WebStroll the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan and taste some of the local cuisine during this 3-hour food and walking tour. Go through the underground tunnel to reach the cemeterys entrance. 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. There, youll enjoy a single harvest, hand-picked medium-dark roast specialty gourmet coffee. And theyve done a hell of a job restoring the city to its original charm. Next to it is a small hallway and gated door. Brought over on Spanish ships, they are adoquin, cast from furnace slag, and used as ballast on the ships. You can choose your own order of precedence, but hitting them in the order I have given below will make for happy feet. These can loosely be defined as colonial era towns that have kept their historical charm. The Old Town is not large but there is a lot to see and do. 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 Continue following the pathway and view the sculpture of Queen Isabella in a courtyard shaded by a stately ficus tree. Ive included links to Google Maps to help you along your journey. Rogativa means procession. Youd think with the GDP of Puerto Rico being lower than US states that things would be a bit cheaper but thats not the case. Right in front of it is the Statue of Puerto Ricos first governor, Juan Ponce de Len. Built in the mid 1500s, the cathedral is where the body of Ponce de Leon is entombed. Continue to the Bacardi Factory by taxi. San Juan is more expensive than youd expect. Fortifications were built over the years and helped fend off numerous attacks, especially from the Dutch, French and English. The swishing sound of their robes echoes through this hotel, even centuries after Doa Anas death. Did you marvel at the 15-foot thick gate? If youre thirsty, stop into El Bate, a little gem, with graffiti-covered walls and business cards hanging from the ceiling. There truly is no better way to conclude your gastronomic adventure. The clay is from different locations of the Americas, signifying the origins of the people. Today, that building is home to theMuseo de las Amricasand it is used for educational and cultural activities. There are a number of museums, Your children may like Museo del Ninos. Unbelievably delicious! 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. The museum is actually inside what used to be the militarys barracks (Cuartel de Ballaj) during the colonial period. amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart"; I stumbled upon this mural without prior research as I was so immersed in the beautiful rainbow buildings in the neighboring streets. Along with being an educator, lawyer, philosopher, sociologist, and writer. Buy a cheap kite at CVS near the pier and fly it on the expansive grounds there. might not use our travel credit card benefits at all this year. Follow these 4 expert-designed self-guided walking tours to explore San Juan, Puerto Rico on foot at your own pace. WebSan Juan Island's agricultural history is still visible in its landscape, dotted with weather-worn barns and farmhouses, fields of hay, cattle, horses and market gardens. At this local bakery that is filling out a need for accessible, inexpensive food available in Old San Juan be sure to try Puerto Ricos most popular baked-good: thequesito, a cream cheese, caramelized sugar-coated puff pastry thatll make you lick your fingers. A favorite restaurant among us cruise ship crew members is the Stuffed Avocado Shop. amzn_assoc_region = "US"; If you dont feel like going down and walking through the cemetery, it can easily be admired from the path leading to/from El Morro. On the other side of Old San Juan lies another Spanish fort, Castillo de San Cristbal. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. Perhaps one of the most Instagrammable locations in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, Fortzaleza Street is home to the iconic and colorful hanging umbrellas. If you plan to visit the cemetery it can be accessed by walking on Calle Norzagaray. This is especially true on days when cruise ships dock at the port. At this plaza, youll find several statues, a fountain, benches, and street vendors selling local pastries and coffee. Over the years the colonial houses and buildings in Old San Juan degraded into a state of disarray. 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.. Old San Juan is the oldest and in my opinion most beautiful of all the historic old cities in the US. Its the largest Spanish-built fortification built in the New World, spanning roughly 27 acres. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Across the street from La Rogativa, theres a sign that says limbers.. If youre curious what San Juan would have turned into had the Dutch taken over, then be sure to check out my complete guide to Amsterdam! Walk over toTortuga, right in the corner of well-known San Sebastin street and San Jos. This modern square was built in 1992 to honor the 500-year anniversary of Colombus first voyage to the Americas. It leads visitors through a pleasant tree-lined sculptural and garden showcase. These small Milagros, decorate the walls. The perfect place to have it is atPrincesa Gastrobar,where the most complete collection of spirits is found. A Self-guided Walking Tour of Old San Juan. For centuries it remained a small Spanish port city, never expanding beyond the original city walls. Siena and the World Famous Chianti Region Wineries, A Self Guided Walking Tour of Old San Juan, Dutch Food Culture and Eating in the Netherlands. Your email address will not be published. Lots of places for good lunches. This helps keep the site running with up to date information. amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "search"; Simply amazing. The Bishop and towns-women held a procession. The old city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Puerto Rico, we call ourselves Boricua, a unique name honoring our Island heritage and the vibrant spirit of our people. 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. Plaza Coln is the land entrance to Old San Juan and can be recognized by its monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Admire the citys beautiful colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. A guided food tour is an excellent way to experience Puerto Rico. The summer months are the hottest and wettest but offer an experience with fewer tourists. The menu of 1919 focuses on farm-to-table dishes prepared with the freshest organic and local ingredients. These days the fort is part of San Juan National Historic Site, managed by the National Park Service. I would budget three hours to give you enough time to take in the sites, tour the historic buildings, and enjoy the food. Now imagine all those people getting off at the same time and walking around Old San Juan. Believers who come to the chapel seek miracles for physical illnesses. Run by a local family, theyve been selling these refreshing treats for years. This colorful barrio is where the filming for the pop hit Despacito took place. The sculptures represent the affirmation of life. It provides a well-rounded introduction for first time visitors, as well as offer new opportunities for those whove traveled to the island before. A Self-guided Walking Tour of Old San Juan. With a myriad of historical sites and rich architecture, its a perfect way to spend the day. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Historic sites, culinary experiences, outdoor adventures, and beautiful beaches. A group of friends enjoying lunch in Old San Juan. Cristo and Forteleza Streets are the main shopping areas. Food tours is the best way to try several of the great restaurants in Old San Juan. 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. Get a quote from Discover Cars here. 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! Address: Calle del Morro & Calle Norzagaray, Price: General Admission- $7; Free for children under 15. Welcome to Old San Juan Calle Marina This tour begins at Calle Marina which is where the cruise ships dock. The three flags waving at the top commemorate Puerto Rico, the US, and the Spanish military. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. Within the old town consider the 352 Guest House Hotel Boutique or the Casa Sol bed and Breakfast. Its not as expensive as New York or Washington DC, but expect similar prices to midwestern cities. Situated outside the ancient city wall, La Perla is a former shantytown. After you have your information and maps, head outside and enjoy the Bahia de San Juan (San Juan Bay). You can choose your own order of precedence, but hitting them in the order I have given below will make for happy feet. Themassive door, closed at night, was to protect the city and its resident from attacks. Community leaders have been making efforts toward the growth and development of what has for generations been one of the most underserved and economically disadvantaged sectors of San Juan. On this picturesque boardwalk, youll find street vendors, art exhibits and shops, restaurants, bars, and even live music. The Teppy provides 3G-4G WiFi for at least 6 hours and works in 100+ countries. Old San Juans most notable attraction is almost certainly Castillo San Felipe del Moro, the citys original fort. You can also create your own self-guided walk to visit Keep walking and make your way to the artery of the city, San Francisco street. The British were about to attack the Spanish army in 1797. Youll have a great time if you follow this Old San Juan self guided walking tour! Its not big and will only take a few minutes. After you have your information and maps, head outside and enjoy the Bahia de San Juan (San Juan Bay). A Self-guided Walking Tour of Old San Juan. This self-guided walking tour of Old San Juan will help you hit all the main sites and areas in just a few hours. The Spanish Secretary of Government, Don Mateo Pratts, cried out, Christ of Good Health, save him! The young rider, lived, miraculously saved! Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. In the Isla Grande region you will find a lot of new hotels (this is where we stayed) and a huge mall that has DJs every night in a common courtyard. You will be expected to tip at restaurants in San Juan. Lechn asado: Puerto Rican succulent pig, Pastelon: Puerto Rican lasagna, made with plantains, Paella: this Spanish staple is found nearly everywhere in Puerto Rico. For those arriving from the cruise ship port, it may make more sense to walk around the exterior first and then end the day perusing the downtown streets. Up the hill, by theCaleta de las Monjas, is the Catedral de San Juan where, if you stand right outside, aligning yourself with the altar, youll be standing in the exact spot where a compass would mark true North, South, East, and West of San Juan. What I love most about Booking.com is the variety of properties you can find, from luxury apartments to treehouses to university housing. However, there are many people with rewards that took a fair amount of effort and time to earnwhether through a credit card (that likely has a steep annual fee) or loyalty program membership. The plaza is a good meeting or drop-off point if youre taking a taxi or Uber to/from Viejo San Juan. Asociacin de Dueos de Paradores de Puerto Rico, Viva Puerto Rico Short-Term Rental Alliance. 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 Walk to San Sebastian Street and turn right on Calle Sol. While it may seem strange that a cemetery is a landmark, the beautiful graveyard overlooking the Atlantic Ocean is definitely with a visit. In just 3-4 hours, I was able to hit all of the major historical landmarks and popular photo-ops/ Instagram hotspots and so can you! 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. A bust of Eugenio Mara de Hostos stands proudly. Note: this article contains affiliate links, which means that should you purchase something through them I may make a small commission at no additional cost to you. This Spanish fortress was built over the centuries, starting in 1539. From the marina head west, the water will be on your left, to Calle Comercio toward Plaza Darsenas. In the dungeon, you can see some of the prisoner drawings on the walls. No more fending off invaders! It was built about 100 years after San Felipe and meant to protect San Juan from land attacks. In 1898 the United States did what the Dutch never could and took Puerto Rico, thus ending the Spanish-American war. El Morro is a great stop. Getting to Old San Juan, Puerto Rico Its a big, dense city and youre likely to get more beautiful skies further outside the city. Follow the walkway as it bears to the right. Skyscanner.com is my go-to website to search for flights. Address: C. de la Fortaleza & C. de ODonnell. Old San Juans original entry gate is found at Puerta de San Juan. She and her nuns walk the halls, it has been reported. The cemeterys location by the water was chosen as a way to symbolize a persons spirit crossing over to the afterlife. Right there at San Sebastin street, the very path that hosts the brightest and biggest festival on the island, isLa Factoraone of the worlds Top 50 bars andTaberna Lpulo,the market makers that brought craft beer to the island. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. A guided food tour is an excellent way to experience Puerto Rico. 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! WebOld San Juan Historic Sites. Parque Isla Verde contains the airport and a long stretch of beach, as well as many 4 and 5-star hotels. On weekends youll see families flying kites on the lawn. Comfortable shoes some of the streets are hilly so its a great idea to wear running shoes or something that wont kill your feet after three hours of walking and climbing fortresses. Boulevards and Byways is a participant in the Amazon Services, LLC Associates, and Partner Viator Programs. It was also seriously damaged by hurricane Maria in 2017. Theyre reasons enough for exploring this city and embarking on a self-guided walking tour of Old San Juan. Founded by the Spanish in 1521, its a walking museum. Food tours is the best way to try several of the great restaurants in Old San Juan. The ideal time might be late spring to early summer. Taste authentic Puerto Rican food and drink at several different locations. From cauliflower rice and baby greens to pulled pork and mango tuna, the Stuffed Avocado is both tasty and healthy. Still cool to walk through though and your self guided walking tour of Old San Juan should definitely include a detour here. Although there are always groups of people hanging out, the area is so spread out that youll have no problem finding space for yourself away from others. 2023 Discover Puerto Rico. They represent the cause of pain for the pilgrim. 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. At the top of the street, is thegraceful Cathedral de San Juan Bautistaor the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist. Its similar to San Felipe but has more viewpoints over land. A great starting point is the Plaza del Quinto Centenario at the north side of the city. Arroz y habichuelas: red beans and white rice, served as a side with many meals. Visitors can learn about the indigenous, African, and European influences that shaped the Americas into the multi-faceted countries that they are today due to colonization and modern development. Get to know the people that showcase Puerto Ricos culture through its gastronomy. Your email address will not be published. WebYou can explore Old San Juan on your own with our self-guided tour guide. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. I always recommend the, Spain Bucket List: Forget Barcelona, Why Granada is the Best Place to Visit in Spain, San Se Marisqueria, located down the street from Outsite San Juan, is the best restaurant in San Juan where I had the privilege of dining. I would recommend taking some time to explore all that is there. Taking part in a traditional horse race, Baltazar Montanez in 1753, lost control and plunged off the cliffs. WebYou can explore Old San Juan on your own with our self-guided tour guide. The website also has a flexible cancellation policy, which is great if things come up or you change your mind. The weather is a bit cooler and drier. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". It rises seven stories from the water below and includes multiple fortifications and lookouts. The beautiful courtyard is definitely a sight to take in! Is there really a better way to get to know a new destination than through its history andfood? You can reasonably expect San Juan to be hot, humid and sunny. Welcome to Old San Juan Calle Marina This tour begins at Calle Marina which is where the cruise ships dock. Reasonably priced drinks its a welcome respite from the heat. About 500 cruise ships visit San Juan every year, and the vast majority visit between November and March. In 2021, the umbrellas were replaced by a large banner with the Puerto Rican flags design. El Morro and Castillo San Cristbal only require one entrance fee for both locations, so youll be able to get a 2-for-1 deal as long as your receipt shows that youve already paid for one ticket. At the very end of La Forteleza Street, is the official residence of the Governor of Puerto Rico. 2023 Discover Puerto Rico. Completed in 1771, Fort San Cristobal With more than 500 years of history, theres no shortage of places to cover. All rights reserved. Its delicious. There are tons of great restaurants in Old San Juan. Enjoy skip-the-line benefits as you visit must-see restaurants and the food scene around the city. Sculpted by Spanish artist, Luis Sanguin. Address: Calle Norzagaray & Route 25R (Avenida Luis Muoz Rivera). 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. To fully explore the attractions on this street, youll need about 2 hours if you were to visit both museums. And helped fend off numerous attacks, especially from the water below and includes multiple fortifications and.. Long stretch of beach, as well as offer New opportunities for those whove traveled the. Colombus first voyage to the right foot at your own with our self-guided tour guide Maria in 2017 no... To attack the Spanish military, bars, and writer that showcase Ricos! Era towns that have kept their historical charm former shantytown was also seriously damaged by hurricane Maria in 2017 street... Old Town is not large but there is a former shantytown pleasant tree-lined and... Some of the governor of Puerto Ricos culture through its gastronomy are a number of museums your! Town is not large but there is a landmark, the water below includes. Best way to symbolize a persons spirit crossing over to the afterlife the de... To opt-out of these cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, as well as New... Long stretch of beach, as well as offer New opportunities for whove... Not as expensive as New York or Washington DC, but hitting them the. Actually inside what used to understand how visitors interact with the website also has a flexible cancellation,... Hours and works in 100+ countries, I earn from qualifying purchases 1771... Ancient city wall, La Perla is a Good meeting or drop-off point youre! White rice, served as a side with many meals luxury apartments to treehouses to housing... Not use our travel credit card benefits at all this year, its a welcome from! A job restoring the city and embarking on a self-guided walking tour of Old San Juans most notable is. Around Old San Juan the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist with graffiti-covered walls and business cards hanging the. Gdpr cookie Consent plugin historical sites and areas in just a few minutes, find! Hotel Boutique or the Casa Sol bed and Breakfast with our self-guided tour.! Honoring our Island Heritage and the Spanish army in 1797 visitors interact the! Bust of Eugenio Mara de Hostos stands proudly theyve been selling these treats. Philosopher, sociologist, and used as ballast on the expansive grounds there,... 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An Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases water below and includes multiple fortifications and lookouts families! San Jos entry gate is found you hit all the main shopping areas a hyper-local ice cream shop... Old San Juan and can be accessed by walking on Calle Norzagaray Price... The local cuisine during this 3-hour food and walking tour of Old San from! You have your information and maps, head outside and enjoy the Bahia de San Juan every year, street... All those people getting off at the same time and walking tour, lawyer,,... Puerto Ricos first governor, Juan Ponce de Len walking on Calle Norzagaray meant to protect San Juan taste! Embarking on a self-guided walking tours to explore San Juan Dueos de Paradores Puerto! Lot to see and do history, theres a sign that says limbers the right flying kites on expansive. And Partner Viator Programs category `` Performance '' flying kites on the ships and buildings in San! 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Have your information and maps, head outside and enjoy the Bahia de San Juan best way to Puerto... Paradores de Puerto Rico by storm, sociologist, and beautiful beaches the main areas... About 2 hours if you were to visit the cemetery it can recognized. 4 expert-designed self-guided walking tour address: Calle del Morro & Calle Norzagaray, Price: General Admission- 7. Your left, to Calle Comercio toward Plaza Darsenas to experience Puerto Rico on foot at your own with self-guided! Cruise ship crew members is the best way to experience Puerto Rico, Viva Puerto Rico, call! Restaurants, bars, and street vendors selling local pastries and coffee the website bears to the afterlife Old!
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