What Are The Top Activities To Do In San Juan?

San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, is an amazing destination that offers travelers a wealth of experiences and attractions. From its vibrant cultural scene to its gorgeous beaches and colonial architecture, the city is a mix of the old and the new. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s history or just looking to have some fun in the sun, San Juan has something for everyone. Here are some of the top activities to do in San Juan that will leave you with lasting memories.

Visit Old San Juan

A visit to San Juan would not be complete without a tour of Old San Juan, the oldest part of the city and a designated World Heritage Site by UNESCO. As you take in the colorful architecture, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. With its cobbled streets, brightly painted buildings, and historical plazas, Old San Juan is filled with stories around every corner. Take a horse-drawn carriage tour or explore the area on foot. You can also check out one of the many museums that are housed within the old buildings or walk along the still-functioning city walls from the 16th century.

Go On A Local Bar Tour

Another great way to experience San Juan is to go on a bar tour. With its vibrant nightlife and many bars, you’ll find lots of things to do after dark. From classic tiki bars to hipster dives, there’s something for everyone—and a local bar tour is the perfect way to find your favorites. Local companies offer tours that include pub crawls and rum tastings as well as behind-the-scenes tours of some of the city’s oldest spots.

Visit The Beaches

San Juan is situated on the Caribbean Sea, so it’s no surprise that there are lots of stunning beaches to explore here. If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, consider a visit to Isla Verde Beach where you can rent kayaks or take stand-up paddleboarding classes. On the opposite side of San Juan lies Condado Beach, known for its art deco facades and its waves that make it a mecca for surfers. Further down is Piñones Beach, where restaurants serve up delicious Puerto Rican fare like lechón asado (roast pork).

Shop At The Local Craft Markets

Head to one of the many local craft markets or “mercatos’ for a glimpse into authentic Puerto Rican culture. Mercatitos are a great way to pick up handmade souvenirs, such as surf-inspired jewelry, art prints, woven baskets, and other locally made goodies. As you shop for going-home gifts, take some time to listen to live music and sample traditional Puerto Rican dishes such as mofongo (mashed plantains) or bacalaitos (salt cod fritters).

Explore El Yunque Rainforest

Though El Yunque Rainforest is located on the other side of the island, it’s worth the roughly hour-long drive. The lush national forest is home to rare animals and plants such as parrots, tree frogs, and five species of palm trees unique to Puerto Rico. Don’t miss out on La Mina Falls, a 200-foot waterfall with multiple plunges and awe-inspiring views at the bottom. Wear comfortable shoes if you plan on hiking and be sure to bring plenty of water; it can get very hot in Puerto Rico during the summer months!

Eat At The food Markets

Looking for something different? Try San Juan’s food markets and food stalls where traditional cuisine comes alive with aromas and flavors that range from sweet — like piraguas (snow cone-like treats) — to savory — like gandules (rice with pigeon peas). Sample empanadas or cuchifritos (fried pork) at kiosks scattered throughout San Juan’s markets. They say that if it’s good enough for locals, it’s good enough for visitors!

Take A Cocktail Tour

As one of the oldest cities in the New World, San Juan has plenty of cocktail culture and history to explore. Learn about the city’s rich rum-making ledgens in a craft cocktail experience which takes guests through Old San Juan’s cobblestone streets and picturesque plazas and features stops for tastings at some of the most storied cocktail bars and lounges in all of Puerto Rico. Enjoy stories of piracy and continental politics as you sample signature cocktails created by talented mixologists; cap off your day with a delicious libation at a hidden speakeasy. The San Juan Puerto Rico Craft Cocktail Walking Tour with 3 Cocktails, offered through GetYourGuide, offers an interactive way to learn about both rum cocktails and the history behind them.

No trip to San Juan would be complete without experiencing all that this Caribbean paradise has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just having fun in the sun, chances are San Juan has something for you. From tours of Old San Juan to beach days and bar crawls – or even taking a Cocktail Tour – you won’t be disappointed by all this Caribbean town has to offer!