Old San Juan

The old city provides a memorable introduction to Puerto Rican culture and history. With its blue cobblestone streets, pastel-colored buildings, and sweeping ocean views around every corner, Old San Juan is one of the best-preserved cities in the Americas, having been founded two centuries before the Pilgrims arrived on the Mayflower.

You can stroll through the city's many tranquil plazas, historic churches, and artisanal shops, which are best explored on foot. To feel like you're on the set of Pirates of the Caribbean, visit either of the commanding fortresses, El Morro or San Cristobal, both of which are Unesco World Heritage Sites. Grab a refreshing piragua (Puerto Rican snow cone) and head to the gardens of Museo Casa Blanca, the city's oldest residence, constructed in 1521.

Old San Juan seizes the best of both worlds: a historical landscape for history buffs, and modern energetic nightlife for party lovers. As you walk through the cobblestone streets, make time for some of the best activities to do in San Juan, such as visiting the San Juan’s Gate, La Capilla del Cristo, El Paseo la Princesa, and La Fortaleza.