
Explore its beautiful architecture and interesting history on your next trip to San Juan. It is also known as the Governor’s House. This magnificent edifice was built in the early 1500s and has been hosting governors ever since. It’s found a short distance from El Morro. Visit La Fortaleza, the oldest executive mansion still in use today. If your cruise ship is in port till late in the evening, don’t miss an opportunity to watch the sunset over the beautiful San Juan Bay. Visit this beautiful site and explore the exhibit of the military quarters, the kitchen, the mysterious tunnels, gun outlets, and Garitas. This fort was built in the 1700s to protect El Morro from a land-based attack after such an attempt nearly succeeded. Fort San CristobalĪnother point of interest in Old San Juan town is Fort San Cristobal. Explore the mysteries of the fort and climb to the highest watch towers for the advantageous views of San Juan Bay. The grounds are now used by the locals and tourists alike for flying kites, weddings, picnics, and photography.

The fort has beautiful grounds which used to be the military’s marching grounds when the fort was in active service. It served to protect the Spanish colony and thwarted several attacks from the Dutch, the British, and even the Americans at various times in the island’s history. It is a huge, multi-layered fort that was built in 1539. One of the most popular places to visit in San Juan is the Castillo San Felipe Del Morro fortress, commonly referred to as El Morro. This site charges a $5 admittance fee for all people above the age of 15 years. This walkway will take you past the Roots Fountain and along the old city walls up to the National Historical Park, where you will find the famous Castillo San Felipe Del Morro fortress. From the cruise ship terminal, head to the left and walk along the picturesque Paseo de la Princesa walkway. Visit the western end of OSJ to explore the magnificent forts found in the National Historic Site. Go shopping downtown, enjoy popular Puerto Rican dishes, or visit the historical sites. Points of interest include Fort San Felipe Del Morro, Fort San Cristobal, and La Fortaleza.Įnjoy the convenience of exploring the town found right across the street from the cruise pier and experience the vibrant energy of OSJ as you walk down its narrow cobblestone paths lined with postcard-perfect colorful townhouses. This old Spanish colonial town features gorgeous pastel-colored colonial townhouses, old buildings, and forts that date back to the 1500s. The site of the monuments was named a national historic site by UNESCO and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the rich and colorful history of the Caribbean.Įverything you need for your cruise vacation can be found here. Old San Juan features most of the nation’s historical monuments on its west end. It is used for cruises that embark from this destination. A second pier named the Pan American pier is found on the other side of the islet. You are likely to dock at this town as it features one of the largest piers in Puerto Rico.Ĭruise ships visiting the town as a port of call typically dock at this pier. It’s an islet that connects to mainland San Juan via three bridges and a causeway. One of the most notable places in San Juan is Old San Juan town.

Slide Down a Natural Water Slide at Las Paylas Explore El Capitolio and Snap a Pic or Two We picked the top things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico to help you prepare for an unforgettable visit and we’ve gone a step further by going beyond the old town. In addition to history, this port also features the usual Caribbean charms, like beautiful beaches, tropical rainforests, and friendly locals.Īs a result, there is plenty to see and do on your port day at this amazing place. San Juan is a major historical destination, famous for its huge city walls and forts that made it one of the most formidable ports back in the 16th to 18th centuries. Either way, you are guaranteed to have fun in this beautiful place. Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, and Celebrity Cruises are just some of the cruise lines that use San Juan as a home port, and many other lines visit the city as a port of call during different itineraries. San Juan is the capital of Puerto Rico and is also one of the most popular home-based cruise ports in the Caribbean. Located on the northeastern coast of Puerto Rico, this town is the perfect getaway for the history buff, the sun seeker, the foodie, and the adventurer. Step into medieval times and embrace 500 years of history when you visit the popular cruise port of San Juan, Puerto Rico.
