things to do in san juan

[gizmo13]

we are leaving on the adventure of the seas in a week and need something to do in san juan, pr. if anyone has any suggestions on a good spot to see or an attraction that they recommend, we would apprecaite it. thank you!!!!

[superjerryw]

Check out El Morro, the giant Spanish fortress in Old San Juan.

[Sue L]

San Cristobel the other fort is beautiful too, they are both accessible by walking or there is a Free Green trolley that goes by both of them and through Old San Juan, which is a fun place to walk around.

 

Sue

[Cruising89143]

Check out El Morro, the giant Spanish fortress in Old San Juan.

 

I agree to check this out.

[Family Man]

What about the phosphorescent bay by kayak and rainforest tours? We have 2 1/2 days in San Juan and are considering these, in addition to a fort tour. Has anyone else been on these? If so, what did you think?

[Calicruisefamily]

Royal Caribbean has a excursion that takes you to the "EL Yunque" the rain forest it was beautiful ! This was something we will never forget and would do again :) Have a great time on your cruise :)

Voyager W. Caribbean 12/16/06 "Our First AFT"

Voyager E. Caribbean 11/05

S.S. Azure Seas Baja 11/90

[lacruiser]

If you have more than just one day and can rent a car, you can go to Luquillo Beach (not too far from San Juan), which is gorgeous. You can also drive yourself to El Yunque, the rainforest -- there's just one road up the mountain, and the signage is pretty easy to follow. We have stayed in PR for several days before and after our cruises, just because we've had such great times. I'd love to hear about the bio tours -- we've never made those. We have, however, driven out to the eastern tip of the island (to Fajardo) and taken the ferry over to Culebra to snorkel. You can make a day of it, since it's really not far from San Juan, and you can do the rainforest and stop at Luquillo, too, on the way back (provided you don't stay too long on Culebra!) If you only have an afternoon or a day, walk around Old San Juan. It's charming, has great shopping (I've bought jewelry and designer handbags and gotten great deals on both) and is quite safe. Eat the food -- there's tons of great places to eat, and have a mojito! The Bacardi tour is fun, too -- and you can sample different rums after. Have fun, and enjoy PR!

[negc]

If you have more than just one day and can rent a car, you can go to Luquillo Beach (not too far from San Juan), which is gorgeous. You can also drive yourself to El Yunque, the rainforest -- there's just one road up the mountain, and the signage is pretty easy to follow. We have stayed in PR for several days before and after our cruises, just because we've had such great times. I'd love to hear about the bio tours -- we've never made those. We have, however, driven out to the eastern tip of the island (to Fajardo) and taken the ferry over to Culebra to snorkel. You can make a day of it, since it's really not far from San Juan, and you can do the rainforest and stop at Luquillo, too, on the way back (provided you don't stay too long on Culebra!) If you only have an afternoon or a day, walk around Old San Juan. It's charming, has great shopping (I've bought jewelry and designer handbags and gotten great deals on both) and is quite safe. Eat the food -- there's tons of great places to eat, and have a mojito! The Bacardi tour is fun, too -- and you can sample different rums after. Have fun, and enjoy PR!

 

If there are ships in port while you are staying in San Juan, you can go to the pier and arrange a tour to El Yunque with one of the drivers who will be there soliciting business from the cruise passengers. You can also take a cab to Carolina Beach near the airport. It is a very nice, clean beach and chair and umbrella rentals are available for about $10. You can do the Bacardi plant tour on your own from Old San Juan using the ferry that runs between Old San Juan and Cataño for a very reasonable amount that is much less than an organized tour would cost.

[rolloman]

In addition to what others have said, If you want to shop away from the crowds take a taxi to the International mall, it is a nice mall comparable to the malls in the States. If you are into free rum samples,You can do the Bacardi tour which is nearby, or across the street from the ship is a DON Q rum store with free samples, also across the street is a welcoming center with free drinks. For authentic food, take a cab to Mi Casita near the airport, you wont get any better food than this place and acrosss the street are two very nice hotels with casinos.

[Calicruisefamily]

MMMMMMM "Rum Samples" :p I will have to go there next time ;)

Voyager W. Caribbean 12/16/06 "Our First AFT"

Voyager E. Caribbean 11/05

S.S. Azure Seas Baja 11/90

[Best Buds]

We have never cruised before and we really needed to know what everyone here has suggested to see and do in Puerto Rico. We, too, wanted most to stop at Luquillo Beach (the most photographed beach in the Caribbean) and eat conch fritters there while on the drive to El Yunque where we would maybe get to swim in a scenic waterfall, get a glance at the endangered PR parrot and listen to the songs of the tiny coqui tree frogs then buy their songs on CD's in the gorgeous information center recently built there. THEN we found out that it is a three-hour roundtrip drive from the pier and is fraught with traditional traffic jams and lengthy backups. Now we don't think we can do it safely in the time alloted by RCCL (their $32 El Yunque excursion doesn't stop at any beach and doesn't go to the swimming waterfall there) and the private tour operators we contacted expressed the same concerns (same for the Camuy Caves and the world's largest search-for-alien-existence radio dish at Arecibo). So now we're back to a ride up to El Morro and then eating, drinking and shopping back to the ship on our own in Old San Juan!!!!!! We made a list of all the pros and cons that we read about the excursions in Puerto Rico and posted them here: www.bestbuds.xoompages.com

Enjoy the trip!

[sbgrace]

We enjoyed the Bacardi rum factory tour. Take the ferry across the harbor, walk to the right to the cabs; I think it was $2 pp cab fare to the factory. They also have a "company store" with souveniers and good prices on the rum.

Chris

[puertorican]

we are leaving on the adventure of the seas in a week and need something to do in san juan, pr. if anyone has any suggestions on a good spot to see or an attraction that they recommend, we would apprecaite it. thank you!!!!

 

what to do around OSJ; here are some recommendations from our tourism department:

 

WALKING TOUR OF OLS SAN JUAN

 

Narrow cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, centuries-old fortresses overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, fascinating museums and art galleries, handcrafts on the corners - and everything bathed by a tropical breeze - these are some of the characteristics of legendary Old San Juan.

 

Wear comfortable shoes and light clothing, grab your camera, and get ready to marvel at the perfect marriage of the past and the present on the very lived-in streets. A walking tour is a wonderful way to get acquainted with the Old City. If you need a break, hop aboard the no-charge trolley cars that make the rounds to and from La Puntilla and Covadonga parking lots at one of the clearly marked stops.

 

La Casita – Your Old San Juan adventure begins at La Casita, or The Little House, the yellow building located in Plaza de la Dársena that houses a Puerto Rico Tourism Company Information Center. Open Mon. through Wed. from 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM; Thur. and Fri. until 5:30 PM; Sat. and Sun. from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. There is an outdoor crafts market around the building that is open Sat. and Sun. from 9:30 AM to 10:00 PM and Mon. and Tues. from 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM. The crafts market schedule may vary according to cruise ship itineraries. Tel. (787) 722-1709.

 

San Juan Bay – La Casita overlooks San Juan Bay. It is the busiest ocean port in the Caribbean, bringing in half of the region’s trade and over one million cruise ship visitors a year. Bayside shops carry everything from gold jewelry to island arts and crafts. At Casa Don Q Puerto Rico, located across the street from Pier 1, you can learn about Destilería Serrallés, a rum distillery established in 1865… and sample its award-winning products.

 

La Muralla – As the promenade continues, it follows the curve of the bay and leads you to La Muralla, or city wall. Built mostly between 1539 and 1641 using sandstone blocks up to 20 feet thick, the wall was completed in 1782. It protected the city against enemy attacks. At the western mouth of the bay you will see Isla de Cabras (Goat Island), and a small Spanish fort built in 1610.

 

Museo de Doña Fela – From La Fortaleza, go to Recinto Oeste Street and turn right on Caleta de San Juan Street. There you will find Museo de Doña Fela, the original residence of Felisa Rincón de Gautier, the first woman to become Mayor of San Juan. This museum features personal belongings, period memorabilia, and awards granted to this exceptional woman. Open weekdays from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM Tel. (787) 723-1897.

 

Casa Rosada – The lovely house in front of La Rogativa is Casa Rosada, or Pink House. It was built in 1812 for the Spanish army and is now a day care center for government employees’ children.

 

Plazuela de la Rogativa – From Museo de Doña Fela, return to Recinto Oeste Street and climb the hill to reach Plazuela de la Rogativa, a small plaza with a bronze sculpture by Lindsay Daen. The work recreates the day a bishop and his companions frightened away British troops during a 1797 attack on the city by carrying torches and chanting. The enemies thought the procession was local troop reinforcements.

 

Casa Blanca – Take the upper road along a plant-decked wall to a doorway above Casa Rosada. This is one of the five entrances to Casa Blanca, or the White House. For 250 years it was the residence of the descendents of Juan Ponce de León, the first governor of Puerto Rico. The house is now a museum of 16th and 17th century family life and houses a miniature replica of a Taíno village. The garden is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Entrance fee is $2.00 for adults and $1.00 for senior citizens and children. Tel. (787) 724-1454.

 

Fuerte San Felipe del Morro – Exit Casa Blanca through Recinto Oeste Street. Straight ahead is Fuerte San Felipe del Morro or El Morro fortress, rising majestically 140 feet above the sea. El Morro (meaning “promontory” in Spanish), surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and San Juan Bay, is the most striking of the city’s military fortifications. It was built between 1540 and 1783 to protect San Juan from attack by sea. Among its many attractions is a maze of secret tunnels and dungeons, and a small museum with information on its history. Along with San Cristóbal Fort, El Morro has been designated a National Historic Site and is part of a World Heritage Site. It is administered by the U.S. National Park Service. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. English tours depart at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Entrance fee is $2.00 for adults and $1.00 for senior citizens and children. No entrance fee for children under 12. Tel. (787) 729-6960.

 

Plaza de Hostos – The small square in front of Plaza de la Dársena, near La Casita, is Plaza de Hostos. This square features artisans’ displays, snack stands, and the traditional piragüeros, vendors who sell shaved ice topped with tropical fruit syrups.

 

Paseo La Princesa – Near Plaza de la Marina and a statue honoring the Puerto Rican immigrant, you will find Paseo La Princesa. It is a promenade lined with trees, pocket parks, sculptures, and benches, and leads to a magnificent fountain with a bronze sculpture by Luis Sanguino depicting the island’s cultural roots.

 

La Princesa – Midway through the promenade is La Princesa itself, a former jail and now headquarters of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company. The restored building features a gallery of Puerto Rican art with permanent and visiting exhibitions. Tel. (787) 721-2400.

 

Puerta de San Juan – The promenade leads to the red-painted Puerta de San Juan or San Juan Gate, where you re-enter the city. This is one of six original massive wooden doors that centuries ago were closed at sundown to protect the residents.

 

La Fortaleza – Go through the doorway and make a right on Recinto Oeste Street to La Fortaleza. It is a palatial structure built in 1540 and the oldest governor’s mansion in the Western Hemisphere still in use. Guided tours are available weekdays, except holidays, from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM; tours in English every hour, in Spanish every half hour. Schedules are subject to change. Proper attire required. Tel. (787) 721-7000, ext. 2358.

 

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In the old San Juan Area are lot of places to eat for different tastes and budget. Here are some examples of them with their average prices per dish:

 

Aguaviva

364 Fortaleza St.

San Juan, PR 00901

(787) 722-0665

Sea Food

 

Price Range: $26 to $50

 

Al Dente

309 Recinto Sur, Old San Juan

San Juan, PR 00901

(787) 723-7303

Fax (787) 724-7224

Italian

 

Al Dente is known for its authentic Italian cuisine, fresh pasta and innovative recipes. The restaurant's best-sellers -- spinach balls with rice, ricotta cheese, and pink sauce). Al Dente boasts a large wine selection and a wine bar including 15 different house wines. Located in an historical building, the decor of this charming ristorante will transport you to Palermo, native city of the chef and owner Giancarlo Amenta. Closed Sundays.

 

Price Range: $16 to $25

 

Amadeus

106 San Sebastian St. Old San Juan

San Juan, PR 00902

(787) 722-8635

International

 

This charming restaurant offers a nouvelle Caribbean menu. The roster of appetizers includes buffalo wings and plantain mousse with shrimp. Chicken breast stuffed with sun-dried tomatoes, cheese ravioli with a goat-cheese-and-walnut sauce, and Cajun-grilled mahimahi are a few of the delectable entrées.

 

Price Range: $8 to $15

 

Ambrosia

250 Cristo St., Old San Juan

San Juan, PR 00901

(787) 722-5206

International

 

This European style café is the perfect place to have drinks on the Old San Juan cobble stoned Del Cristo Street.

 

Price Range: under $8

 

Baru

150 San Sebastián ST., Old San Juan

San Juan, PR 00901

787) 977-7107

Middle Eastern

 

Price Range: $16 to $25

 

Barrachina Cafe

104 Calle La Fortaleza, Old San Juan

San Juan, PR 00901

(787) 725-7912

International

 

Price Range: $16 to $25

 

Cafe Puerto Rico

208 O'Donell St., Old San Juan

San Juan, PR 00901

(787) 724-2281

Puerto Rican

 

Price Range: $8 to $15

 

Carli Cafe Concierto

206 Tetuán St Rafael Carrión Plaza, Banco Popular Bldg., Old San Juan

San Juan, PR 00901

(787) 725-4927

Puerto Rican

 

Continental creations include duck rissolé, cod dumplings, breast and leg of duck, and filet of salmon with mustard-cream sauce.

 

Price Range: $16 to $25

 

Chaumiere

367 Tetuan St., Old San Juan

San Juan, PR 00901

(787) 722-3330

French

 

Located behind the famous Tapia Theater. Specialties include the onion soup, Oysters Rockefeller, Rack of Lamb, Scallops Provencale and Veal Oscar.

 

Price Range: $26 to $50

 

Dragonfly

364 Fortaleza St.

San Juan, PR 00901

(787) 977-3886

Chinese

 

Menu offering an eclectic Chinese-Latin fusion cuisine. Try the delicious Peking Duck Nachos or the Quesadilla Spring Rolls. There is full bar service available and a wine list. Open Sunday-Wednesday 6 p.m. - 11 p.m. and Thursday-Saturday 6 p.m.-midnight.

 

Price Range: $8 to $15

 

Parrot Club

363 Fortaleza Street, Old San Juan

San Juan, PR 00901

(787)725-7370

Sea Food/International

 

The club offers food and a wide variety of drinks along with an unique mixture of Latino hospitality and ophisticated cosmopolitan ambience.

 

Price Range: $26 to $50

 

Patio de Sam

102 San Sebastian St., Old San Juan

San Juan, PR 00901

(787) 723-1149

Puerto Rican

 

The menu is mostly steaks and seafood, with a few native dishes like asopao mixed in. The dessert flans melt in your mouth.

 

Price Range: $8 to $15

 

Señor Frog's

104 Paseo Portuario Local M-3, Comercio Street, Old San Juan

San Juan, PR 00907

(787) 977-4142

International

 

International cuisine featuring Mexican dishes. Bar, and nightly entertainment with band.

 

Price Range: under $8

 

Please let me know if you need anything else on where I can help you.