Sip a rum cocktail and taste traditional Puerto Rican food at 4 stops during the walk. Built in 1521, Casa Blanca, built for Juan Ponce de Leon and his family, is the oldest house on the island. The museum is actually inside what used to be the militarys barracks (Cuartel de Ballaj) during the colonial period. A great starting point is the Plaza del Quinto Centenario at the north side of the city. As you keep pacing down the blue cobblestone roads, youll find yourself in Sol street, where Casa Blanca, former residence-now-museum of the descendants of Ponce de Len, is located. A guided food tour is an excellent way to experience Puerto Rico. Theyre reasons enough for exploring this city and embarking on a self-guided walking tour of Old San Juan. Outlet shops, Puerto Rican handcrafts, unique souvenirs, high-quality jewelry, and artwork can be found here. So do yourself a favor and plan around the cruises. I can also use Google Maps, request an Uber, call my mom, and do tons of other things I couldnt do before. San Juan PR 00908 sanjuan@flavorsfoodtours.com Phone Number: 787-964-2447 Quick links Home About Tours Flavors of San Juan Rum Runners Craft Cocktail Tour Boozy Bites Food Tour Old San Juan El Morro Fort Tour Walking History Tour Express Old San Juan Food Tour Private Tour Gift Cards FAQ Blog Contact Join our free newsletter! All the ingredients are fresh and the love behind the elaboration is real. But more importantly, the few blocks around the area are absolutely gorgeous and worth checking out if you want some colorful pictures! And theyve done a hell of a job restoring the city to its original charm. With portable WiFi, you can say goodbye to ridiculous roaming charges and SIM cards for good. Standing 16 feet tall, the gate is also inscribed with the phrase, Benedictus Oui Venit In Nomine Domini, which means, Welcome those who come in the name of God., Address: Cll Caleta De San Juan, San Juan. A favorite restaurant among us cruise ship crew members is the Stuffed Avocado Shop. amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "search"; These can loosely be defined as colonial era towns that have kept their historical charm. Ive never seen it anywhere else in the world. Rogativa means procession. This self-guided tour takes you to a variety of the island's farms, tasting rooms and restaurants. Old San Juan is a perfect place for a self-guided walking tour. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. In the plaza is astatue in honorofEugenio Maria de Hostos. At the parking garage, located underneath the Plaza del Quinto Centenario, continue on Calle Del Cementerio. The self-guided walking tour of Old San Juan has come to an end. There is no single street to go for the best views. Casa Blanca is now a museum, but centuries ago this house belonged to famed Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon. The Puerto Rico Tourism Company will be on your right. Address: 209 C. de San Francisco, San Juan, Your email address will not be published. The best beaches in Puerto Rico are well outside of San Juan. La Perla was first established as the location of a slaughterhouse as both slaughterhouses, cemeteries, and homes of former slaves and non-white servants were required to be outside of the main city center in the late 19th century. Old San Juans most notable attraction is almost certainly Castillo San Felipe del Moro, the citys original fort. Discover the best oceanfront resorts in Puerto Rico and enjoy some beach time. Now may be the time to reassess, with this comprehensive breakdown of travel credit card options. The sculptures represent the affirmation of life. Lots of places for good lunches. I explain how to avoid cruise days in a section below. However, in Puerto Rico they have evolved into a very popular sweet bread sandwich or pastry perfect to start off the day. Parque Isla Verde contains the airport and a long stretch of beach, as well as many 4 and 5-star hotels. The shapes, rising from the ground, convey the idea that the fragility of growth is only an impression and what is truly important has to be eternal. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. With more than 500 years of history, theres no shortage of places to cover. Its hard to beat the prices! Great deal on a sunset sail in San Juan Bay: For more travel product recommendations, check out my, Spain Bucket List: 15 Photos That Will Inspire You to Visit the Cies Islands. The house has some odd hours so consult the website linked above for the latest information. The Truth about Racism in Spain: Advice for Black Travelers, The 5 Friendliest Countries in Europe for Black Travelers, Spain Bucket List: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Barcelona. Learn the difference between caf puya and caf con leche. Continue straight to Caleta San Juan. It has remained an American territory now for over 100 years. What every traveler needs: National Historic Landmark La Fortaleza (The Fortress) was built in the mid-1500s for military defense. Doa Ana was its first mother superior, and many say she never left. They can join the army and go to war and die for the country, yet cant vote for president. In 1898 the United States did what the Dutch never could and took Puerto Rico, thus ending the Spanish-American war. If you love rum, visiting a distillery gives you the opportunity to learn about this spirits history, how its made, and, of course, to sample a drink or two. A blessing, at the top of the gate, to all visitors as they pass through: Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.. This self-guided walking tour of Old San Juan will help you hit all the main sites and areas in just a few hours. Theres a reason the Island is the rum capital of the world. Get to know the people that showcase Puerto Ricos culture through its gastronomy. To get there you have to drive out of town quite a bit and take a boat to the island. If youre not a part of one of these cruises then I highly recommend planning your trip to San Juan on a day where no cruise ships dock at the port. Puerto Rico has transformed into a foodie paradise over the years, incorporating different influences and traditions to create exciting dishes and cocktails. Thats theBacardi Rum Factory where you can embark on a tour. The colorful city, the historical forts, and the vast views of the Atlantic Ocean are all worth the visit. Privacy Policy | GDPR FAQ | Accessibility, Five Unique Ways to Enjoy the Great Outdoors in Puerto Rico, Top Beachside Accommodations in Puerto Rico, Historic Hotels and Resorts in Puerto Rico, Now that youve had breakfast, step out of the colonial headquarters where youll come upon the majestic castle ofSan Felipe del Morro, simply known as, Right there at San Sebastin street, the very path that hosts the brightest and biggest festival on the island, is, Visit the Rum Distilleries of Puerto Rico, Plan Your Getaway in Rum-soaked Puerto Rico, A Guide to Breweries & Beer in Puerto Rico, Order Your Coffee like a Local in Puerto Rico. In my experience, it lasts 9 hours. It provides a well-rounded introduction for first time visitors, as well as offer new opportunities for those whove traveled to the island before. Exploring Old San Juan with a Guide You may also book a number of walking tours, the tour guides do an excellent job, and you will visit places, and hear stories with historical details you would miss with a self-guided tour. Ive been using Skyscanner since I studied abroad in Spain back in 2012. Tip: Keep your receipt! Welcome to Old San Juan Calle Marina This tour begins at Calle Marina which is where the cruise ships dock. With more than 500 years of history, theres no shortage of places to cover. Price: General Admission- $6; Under 12 and over 65 years old- $4, Need to rent a car while in Puerto Rico? Youll learn how this family was and still is pivotal in Puerto Rican education and advocates for art. This colorful barrio is where the filming for the pop hit Despacito took place. The affiliate advertising program provides a means to sustain this blog by linking to affiliate sites at no extra cost to you. Right across from the Plaza del Quinto Centenario, is the Cuartel de Ballaj, an open-concept building built from 1854 to 1864 for Spanish troops established within the walled city. Its not a huge area but it is an extremely popular place for American tourists. Its essentially mashed fried plantains served with some sort of meat. Its closed at night but there is free street parking at night nearby. Address: C. de San Francisco & Calle San Jos. Taking part in a traditional horse race, Baltazar Montanez in 1753, lost control and plunged off the cliffs. Many cities in the United States have old towns. Walk to San Sebastian Street and turn right on Calle Sol. Unbelievably delicious! And its not just about the food, either. Or check out all the listings on booking.com to find another great option! From the marina head west, the water will be on your left, to Calle Comercio toward Plaza Darsenas. Disclosure Policy. The beautiful courtyard is definitely a sight to take in! Where to stay in Old San Juan: Old San Juan Guest House, El Colonial Adults Only, Casa Sol Bed and Breakfast, Fortel Hostel. Your email address will not be published. If your city doesnt have a direct flight youll likely layover in Miami or elsewhere on the east coast. On the other side of Old San Juan lies another Spanish fort, Castillo de San Cristbal. You can also create your own self-guided walk to visit Be sure to get a piragua (shaved ice) from one of the vendors in the squares. Simply amazing. The Bishop and towns-women held a procession. 2023 Discover Puerto Rico. WebJoin a mini getaway in Old San Juan on this guided walking food tour through a 500-year old Spanish colonial city. It serves as a promotion center for the rums of Puerto Rico. Were you able to explore one of the incredible forts? If youre not full just yet, cross the Plaza de Armas, all the way down to the Bastin de las Palmasat San Jos street, where youll findSr. Paleta,a hyper-local ice cream pop shop that has taken Puerto Rico by storm. WebYOUR SELF GUIDED WALKING TOUR OF OLD TOWN SAN JUAN The Old Town is not large but there is a lot to see and do. WebOld San Juan Historic Sites. A Self-guided Walking Tour of Old San Juan. After lunch, we continued our self-guided tour to Paseo de la Princesa and around the city wall along a trail called Paseo del Morro. A great starting point is the Plaza del Quinto Centenarioat the north side of the city. There are quite a few scattered around the US. He dedicated his life to educational causes and advocating womens rights to higher education. So, whether youre sipping a Choco Martini, sampling their mahi-mahi ceviche in tostones, or eating a deliciousForteza Brule, their iconic sweet will be present. WebA self-guided tour through Old San Juan can be broken down into two main sections: The coastal perimeter (marked in black on the map)- Where most of the historical landmarks are located The interior streets (marked in burgundy on the map)- Where most of the photo spots, restaurants, and shops are found This modern square was built in 1992 to honor the 500-year anniversary of Colombus first voyage to the Americas. The weather is a bit cooler and drier. The church is open on Tuesdays and religious days. WebThe Visitors Center (phone 787-722-1709) is located across from the Plaza de la Darsena and is open everyday from 9:00am until 5:30pm. Because the building is still an active government building, those interested in looking inside can only do so through official guided tours. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Its a long walk, about 3/4 of a mile, but worth it for the fantastic views and photo ops (plus a little walk didnt hurt after indulging in such a big meal). If you get outside of San Juan then you start running into places where the locals dont speak English. A trip to San Juan should be combined with a beach vacation to Puerto Rico or a hike through the jungles of El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest system. We stayed at Aloft San Juan but dont recommend it due to loud music from the mall next door till well after midnight. Learn about the history of Old San Juan as you walk El Convento Hotel is on the diagonal corner of the cathedral. These days the fort is part of San Juan National Historic Site, managed by the National Park Service. When you visit, you'll find that spirit in yourself, too. Believers who come to the chapel seek miracles for physical illnesses. San Juan is more expensive than youd expect. Lechn asado: Puerto Rican succulent pig, Pastelon: Puerto Rican lasagna, made with plantains, Paella: this Spanish staple is found nearly everywhere in Puerto Rico. With your local guide, hear about the history of this 16th-century colonial city, pausing to duck into coffee shops and cafes. To eat like a local, head to Cafe Manolin, a no frills 50s diner style restaurant with a huge menu. Is there really a better way to get to know a new destination than through its history andfood? Within the old town consider the 352 Guest House Hotel Boutique or the Casa Sol bed and Breakfast. By making a purchase through one of the links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. To visit the Bacardi Factory from Old San Juan, ride the La Lancha Ferry on Pier 2 to Catano. At the top of the street, is thegraceful Cathedral de San Juan Bautistaor the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist. Unlike most travel websites, you won't be overwhelmed with ads on here. After walking all the way down to the Umbrella Street, I then made my way clockwise to the listed destinations. Castillo San Felipe del Morro (also known as El Morro for short) is the islands trademark fortification built at the tip of the San Juan Bay. I'm Chris and together with my wife Nimarta we seek out some of the lesser known incredible travel destinations in the world and well known destinations in the off-season. We really enjoyed our day in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico while cruising with Carnival. This modern square was built in 1992 to honor the 500-year anniversary of Colombus first voyage to the Americas. After you have your information and maps, head outside and enjoy the Bahia de San Juan (San Juan Bay). I would recommend taking some time to explore all that is there. It is one of the most popular options, since there are plenty of tour companies and packages to choose from. Easy self guided tour Review of Old San Juan Reviewed February 6, 2019 Do some homework before you go and try to map out a route, or go to the tourist info building to get directions and the lay of the landplenty of historical buildings to see and lots to look at. In the dungeon, you can see some of the prisoner drawings on the walls. Slip-on comfortable shoes. We had lunch there and dinner at Raices, which was recommended by the bartender at our hotel. The characteristic blue color comes from age and moisture. Its $10 per person to enter unless you have the NPS Interagency Pass or another yearly pass. It provides a well-rounded introduction for first time visitors, as well as offer new opportunities for those whove traveled to the island before. The Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery is the final resting place of many of Puerto Ricos most prominent natives and residents. Say she never left advocating womens rights to higher education know a new destination than through history! 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