How to Plan Your San Juan: Old Town Foodie Walking Tour with Tastings

If you’re a foodie visiting San Juan, don’t miss this unique experience of exploring the “walled city” of Old San Juan on a walking tour while savoring local cuisine and cocktails.

This tour offers ten food stops, including an iconic rum cocktail, and the chance to create your own signature Puerto Rican dish. You’ll also explore local landmarks and learn about the architecture and history of the city with a knowledgeable local guide.

Follow these steps to plan your San Juan: Old Town Foodie Walking Tour with Tastings:

Step 1: Book Your Tour

The first step is to book your tour through GetYourGuide, the official partner for this experience. The tour fee includes the services of a local guide, ten food stops, one rum cocktail, transportation, and tips for your guide.

To book the tour, simply visit this link, select your preferred date, and pay online. You’ll receive a confirmation email with all the necessary details, including the meeting point and tour duration.

Step 2: Prepare for the Tour

Before the tour, you should prepare yourself physically and mentally. Keep in mind that this is a walking tour, so wear comfortable shoes and clothing that suits the weather conditions. Also, bring a water bottle to stay hydrated during the tour.

Mentally, come with an open mind and a sense of adventure. You’ll be trying new foods and learning about local culture, so be curious and ask questions. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the memories.

Step 3: Meet Your Guide and Group

On the day of the tour, arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time. Your guide will be waiting for you, holding a sign with the tour company’s name.

Meet the other members of your group and introduce yourself. This is an excellent opportunity to connect with other travelers from around the world.

Step 4: Start the Tour

The tour will begin with a brief orientation from your guide, who will explain the itinerary and safety guidelines. Pay attention to the instructions and ask any questions you may have.

Then, you’ll start exploring the “walled city” of Old San Juan on foot, visiting ten food stops along the way. Your guide will introduce you to local delicacies and cocktails and share insights into Puerto Rican cuisine.

You’ll also see historic landmarks and architecture unique to the city, with interesting anecdotes and lesser-known tidbits.

Step 5: Create Your Signature Dish

At one stop, you’ll have the opportunity to create your own signature Puerto Rican dish with the guidance of a chef. This hands-on experience is a highlight of the tour, and you’ll love making and tasting your dish.

Step 6: End of the Tour

The tour will end at the same meeting point where you started. Take a moment to thank your guide and group members and share your impressions of the tour.

You’ll have plenty of recommendations from your guide on where to continue exploring and trying local cuisine in San Juan after the tour.

Conclusion

The San Juan: Old Town Foodie Walking Tour with Tastings is an unforgettable experience that combines food, culture, and history. By following these steps, you can plan your tour smoothly and get the most out of it.

Book your tour, prepare yourself physically and mentally, meet your guide and group, start the tour, create your signature dish, and end the tour with great memories.

Insider’s Guide to San Juan, Puerto Rico: Old Town Foodie Walking Tour with Tastings

San Juan is a vibrant city located in the Caribbean, featuring a rich history, spectacular architecture, stunning beaches, and a unique cuisine. The city is divided into two main areas: Old San Juan and New San Juan. In this insider’s guide, we will be focusing on Old San Juan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its pastel-colored buildings, narrow streets, and delicious food. Get ready for a foodie walking tour with tastings that will delight your taste buds and offer a glimpse into Puerto Rican culture!

Explore the Historic Forts

Old San Juan is home to two of the most impressive forts in the Caribbean: El Morro and San Cristobal. These forts were built by the Spanish in the 16th and 17th centuries to protect the city from pirate attacks and other invaders. Visitors can explore the forts’ barracks, tunnels, and cannons while enjoying stunning views of the ocean. A visit to these forts will give you a sense of the city’s history and will provide great photo opportunities.

Stroll Through Old San Juan’s Streets

One of the best things to do in Old San Juan is to get lost in its colorful streets and alleyways. As you walk, you’ll discover charming shops, art galleries, hidden plazas, and beautifully restored colonial houses. One of the most famous streets is Calle del Cristo, where you’ll find unique boutiques and jewelry stores. Another must-see street is Calle Fortaleza, known for its iconic umbrellas and colorful buildings.

Sample Local Cuisine

Old San Juan is a foodie’s paradise, offering a blend of Spanish, African, and Taino flavors. A great way to taste some of the local dishes is by taking a food tour. In this walking tour, you will try Puerto Rican coffee, artisanal chocolates, street food, and traditional dishes. Some of the must-try dishes include mofongo, a plantain-based dish filled with meat or seafood, and pastelillos, a fried turnover filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.

Visit Museums and Art Galleries

If you’re interested in history and art, Old San Juan has many museums and galleries to explore. The Museum of the Americas is a great place to learn about the indigenous cultures and the African diaspora that influenced Puerto Rican culture. The Puerto Rico Museum of Art showcases the island’s art from the 19th century to the present. The open-air museum, Paseo de la Princesa, is another great spot to admire sculptures, fountains, and murals created by local artists.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you have extra time in Old San Juan, consider exploring some of the more unconventional attractions. The Cemetery of San Juan is a historic cemetery that features ornate tombs and marble statues. It’s a peaceful and eerie place to visit, and you can learn about the city’s most prominent residents. Another off-the-beaten-path location is Casa Blanca, the former residence of Ponce de Leon. The house has been preserved as a museum, and you can stroll through the gardens and learn about the history of the first governor of Puerto Rico.

Conclusion

San Juan is a city that offers something for everyone, from history buffs to foodies to beach lovers. Old San Juan, in particular, is a charming and colorful district that is worth exploring on foot. This insider’s guide will help you plan a foodie walking tour with tastings that will introduce you to the city’s unique flavors and culture. Whether you’re exploring historic forts or hidden plazas, enjoying local cuisine or visiting museums and galleries, San Juan will leave you with unforgettable memories.