What to Do in San Juan, Puerto Rico Cruise Port: A 2-Day Itinerary

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

What to Do in San Juan Puerto Rico Cruise Port

San Juan, Puerto Rico is a vibrant and exciting city with a rich history and culture. It’s also a popular cruise destination, with thousands of visitors arriving each year. If you’re planning a cruise to San Juan, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to things to do. Here’s a brief overview of some of the top attractions in San Juan:

  • Old San Juan: The historic center of San Juan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Castillo de San Felipe del Morro, the Catedral de San Juan Bautista, and the Plaza de Armas.
  • Condado: Condado is a trendy neighborhood located just outside of Old San Juan. It’s home to some of the city’s best restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.
  • Isla Verde: Isla Verde is a popular beach resort area located just east of San Juan. It’s home to some of the city’s most beautiful beaches, as well as a number of hotels, casinos, and shopping malls.

These are just a few of the many things to do in San Juan. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning scenery, San Juan is a city that has something to offer everyone.

Activity Description Cost
Old San Juan Explore the historic streets of Old San Juan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, the Catedral de San Juan Bautista, and the Plaza de Armas. $15-20
Condado Beach Relax on the white-sand beaches of Condado Beach, one of the most popular beaches in San Juan. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. $10-15
El Yunque National Forest Explore the rainforest of El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the United States National Forest System. Hike through the forest, go for a swim in the waterfalls, and see the native wildlife. $20-25
Catamaran Cruise Take a catamaran cruise around the San Juan Bay. See the city from a different perspective and enjoy a day of swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. $30-40

Sightseeing

Old San Juan is a must-see for any visitor to Puerto Rico. This historic district is home to some of the island’s most iconic landmarks, including the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, the Catedral de San Juan Bautista, and the Plaza de Armas.

Castillo San Felipe del Morro

The Castillo San Felipe del Morro is a massive fortress that guards the entrance to San Juan Bay. It was built by the Spanish in the 16th century to protect the city from pirates and other invaders. The fortress is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is open to the public for tours.

Catedral de San Juan Bautista

The Catedral de San Juan Bautista is the oldest cathedral in the Americas. It was built in the 1500s and is a beautiful example of Spanish colonial architecture. The cathedral is home to the tomb of Christopher Columbus, who is said to have been buried here after his death in 1506.

Plaza de Armas

The Plaza de Armas is the central plaza in Old San Juan. It is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Governor’s Palace, the City Hall, and the Cathedral de San Juan Bautista. The plaza is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax, people-watch, and enjoy the sunshine.

Condado Beach

Condado Beach is a beautiful white-sand beach located just outside of Old San Juan. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. There are also a number of restaurants, bars, and shops located nearby.

Bacardi Factory

The Bacardi Factory is a popular tourist attraction in San Juan. Visitors can take a tour of the factory and learn about how rum is made. There is also a gift shop where you can buy bottles of Bacardi rum and other souvenirs.

El Yunque National Forest

El Yunque National Forest is a rainforest located about an hour outside of San Juan. The forest is home to a variety of tropical plants and animals, including the coqu frog, the Puerto Rican parrot, and the green iguana. There are also a number of hiking trails and waterfalls in the forest.

Food

Puerto Rican cuisine is a fusion of Spanish, African, and Tano influences. Some of the most popular dishes include mofongo, pastelillos, churrasco, pia colada, and caf con leche.

Mofongo

Mofongo is a traditional Puerto Rican dish made with fried plantains, pork cracklings, and garlic. It is usually served with a side of chicken or beef stew.

Pastelillos

Pastelillos are small, fried pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. They are a popular street food in Puerto Rico.

Churrasco

Churrasco is a grilled steak that is often served with rice and beans. It is a popular dish at restaurants and steakhouses in Puerto Rico.

Pia colada

The pia colada is a popular tropical drink made with rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice. It is the official drink of Puerto Rico.

Caf con leche

Caf con leche is a coffee drink made with espresso and steamed milk. It is a popular breakfast drink in Puerto Rico.

San Juan is a vibrant and exciting city with a rich history and culture. There are plenty of things to see and do in San Juan, from exploring the historic Old San Juan to enjoying the beautiful beaches of Condado. And of course, no visit to San Juan would be complete without sampling the delicious Puerto Rican cuisine.

Activities

There are many fun and exciting things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Here are a few of the most popular activities:

  • Shopping. San Juan is a great place to do some shopping. There are many different stores to choose from, including high-end boutiques, department stores, and street markets. Some of the best places to shop in San Juan include Old San Juan, Condado, and Plaza Las Amricas.
  • Salsa dancing. Salsa is the national dance of Puerto Rico, and it’s a lot of fun to learn. There are many different salsa dance studios in San Juan, where you can take lessons and learn the basics of this popular dance.
  • Golf. There are several golf courses in San Juan, where you can enjoy a round of golf with stunning views of the ocean. Some of the best golf courses in San Juan include the Trump International Golf Club, the Dorado Beach Golf Club, and the Caribe Hilton Golf Club.
  • Ziplining. Ziplining is a great way to get an adrenaline rush and see some amazing views of San Juan. There are several different ziplining companies in San Juan, where you can choose from a variety of different courses.
  • Catamaran cruise. A catamaran cruise is a great way to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery of San Juan. There are many different catamaran cruise companies in San Juan, which offer a variety of different cruises.

Getting Around

The best way to get around San Juan is by taxi. Taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive. You can also get around by Uber or Lyft. There is also a public bus system, but it is not as reliable as taxis or ride-sharing services.

If you want to get out of the city, you can take a ferry to one of the nearby islands. There are ferries to Vieques, Culebra, and other islands. You can also take a bus to Ponce or other cities in Puerto Rico.

If you want to rent a car, you can do so at the airport or at one of the many car rental agencies in San Juan. However, it is important to note that traffic in San Juan can be heavy, so it is best to avoid driving during rush hour.

San Juan is a beautiful and vibrant city with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for shopping, nightlife, or outdoor activities, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in San Juan.

What are the top things to do in San Juan Puerto Rico cruise port?

  • Visit Old San Juan: The historic center of San Juan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to many beautiful Spanish colonial buildings, including the Castillo San Felipe del Morro and the Catedral de San Juan Bautista.
  • Take a ferry to Culebra: This small island is just a short ferry ride from San Juan and is known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and hiking trails.
  • Go snorkeling or scuba diving: The waters around San Juan are home to a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and dolphins.
  • Visit the Bacardi Distillery: Learn about the history of rum production and sample some of Bacardi’s famous rum cocktails.
  • Take a cooking class: Learn how to make some of Puerto Rico’s signature dishes, such as mofongo, arroz con pollo, and pernil.

What is the best way to get around San Juan?

The best way to get around San Juan is by walking or taking public transportation. The city has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, taxis, and ferries. You can also rent a car, but traffic can be heavy during peak times.

Where should I stay in San Juan?

There are many great hotels in San Juan, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts. Some of the most popular areas to stay include Old San Juan, Condado, and Isla Verde.

What is the weather like in San Juan?

San Juan has a tropical climate with warm weather year-round. The average temperature ranges from 75F to 85F, with high humidity. The rainy season runs from May to November, but there are still plenty of sunny days during this time.

What is the best time to visit San Juan?

The best time to visit San Juan is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. This is when the weather is most pleasant, with clear skies and mild temperatures.

What are the cultural considerations when visiting San Juan?

San Juan is a vibrant and diverse city with a rich cultural heritage. It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as dressing modestly and avoiding public displays of affection. You should also be aware of the fact that Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, so the official language is English. However, many people in San Juan also speak Spanish.

What are some safety tips for visiting San Juan?

San Juan is a safe city, but it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions. Here are a few safety tips:

  • Stay in well-lit areas and avoid walking alone at night.
  • Be aware of your belongings and keep them close at hand.
  • Don’t accept drinks from strangers.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip to San Juan.

San Juan, Puerto Rico is a vibrant and exciting city with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, a cultural experience, or an adventure-filled getaway, you’re sure to find it in San Juan.

Here are a few key takeaways from this article:

  • San Juan is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.
  • The city is also rich in culture and history, with many museums, historical sites, and art galleries to explore.
  • San Juan offers a variety of activities for visitors, including shopping, dining, and nightlife.

No matter what you’re looking for in a vacation, San Juan is sure to have something to offer you. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.