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Located on the northern coast of Puerto Rico, Old San Juan is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, boasting over 500 years of history. As you meander through its cobblestone streets, you'll be greeted by colorful facades and centuries-old architecture that transports you back in time!
Old San Juan is charming, colorful, and full of character! My best friend and I decided to take a girls trip here. We’ve both never been and didn’t really know what to expect before arriving. This city did not disappoint and by far exceeded our expectations! I've created a YouTube video of highlights, personal experiences, and recommendations.
WHERE TO STAY IN OLD SAN JUAN
We wanted to immerse ourselves into the culture of the city as much as possible and decided to stay in an Airbnb located in the smack middle of everything in Old San Juan! We wanted to stay in a Spanish Colonial accommodation and for us girls, it was perfect! Just the color of our temporary home and the front door could make any girl happy. The accommodation had a little loft upstairs, where we slept, a cute sitting area downstairs with a darling little kitchenette. The location was great! Everything was within walking distance throughout the city. People were walking the street in front, so it was a little loud at times, but did not effect our stay negatively at all.
**If you're interested in where we stayed I’ve shared the link here.
HOW TO KEEP THINGS ORGANIZED
Over the years I have accumulated a few must have products to keeping my suitcase organized! Packing can be the most difficult part of traveling. Here are some of my favorite products that make my life easier during travel!
WHAT TO DO IN OLD SAN JUAN
Take a stroll down Paseo Del Morro. The gorgeous seaside path will take you to UNESCO World Heritage site Castillo San Felipe Del Morro, Cementerio Santa Maria de Pazzis, and you’ll even get a beautiful view of La Perla. Feeling lazy and don’t want to walk by the seaside. Enter from the parks entrance, Sitio Historico de San Juan.
Spend some time just wandering the streets! Old San Juan is not as big as it looks on google maps. Our first day we walked 6 miles and didn’t even notice. Anywhere you go, you’ll find opportunity for a photo shoot! The city is so picturesque!
Fun Fact: You’ll find cute kitty cats ALL over Old San Juan! A non-profit organization called Save a Gato is dedicated to homeless and abused cats supplying food, shelter, fostering, and adoption!
WHERE TO EAT IN OLD SAN JUAN
The food in Old San Juan is endless and delicious! I would not classify Old San Juan as a cheap destination as far as food and drinks go. The cost is reasonable and comparable to US prices. There are plenty of bars, cafes, and restaurants to try! Here are a few of my favorite restaurants.
Carthage Express (breakfast)
Il Bacaro Venezia (dinner)
Deaverdura - authentic Puerto Rican food (lunch + dinner)
Carli's Fine Bistro & Piano - serves the best mojito (dinner)
Scryer Rum (tapas + rooftop rum bar)
Marilyn's Place - serves amazing pina coladas (bar)
I‘ve put together all of my favorite restaurants, bars, and attractions into a shareable google map! Save and add it to your own google maps, and enjoy fantastic places around San Juan.
MUST VISIT BEACHES IN SAN JUAN
Don’t miss out on Isle Verde Beach! We spent the day here at The Courtyard Isle Verde Beach Resort. We bummed some beach chairs and purchased drinks from the hotels beachside bar! The hotel had no issues accommodating us, even though we were not guests at the resort. The beach and outdoor restaurant are open to the public.
Go kayaking at Laguna de Condado! We booked a kayak equipment rental last minute. This is not a tour, they set you up with what you need, and you’re on your own to explore. We actually double booked an extra kayak and the company gave us a refund, no problem! We didn't realize they do a guided night LED kayak experience and we probably would have enjoyed that more since it was so hot during the day.
We noticed a few food stands and a small beach across the street from the kayak rental. We happened upon Playita Del Condado spontaneously and glad we did! Great spot to relax and wade in the water. The water has no waves and is very calm since it’s part of the lagoon. The beach attendants will charge you to use the chairs, but if you are a hotel guest they’re free to use.
TOURS AND ACIVITES IN SAN JAUN
Unfortunately, we never made it to El Yunque National Park. We wanted more of a city trip. If you have time I highly recommend going! There are plenty of great hiking trails and waterfalls to explore.
Feel free to follow me on Instagram and subscribe to my YouTube channel for more information on Old San Juan!