Old San Juan

Old San Juan is a staple in city sightseeing tours, which offer an easy way to get an overview of the historic city within the medieval city walls, and typically pass by other must-see sites such as La Fortaleza (The Fortress), Plaza de Armas, the Chapel of Christ (Capilla del Cristo), and the Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery. More tailored options include food tours and walking tours with a private guide, while Segway tours and cruises on the bay are also popular options in San Juan.

• Old San Juan is a must-see for history buffs and those seeking postcard-worthy views.

• Visitors flock to the neighborhood year-round, so be prepared for crowds, especially in the busy summer season.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes to help navigate the cobblestones, and pack lightweight clothing and sun protection for the warm weather.

• Old San Juan may not be easy to access for wheelchair users, but alternative transportation options exist in the neighborhood.

Old San Juan is located on an islet, attached to the mainland of Puerto Rico by three bridges. If you're coming from the mainland or the airport, you can book an airport transfer or drive over the bridges. Those arriving as Caribbean cruise ship passengers will likely dock at one of the many cruise ship piers in the neighborhood. Once in Old San Juan, getting around the area is easy by foot or taxi, and a free, accessible trolley system also runs through the area.

Old San Juan is most popular during the winter and summer months, when vacationers flock to this classic Caribbean destination. This is especially true for visitors from the United States who can travel to and from Puerto Rico without a passport. In the springtime, you'll find smaller crowds.

Old San Juan is perhaps the best-known of Puerto Rico's San Juan neighborhoods, but it's far from the only one. Venture slightly farther afield to upscale Miramar, home to two marinas; make your way to Condado, known for beachside condos; or stop at Ocean Park, where you'll find some overlooked but beautiful beaches.

Old San Juan is compact, and you can walk around it in an hour without any stops. With a few stops, you can explore in two hours—many sightseeing tours last about that long. For a more in-depth and leisurely exploration, including time inside some attractions, plan on spending a day.

Choose from a wide range of Old San Juan tours. Old San Juan historical walking tours are the most popular, and they stop by many of the attractions dating from the 18th century. Other options include Segway and 4WD tours, or itineraries focused on interests like photography, food, bars, or shopping led by a tour guide. San Juan Bay cruises offer a different perspective.

Many tours of Old San Juan focus on the area's historic buildings and attractions. Highlights include San Juan Gate (Puerta de San Juan), San Juan Bautista Cathedral (Catedral de San Juan Bautista), Palacio de Santa Catalina, Castillo San Felipe del Morro (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Castillo San Cristobal, Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery, Paseo de la Princesa promenade, and Fortaleza Street, known for its colorful umbrellas.

The best time to arrive depends on your priorities. December to April is popular with international tourists, while June to July is popular with local tourists. To avoid crowds, come in late April to early June or on weekdays. Many museums are closed on Mondays and/or Sundays.

Yes, you can drive around Old San Juan, but it’s not recommended. The roads are narrow, traffic can be bad, and—aside from a few lots—parking tends to be parallel parking. There’s also not much of a need to drive, since the area is very walkable.

Yes, it’s best to book Old San Juan tickets for guided tours in advance. That way you can join your preferred tour at your preferred time, although Old San Juan tours are plentiful. Booking ahead is especially important if you have limited time in San Juan, or are visiting as part of a cruise ship stop.