Old San Juan

The basics

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.

Things to know before you go

• 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.

How to get there

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.

When to get there

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.

Other San Juan neighborhoods

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.

Ways to explore

There’s no better way to experience Old San Juan than with a walking tour, where wandering the neighborhood reveals El Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal, lively squares (including Plaza de Armas), historic churches, the colorful Fortaleza Street, and other must-see sights.

More tailored options include food tours, bike tours, nightlife tours, and walking tours with a private guide. Segway tours and cruises are also popular choices—these options often include nearby neighborhoods such as Condado or Miramar, as well as San Juan’s clear Atlantic waters.

Accessibility

Old San Juan has limited accessibility due to hilly, cobblestone streets and narrow sidewalks. However, the city’s UNESCO–listed forts can accommodate wheelchairs.

Age limits

Visitors of all ages are welcome in Old San Juan—just know that you might struggle navigating its cobblestone streets and skinny sidewalks with a stroller.

What to pack

Sunscreen, water, coins and change if you want to take the bus

What to wear

Pretty much anything goes in Old San Juan, but make sure to wear comfortable shoes.

Not allowed

Some walking tours won’t allow anyone to participate without appropriate footwear, so leave your sandals back at the hotel.

Amenities

Restaurants, bars, shops, hotels, ATMs, convenience stores

Address 

Old San Juan is located on an islet, attached to mainland Puerto Rico by three bridges. Once in Old San Juan, getting around the area is easy on foot or by taxi. There’s also a free hop-on hop-off trolley system.

Driving

Drive into Old San Juan on one of three bridges: San Antonio, Guillermo Esteves, or Dos Hermanos. Once there, you can look for free street parking along Avenida de la Constitución, or pay to park in one of the area’s garages.

Public transportation

It’s easy to get to Old San Juan from other parts of Puerto Rico via the Metropolitan Bus Service (AMA). The M1, M3, ME, 9, 5, 23, 53, and 21 buses all stop at the Old San Juan bus terminal.

Best times to visit

Visit Old San Juan at any time of day. Families might prefer visiting in the morning to beat the heat, while couples, solo travelers, and larger groups can enjoy a lively nightlife after dark.

Best days to visit

To avoid crowds, tour Old San Juan on weekdays, as Mondays through Fridays tend to have fewer visitors.

Best months to visit

For the driest, most pleasant weather, visit from December to April. If you want fewer crowds, consider visiting during the rainy season, in September or October.

Special events

Celebrate holiday events in December and January, such as Christmas boat parades, holiday light shows and markets, and Three Kings Day on January 6.