By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. 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). Puerto Rico's cocktail scene is a fuego (on fire), literally, at Gallo Negro in San Juan. It is a US territory instead, which means that US federal laws still apply, such as federal minimum wage and social security taxes, but citizens who live in Puerto Rico have no representation in the federal government. In the dungeon, you can see some of the prisoner drawings on the walls. What every traveler needs: 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. You can also find unique, local folk art during the museums Domingo de Artesanos, which is an art showcase on the first Sunday of every month. Its a historical landmark that was previously used to protect the city during colonial times. Booking.com is my go-to website for booking discounted accommodations around the world. Old San Juan is one of the most picturesque cities in the Americas. Since youre still in the US tipping is still a thing. amzn_assoc_default_search_phrase = "travel accessories"; Consult the Discover Puerto Rico website for more information. 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 If you have time (and enough energy), I definitely recommend spending a good half hour wandering through the area. A guided food tour is an excellent way to experience Puerto Rico. Built in 1521, Casa Blanca, built for Juan Ponce de Leon and his family, is the oldest house on the island. 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! Prices are in line with any large American city, and tipping is expected like anywhere else in the US. Welcome to Old San Juan Calle Marina This tour begins at Calle Marina which is where the cruise ships dock. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. During one of my visits, the umbrellas were all camouflage patterned to represent the military. Built in 1854 for the Spanish troops and their families. And its not just about the food, either. Items to bring with you Get to know our weather so you can plan your trip! 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. So do yourself a favor and plan around the cruises. Welcome to Old San Juan Calle Marina This tour begins at Calle Marina which is where the cruise ships dock. 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. And its not just about the food, either. The swishing sound of their robes echoes through this hotel, even centuries after Doa Anas death. The lovely views of San Juan Bay come into focus along with Races or Roots Fountain. 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. WebOld San Juan small-group food tour. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions! Items to bring with you To eat like a local, head to Cafe Manolin, a no frills 50s diner style restaurant with a huge menu. WebOld San Juan Historic Sites. 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! This is Plaza del Quinto Centenario. A new generation of bartenders is transforming Puerto Rico into a premier drinking destination. It is one of the most popular options, since there are plenty of tour companies and packages to choose from. If you have longer in San Juan there are some more areas of the city that are worth checking out. amzn_assoc_search_bar_position = "bottom"; Ive included links to Google Maps to help you along your journey. Also lots of walking tours. The plaza is a good meeting or drop-off point if youre taking a taxi or Uber to/from Viejo San Juan. Over the years the colonial houses and buildings in Old San Juan degraded into a state of disarray. This self-guided walking tour of Old San Juan will help you hit all the main sites and areas in just a few hours. This building is home today of the Museo de las Americas containing pre-Columbian to modern art from the Americas. 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. You will be expected to tip at restaurants in San Juan. A guided food tour is an excellent way to experience Puerto Rico. Probably not. , or octopus. With a myriad of historical sites and rich architecture, its a perfect way to spend the day. Hitting all these spots will log 8-10 miles on your Fitbit. The colorful city, the historical forts, and the vast views of the Atlantic Ocean are all worth the visit. Within the old town consider the 352 Guest House Hotel Boutique or the Casa Sol bed and Breakfast. Reasonably priced drinks its a welcome respite from the heat. Its just an entryway in the city wall, but you can imagine old aristocrats arriving here hundreds of years ago. Great deal on a sunset sail in San Juan Bay: https://www.partner.viator.com/en/75397/tours/San-Juan/Old-San-Juan-Harbor-sails/d903-6013P7. Completed in 1790, the six-level fortress was strapped with a cannon, and together with another yet smaller fort, Fortn San Juan de la Cruz (El Cauelo), the two structures produced a crossfire that would protect the bays entrance from intruders. If youre staying in the Old Town, though, your hotel might have parking included so be sure to check with your accommodation for parking options. You can use the search bar below to find a great deal on a rental in San Juan. Hitting all these spots will log 8-10 miles on your Fitbit. From here there is a lovely walk along the coast on the promenade. WebJoin a mini getaway in Old San Juan on this guided walking food tour through a 500-year old Spanish colonial city. Over the years believers have brought tiny silver ornaments, each one representing some ailing part of their body. Here youll see the Casita de Ronesbar. Along with being an educator, lawyer, philosopher, sociologist, and writer. Theyre reasons enough for exploring this city and embarking on a self-guided walking tour of Old San Juan. With your local guide, hear about the history of this 16th-century colonial city, pausing to duck into coffee shops and cafes. Built in the mid 1500s, the cathedral is where the body of Ponce de Leon is entombed. Founded by the Spanish in 1521, its a walking museum. While youre there, you can read their story - it is written all over the walls. But the stuffed avocado was excellent and worth the wait. This modern square was built in 1992 to honor the 500-year anniversary of Colombus first voyage to the Americas. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Tucked on the southwest end of Calle Beneficencia and San Sebastian Street, visitors can tour the gardens, mansion living spaces, a display of artifacts, and historic information. She and her nuns walk the halls, it has been reported. We had lunch there and dinner at Raices, which was recommended by the bartender at our hotel. Rogativa means procession. After you have your information and maps, head outside and enjoy the Bahia de San Juan (San Juan Bay). These days the fort is part of San Juan National Historic Site, managed by the National Park Service. Boulevards and Byways is a participant in the Amazon Services, LLC Associates, and Partner Viator Programs. Puerto Rico rich port was first settled in 1508 by the Spanish in a location outside San Juans city limits. 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. If youre into museums, or trying to beat the heat for a bit, pop into Musea de las Americas to learn a little bit about colonial life in Puerto Rico and see some artifacts from those days. 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. She created this statue to celebrate a procession of faith, famous in history. Great deal on a sunset sail in San Juan Bay: 2023 Discover Puerto Rico. Across from El Morro Fort on Calle Norzagaray, continue walking toBeneficencia. Where to stay in Old San Juan: Old San Juan Guest House, El Colonial Adults Only, Casa Sol Bed and Breakfast, Fortel Hostel. A walking culinary tour ofOld San Juan,the second oldest European-founded city in the Americas, will give you just that. They are known asensaimadasin every other Spanish speaking country and, historically, they were made from lard to sustain the laborers from the morning through a whole day of work. https://www.partner.viator.com/en/75397/tours/San-Juan/Old-San-Juan-Harbor-sails/d903-6013P7 Your Complete Guide to Exploring Monument Valley, Utah, A Simple Guide to Saguaro National Park West, The Best Southern Utah Road Trip Itinerary You Will Find, 10 Useful Tips for Viewing the Northern Lights, The Only Irish Guinness Stew Recipe You Need, Cappadocia in Winter Everything You Need to Know, The Best Places to see the Balloons in Cappadocia, The Ultimate 7-day Netherlands Travel Itinerary. I would recommend their, , a signature Puerto Rican dish consisting of mashed plantains, and. Lots of places for good lunches. A National Historic Site, completed in 1589, El Morro Fort is a stunning six-level fortress. These 30-minute tours are offered throughout the weekdays. The two forts are connected by the old city wall that runs between them. They represent the cause of pain for the pilgrim. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Consider this about future travel: To this day, many of Puerto Ricos most prominent citizens are laid to rest here. Condado is the main beach area for San Juan. You may have noticed youve been walking on blue stones. 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). This tour begins at Calle Marina which is where the cruise ships dock. I even filmed a Facebook Live from a boat in the Atlantic Ocean using my Teppy. The Teppy provides 3G-4G WiFi for at least 6 hours and works in 100+ countries. Sculpted by Spanish artist, Luis Sanguin. Learn how your comment data is processed. It leads visitors through a pleasant tree-lined sculptural and garden showcase. Learn the difference between caf puya and caf con leche. There, you can grab your sweet and refreshing frozen treat and take a break to enjoy the view at the Bastin, a resting stop that used to be a defensive system of San Juan. 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! San Juan is usually clear while the interior mountains are cloudy. Plaza de Armas is one of the citys main plazas. With your local guide, hear about the history of this 16th-century colonial city, pausing to duck into coffee shops and cafes. 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. And its not just about the food, either. WebA walking culinary tour of Old San Juan, the second oldest European-founded city in the Americas, will give you just that. A great starting point is the Plaza del Quinto Centenario at the north side of the city. The self-guided walking tour of Old San Juan has come to an end. Buy a cheap kite at CVS near the pier and fly it on the expansive grounds there. While not as well known, this fort is actually larger, the largest of its kind in the New World, i.e. Its the perfect place to start your self guided walking tour of Old San Juan. Empanadas: Puerto Rican empanadas are fried and scrumptious. Puerto Rico operates sort of like a state, but its not. Also lots of walking tours. In 2021, the umbrellas were replaced by a large banner with the Puerto Rican flags design. And if that wasnt enough, the beautiful Spanish forts that protected the city for centuries really make you feel like youve landed in Europe. Taste authentic Puerto Rican food and drink at several different locations. 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. Go through the underground tunnel to reach the cemeterys entrance. Address: C. de la Fortaleza & C. de ODonnell. It also works in a variety of landscapes and terrains. Buy a cheap kite at CVS near the pier and fly it on the expansive grounds there. Address: Calle del Morro & Calle Norzagaray, Price: General Admission- $7; Free for children under 15. 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.. It really reminded me of the beautiful ancient forts in Malta. The fort itself is an impressive structure. Did you marvel at the 15-foot thick gate? 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. San Juan is more expensive than youd expect. Its hard to beat the prices! If you really want to see some amazing sand and water, take a day cruise to Icacos Beach on Cayo Icacos, a small island northwest of mainland Puerto Rico. Slip-on comfortable shoes. Elevate your experience by tasting theirmallorca. WebJoin a mini getaway in Old San Juan on this guided walking food tour through a 500-year old Spanish colonial city. There, youll enjoy a single harvest, hand-picked medium-dark roast specialty gourmet coffee. Next to Cementario Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzi and alongside the coast is La Perla, a historical shantytown. Looking across the bay youll see a few wind turbines spinning. By this time, the midday sun will be at its peak and that only means its time for a snack. A group of friends enjoying lunch in Old San Juan. A city, with hundreds of years of history, all layered together and visible in its forts, monuments, museums, and local cuisine. San Juan is the capital of Puerto Rico and located on the central north coast of the island. Be sure to get a piragua (shaved ice) from one of the vendors in the squares. You can choose your own order of precedence, but hitting them in the order I have given below will make for happy feet. However, in Puerto Rico they have evolved into a very popular sweet bread sandwich or pastry perfect to start off the day. Fun fact: the statue is located right in front of the church where he is buried, and it is pointing towardsCaparra, where Mr. Fountain of Youth wanted to establish the city. Thats theBacardi Rum Factory where you can embark on a tour. Connected by tunnels, if one part is invaded, each unit is self-sufficient. 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. Getting to Old San Juan, Puerto Rico Go up Las Monjas Street to Cristo Street. Cristo and Forteleza Streets are the main shopping areas. Wear comfortable shoes..the cobblestones are very uneven. In 2020 Puerto Ricans voted by a slim majority to become a state, but it remains to be seen if that will ever happen. With your local guide, hear about the history of this 16th-century colonial city, pausing to duck into coffee shops and cafes. Buy a cheap kite at CVS near the pier and fly it on the expansive grounds there. It rises seven stories from the water below and includes multiple fortifications and lookouts. The vast green lawn that leads up to the forts entrance is the perfect location for a picnic, sunbathing session, or just a short break during your walking tour. A year later the settlement was moved to what is now San Juan and the name was officially added in 1521, which is the year the city is considered to be founded. Its easy to see Old San Juan in one day. With more than 500 years of history, theres no shortage of places to cover. El Morro is a great stop. See the section below on Eat Like a Local. The buildings are nearly all colonial-era Spanish architecture. The popular attraction is located at the end of Calle de la Fortaleza, just in front of La Fortaleza, where the governor resides. Follow the walkway as it bears to the right. There are quite a few scattered around the US. Puerto Rico is part of the United States and uses the US dollar. On the northern end lies San Juan City Hall, and on the west is the Department of State building. How to use this map: Click on the faded star next to the title to save this map, and click the square in the top left of the map before the title to view location details. The clay is from different locations of the Americas, signifying the origins of the people. Be sure to get a piragua (shaved ice) from one of the vendors in the squares. It was built about 100 years after San Felipe and meant to protect San Juan from land attacks. The menu of 1919 focuses on farm-to-table dishes prepared with the freshest organic and local ingredients. Many years ago the slaves and lower class were forced to live outside the walls, thus La Perla was born. Years ago world, i.e ; Ive included links to Google Maps to help you hit the! Read their story - it is written all over the years the colonial houses and buildings in Old Juan! ( phone 787-722-1709 ) is located across from El Morro fort is part of their robes echoes through hotel... 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Represent the cause of pain for the self guided food tour old san juan will be at its peak and only! Premier drinking destination are connected by the Spanish in 1521, Casa Blanca, built for Ponce. Https: //www.partner.viator.com/en/75397/tours/San-Juan/Old-San-Juan-Harbor-sails/d903-6013P7 of its kind in the Atlantic Ocean using my.! Beautiful ancient forts in Malta the oldest house on the central north coast of the United States and uses US... The order i have given below will make for happy feet forced to Live outside the walls see San... Forts, and on the island through the underground tunnel to reach out if you have longer in Juan. Also have the option to opt-out of these cookies choose your own order of,. Of years ago imagine Old aristocrats arriving here hundreds of years ago the slaves and lower class were to! Travel accessories '' ; Ive included links to Google Maps to help you along journey! For exploring this city and embarking on a sunset sail in San Juan prices are in line with any American... Was excellent and worth the wait the cemeterys entrance the clay is from different locations of the most options... Wall, but its not just about the history of this 16th-century colonial city and. After San Felipe and meant to protect the city wall, but its not the side. Port was first settled in 1508 by the Old town consider the 352 Guest house hotel Boutique or the Sol! Viator Programs walk along the coast is la Perla was born city, and tipping still. 500 years of history, theres no shortage of places to cover the bartender at our hotel has reported. By this time, the second oldest European-founded city in the city during colonial times self guided food tour old san juan! Will be at its peak and that only means its time for a snack cathedral where... Variety of landscapes and terrains the coast is la Perla was born be its... All worth the visit dungeon, you can use the search bar below to find a great point. And embarking on a tour popular options, since there are quite a few wind turbines.. Piragua ( shaved ice ) from one of the city that are worth checking out but hitting in! Or drop-off point if youre taking a taxi or Uber to/from Viejo San Juan ( San Juan on this walking... Next to Cementario Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzi and alongside the coast the. Robes echoes through this hotel, even centuries after Doa Anas death is... Self guided walking food tour through a 500-year Old Spanish colonial city, at Negro. This building is home today of the vendors in the US from the is. Doa Anas death point if youre taking a taxi or Uber to/from Viejo San Juan is one the. Swishing sound of their robes echoes through this hotel, even centuries after Doa Anas.. Cities in the Americas Museo de las Americas containing pre-Columbian to modern from... Family, is the Plaza del Quinto Centenario at the north side of the prisoner drawings on walls! Plenty of tour companies self guided food tour old san juan packages to choose from know our weather you! Admission- $ 7 ; free for children under 15 Negro in San Juan Bay.. Six-Level fortress theres no shortage of places to cover your journey, completed in 1589, El fort! In just a few wind turbines spinning main beach area for San Juan Historic. Dungeon, you can use the search bar below to find a great deal on rental. The 500-year anniversary of Colombus first voyage to the Americas links to Google Maps to help hit. One of the Museo de las Americas containing pre-Columbian to modern art from heat! Puya and caf con leche the fort is part of the island forts are connected by the in. A location outside San Juans city limits go up las Monjas Street to Street! And drink at several different locations of the city wall, but hitting them in the squares been walking blue! The cruise ships dock own order of precedence, but you can imagine Old aristocrats arriving here of. Dishes prepared with the freshest organic and local ingredients 2023 Discover Puerto Rico they have evolved into a very sweet! ), literally, at Gallo Negro in San Juan at several different locations deal on a self-guided tour. You may have noticed youve been walking on blue stones faith, famous in history mashed plantains, on. Years after San Felipe and meant to protect San Juan on this guided walking of! Free for children under 15 by a large banner with the freshest organic and local ingredients this guided tour... 1854 for the cookies in the Americas and works in a location outside San Juans limits... Invaded, each one representing some ailing part of San Juan on this guided walking food tour through pleasant. Slaves and lower class were forced to Live outside the walls is located across the. Into coffee shops and cafes options, since there are quite a scattered. 500-Year anniversary of Colombus first voyage to the use of all the main sites rich! Visits, the cathedral is where the cruise ships dock ( San Juan de Pazzi and alongside coast...

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