🇵🇷 An Elegant 3-Day Itinerary for Puerto Rico

Begin your day at Castillo San Felipe del Morro (“El Morro”), the 16th-century citadel at the tip of the islet. Arrive early to enjoy the cooler morning air and fewer crowds. Explore its six levels of barracks, dungeons, and ramparts, and take in the spectacular ocean views from the sprawling green lawn (esplanade) in front. Your admission ticket also grants you access to Castillo San Cristóbal, so hold onto it. It’s a 15-20 minute scenic walk between the two forts along the city wall, or you can take the free trolley.

After visiting the forts, spend the afternoon meandering through the city’s charming streets. Walk down Calle Fortaleza to see the Governor’s Mansion (La Fortaleza) and the famous Umbrella Street installation (check for its current theme). Explore the Plaza de Armas, the city’s main square, and visit the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, the final resting place of explorer Juan Ponce de León. As evening approaches, find a spot on the Paseo de la Princesa, a beautiful promenade along the city wall, to watch the sunset over the San Juan Bay.

For Young Travelers: After dark, explore the vibrant nightlife on Calle San Sebastián, known for its lively bars and local scene. Discover hidden speakeasies and salsa bars tucked away in the old city’s alleys. For a great photo op, seek out the iconic “La Puerta de la Bandera,” a doorway painted with the Puerto Rican flag. A guided cocktail tour can be a fun way to learn about the history of rum and sample creative drinks.

For Seniors: Old San Juan is hilly with cobblestone streets that can be uneven. Make use of the free golf-cart trolley service that circuits the old city, which can take you between the forts and other major points of interest. Plan for plenty of breaks at the many shaded plazas and cafes. Both forts have extensive grounds, so pace yourself and focus on the lower, more accessible levels if mobility is a concern.

For Families: The vast, open lawn in front of El Morro is a perfect place for children to run and fly a kite, a beloved local pastime. You can buy kites from vendors nearby. The cannons and watchtowers of the forts are a huge hit with kids, firing their imaginations. For a sweet treat, stop for a “piragua” (shaved ice with flavored syrup) from a street cart or visit a local ice cream shop for exotic tropical flavors.

For Travelers with Disabilities: Accessibility can be a challenge in Old San Juan due to its historic nature. However, the National Park Service has made efforts at the forts. El Morro has a ramp to the main level, and Castillo San Cristóbal is considered the more accessible of the two. The Paseo de la Princesa is a flat, paved promenade that is very wheelchair-friendly. The free trolley is not wheelchair accessible, so planning a route focusing on the flatter lower streets is advisable.

For Luxury Travel: Hire a private historian for a guided walking tour of Old San Juan to gain deeper insights into the city’s 500-year history. Indulge in a rum tasting experience at the world-renowned Bacardi distillery (a short ferry and taxi ride away). For dinner, reserve a table at a high-end restaurant like Marmalade, known for its creative, globally-inspired cuisine and sophisticated atmosphere. End the evening with a craft cocktail at a chic hotel bar.

For Adventure Travel: Explore the city’s fortifications beyond the main structures. Walk the full length of the Paseo del Morro National Recreation Trail, a path that follows the coastline at the base of the city walls, offering dramatic sea-level views of the massive fortifications. Join a salsa dancing class in the evening to immerse yourself in the local rhythm and culture. This offers a fun, active, and social way to experience a core part of Puerto Rican life.

For Nature Lovers: While the day is focused on history, you can find pockets of nature. Enjoy the sea breeze and ocean views from the fort ramparts, and watch for pelicans and frigatebirds soaring overhead. The Paseo de la Princesa is lined with beautiful trees, and the city’s plazas are filled with tropical foliage. For a true nature escape, take a short walk to the beach at Playa Peña, a small, local cove located just outside the city walls, offering a quick dip in the ocean.

Staying directly within the walls of Old San Juan offers an immersive historical experience, with charming boutique hotels and colonial guesthouses at your doorstep. For those who prefer a resort atmosphere with beach access, the nearby districts of Condado and Isla Verde are just a short Uber or taxi ride away. This provides a great balance, allowing you to easily access the historic sites while enjoying modern amenities and beautiful Caribbean beaches. The choice depends on whether you prioritize historic charm or beachfront relaxation.

Here are some top recommendations for your San Juan stay:

• Luxury: Condado Vanderbilt Hotel – A historic and exquisitely restored luxury hotel in the chic Condado district. It offers opulent rooms, multiple pools (including an adults-only infinity pool overlooking the ocean), and world-class dining, representing the pinnacle of beachfront elegance.
• Mid-Range: Hotel El Convento – A former convent from the 17th century, this stunning boutique hotel is located in the heart of Old San Juan. It offers a unique blend of historic charm, elegant rooms, and a beautiful courtyard, with a rooftop plunge pool offering views of the city.
• Budget: Decanter Hotel – A stylish and affordable boutique hotel set in a restored colonial building in Old San Juan. It offers clean, modern rooms with historic details, a lovely rooftop terrace, and an unbeatable location for exploring the old city on foot.

Old San Juan is best explored on foot, but it is a city of hills and cobblestones. Wear your most comfortable walking shoes. The blue-tinged “adoquines” (cobblestones) were cast from furnace slag and brought over as ballast on Spanish ships; they are beautiful but can be slippery when wet. Give yourself permission to get lost in the side streets; this is often where you’ll find the most charming and authentic scenes. The city is laid out on a grid, so it’s easy to find your way back to a main street.

The entrance fee to the San Juan National Historic Site covers both El Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal and is valid for 24 hours. Don’t feel pressured to see both forts back-to-back if you’re short on time or energy. You can visit one in the morning and the other the following morning. Also, make use of the free, open-air trolley that circulates throughout the old city. It’s a convenient way to get a quick overview of the area or to save your legs on the uphill journey to the forts.

For a day of exploring Old San Juan’s historic sites, lightweight and breathable clothing is essential. The Caribbean sun and humidity can be intense. Opt for comfortable fabrics like cotton or linen. A sundress, shorts, or lightweight trousers paired with a t-shirt or blouse are all excellent choices. Sun protection is crucial, so be sure to bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and apply a high-SPF sunscreen generously throughout the day. A reusable water bottle is also a must to stay hydrated.

The most important item you will wear today is your shoes. You will be doing a significant amount of walking on uneven, hilly cobblestone streets. Choose comfortable, sturdy walking shoes or sandals with good support. While you may want to dress up slightly for a nice dinner in the evening, a smart casual look is perfectly acceptable in most restaurants. A light sweater or shawl might be welcome in some heavily air-conditioned establishments.

Old San Juan is a food lover’s paradise. For an authentic and delicious lunch, seek out a local “fonda” or a restaurant serving “comida criolla.” A must-try dish is mofongo, a savory mash of fried green plantains often stuffed with garlic shrimp, chicken, or steak. Restaurants like Raíces or El Jibarito offer a classic and flavorful introduction to Puerto Rican cuisine in a traditional setting. For a quicker bite, grab a delicious empanadilla from a street vendor.

In the evening, the culinary options expand. For a historic dining experience, consider Barrachina, one of the two restaurants that claim to have invented the Piña Colada. The restaurant has a beautiful open-air courtyard and serves classic Puerto Rican dishes. For a more modern and upscale experience, explore the innovative menus at restaurants along Calle Fortaleza. After dinner, don’t miss trying a local rum, either neat or in a creative cocktail at one of the city’s many excellent bars.

Old San Juan is a small, seven-square-block islet that is extremely walkable, and this is the best way to experience its charm. If you are staying in the nearby districts of Condado or Isla Verde, the most convenient way to get to Old San Juan is by using a ride-sharing service like Uber or by taking a taxi. The ride typically takes about 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Public bus services are also available and are a more budget-friendly option, though they can be slower.

Once you arrive in Old San Juan, your own two feet are your primary mode of transportation. However, to help navigate the hilly terrain, there is a free, open-air trolley service that runs on three different routes throughout the old city. These trolleys are a great way to get from the lower parts of the city up to the forts or to simply take a break from walking and enjoy a scenic loop. You can hop on and off at any of the designated stops.

Your main adventure for the day is El Yunque National Forest. It is crucial to check the official recreation.gov website for the park’s status and to book your entry reservation, which is required in advance. Once inside, drive up the scenic road, stopping at points of interest like La Coca Falls and the Yokahú Observation Tower for stunning panoramic views. Popular trails include the Angelito Trail, which leads to a beautiful swimming hole, or the more moderate Mt. Britton Tower Trail. Plan to spend at least half a day exploring the forest.

If you opt for the bioluminescent bay tour, this will be your evening activity. The closest and most popular bay to San Juan is the Laguna Grande in Fajardo. You must book this experience with a licensed tour operator well in advance, as spots are limited. The tours typically begin just after sunset and involve a guided kayak trip through a mangrove forest into the glowing lagoon. The best time to go is during a new moon phase when the sky is darkest, which makes the bioluminescence appear brighter.

For Young Travelers: Combine your El Yunque trip with some adventure sports. Many tour companies offer packages that include zip-lining through the forest canopy or rappelling down waterfalls for an adrenaline rush. After your rainforest hike, head to the famous Kioskos de Luquillo, a long strip of beachfront food stalls offering delicious and affordable local street food and drinks in a lively, casual atmosphere.

For Seniors: Enjoy El Yunque at a relaxed pace. The main road offers beautiful scenery from the car. The Yokahú Tower has a ramp for access to the lower level. The Angelito Trail is a relatively flat, paved path that is one of the more accessible options in the forest. For the bioluminescent bay, consider a tour that uses an electric boat instead of kayaks for a more comfortable and less strenuous experience.

For Families: El Yunque is a natural playground for children. The experience of being in a real rainforest is exciting, and the opportunity to swim in a natural river pool at the end of a short hike is a huge highlight. The bio bay is a magical experience for older children (most companies have a minimum age of around 6). Paddling through the glowing water is like something out of a fantasy movie and will be a core memory of their trip.

For Travelers with Disabilities: Accessibility in a natural rainforest is inherently limited. However, El Yunque has made some accommodations. The main visitor center, El Portal, is fully accessible. Some roadside waterfalls like La Coca Falls can be viewed from the car. The Angelito Trail is paved and relatively flat, making it the most suitable option for those with mobility challenges. For the bio bay, some operators in Fajardo have electric boats that may be able to accommodate wheelchairs, but you must call and confirm specific needs in advance.

For Luxury Travel: Book a private guided tour of El Yunque with a knowledgeable nature guide and transportation in a luxury SUV. This allows for a customized itinerary focusing on your interests, whether it’s birdwatching, botany, or photography, away from the main crowds. For the bio bay, arrange a private tour or a tour with a smaller, more exclusive group. Follow this with a late dinner at a high-end restaurant at one of the resorts near Fajardo.

For Adventure Travel: Seek out a more challenging, off-the-beaten-path hike in El Yunque with a local guide, leading to more secluded waterfalls and natural pools (ensure you go with a reputable company as some areas can be dangerous). Instead of just kayaking, combine your bio bay tour with snorkeling or a late afternoon catamaran trip from the Fajardo marina. This offers a full day of water-based adventure culminating in the magical evening paddle.

For Nature Lovers: Dedicate your entire day to El Yunque. Arrive as soon as the park opens to enjoy the tranquility and the best chances for birdwatching. Pack a picnic lunch and spend your time exploring multiple trails of varying difficulty. Focus on the unique flora and fauna, and spend time at the observation towers simply soaking in the vastness of the rainforest. Instead of the more crowded Fajardo bay, consider making the longer journey to the “Mosquito Bay” on the island of Vieques (requires an overnight stay) for the brightest bioluminescent experience in the world.

Returning to your San Juan hotel after a long day of hiking and kayaking is the most convenient option for this itinerary. A comfortable base in Old San Juan, Condado, or Isla Verde allows you to easily arrange tour pick-ups or access your rental car for the day trip. After a day of adventure, you’ll appreciate the wide array of dining options and comfortable amenities available back in the city, providing a perfect place to rest and recharge for your final day on the island.

Here are some excellent hotel choices for a relaxing return after a day of adventure:

• Luxury: Fairmont El San Juan Hotel – An iconic luxury resort located on the beautiful Isla Verde Beach. After a day in the rainforest, you can relax at one of its four pools, enjoy its vibrant lobby bar, or dine at one of its high-end restaurants. It’s a perfect blend of resort luxury and lively energy.
• Mid-Range: San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino – A fantastic, full-service resort situated on a prime stretch of Condado Beach. It offers stylish rooms, a beautiful pool complex with a waterslide, and numerous on-site dining options, making it a great and reliable choice for couples and families.
• Budget: The Dreamcatcher – A beautiful and unique vegetarian guesthouse located just steps from the beach in the Ocean Park neighborhood. It offers a tranquil, bohemian atmosphere with thoughtfully decorated rooms, hammocks, and a delicious vegetarian breakfast. It’s a peaceful oasis to return to.

A rental car is the most flexible and cost-effective way to visit El Yunque, especially if you plan on visiting the Luquillo Kiosks or other nearby spots. Book your car well in advance, especially during peak season. Remember to also book your El Yunque entry reservation on recreation.gov, as this is mandatory and spots can fill up quickly. If you prefer not to drive, booking a guided tour is a great hassle-free alternative. These tours often combine a visit to the rainforest with another activity, like a trip to a local beach.

For the bioluminescent bay tour, timing is everything. The glow is much more visible on darker nights. Check the moon calendar before you book your trip and try to go during the new moon phase or when the moon is not visible in the sky. Also, be aware that you cannot swim in the Laguna Grande in Fajardo to protect the delicate ecosystem. Finally, bring insect repellent for the evening, and be prepared to get a little wet from the kayak paddles. Most tour operators provide dry bags for your valuables.

For your El Yunque rainforest adventure, dress for wet and potentially muddy conditions. Wear a swimsuit under your clothes if you plan on swimming in the waterfalls. Quick-drying shorts and a lightweight top are ideal. The most important item is your footwear. Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip, like hiking sandals or waterproof sneakers. The trails can be slippery and rocky. A lightweight rain jacket is also a must, as rain showers are common and can appear suddenly in the forest.

For the evening bio bay kayaking tour, you will get wet, at least from the waist down. Wear a swimsuit, board shorts, or other clothes that you don’t mind getting damp and salty. Water shoes or flip-flops are perfect footwear. It’s a good idea to bring a towel and a change of clothes to leave in your car for after the tour so you can be comfortable for the drive back to San Juan. Don’t forget to apply insect repellent before you head into the mangrove channels.

After a morning of hiking in El Yunque, the perfect place for a late lunch is the Kioskos de Luquillo. This is a famous, long row of about 60 family-owned food stalls located right off the highway near a beautiful public beach. It’s a quintessential Puerto Rican experience. Here you can sample a huge variety of “frituras” (fried snacks) like “alcapurrias” and “bacalaítos,” fresh seafood, and full plates of classic criolla food. The atmosphere is very casual and lively, offering an authentic and delicious taste of the island.

Since the bio bay tours finish late, you will likely want to have dinner before you go. The area around the marinas in Fajardo has several good seafood restaurants. However, a more convenient option is to have a substantial late lunch at the Luquillo Kiosks and then perhaps a lighter snack after your tour. Many people are tired after the full day and long drive, so planning a simple meal or grabbing something on the way back to San Juan might be the most practical choice.

The best way to get to El Yunque National Forest and the bioluminescent bay in Fajardo from San Juan is by renting a car. This gives you the most freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace. The drive to El Yunque takes about 45-60 minutes from San Juan. Fajardo is another 30 minutes east from the rainforest area. The roads are well-paved and generally easy to navigate. Having a car allows you to stop at the Luquillo Kiosks and other points of interest along the way.

If you prefer not to drive, numerous tour companies in San Juan offer guided day trips that cover these attractions. You can find tours that focus solely on El Yunque, or combination tours that include the rainforest and the bio bay in one long day. These tours typically include round-trip transportation from your hotel, which makes for a convenient and stress-free, albeit less flexible, experience. Be sure to book with a reputable company and check their itinerary to make sure it aligns with what you want to see and do.

Start your morning by heading to the beach. If you’re looking for an active scene with water sports, beach bars, and a Miami-like vibe, Condado Beach is your spot. For a wider, often more relaxed beach that’s great for swimming and lounging under the palm trees, choose Isla Verde Beach. Both areas have vendors offering chair and umbrella rentals, making for a comfortable and easy beach day. Spend a few hours swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the beautiful Caribbean setting before heading off for your cultural exploration.

In the afternoon, take an Uber to the Santurce neighborhood. A great starting point is La Placita de Santurce, a historic market square that is relatively quiet during the day but surrounded by excellent restaurants. From there, wander down streets like Calle Cerra and Calle Loíza to discover the incredible murals that are part of the “Santurce es Ley” street art festival. As evening approaches, return to La Placita. By night, this area transforms into a massive, lively block party, with salsa music spilling out of the bars and locals and tourists alike dancing in the street. It’s an unforgettable cultural experience.

For Young Travelers: Calle Loíza in Santurce is one of the trendiest streets in Puerto Rico, packed with unique boutiques, cool bars, and innovative restaurants. Spend your afternoon exploring this strip. The nightlife at La Placita de Santurce is a must-do. It’s an authentic, high-energy street party, especially on Thursday and Friday nights. This is the perfect place to practice the salsa moves you learned earlier in the trip and mingle with locals.

For Seniors: Enjoy a relaxing morning at a beach club in Isla Verde, where you can have comfortable lounge chairs, food and drink service, and easy access to facilities. In the afternoon, consider a guided tour of the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico in Santurce, which offers a comprehensive look at the island’s art history in a beautiful, accessible building. For dinner, choose a sit-down restaurant on the perimeter of La Placita to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere from a more comfortable vantage point.

For Families: Isla Verde beach is often calmer and better for swimming with children than Condado. The nearby Parque Barbosa has playgrounds and basketball courts. While the nightlife at La Placita is for adults, a daytime visit to the market can be interesting. A better family activity in Santurce might be to focus on finding colorful murals and then heading to a casual, family-friendly restaurant for an early dinner. Many restaurants on Calle Loíza are welcoming to families.

For Travelers with Disabilities: Both Isla Verde and Condado have public beach access points with ramps leading to the sand, though mobility on the sand itself can be challenging. Some larger hotels have accessible beach mats. The Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico in Santurce is fully accessible. La Placita market square is flat, but can become extremely crowded at night, making navigation difficult. A daytime visit or dining at an accessible restaurant with a patio view would be more manageable.

For Luxury Travel: Spend your morning at a high-end beach club or at the exclusive pool deck of a luxury hotel like the Condado Vanderbilt. In the afternoon, arrange for a private guided tour of Santurce’s street art, followed by a reservation at one of San Juan’s top fine-dining establishments, such as 1919 Restaurant or Santaella, for an exquisite final meal that showcases the best of Puerto Rican haute cuisine.

For Adventure Travel: Instead of lounging, get active on the water. Take a surfing lesson in Condado Lagoon or try kitesurfing in Ocean Park. In the afternoon, join a guided bicycle tour of Santurce to cover more ground and discover the street art with a local guide. For your final evening, instead of just visiting La Placita, bar-hop through the different venues to experience a range of local music, from salsa and bomba to Latin rock.

For Nature Lovers: For a more natural and tranquil beach experience, head to the Balneario de Carolina in Isla Verde, a public beach with calmer waters and more green space. In Santurce, after viewing the man-made art, seek out the green spaces. The neighborhood is also home to the Plaza del Mercado, which during the day is a functioning produce market where you can see a variety of local tropical fruits and vegetables. It offers a slice of authentic, natural island life amidst the urban environment.

For a final night that embraces beach life and modern culture, a hotel in Condado, Ocean Park, or Isla Verde is ideal. These neighborhoods provide direct beach access and are in close proximity to the Santurce district, allowing you to seamlessly transition from sunbathing to street art exploration. They offer a wide range of accommodations, from sprawling resorts to intimate guesthouses, ensuring a comfortable and convenient end to your Puerto Rican getaway, with easy access to the airport for your departure.

Here are some final hotel recommendations for a stylish and comfortable stay:

• Luxury: O:LV Fifty Five Hotel – A super-chic, adults-only luxury boutique hotel in Condado. It’s known for its stunning design, a glamorous rooftop pool and bar with panoramic views of the lagoon, and an opulent, high-energy atmosphere.
• Mid-Range: La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort – A landmark of tropical modern architecture in Condado. It features multiple pools, a lively lobby scene, and direct beach access. It’s a fun, stylish, and centrally located resort that perfectly captures the energy of modern San Juan.
• Budget: Numero Uno Beach House – A popular and highly-rated guesthouse located directly on the beach in the more residential Ocean Park neighborhood. It offers a laid-back, friendly atmosphere, clean and simple rooms, and an excellent on-site restaurant right on the sand.

When you visit the beaches in San Juan, be aware of the water conditions. While often calm and perfect for swimming, the beaches on the Atlantic side can sometimes have strong currents. Pay attention to any posted flags or warnings. If you are not a strong swimmer, the Condado Lagoon offers a protected body of water that is perfect for paddleboarding and kayaking, away from the ocean waves. Also, be mindful of your belongings; don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach while you swim.

La Placita de Santurce offers two very different experiences. By day, it’s a traditional market where you can buy fresh produce. By night, especially from Thursday to Sunday, it transforms into a massive outdoor party. If you want to experience the nightlife, go later in the evening (after 9 PM). If you prefer a quieter experience or want to dine at one of the excellent surrounding restaurants without the huge crowds, go earlier in the evening or on a weeknight. It’s a unique cultural hub that’s worth experiencing in both its forms.

Your attire for the first half of the day is simple: swimwear is essential. Pack a stylish cover-up, a hat, sunglasses, and flip-flops for the beach. A good beach bag to carry your sunscreen, a towel, and a book is also a great idea. Choose a swimsuit that you feel comfortable and confident in, whether you plan to be active with water sports or simply lounge by the shore. Remember to reapply sunscreen frequently, especially after swimming.

For your afternoon and evening exploration of Santurce, you can opt for a casual and trendy “beach-to-street” look. A nice sundress, a pair of stylish shorts with a fashionable top, or lightweight linen trousers are all perfect choices. Comfortable sandals or trendy sneakers are a good idea for walking around and viewing the street art. If you plan to experience the nightlife at La Placita, locals tend to dress up a bit, so a smart casual outfit will help you blend in with the vibrant and stylish crowd.

While enjoying the beaches of Condado or Isla Verde, you’ll find plenty of lunch options. Many of the large hotels have beachfront restaurants and bars where you can enjoy a meal with your toes in the sand. For a more local and budget-friendly option, look for beachside kiosks or food trucks selling classic Puerto Rican beach food like “pinchos” (grilled meat skewers) and “empanadillas.” In Condado, the area around Ashford Avenue also has numerous cafes and casual eateries just a short walk from the beach.

Santurce is a culinary hotspot and the perfect place for your farewell dinner. The options are endless. For an authentic experience, have dinner at one of the restaurants surrounding La Placita de Santurce, like Jose Enrique, which serves elevated Puerto Rican classics. For a trendier scene, explore the innovative restaurants along Calle Loíza, which offer everything from creative tacos to gourmet seafood. For a true taste of the neighborhood, start your evening with some street food and a drink at La Placita before heading to a sit-down restaurant.

The main beaches of Condado and Isla Verde, as well as the Santurce neighborhood, are located just outside of Old San Juan. If you are staying in one of these areas, you can likely walk to the beach. To travel between them, or from Old San Juan, using ride-sharing services like Uber is the most convenient and efficient method. Taxis are also readily available. These rides are typically short and affordable, making it easy to hop from your hotel to the beach and then to Santurce for the afternoon.

Exploring Santurce itself is best done on foot to fully appreciate the scale and detail of the street art. You can take an Uber to a central point like La Placita and then set off on a self-guided walking tour. Calle Loíza, another main hub in the neighborhood, is a long street that is also very walkable. The neighborhood is laid out on a grid, making it relatively easy to navigate. At the end of the night, Ubers are readily available to take you back to your accommodation.

Puerto Rico’s lush landscapes and tranquil beaches make it an emerging destination for yoga and wellness. Beyond the yoga studios in San Juan, you can find dedicated retreat centers in the mountainous interior near El Yunque and in the laid-back surfing towns of the west coast, like Rincón. These retreats often combine daily yoga and meditation with farm-to-table vegetarian cuisine, surf lessons, and holistic spa treatments, offering a perfect way to unplug and reconnect with nature and yourself on the Island of Enchantment.

• Lightweight Clothing: Pack breathable fabrics like cotton and linen for the tropical climate.
• Swimwear: At least two swimsuits are recommended.
• Rain Jacket: A lightweight, waterproof jacket is essential for El Yunque.
• Sturdy Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes for Old San Juan and closed-toe hiking shoes for the rainforest.
• Sun Protection: High-SPF, reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
• Insect Repellent: Especially important for the rainforest and the evening bio bay tour.
• Smart Casual Outfit: For nicer dinners or a night out.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.

In Old San Juan, you’ll find a wonderful mix of shops, from high-end boutiques on Calle Cristo to artisan shops selling local crafts. Look for handmade “santos” (carved religious figures), colorful “vejigante” masks (traditional festival masks), and unique jewelry. The area around Calle Fortaleza has many shops selling authentic Panama hats (which are actually from Ecuador but are a Caribbean staple) and high-quality “guayabera” shirts. Don’t forget to purchase some local rum and coffee, two of the island’s most famous exports.

1. Do I need a passport to go to Puerto Rico? If you are a U.S. citizen, you do not need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico from the mainland United States. It is a U.S. territory.
2. What is the currency? The currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD).
3. What language is spoken? Spanish and English are the official languages. Spanish is more widely spoken, but English is common in tourist areas.
4. Is Puerto Rico safe for tourists? Yes, tourist areas like Old San Juan, Condado, and Isla Verde are generally safe. As with any destination, exercise standard precautions, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid leaving valuables unattended.
5. What is the best way to get around San Juan? For short distances within and between tourist districts like Old San Juan, Condado, and Santurce, Uber is convenient and widely available. For day trips outside the city, renting a car is the best option.
6. Is the tap water safe to drink? Yes, the tap water in Puerto Rico is safe to drink and meets the same standards as the mainland U.S.
7. What is the legal drinking age? The legal drinking age in Puerto Rico is 18.
8. What is the power outlet type? Puerto Rico uses the same Type A and B power outlets as the mainland U.S. (120V), so no adapter is needed for U.S. travelers.
9. When is the best time to visit? The best time to visit is during the dry season, from mid-April to June. The peak tourist season is from December to March, which has great weather but higher prices. Hurricane season officially runs from June to November.
10. How should I handle tipping? Tipping etiquette is the same as in the mainland U.S. Tip 15-20% at restaurants, a few dollars for hotel staff, and around 10-15% for tour guides.