4 DaysPuerto Rico
San Juan
Your 4-day travel guide
The best time to visit San Juan is from mid-April to June, after the winter tourist season ends but before the summer ra...
San Juan•4D•All
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Duration:4 Days
Activities:12
Best for:All travelers
Colonial Charm and Caribbean Flavors
San Juan, Puerto Rico's capital, offers a rich blend of Spanish colonial history and vibrant Caribbean culture. As one of the oldest European-founded cities in the Americas, its cobblestone streets in Old San Juan lead to historic forts, colorful buildings, and local plazas. The city combines this heritage with modern energy, from the Condado district's beachfront to Santurce's arts scene. For couples seeking culture and food, San Juan provides intimate experiences through its museums, historic sites, and diverse culinary offerings, all within a compact, walkable urban setting that invites exploration at a relaxed pace.
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1
Historic Old San Juan
Day 1 of your journey
This 16th-century Spanish fort, often called El Morro, guards the entrance to San Juan Bay. Visitors can walk through its six levels of ramparts, barracks, and dungeons while learning about its role in defending the city. The grassy field in front is popular for kite flying. Plan for about 2-3 hours to fully explore the fort and enjoy ocean views from its walls. It's best visited in the morning to avoid afternoon heat and crowds.
Castillo San Felipe del Morro
Why Visit
El Morro is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant Spanish fortifications in the Caribbean. Its impressive architecture and historical importance make it essential for understanding Puerto Rico's colonial past. The panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Old San Juan from the fort are spectacular, offering great photo opportunities for couples.
Address: 501 Calle Norzagaray. Wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs and uneven surfaces. The National Park Service offers guided tours that provide deeper historical context.
2
Cultural Institutions and Local Arts
Day 2 of your journey
3
Architecture and Local Life
Day 3 of your journey
4
Coastal Views and Culinary Exploration
Day 4 of your journey
Before You Go
Essential Travel Tips
San Juan uses US dollars as currency, and credit cards are widely accepted, though carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.
Spanish is the primary language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas. Learning basic Spanish phrases is appreciated by locals.
Public transportation includes buses and a ferry to nearby areas, but Old San Juan is best explored on foot. Ride-sharing services are available throughout the city.
The weather is tropical year-round. Carry water, wear sunscreen, and have light rain gear as brief showers can occur even in dry season.
San Juan is generally safe for tourists, but take normal precautions like avoiding poorly lit areas at night and not leaving valuables in cars.
Tipping follows US customs: 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per bag for porters, and $2-5 per night for hotel housekeeping.
Electrical outlets are US standard (120V, Type A/B plugs), so no adapters are needed for travelers from the United States.
Many museums and attractions offer discounted or free admission on certain days; check individual websites for current schedules and prices.
When to Go
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit San Juan is from mid-April to June, after the winter tourist season ends but before the summer rainy period begins. During these months, you'll find pleasant temperatures averaging 80-85°F (27-29°C), lower humidity compared to summer, and fewer crowds than December through March. September through November is hurricane season, with higher rainfall and storm risk, though prices are lower. December through March offers ideal weather but attracts the most visitors and highest prices. The city enjoys warm weather year-round, so timing depends more on crowd and rain preferences than temperature extremes.
Local Insights & Tips
San Juan operates on 'island time' - a more relaxed pace than mainland US cities. Meals, especially dinner, tend to start later, with many restaurants filling after 8pm. Locals value personal connections, so polite greetings and taking time for conversation are appreciated. The city has a mix of Spanish colonial heritage and Caribbean influences visible in everything from architecture to music. Old San Juan residents take pride in their neighborhood's history and preservation. While tourism is important, remember you're visiting people's homes in residential areas. Puerto Ricans are generally warm and welcoming to visitors who show respect for their culture and island. The political status discussion is complex; it's best to listen rather than offer opinions unless you know someone well.