🇵🇷 5-Day Puerto Rico Itinerary: Island of Enchantment

Arrive at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) and transfer to your hotel in Old San Juan. After settling in, begin your exploration at Castillo San Felipe del Morro, the iconic 16th-century fortress. Spend a couple of hours exploring its ramparts, tunnels, and enjoying the panoramic ocean views. Afterward, walk along the historic city walls, passing La Puerta de San Juan, the last remaining city gate. Stroll down the picturesque Calle del Cristo, browsing its shops and art galleries. End your afternoon at Castillo San Cristóbal, the largest Spanish fort in the New World, built to protect the city from land attacks. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk around Plaza de Armas and listen to the city’s vibrant nightlife begin to stir.

• Young Travelers: In the evening, dive into the lively bar scene on Calle San Sebastián, famous for its vibrant atmosphere and local watering holes.
• Seniors: Take advantage of the free golf cart trolley service that loops around Old San Juan, allowing you to see the main sights with minimal walking on uneven cobblestones.
• Family: Fly a kite on the expansive lawn in front of Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a beloved tradition for local families. Afterward, cool down with a “piragua” (shaved ice) from a street vendor.
• With Disability: The main forts have accessible areas, and a free trolley helps navigate the district. However, many historic buildings have steps, and the cobblestones can be challenging. Key sites like the forts offer some accessible routes; check with the National Park Service for details.

• Luxury: Book a private sunset sail from the San Juan Bay Marina for breathtaking views of the city walls and El Morro from the water, complete with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.
• Adventure: Explore the less-visited tunnels and outposts of Castillo San Cristóbal, including the infamous “Garita del Diablo” (Devil’s Sentry Box) and its haunting legends.
• Nature: Stroll along the Paseo del Morro National Recreation Trail, a path that follows the coastline outside the city walls, offering stunning ocean views and a chance to see local birdlife.

• Luxury: Hotel El Convento
• Mid-Range: Decanter Hotel
• Budget: Fortaleza Suites Old San Juan

Old San Juan is a walker’s paradise, but its blue adoquine cobblestones, while beautiful, can be uneven and slippery when wet. Wearing comfortable, sturdy shoes with good grip is absolutely essential for a pleasant day of exploring. The Caribbean sun is strong year-round; stay hydrated by carrying a reusable water bottle and protect yourself by wearing sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. While many establishments accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases from street vendors, like refreshing piraguas or local crafts. A single entrance fee covers admission to both Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal for 24 hours, so keep your receipt. To save your legs, familiarize yourself with the route of the free golf cart trolley (El Trolley). It’s a convenient way to get from one end of the old city to the other, especially when traveling between the two forts. Finally, embrace “island time.” Allow yourself to get lost in the charming side streets; some of the best discoveries are made when you stray from the main tourist path.

Dressing for a day in Old San Juan is all about staying cool, comfortable, and sun-protected while embracing the vibrant Caribbean aesthetic. Opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking blends to combat the tropical heat and humidity. A stylish sundress, a comfortable romper, or a combination of shorts or a skirt with a light top are all excellent choices. Given the strong sun, sun protection is a key part of your attire. A fashionable wide-brimmed hat or a baseball cap, along with a pair of UV-blocking sunglasses, are non-negotiable. The most crucial element is your footwear. You will be walking extensively on historic cobblestone streets, so choose comfortable walking sandals, stylish sneakers, or espadrilles. Avoid high heels. While the daytime vibe is casual, if you plan on visiting a historic church or a nicer restaurant in the evening, you might want a slightly more polished look. A simple way to transition is by bringing a light scarf or shawl that can also be used for sun protection or in air-conditioned shops and museums. A small, comfortable backpack or crossbody bag is perfect for carrying essentials like water, sunscreen, and a camera.

Old San Juan is a culinary hotspot, offering a delicious introduction to Puerto Rican cuisine. For an authentic and immersive experience, you must try mofongo, a quintessential island dish made from mashed plantains. A fantastic place to have your first taste is at Raíces, a restaurant famous for its traditional ambiance where staff dress in historic attire. For something a bit more casual but equally delicious, visit Deaverdura, a local favorite known for its generous portions and authentic, home-style cooking served in a vibrant, no-frills setting. If you’re looking for creative cocktails alongside your meal, check out Barrachina, one of the two establishments that claim to be the birthplace of the piña colada. For a quick and refreshing snack while exploring, stop at a street vendor for a “piragua” (shaved ice with fruit syrup) or visit a “panaderia” (bakery) for a “quesito,” a flaky pastry filled with sweetened cream cheese. The culinary options in Old San Juan are vast, so don’t be afraid to wander down a side street and pop into a small, family-run restaurant—these hidden gems often serve the most memorable and authentic Puerto Rican food.

Getting to and around Old San Juan is relatively straightforward. From Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU), the most convenient option is to take a taxi or a ride-sharing service like Uber, which will take approximately 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. Once you are in Old San Juan, the district is extremely walkable, and in fact, walking is the best way to experience its charm. The entire 7-square-block area is compact, and its most famous sights are all within reasonable walking distance of each other. For longer distances within the old city, such as traveling between El Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal, or if you simply need a break from walking, you can use the free trolley service. These open-air, golf-cart-style vehicles run on established routes throughout the day and are a convenient and charming way to get around. Personal cars are not recommended within the old city due to extremely narrow streets, limited and expensive parking, and heavy pedestrian traffic. For this first day, rely on your feet and the trolley to navigate the historic cobblestone streets and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this magical place.

This day requires a pre-booked tour or a rental car. Drive east from San Juan to El Yunque National Forest. A reservation is required to enter the main recreation corridor, so book this in advance on Recreation.gov. Hike the popular Angelito Trail to the Mameyes River for a swim, or explore other available trails. Visit the impressive La Coca Falls right from the road and climb the Yokahú Observation Tower for 360-degree views of the forest and coastline. After exploring the rainforest, head to the nearby town of Fajardo for your evening bioluminescent bay tour. You will join a guided kayak tour that paddles through mangrove forests into Laguna Grande, where you’ll experience the water glowing with every movement.

• Young Travelers: Opt for a more adventurous El Yunque tour that includes natural waterslides and rope swings into river pools.
• Seniors: Drive the scenic route through El Yunque, stopping at roadside waterfalls like La Coca Falls and viewpoints that require minimal walking. Choose an electric boat tour for the bio bay instead of kayaking for a more comfortable experience.
• Family: Many El Yunque trails are family-friendly. The bio bay is an incredible experience for older children (most tours have a minimum age of 6). Ensure you book with a reputable family-friendly tour company.
• With Disability: Accessibility is limited. Some viewpoints in El Yunque are accessible by car, and the main visitor center, El Portal, has accessible trails. Bio bay kayak tours are generally not accessible, but some electric boat tours may be able to accommodate; inquire directly with operators.

• Luxury: Hire a private guide for a customized hiking tour of El Yunque, tailored to your fitness level and interests, avoiding the main crowds.
• Adventure: Go ziplining through the rainforest canopy for a thrilling adrenaline rush and a unique bird’s-eye view of El Yunque’s landscape.
• Nature: Focus on birdwatching in El Yunque, keeping an eye out for the endangered Puerto Rican parrot, or book a bio bay tour with a certified interpretive guide who can offer deep insights into the delicate ecosystem.

• Luxury: The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort (located near El Yunque)
• Mid-Range: El Conquistador Resort (in Fajardo)
• Budget: Sueños del Mar (in Fajardo)

Booking is essential for today’s activities. You must reserve your entry pass for the main corridor of El Yunque National Forest via the Recreation.gov website, as slots are limited and sell out quickly. Similarly, bioluminescent bay tours must be booked well in advance, especially for dates around the new moon when the skies are darkest and the glowing effect is most dramatic. If you are not renting a car, booking a combined tour from San Juan that covers both El Yunque and the bio bay is the most convenient option. For El Yunque, wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip that you don’t mind getting wet and muddy. Pack a swimsuit to wear under your clothes, a towel, insect repellent (use it *after* swimming to protect the ecosystem), and a change of clothes for after your adventures. For the bio bay tour, you will get wet, at least from the waist down. Most tour operators provide bug spray and dry bags for your valuables. Remember, capturing the bioluminescence on camera is nearly impossible with standard equipment, so it’s best to simply immerse yourself in the magical experience rather than struggling with your phone.

Dressing for a day of rainforest hiking and nighttime kayaking requires practical, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying clothing. For your El Yunque adventure, it’s best to wear your swimsuit as a base layer. Over it, wear lightweight hiking shorts or leggings and a breathable, athletic top. Avoid cotton, as it stays wet and heavy when it rains or after you swim. The most critical item is your footwear: sturdy hiking sandals with a closed toe (like Keens), water shoes with a thick sole, or old sneakers are perfect. They need to have excellent grip for slippery rocks and trails. For your evening bioluminescent bay tour, you’ll want to be comfortable while getting wet. Quick-dry shorts and a t-shirt or rash guard are ideal. You will be sitting in a kayak, so comfort is key. Bring a change of dry clothes and a towel to leave in your car or tour van for after both activities. A waterproof light jacket or poncho is also a great idea, as rain showers are common and brief in the rainforest. Finally, a hat can provide sun protection during your hike, completing your practical and adventure-ready outfit for this exciting day in Puerto Rico.

The area between El Yunque and Fajardo is famous for one of Puerto Rico’s most beloved culinary experiences: the Luquillo Kiosks (Kioskos de Luquillo). This long strip of about 60 family-run food stalls, located right across from the beautiful Luquillo Beach, offers an incredible variety of authentic and affordable Puerto Rican street food. It’s the perfect place to stop for a late lunch or early dinner between your rainforest and bio bay adventures. Here, you can sample a wide array of “frituras” (fried snacks) like “alcapurrias” (fritters made from green banana masa) and “bacalaítos” (codfish fritters). You’ll also find stalls serving fresh seafood, traditional rice and beans, and whole roasted pigs. Don’t miss the chance to try a refreshing “coco frío” (cold coconut water) straight from the coconut. Some of the most popular kiosks include La Parrilla for its upscale seafood and stuffed mofongo, and Terruno for its classic Puerto Rican dishes and live music on weekends. The atmosphere is casual, lively, and quintessentially Boricua, providing a delicious and authentic taste of the island’s vibrant food culture and making it a must-visit dining destination.

To fully experience El Yunque and the Fajardo bio bay, renting a car is the most flexible and recommended option. This gives you the freedom to explore the rainforest at your own pace, choose your own hiking trails, and easily travel to your bio bay tour meeting point. The drive from the San Juan area to El Yunque takes about 45 minutes to an hour. From El Yunque to the marina area in Fajardo is another 30-minute drive. The roads are well-paved and signposted. If you prefer not to drive, the most convenient alternative is to book a full-day combination tour from San Juan. Numerous tour operators offer packages that include hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided tour of El Yunque, and the evening bio bay kayak tour. This is a hassle-free option that takes care of all transportation, timing, and logistics. It’s an excellent choice for first-time visitors or those who want to relax and let an expert guide lead the way. Public transportation to these natural areas is not a feasible option for tourists due to infrequent service and inconvenient routes. Choose a rental car for independence or a guided tour for convenience.

Using your rental car or a taxi/Uber from your San Juan base, drive east to Luquillo. Spend the morning and early afternoon at the Balneario La Monserrate, more commonly known as Luquillo Beach. This public beach has facilities like restrooms, showers, and lifeguards. Rent a beach chair and umbrella and relax on the sand, or swim in the calm, clear waters. For lunch and the rest of the afternoon, explore the famous Luquillo Kiosks, located just a short drive or walk from the main beach entrance. Wander the strip, sample various “frituras,” enjoy a full meal of fresh seafood, and sip on a piña colada while soaking in the lively local atmosphere.

• Young Travelers: For more adventurous beach time, head to the nearby Playa La Pared in Luquillo, which is known for its waves and is a popular spot for surfing and boogie boarding. Lessons are available locally.
• Seniors: Luquillo Beach is ideal due to its calm waters and available facilities. The kiosks offer a relaxed, seated environment to enjoy a meal and people-watch.
• Family: The calm, shallow waters at Luquillo Beach are perfect for children. The beach also has picnic areas and food options that cater to all tastes, making it an easy and fun family day out.
• With Disability: Luquillo Beach offers some accessibility, with paved areas and accessible restrooms. The state-run “balnearios” often have beach-ready wheelchairs available; it’s best to call ahead to confirm availability.

• Luxury: Charter a private catamaran for the day from a marina in Fajardo, which can take you to secluded offshore cays like Icacos or Palomino for a day of snorkeling and exclusive beach time, complete with a catered lunch.
• Adventure: Go horseback riding along the beach and coastal trails near Luquillo. Companies like Carabalí Rainforest Park offer guided tours that combine beach scenery with views of El Yunque.
• Nature: Explore the Northeast Ecological Corridor, an important nature reserve for the nesting of the leatherback sea turtle. Walk along its more remote and wild beaches, like Playa San Miguel.

• Luxury: Fairmont El San Juan Hotel (Isla Verde, San Juan)
• Mid-Range: Luquillo Sunrise Beach Inn
• Budget: Yunque Mar Ocean Front Hotel (Luquillo)

To make the most of your beach day in Luquillo, try to go on a weekday if possible, as it can get very crowded with local families on weekends and public holidays. Arrive in the morning to secure a good spot on the beach and find easier parking. While the main “balneario” has an entrance fee per car, it includes access to facilities, making it worthwhile. Always apply reef-safe sunscreen generously and frequently, even if it’s overcast. The Caribbean sun is deceptively strong. When visiting the Luquillo Kiosks, don’t be afraid to be adventurous with your food choices. While some kiosks look more rustic than others, they often serve the most authentic and delicious food. Take a walk down the entire strip before deciding where to eat. Most vendors are friendly and happy to explain what each item is. Bring cash, as some of the smaller kiosks may not accept credit cards. Finally, never leave your valuables unattended on the beach. Either keep them with you or secure them out of sight in your locked rental car for a worry-free day of relaxation.

Your attire for a perfect Puerto Rican beach day is all about cool comfort and vibrant style. Your swimsuit is, of course, the main event. A bikini, one-piece, or swim trunks in a bright, tropical color will have you fitting right in with the island vibe. A good cover-up is essential for walking to and from the beach, grabbing lunch at the kiosks, or protecting yourself from the sun. A lightweight sarong, a breezy caftan, a casual sundress, or a simple t-shirt and shorts are all perfect options. Sun protection is critical, so a wide-brimmed straw hat and polarized sunglasses are must-have accessories. For footwear, a simple pair of flip-flops or waterproof sandals is all you need. Consider bringing a separate beach bag to carry your essentials: a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, a good book, and a reusable water bottle. While the atmosphere at the Luquillo Kiosks is very casual, having a dry cover-up to wear while you eat will make the experience more comfortable. This simple, practical, and stylish ensemble will ensure you are perfectly prepared for a blissful day of sun, sand, and sea.

Today, the dining destination is as famous as the beach itself: the Luquillo Kiosks. This iconic strip of beachfront food stalls is a paradise for anyone wanting to experience the true flavors of Puerto Rican street food. The sheer variety can be overwhelming, but that’s part of the fun. Start your culinary tour by sampling various “frituras.” Look for Kiosk #2, La Terraza, known for its excellent and fresh fried snacks. You must try “alcapurrias” (torpedo-shaped fritters) and “rellenos de papa” (fried potato balls stuffed with ground beef). For a more substantial sit-down meal, several kiosks have evolved into full-fledged restaurants. La Parrilla (Kiosk #2) is a standout for its delicious grilled seafood, lobster, and creative mofongo, offering a slightly more upscale experience with ocean views. For a lively, casual vibe with fantastic traditional dishes, Ceviche Hut (Kiosk #38) and Terruno (Kiosk #20) are excellent choices. No visit is complete without a fresh fruit smoothie or a piña colada from one of the many stalls. The best approach is to stroll the entire length, see what looks and smells good, and don’t be afraid to order one thing from several different places to create your own personalized feast.

Getting to Luquillo from the San Juan area is most conveniently done by car. Renting a car for the day or for your entire trip offers the most flexibility, allowing you to travel on your own schedule and easily hop between the beach and the nearby kiosks. The drive is straightforward, taking approximately 45-60 minutes east from San Juan along Route 66 and then Route 3. There is a designated parking area for the main public beach, Balneario La Monserrate, which has a small fee per vehicle but provides security and access to facilities. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also an option and can take you directly to the beach or the kiosks, though it can sometimes be more challenging to secure a ride back to San Juan in the late afternoon, so it’s wise to plan ahead. There are no direct or convenient public transportation routes for tourists from San Juan to Luquillo, making a rental car or ride-sharing the most practical and recommended modes of transport for your relaxing beach day. This ensures a stress-free journey, allowing you to maximize your time enjoying the sun and sand.

Start your day in the Santurce neighborhood. Head to Calle Cerra and Calle Loíza to wander through the incredible collection of street art and murals. After exploring the vibrant streets, visit the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico, which houses a comprehensive collection of Puerto Rican art from the 17th century to the present day, set in a beautiful neoclassical building with a stunning sculpture garden. In the late afternoon or early evening, take an introductory salsa dancing class. Many studios in the San Juan area offer fun, beginner-friendly drop-in classes. After your lesson, put your new moves to the test or simply enjoy the atmosphere at a local salsa spot like the iconic La Placita de Santurce on a Thursday or Friday night.

• Young Travelers: Spend the entire evening at La Placita de Santurce, a market square by day that transforms into a massive, lively block party at night, with bars, music, and dancing spilling into the streets.
• Seniors: Focus on the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico, taking time to enjoy the art and the serene sculpture garden. In the evening, enjoy a sit-down dinner with live, traditional music instead of a dance class.
• Family: Visit the Museo del Niño (Children’s Museum) in Carolina, a short drive from San Juan, for a day of interactive, hands-on fun and learning.
• With Disability: The Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico is fully accessible. Exploring the street art in Santurce can be done via a slow drive or by navigating the sidewalks, which are generally in good condition. La Placita can be very crowded and challenging to navigate at night.

• Luxury: Arrange a private tour with a local art expert to guide you through Santurce’s murals and introduce you to gallery owners, followed by a tasting menu at one of the neighborhood’s acclaimed restaurants like Vianda.
• Adventure: Go on a food tour of the Calle Loíza area, a trendy street known for its innovative and diverse culinary scene, sampling everything from gourmet tacos to artisanal coffee.
• Nature: Escape the city buzz with a visit to the San Juan Botanical Garden (Jardín Botánico de San Juan), a peaceful 289-acre oasis featuring native plants, themed gardens, and tranquil trails.

• Luxury: Condado Vanderbilt Hotel
• Mid-Range: AC Hotel by Marriott San Juan Condado
• Budget: Conturce Hostel (in Santurce)

To best explore Santurce’s street art, wear comfortable walking shoes. The murals are spread out, and walking is the best way to discover them. Go in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the harshest midday sun. While the area is generally safe during the day, always be aware of your surroundings, as you would in any urban neighborhood. When visiting La Placita de Santurce at night, it gets extremely crowded, especially on weekends. It’s a fantastic, authentic experience, but it’s wise to take a taxi or Uber there and back, and to keep a close watch on your belongings. For a salsa class, you don’t need any prior experience; the instructors are used to absolute beginners and focus on making it fun. Booking your class in advance is a good idea. Many studios are small, and classes can fill up. This day offers a wonderful contrast to the historical and natural sites, so embrace the vibrant, modern energy of San Juan’s creative heart and get ready to feel the rhythm of the island.

For a day of exploring art districts and an evening of salsa, your outfit should be a blend of casual comfort and evening flair. During the day, while walking around Santurce, lightweight and breathable clothing is key. A stylish pair of walking shorts, a breathable skirt, or linen trousers paired with a casual top will keep you comfortable. Comfortable walking shoes, like fashionable sneakers or supportive sandals, are essential for pounding the pavement to see all the murals. For your visit to the art museum, this attire is perfectly appropriate. For the evening salsa class and potential night out, you might want to change into something that allows for movement and has a bit of flair. For women, a comfortable dress or a skirt that twirls is a great option. For men, breathable trousers and a nice button-down or polo shirt work well. The most important thing for dancing is your footwear. Choose shoes with a smooth sole that allows you to pivot easily; avoid rubber-soled sneakers that can stick to the floor. Many beginners just wear comfortable, non-grippy shoes. Looking good helps you feel good, so don’t be afraid to embrace some color and style for your night of dancing.

Santurce is a food lover’s dream, offering some of San Juan’s most exciting and innovative dining. The neighborhood is anchored by two key culinary hubs: Calle Loíza and La Placita de Santurce. Calle Loíza is a long, trendy street packed with a diverse range of eateries. Here you can find everything from traditional Puerto Rican food to gourmet food trucks. A must-visit is Lote 23, a high-end food truck park offering a variety of creative options in a fun, communal setting. La Placita de Santurce, the local market square, is surrounded by fantastic restaurants. During the day, it’s a place for a traditional “almuerzo” (lunch), but at night, it becomes the epicenter of nightlife. For an exceptional dining experience here, try Santaella, known for its sophisticated take on traditional Puerto Rican ingredients, created by celebrity chef José Santaella. It’s the perfect spot for a memorable meal before diving into the block party outside. Whether you’re looking for a quick, creative bite on Calle Loíza or a refined dinner at La Placita, Santurce provides a delicious snapshot of Puerto Rico’s modern culinary landscape.

Navigating to and around Santurce from other tourist areas like Old San Juan or Condado is best done using ride-sharing services like Uber or a taxi. The drive is short, typically 10-15 minutes. While there is public bus service, it can be less convenient for tourists to navigate. Once in Santurce, the main street art areas like Calle Cerra are best explored on foot. You can take an Uber to a central point and then wander from there. The Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico is also located in Santurce and is easily reachable by car or a short walk from many parts of the neighborhood. In the evening, getting to a salsa class or to La Placita is again best done by Uber or taxi. This is especially true for La Placita at night, as parking is virtually non-existent and the area becomes heavily congested with pedestrian traffic. Using ride-sharing services provides a safe and convenient way to get to the heart of the action and back to your hotel, allowing you to fully enjoy the vibrant nightlife without any transportation worries.

Enjoy a leisurely final Puerto Rican breakfast. Spend the morning in Old San Juan focusing on shopping and last-minute sightseeing. Visit the artisan shops on Calle Fortaleza and Calle del Cristo. Look for authentic “vejigante” masks, hand-carved wooden saints (“santos”), and locally made jewelry. Stop by a specialty store to purchase high-quality Puerto Rican coffee or aged rum. Enjoy a final lunch at a favorite spot or try somewhere new before heading back to your hotel to collect your luggage and transfer to Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) for your departure.

• Young Travelers: Grab a last great cup of coffee at a trendy spot like “Cuatro Sombras” in Old San Juan and pick up a bottle of local Pitorro (moonshine rum) as a unique souvenir.
• Seniors: Find a comfortable bench at Plaza de Armas to enjoy some final people-watching, or visit the “Casa Don Q” museum for a relaxed look at the history of a famous rum distillery.
• Family: Let the children pick out a small souvenir like a coquí frog plush toy or a colorful “vejigante” mask. Enjoy a final scoop of ice cream from a local “heladeria.”
• With Disability: Focus your shopping on the flatter streets like Calle Fortaleza. Many shops have a small step to enter, but owners are usually very accommodating and helpful.

• Luxury: Indulge in a relaxing spa treatment at your hotel or a nearby wellness center before the stress of travel. Shop for high-end jewelry at designer boutiques in Condado.
• Adventure: Take a final, quick trip to a nearby beach like Isla Verde for one last dip in the ocean before you have to catch your flight.
• Nature: Pay a visit to the Paseo de la Princesa, a beautifully restored 19th-century promenade in Old San Juan, and enjoy the shade of the large trees and the views of the bay.

No new hotel is needed for the departure day. You will check out from your existing hotel.

On your departure day, it’s wise to double-check your flight time and plan accordingly. Most hotels will store your luggage after you check out, allowing you to enjoy your last few hours unburdened. When shopping for souvenirs, look for the “Hecho en Puerto Rico” (Made in Puerto Rico) label to ensure you are supporting local artisans and purchasing authentic goods. For souvenirs like rum, remember to pack them in your checked luggage, as you cannot carry large liquids in your carry-on. If you’ve rented a car, allow extra time for the return process at the airport. Traffic around the airport can be busy, so it’s best to allow plenty of time for your journey from your hotel to the airport. Aim to arrive at SJU at least 2 hours before a domestic flight. Having a final, relaxed meal before you head to the airport is a great way to end your trip on a high note, avoiding the limited and more expensive options available once you are through security. This thoughtful planning ensures a smooth and pleasant end to your wonderful Puerto Rican vacation.

For your final day of shopping and traveling, your outfit should be the epitome of comfort and practicality. Choose clothes that you’ll be comfortable in for several hours, both while walking around and while sitting on a plane. A pair of comfortable joggers, stretchy jeans, or leggings is a great foundation. Pair this with a soft t-shirt or a loose-fitting top. Since you’ll be transitioning between air-conditioned shops and the warm outdoors, and then onto a climate-controlled plane, a light sweater, zip-up hoodie, or a versatile jacket is essential. This is the perfect travel layer that you can easily take on or off. For footwear, comfortable sneakers are the best possible choice. They will serve you well during your last-minute souvenir hunt and are easy to get through airport security. Avoid any restrictive clothing or complicated shoes. The goal is to create an outfit that is simple, comfortable, and functional, allowing you to enjoy every last moment of your time in Puerto Rico without any wardrobe-related stress, ensuring your journey home is as relaxed and pleasant as your vacation was.

For your final meal in Puerto Rico, you have the chance to revisit a favorite spot or try one last iconic dish. Old San Juan offers plenty of fantastic options for a memorable farewell lunch. If you haven’t yet, make sure to visit Chocobar Cortés, a unique restaurant where chocolate is the star ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes—a fun and delicious experience. For a classic and beloved final meal, head to El Jibarito on Calle Sol. This no-frills, family-style restaurant is famous for its incredibly authentic Puerto Rican food at very reasonable prices; it’s the perfect place to get a last plate of mofongo or “arroz con pollo” (rice with chicken). If you’re looking for a great breakfast or brunch spot to start your last day, Caficultura, located in a beautiful colonial building, serves excellent coffee and creative breakfast dishes. Having a satisfying, authentic final meal is the best way to say goodbye to the island’s culinary scene. It provides the fuel for your journey and leaves you with a lasting taste of the delicious flavors that define Puerto Rican cuisine, making your memories of the trip even richer.

On your departure day, your transportation will be focused on convenience and efficiency. For your last-minute shopping in Old San Juan, walking is the best method. If your hotel is located outside of the old city, in an area like Condado or Isla Verde, a short Uber or taxi ride will get you to the shopping district quickly. After you’ve finished your exploration and picked up your luggage from your hotel, you will need to get to Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU). The most reliable and convenient way is via taxi or a ride-sharing service like Uber. From Old San Juan, the ride is about 20 minutes without traffic. From the Condado or Isla Verde areas, it’s even shorter, around 10-15 minutes. If you have a rental car, you will follow the signs to the airport’s car rental return area. Be sure to allow at least 30 extra minutes for this process. There is also a public bus route that serves the airport, but for tourists with luggage, it is not the most practical option. A taxi or Uber provides a door-to-door, stress-free end to your trip.