The Top 10 Things to Do in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Visit the Forts

Perhaps nothing captures the history of Puerto Rico more than Old San Juan's massive fortresses. El Morro and Castillo de San Cristobal are among the most visited attractions on the island for a good reason. Their cannons, ramparts, and layered defenses have guarded the walled city for centuries. Even the governor's mansion, La Fortaleza, is called "The Fortress" because it was one of the settlement's early defensive structures.

Dine Out on Fortaleza Street

Dining in Puerto Rico is usually a rewarding experience, whether you're after local classics, gourmet international cuisine, or a delightfully inventive fusion of the Caribbean and global flavors. In Old San Juan, Fortaleza Street has carved out a reputation as a Restaurant Row that includes some of the best restaurants in town. In fact, South Fortaleza, or "SoFo," as it's known, even has its own biannual culinary festival. 

Of course, you don't need to restrict yourself to Fortaleza Street to enjoy good food in the old city. But the variety and quality found here make it a good bet for a great meal.

Take a Sunset Stroll Along Paseo La Princesa

Paseo La Princesa is a broad promenade that stretches from near the docks at the foot of the city and leads to the lovely Raíces Fountain. On weekends, you're likely to find all kinds of stalls lining the road, and maybe even a free cultural performance to enjoy. Paseo La Princesa hugs the old perimeter wall of the city, and beyond the fountain continues around Old San Juan to the San Juan Gate, the only remaining of five original entry points into the old town.

The best time to enjoy the walk is during sunset when you'll have gorgeous views of the bay from the fountain, and you'll escape the heat of the day.

Go Salsa Dancing

Salsa dancing and Puerto Rico go hand in hand, but surprisingly, the island isn't exactly crawling with hallowed halls of salsa. While old favorites like the Nuyorican Café (where Mick Jagger once danced the night away) have closed, newer spots like La Factoría have stepped up to the plate.

Check Out the Home of Ponce de León

One of the earliest structures in the old city, La Casa Blanca was both its earliest fortress and home to its earliest ruling family. You might have heard of the man who made his legacy the search for the mythical Fountain of Youth. Before he took off on his chase for immortality, he built this home, and his family lived here for 200 years. Today, the house is a beautiful trip back through the ages, and one of the cultural highlights of Old San Juan.

Enjoy the City at Night

Take a look at the best lounges, bars, and clubs in San Juan. You'll find several of them in Old San Juan, a city known for its active nightlife. Whether you prefer the chic lounge scene (try Marmalade), grungy and funky bars (El Batey Bar leads that pack) or multi-level discos, Old San Juan doesn't feel so old once the sun goes down.

Visit La Rogativa

Of all the lovely sculptures in Old San Juan, why single out La Rogativa? Because of the story it tells. The monument, located in a quiet corner of the city near the San Juan Gate, commemorates one of the most evocative legends of Puerto Rico.

In 1797, the British attacked Old San Juan, but a quick-thinking priest led the outnumbered soldiers on a religious procession through the city. The British mistook the citizens for reinforcements and abandoned their attack.

Book a Nighttime Walking Tour of the City

Old San Juan is beautiful by day, but truly magical at night. And two tours show you the city at night in a unique way.

Leslie Padró's Flavors of San Juan combines historical anecdotes with a chance to savor dishes at several local restaurants. Meanwhile, Debbie Molina's Night Tales is a wonderful walking tour of the old city. Debbie takes her guests inside buildings not generally seen at night.

Go Souvenir Shopping

Puerto Rico has terrific hand-crafted souvenirs. There's nothing wrong with a T-shirt or a shot glass, but if you want something original, this island has lovely arts and crafts, and you can find plenty of options in Old San Juan. From the iconic vejigante masks found at numerous shops to the hand-carved Santos (wooden figurines) to the Panama hats at Olé, souvenir shopping in San Juan is a treat.

Browse the Art Galleries

The old city is a haven for artists, and it houses numerous art galleries that are well worth a look. Leading the list is the outstanding Galería Botello, but it's not the only place to showcase fine local and regional works. Obra Galería is also worth your time.