete Guide To Unforgettable Experiences In Puerto Rico's Capital

There's no doubt that San Juan is a gem in the Caribbean with a lot of exciting things that visitors can do. This update extends the list of activities that tourists can take part in when in this destination, including shopping at the Caribbean's largest shopping mall and experiencing the marvels of the bioluminescent Mosquito Bay.

Top Things To Do In San Juan, Puerto Rico

Some of the most beautiful destinations can be found in Puerto Rico , and San Juan is certainly one of them. From Old San Juan's historic architecture to the city's coastal scenic views, here is a complete guide for planning the San Juan getaway of a lifetime.

Stroll The Streets Of Old San Juan

First up: discover Puerto Rico's Old San Juan . The city's Spanish fortifications, which make up the San Juan National Historic Site, are examples of the oldest settlement in the U.S. and its territories .

Visitors can take a free walking tour of the area to see historic attractions like La Catedral Basílica Metropolitana de San Juan Bautista and one of Old San Juan's most scenic streets, Calle Fortaleza, or Fortaleza Street.

Other must-see attractions include the symbolic red gate, Puerta de San Juan, the picturesque promenade, El Paseo de la Princes, the capital's first cathedral, La Catedral de San Juan Bautista, and the governor's mansion, La Fortaleza.

• Address: Old San Juan Free Walking Tour, Plaza Colon, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
• Hours: Tours are offered daily

Sunbathe On San Juan's Beautiful Beaches

Since Puerto Rico is a Caribbean island, some of the best beaches can be found in San Juan . Located in the Santurce neighborhood, Condado Beach and Ocean Park Beach are perfect for a day of lounging on the sand.

• For water activities like swimming and snorkeling, head to Escambron Beach .
• To spend an afternoon on the water kayaking or paddleboarding, visit Condado Lagoon .

Take A Guided Snorkel Tour

San Juan is brimming with exciting tour options , including a beginner's guided snorkel or scuba tour. Scuba tour agency Try Scuba Diving offers visitors a chance to explore the ocean reefs and swim with wondrous sea creatures.

• Address: 2060 Calle Amatista, San Juan, 00969, Puerto Rico
• Hours: Vary
• Cost: $59 per person for the snorkel tour; $109 per person for the scuba tour

The guided snorkel tours are only available to children eight years and older, and the scuba tours are for children ages ten and up. Tours last between 1 and 1.5 hours, depending on the size of the group.

Visit The Museum Of Art Of Puerto Rico

In addition to beautiful beaches, San Juan's Santurce neighborhood is known for its prolific art. (Think: Miami's Wynwood Arts District.) It's also home to the Puerto Rico Museum of Art, or Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico, which features eye-catching masterpieces from the 17th century to today.

• Address: 299 Avenida José de Diego, San Juan, 00909, Puerto Rico
• Hours: Wednesday through Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm (extended hours on Thursdays until 8 pm)
• Cost per exhibit: $6.69 for adults; $3.35 for children; children under the age of five are free

Trek Through El Yunque Rainforest

About a 45-minute drive outside of San Juan, visitors will discover a sprawling forest like no other. The only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, the area spans nearly 30,000 acres.

Featuring many exhibits, waterfalls, and hiking trails, it's the perfect place to get lost for the day. Outdoor enthusiasts can also catch some thrills at Yunque Ziplining.

• Address: El Portal Visitor Center, El Portal de El Yunque PR-191, Rio Grande, PR, 00745
• Hours: Forest open daily from 7:30 am to 5 pm (the visitors center opens at 9 am)
• Cost: Free (optional attractions may incur a fee)

To guarantee entry, visitors must make a reservation online . The forest averages about 120 inches of rain per year , so dress accordingly.

See The Capitol Of Puerto Rico

Nestled outside of Old San Juan's walls on the Islet of San Juan, El Capitolio de Puerto Rico is a historic landmark and affords visitors the chance to learn about the Puerto Rican legislative branch.

Located on Constitution Avenue across from the capitol, tourists can find the Walkway of the Presidents or Paseo de los Presidentes. The walkway features monuments of every president who's visited Puerto Rico since the end of the Spanish-American war, including John F. Kennedy, Harry S. Truman, and Theodore Roosevelt.

• Address: FV8V+PJF, San Juan, 00902, Puerto Rico
• Hours: Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm

Tour Castillo San Cristobal

A must-see stop on an Old San Juan tour is the Castillo San Cristobal. A part of the San Juan National Historic Site, the fortress was built to safeguard the city from attacks by land from the east .

Featuring three levels of fortification, it's a stunning example of military architecture and ingenuity. Not to mention, visitors can ascend to the top to take in extraordinary panoramic views of the city and sea.

• Address: 501 C. Norzagaray, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
• Hours: Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm
• Cost: $10 entrance fee

Visit Castillo San Felipe del Morro

After exploring Castillo San Cristobal, take a tour of the site's second fortress, Castillo San Felipe del Morro. Featuring six levels, the 16th-century fortress provides visitors an opportunity to learn about Old San Juan and the area's military prowess throughout the centuries.

Visit San Juan Cathedral

San Juan Cathedral , or Catedral Metropolitana Basílica de San Juan Bautista, is a 16th-century architectural marvel that stands as a testament to the rich history of Puerto Rico's capital. Located in Old San Juan, this Roman Catholic cathedral is dedicated to Saint John the Baptist and features a mix of Gothic and neoclassical styles.

Visitors can appreciate the stunning stained-glass windows and the tomb of Spanish explorer Ponce de León, who served as Puerto Rico's first governor. The cathedral offers a serene atmosphere for reflection, making it a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.

• Address : 151 Calle del Cristo, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
• Hours : 9 am - 4 pm (daily)
• Cost : Free

Tour Bacardi Rum Distillery

The Bacardi Rum Distillery , also known as Casa Bacardi, invites visitors to discover the history and production process of one of the world's most famous rum brands. Located in Cataño, a short ferry ride from Old San Juan, the distillery offers guided tours that provide insight into the rum-making process, from fermentation to bottling.

Guests can also enjoy a rum-tasting experience and learn how to craft the perfect cocktail. A visit to the Bacardi Rum Distillery is an excellent opportunity for rum enthusiasts and curious travelers alike to delve into the world of this iconic spirit.

• Address : PR-165, Cataño, 00949, Puerto Rico
• Hours : 9:30 am - 4:30 pm (daily)
• Cost : Tours range from $30 to $300, depending on the experience chosen

Experience The Bioluminescence Of Mosquito Bay

Mosquito Bay , located on the island of Vieques, offers visitors a unique and magical experience as it is home to one of the world's most vibrant bioluminescent bays.

The microorganisms inhabiting the bay emit a mesmerizing blue-green glow when disturbed, creating an enchanting spectacle for those who venture out on nighttime kayak or boat tours.

This natural wonder is best experienced during a moonless night, ensuring the most striking display of bioluminescence.

• Address : Vieques Island, Puerto Rico
• Hours : Tours typically start around sunset
• Cost : Tours range from $50 to $65 per person

Shop At Plaza Las Américas

Plaza Las Américas , the largest shopping mall in the Caribbean, offers visitors an extensive variety of stores, dining options, and entertainment venues. Located in the Hato Rey district of San Juan, this expansive mall features popular brands such as Macy's, Forever 21, Zara, and more.

Shoppers also get a diverse selection of restaurants, including Chili's, P.F. Chang's, and local Puerto Rican eateries. Additionally, the mall houses a multiplex cinema and a bowling alley, providing entertainment options for the whole family.

A visit to Plaza Las Américas is a perfect way to spend a day shopping and enjoying the amenities that cater to all tastes and preferences.

• Address : 525 Av. Franklin Delano Roosevelt, San Juan, 00918, Puerto Rico
• Hours : Mon - Sat: 9 am - 9 pm; Sun: 11 am - 7 pm
• Cost : Free entry (prices vary for shopping, dining, and entertainment)

Best Time To Go

Featuring a warm, tropical climate, San Juan is undoubtedly picturesque at any time of year. The peak tourist season runs during the sunnier, summer months, which are generally the more expensive times to visit.

The Puerto Rican capital does experience cooler temperatures later in the year, so San Juan is certainly worth visiting in the winter . Another perk: visit in the winter to experience a wonderland of carnivals and Christmas festivities.

Keep in mind, hurricane season does run from June until November, so visitors should be sure to check weather advisories to plan their trips accordingly.

Best Ways To Get Around

Taxis are a popular mode of transportation for tourists looking to explore all that San Juan has to offer. However, many parts of the city, including Old San Juan, are compact allowing them to be easily navigated by foot.

Old San Juan does offer a free trolley service , however, it is currently not in service. Until it is up and running again, visitors can ride the free garitas (which resemble golf carts) to get around town.

Where To Eat In San Juan, Puerto Rico

Eating out in San Juan allows travelers to try everything from local dishes to favorites from home.

• Address: 1129 Ashford Ave, San Juan, 00907, Puerto Rico
• Cuisine: Sweet and savory American and Caribbean fare

Lana's Healthy Bistro & Juice

• Address: Avanti Bldg, 330 Cll Segarra, San Juan, 00920, Puerto Rico
• Cuisine: Health-centric eatery serving breakfast staples like avo toast, oatmeal, and platters (vegan options available)

Acapulco Taquería Mexicana

• Address: 2021 C. Loíza, San Juan, 00911, Puerto Rico
• Cuisine: Traditional Mexican fare

Wicked Lily

• Address: The Tryst Beachfront Hotel, 1 Cll Vendig, San Juan, 00907, Puerto Rico
• Cuisine: Classic Puerto Rican fare

1919 Restaurant

• Address: Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, 1055 Ashford Ave, San Juan, 00907, Puerto Rico
• Cuisine: Upscale, oceanfront restaurant serving New American fare (vegan options available)
• Address: 317 C. de la Fortaleza, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
• Cuisine: A unique blend of Caribbean, French, and Spanish cuisine

La Factoría

• Address: 148 C. de San Sebastián, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
• Address: 254 C. Canals, San Juan, 00907, Puerto Rico

Related: Book These 10 Affordable San Juan Hotels For A Budget-Friendly Stay In Puerto Rico

Where To Stay

Finding a place to stay is easy in San Juan; visitors can choose from a range of accommodations at various price points.

Budget-Friendly Accommodations

The Pelican

• Address: 74 Calle Venus, San Juan 00979
• Amenities: Hot tub

Nomada Urban Beach Hostel

• Address: 2062 Calle Loiza, San Juan 00911
• Amenities: Adults only; laundry service

Mid-Tier Hotels

Hyatt Place San Juan

• Address: Avenida Fernandez Juncos 580, San Juan 00907
• Amenities: Fitness center, bar/lounge, coffee shop, restaurant, and room service

San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino

• Address: 1309 Ashford Avenue, San Juan 00907
• Amenities: Private beach, outdoor pool, fitness center, bar/lounge, coffee shop, restaurant, and room service

Upscale Hotels

Condado Vanderbilt Hotel

• Address: 1055 Ashford Avenue, San Juan
• Amenities: Snorkeling, beachfront, fitness center, bar/lounge, outdoor pool, spa and wellness center, restaurant, and room service

Caribe Hilton

• Address: 1 San Geronimo Street, San Juan 00901
• Amenities: Private beach, outdoor pool, fitness center, bar/lounge, snorkeling, spa and wellness center, restaurant, and room service

Related: 10 Most Iconic San Juan All-Inclusive Resorts Perfect For Exploring Puerto Rico’s Buzzing Capital

Tips To Know When Visiting

First and foremost: pack accordingly. San Juan experiences rainfall year-round, so keep an umbrella handy. As previously mentioned, Puerto Rico also has a hurricane season, which runs from June until November.

Those visiting the tropical paradise should also keep mosquito repellant handy. And, since Puerto Rico is an unincorporated territory of the United States, the good news is that the island's currency is the U.S. dollar, so no currency exchanges are required.

Related: These Are The 10 Must-Visit Puerto Rico Islands (Recommended By Locals)

How To Spend The Perfect Day In San Juan

The perfect 24 hours can be spent roaming Puerto Rico's historic Old San Juan area. After a revitalizing breakfast, start the tour at the historical Puerta de San Juan, or San Juan Gate. Head down the street to La Fortaleza to visit the governor's mansion. Stroll the vibrant Fortaleza Street, visit the many shops the street has to offer, and see the monument in Plaza Colón.

After grabbing lunch at a local eatery, such as Café Berlin or La Madre, visit the Capitol of Puerto Rico to learn about the Puerto Rican legislative branch. Nearby, tourists can see the Walkway of the Presidents. Next stop: the great fortress of Castillo San Cristobal. The largest Spanish fort in the New World, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding city and blue waters.

Related: 10 Bucket List Things To Do In Puerto Rico

Traverse Old San Juan, stopping at the historic, colonial-era cemetery, Cementerio Santa María Magdalena de Pazzi. Then, explore the rest of the San Juan National Historic Site, including the Batería Santa Elena, Polvorín de Santa Elena, Paseo del Morro, Panorama Platform, and the Castillo San Felipe del Morro.

After a long day of walking, indulge in a delicious, upscale dinner at Marmalade, located on the lively de la Fortaleza street.

Q: What is San Juan best known for?

In addition to its pristine beaches, the city is best known for its historic Old San Juan area .

Q: How do you spend the day in San Juan?

San Juan is brimming with exciting tour options . For the perfect 24 hours spent in the capital city, depart on a guided walking tour of Old San Juan.

Q: Is San Juan, Puerto Rico worth visiting?

Yes! Some of the most beautiful destinations can be found in Puerto Rico , and San Juan is certainly one of them—and is definitely worth a trip.

Why do Los Angeles yards have so many fruit trees?

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Welcome to June, the official start of summer, no matter what SoCal’s chilly, gloomy skies have been telling us these past few weeks.

Below you’ll find plenty of plant-related activities for the sixth month, and information about the Los Angeles Zoo’s ongoing efforts to restore habitat in and out of its walls. But to start, I’d like to tackle a question we’ve been pondering since we did a survey asking “When is it OK to pick someone else’s fruit?”

We got lots of responses on this, and published the results this week (along with a list of gleaning organizations if you need help using up all your fruit). Now, we’re answering a related question: Why does Southern California have so many residential fruit trees anyway?

Credit it partly to our (usually) sublime and storied climate, which allows us to grow just about anything, said Rachel Surls, the now-retired sustainable food systems advisor for UC Cooperative Extension in Los Angeles County and co-author of the fascinating book “ From Cows to Concrete: The Rise and Fall of Farming in Los Angeles” (currently out of print but available at many libraries) .

Southern California’s Indigenous peoples were more gatherers than farmers, but they did manage the native plants that fed them with controlled burns, careful pruning and scattering seeds to encourage future harvests. Early Spanish explorers immediately saw the potential for farming when they camped along the Los Angeles River in 1769. “After crossing the river we entered a large vineyard of wild grapes and an infinity of rose bushes in full bloom,” wrote Father Juan Crespí, a member of the expedition. “All the soil is black and loamy and is capable of producing every kind of grain and fruit.”

The region’s first cash crop was hemp, according to the book, valuable for creating sturdy ropes. In 1808, 70% of “Alta California’s” hemp was grown around “El Pueblo de la Reyna de Los Angeles,” the development’s first name.

But initially much of the region’s land went to grazing. Spanish soldiers were rewarded with vast land grants or ranchos, where they ran so many cattle that the pueblo became known as the “Queen of the Cow Counties.” The cattle also devastated the native habitat by overgrazing and eroding the plains around L.A., according to Surls’ book. Consequently many of the Indigenous people moved to the missions to survive, exchanging their labor for food but also making them more susceptible to deadly diseases due to crowded living conditions.

Cattle were first sold for their hides, but during the Gold Rush, ranchers became rich providing meat to hungry miners. When Alta California became a U.S. territory after the Mexican-American War in 1848, settlers eager to farm the region’s abundant land fueled the California Land Act of 1851, which started the process of breaking up the ranchos. A two-year drought that began in 1862 helped finish them off when cattle died in droves and many ranchers sold large portions of their land to pay their debts. A few hung on by raising sheep, bees and wheat, which required little irrigation.

Meanwhile, the missions around L.A. had been cultivating citrus and grapes with such success that Los Angeles became California’s prominent wine region. William Wolfskill, one of L.A.’s leading grape growers, admired some orange trees in his neighbor’s yard and decided to grow his own, according to the book. His initial 2 acres did so well that he planted another 28 acres in the 1840s, “laying the foundation for what became a massive industry.”

Miners desperate to avoid scurvy (a disease caused by Vitamin C deficiency) were paying exorbitant prices for imported citrus, so many SoCal grape growers, already battling a mysterious disease that was killing their Mission grape vines, switched to citrus to help meet the demand.

The biggest boost for farming, however, came when the railroad reached Southern California in 1876. The ability to quickly move perishable crops to San Francisco and beyond attracted a rush of wannabe farmers, according to the book. “Land owners quickly realized that subdividing their vast wheat fields into small farms and housing tracts would be the faster way to make money.”

That land boom went bust in the 1880s, winnowing out inexperienced farmers. But agriculture continued to prosper with irrigation projects, mechanization and diversification into vegetables, walnuts and myriad other crops, along with dairy and poultry operations.

Between 1909 and 1949, Los Angeles County had so many small farms that it was the most bountiful agricultural county in the United States, Surls said in a recent interview. After World War II ended, however, returning soldiers began flocking to the region to get jobs in the growing defense industry, and once again developers got busy, turning farms into housing.

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“Many of those subdivisions were developed over old citrus orchards, but the fantasy remained that this was the place to grow beautiful oranges, lemons and grapes,” Surls said. “These new subdivisions were given names that were evocative of orchards and food production, and the developers would often put a [fruit] tree or two in the backyards.”

Plus, Surls said, “Angelenos love gardening, so they planted more fruit trees, and sometimes bit off more than they could chew [between pruning, harvesting and managing pests] or lost interest in or the ability to care for the fruit, which is why we see so many of these residential trees fall into neglect and all their fruit going to waste.”

And yet, Surls said, “Citrus is sort of primal to Southern California’s identity.” So even though it’s quarantined in certain areas to curb fruit fly infestations or the incurable huanglongbing (a.k.a. citrus greening disease), “people remember that beautiful smell of citrus groves from their younger years, and we can’t stop planting it.”

Edible gardening has seen a major resurgence in the United States, Surls said. “After the financial crisis of 2008, it really started booming with people wanting vegetable gardens or raising chickens and bees, and it further accelerated during COVID, according to statistics from the National Gardening Assn .”

I must plead guilty on that front, since I’ve added 10 fruit trees — citrus, peaches, nectarines, pomegranate and persimmon — to my yard since 2020. And now that I’ve finally learned that you don’t prune fruit trees like you prune roses, I may actually get a good crop next summer, but that’s a story for another day.

Restoring habitat at L.A. Zoo

Over the past 18 months, the Los Angeles Zoo has converted an old prairie dog enclosure into a fragrant, blooming “Under/Over Garden” of California native plants to support local birds and insect pollinators — the brainchild of Park Maintenance Supervisor Robert Gonzales. North Hollywood High School Zoo Magnet Center students helped put together the garden at the north entrance. The zoo also recently removed 14,000 square feet of lawn to create a California Native Gateway Garden at its south entrance, by the bus circle, drawing on the expertise of the Theodore Payne Foundation for its native plant choices.

Jake Owens, the zoo’s director of conservation, has been busy since he started there in 2019, guiding a conservation strategic plan that involves projects both in and outside the zoo grounds. In 2022, zoo conservation staff and volunteers began habitat restoration work at the Fern Dell West Trail in Griffith Park, spending the first Saturday of every month, October through June, clearing invasive weeds such as mustard, castor bean, fennel and cocklebur to allow native plants to return and thrive.

This year, the zoo created a colorful Project Pollinator space in the area near the Under/Over Garden for classes, demonstrations and even giveaways of “ zoo doo ,” the special animal-poop-fueled compost. The zoo is much more than animal exhibits, Owens said. Its conservation efforts restore habitats and build awareness about and sympathy for endangered animals such as condors in California, southern mountain yellow legged frogs in the San Gabriel Mountains and bearded vultures in South Africa.

That said, keeping weeds out of habitat gardens requires many hands. You can help as a volunteer by emailing [email protected] , and starting in October, you can help Owens and others continue habitat restoration at Griffith Park; just register online .

Upcoming events

June 1-2 A Weekend of Bonsai & Fuchsia, 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Sherman Library & Gardens in Corona del Mar, in collaboration with the Orange County Fuchsia Society and Coastal Bonsai Club. The weekend includes demonstrations, talks, tours of the garden’s fuchsia and bonsai displays and plant sales. The show is free with $5 admission to the gardens (members and children 3 and under enter free). thesherman.org

June 2 Plant Identification Hike with artist and herbalist Paige Emery, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in Altadena. Tickets are $30. usalproject.com

Bromeliads in Hawaii: The 2014 World Bromeliad Conference is a program by geographer and bromeliad collector Cristy Brenner during the South Bay Bromeliad Assn. monthly meeting, 1:30 p.m. in the Palos Verdes Library Community Room in Rolling Hills Estates. Admission is free. bsi.org

June 3 Centennial Farm Discovery Day, 9 a.m. to noon at the Orange County Fair & Event Center’s Centennial Farm. Child-friendly activities include self-guided tours, a look at livestock animals, radish seed planting, oxen demonstration and information about chicks. Admission and parking are free; reservations required for groups larger than 10. ocfair.com

June 3 and 10 Music in the Rose Garden, 1-3 p.m. at the Huntington Library, Art Museum and Botanic Gardens in San Marino featuring Pasadena Conservatory of Music student Brian Barany performing on guitar. The performances are included with $25 admission to the garden ($21 for seniors 65+ and students and military with ID, $13 for ages 4-11 and free for members and children under 4). huntington.org

June 7-9 Plant Expo and Sale I of cactus and succulents at Descanso Gardens, with plants on display from the Los Angeles Cactus and Succulent Society, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day in the Boddy House, and plants for purchase from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The expo and sale is free with $15 admission to the gardens ($11 for seniors 65+ and students with ID, $5 for children ages 5-12, free for members and children 4 and under.). descansogardens.org

June 8 Natural Paint Making Workshop with artist Júlia Godoy, 1 to 4 p.m. at her studio in downtown L.A. Learn to make pigments and paints from bones, ash, plants, soil and insects. All materials will be provided and participants will be provided with a one-of-a-kind paint palette. Tickets are $165. usalproject.com

June 8-9 Los Angeles International Fern Society Fern and Exotic Plant Show & Sale, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Los Angeles County Arboretum in Arcadia, with free workshops and lectures at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. on June 8 and 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on June 9. Vendors will be selling orchids, carnivorous plants, bromeliads, cacti, cycads, palms, epiphyllum, tillandsia, terrarium plants, begonias and tree ferns. The show is included with $15 admission to the arboretum ($11 students with ID and seniors 62 and older, $5 children ages 5-12, free to members and children 4 and under.) laifs.org

June 9 “Dudleyas” is the book and talk presented by co-author Jeff Moore during the monthly South Coast Cactus & Succulent Society meeting at 1 p.m. at the South Coast Botanic Garden in Rolling Hills Estates. Admission is free to members and their guests or people who want to learn more about the organization. Annual membership is $20. southcoastcss.org

June 13 Behind the Scenes at Theodore Payne Foundation with Assistant Director Katie Tilford, 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the foundation in Sun Valley. This event takes visitors to parts of the nursery not usually open to the public, including the plant propagation and seed conservation facilities. Participants should wear closed-toe shoes and long pants, and be prepared for 90 minutes of walking on sometimes steep, uneven or wet surfaces. Reserved tickets are $10 (free to members). eventbrite.com

June 14 Propagating California Native Plants From Cuttings with Theodore Payne Foundation Horticulture Director Tim Becker, 9 a.m. to noon at the foundation nursery in Sun Valley. All materials are provided and participants will leave with a flat of 50 starts for their own garden. Reserved tickets are $85 ($75 for members). eventbrite.com

June 14-16 Plant Expo and Sale II of bromeliads at Descanso Gardens, with plants on display and for purchase from the San Fernando Valley Bromeliad Society. The expo is 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day in the Boddy House, with plants for purchase from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The expo and sale are free with $15 admission to the gardens ($11 for seniors 65+ and students with ID, $5 for children ages 5-12, free for members and children 4 and under.). descansogardens.org

June 15 Microforests 101, a workshop about the creation and benefits of microforests inspired by the Miyawaki method from Japan, hosted by the urban forestry nonprofit North East Trees and taught by horticulturist Katherine Pakradouni from 9 a.m. to noon at the Ascot Hills Park microforest in El Sereno. Tickets are $25. usalproject.com

Floral Design Workshop with multimedia artist Nelson ZêPequéno, 5 to 7 p.m. at his private studio in downtown L.A. Learn how to select florals and foliage for color shape and size. Bring your own “reasonably sized vessel” to serve as a vase; all other materials provided. Tickets are $100. usalproject.com

Harvesting Cannabis in the Garden, 10 a.m. at Fig Earth Supply in Mount Washington, a workshop taught by Emily Gogol of Grow It From Home in Oregon. Tickets are $10; cannabis seeds will be available for purchase. figearthsupply.com

Growing Cannabis in the Garden, a free workshop taught by Emily Gogol of Grow It From Home in Oregon, 5 to 6 p.m. at Latinx With Plants in Boyle Heights. Cannabis seeds will be available for purchase. eventhi.io

June 15-16 Southern California Carnivorous Plant Enthusiasts Carnivorous Plant Show & Sale, 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days at Sherman Library & Gardens in Corona del Mar, includes talks at 11:30 a.m. introducing carnivorous plants on June 15 and the basics of carnivorous plant care on June 16, along with guided tours at 1 p.m. each day of the garden’s carnivorous plant collection led by Horticulture Director Kyle Cheesborough. The show and talks are included with $5 admission to the gardens (members and children 3 and under enter free). sccpe.org

June 15, 29, July 13, 20 and Aug. 3 Landscape Alchemy: Designing Whole-System Gardens , a five-part course taught by landscape designers Shawn Maestretti and Leigh Adams of Studio Petrichor, starting with a 90-minute Zoom introduction on June 15 and then classroom instruction in Pasadena and Altadena from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day. Tickets are $295. eventbrite.com

June 16 Herb Walk: Medicinal Plants of California, an interactive garden walk and talk with herbalist William Broen focusing on medicinal and edible plants native to California , 9 to 11 a.m. at the California Botanic Garden in Claremont. Advance registration required; tickets are $30 ($25 members). calbg.org

June 21 Comprehensive Irrigation for California Native Plants with Theodore Payne Foundation Horticulture Director Tim Becker, 9 a.m. to noon at the foundation nursery in Sun Valley. Learn how, when and why to irrigate California native plants using various types of systems and techniques. Reserved tickets are $65 ($55 for members). eventbrite.com

June 22-23 The 71st Culver City Garden Club Show & Sale at the Culver City Veterans Memorial Building, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on June 22 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on June 23, includes a judged exhibition of plants, flowers, edibles and crafts along with two gardening workshops each day and a sale of plants and gardening items. show.culvercitygardenclub.org

The 5 Dimensions of Design: An Intuitive & Somatic Experience to Becoming a Garden with landscape designers Shawn Maestretti and Leigh Adams of Studio Petrichor , 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in Leimert Park. The class is for do-it-yourselfers who want to reimagine their outdoor spaces with water harvesting, soil building and creating habitats, and participants will help design a garden space. Tickets are $195. eventbrite.com

Gardening Practices & Techniques with community organizer, farmer and educator Francis River, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Avenue 33 Farm in Lincoln Heights. Learn the basics of starting and maintaining an organic regenerative garden. Tickets are $30. usalproject.com

Carnivorous Tank Workshop to educate participants about carnivorous plants, taught by JiaHao Peng, a visual artist who specializes in horticulture and rare exotic plants, 6 to 8 p.m. at the Ten Ten Photosynthesis nursery in downtown L.A. Participants will go home with a “Jungle in a Jar” creation. All materials provided. Tickets are $350. usalproject.com

June 23 Farm Access L.A. Passport to Stone Fruit, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Hollywood Farmers Market, is a fundraiser to support the market . For $40, participants can receive a “passport” to enjoy bites of a variety of stone fruit from participating vendors, as well as a commemorative tote bag for $60 and a bag and reusable cup for $80. foodaccessla.org

June 28 Propagating California Native Plants From Seed with Theodore Payne Foundation Seed Program Manager Genevieve Arnold, 9 a.m. to noon at the foundation nursery in Sun Valley. All materials are provided and participants will take home the seeds they’ve sown. Reserved tickets are $85 ($75 for members). eventbrite.com

June 29 Plant Dye Workshop taught by herbalist and artist Maria Fernanda of Blue Hour Traveling ApoTEAcary, 2 to 4 p.m. at the Silver Lake Recreation Center. Learn about natural dying, fabric prep and mordants (the chemicals that help dyes adhere to fabrics), and dye a Habotai silk scarf or mulberry silk pillowcase with all natural dye materials. Tickets are $111. usalproject.com

Pride at the Garden: Queering California Botanic Garden’s Collections features a tour of the garden’s botanical collections with stops highlighting queer plant stories and botany lessons “from queer and decolonial perspectives,” 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the gardens in Claremont. Tickets are $15 ($10 members). calbg.org

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What we’re reading

A wild male orangutan in Indonesia apparently used a potent medicinal plant to successfully treat an open wound on his face and humans are going berserk over the news . I had to go to an abstract of the original article in Scientific Reports , however, to learn the name of the plant that reportedly is used by humans throughout Southeast Asia to treat pain and inflammation — Akar Kuning ( Fibraurea tinctoria ). Now my question is, who learned from whom to use the leaves of this plant for medicinal purposes?

Food Forward started as a group of volunteers bonding over picking unwanted residential fruit in the San Fernando Valley. Fifteen years later, it’s rescuing and redistributing nearly 2 million pounds of fruits and vegetables every week to some 250 hunger relief organizations for free.

We asked readers what they thought about picking seemingly unwanted residential fruit from other people’s trees, and boy, did we get an earful . We got responses from 855 readers who had strong feelings on both sides, and we also created a list of gleaning organizations if you need help getting rid of your residential fruit.

I took a deep dive into human composting after I learned that people in Southern California are flying and even driving the bodies of their loved ones to Washington state, where the eco-friendly burial process was first legalized in 2019. It won’t be legal in California until 2027. I was deeply moved by the stories I heard, and the beautiful photos captured by The Times’ Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer Christina House.

Love them or hate them, jacaranda trees are in bloom in the Southland. They’re flowering three weeks earlier than last year and blooms have been spotted from Pasadena to East Hollywood to Long Beach. We spoke to tree experts about why some are bursting right now and others may seem late to the purple party.

And finally, I was riveted by this story about the death march of the goldspotted oak borer, a charming name for a nasty little beetle threatening to destroy Southern California’s beloved oak trees. Worried you might have one in your oak tree? Look for the tiny D-shaped exit holes in the tree trunks.

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At the start of each month, get a roundup of upcoming plant-related activities and events in Southern California, along with links to tips and articles you may have missed.

Jeanette Marantos is a Features reporter focused primarily on plants, gardening and Southern California’s changing landscapes for the Los Angeles Times. She also writes the monthly L.A. Times Plants newsletter, which includes a calendar of upcoming plant-related events. Email calendar submissions or plant-related story ideas to [email protected] for consideration.

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