Welcome to San Juan, Puerto Rico

What to do

From centuries-old forts to contemporary art galleries, San Juan blends culture, history and island flair. Wander the streets of Old San Juan, kayak in Condado bay or dance the night away to live salsa.

• Old San Juan walking tour
• La Placita de Santurce
• Casa Bacardí

Where to eat

San Juan's food scene mixes traditional Puerto Rican dishes with modern gastronomy, from lechón and mofongo to fresh seafood and fine dining. Here are a few local stops.

• Mario Pagán
• Semilla Kitchen & Bar
• Cocina Abierta
• Cayo Caribe
• Kasalta
• Lela's Eatery, in Ocean Park

How to get around

Getting around San Juan is easy when you know your options. Uber is officially available in San Juan and Ponce, but if you want to explore more of the island it is harder to arrange.

Renting a car is the best way to explore Puerto Rico at your own pace. If you would rather not drive, choose chauffeured transport, since there are fewer rideshare services outside the metro areas, or book a guided tour that handles the transport for you.

Best beaches

San Juan is home to some of the Caribbean's most beautiful beaches, each with its own vibe: for surfing, sunbathing or sipping cocktails with your toes in the sand.

• Condado beach
• Ocean Park beach
• Isla Verde beach

Best tours

Elevate your trip with curated experiences that go beyond the guidebook: salsa classes in Old San Juan, rainforest hikes in El Yunque or guided rum tastings at the island's oldest distilleries.

• Flavors of Old San Juan food tour
• El Yunque tours

Rum and chocolate tasting

Enjoy a selection of Ron del Barrilito, one of the island's best rums, with artisanal local chocolates perfectly paired, steps from Ocean Park beach. Ask the concierge for it by text or WhatsApp.

Where to stay

If you want privacy and space with a local feel, Otium's apartments are in the best neighborhoods. If you prefer a boutique hotel, meet Olimpo. You can also browse Piccioni, Elena and Condado Lagoon.