Looking for things to do during your time in Old San Juan? You’re in luck—there’s no shortage of intriguing opportunities here. Even if the weather doesn’t cooperate -heaven forbid! – you can find numerous points of interest in Old San Juan just a short walk from the cruise terminal.
Where Beauty and History Collide: Points of Interest in Old San Juan
1. Castillo de San Cristobal (San Cristobal Fort)
Spanning more than 27 acres, Castillo de San Cristobal is a marvelous place to explore while appreciating the stunning views of Old San Juan. The fortress was built to protect the city from enemies who might have invaded by land—in contrast to El Morro, which was put in place to defend against seafaring intruders.
2. Plaza de Armas (Arms Square)
In the mood for a little people-watching? Have a seat on one of the public benches in the Plaza de Armas while sipping on a coffee or nibbling on a locally made pastry. The picturesque plaza is home to the San Juan town hall building, as well as the Puerto Rico Department of State. Don’t forget to get your picture taken with the bronze statue of salsa musician Tito Curet Alonso while you’re there.
3. Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro)
Called “El Morro” for short, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has a rich history and an entrancing atmosphere. Originally a Spanish military outpost between the First and Second World Wars, it switched hands during the Spanish-American War in 1898, giving it a diverse background that should appeal to visitors of all ages.
4. Plaza de la Rogativa (Rogativa Square)
Also known as “Procession Square,” this spot boasts some of the most stunning views San Juan has to offer. Come at sunset and enjoy the vista—you can spot the San Juan Gate, La Fortaleza, and portions of the El Yunque National Forest from here. If you’re planning a destination wedding, this would make an ideal venue.
5. La Fortaleza (Governor’s Mansion)
La Fortaleza translates to “The Fortress,” which was its original purpose. Unfortunately, the building fell to the enemy on more than one occasion, but it’s since been used as housing for the governors of Puerto Rico (no fewer than 170, in fact). You’ll need to sign up for a guided walking tour if you want to explore the mansion.
6. Antiguo Arsenal de la Marina Española (The Old Navy Arsenal)
As the name suggests, the Old Navy Arsenal was once used to store weapons and ammunition. At one time, the local government had offices in the building, but these days it’s mostly rented out for art fairs and other special events.
7. Catedral Menor de San Juan Bautista (San Juan Cathedral)
Besides being one of the most famous landmarks in San Juan, this cathedral is one of the most important religious buildings in the region. San Juan Bautista is the seat of the Archdiocese of Puerto Rico, with a history dating back to the 16th century. Even non-Catholic visitors should appreciate the detailed Gothic architecture here.
8. Museo Casa Blanca (White House Museum)
San Juan’s oldest residential building dates back to 1521, when it served as the home of Puerto Rico’s first governor. Today, it’s a museum that hosts numerous artifacts dating all the way back to the 16th and 17th centuries.
9. Paseo de la Princesa (Princess Promenade)
If you’re looking for points of interest in Old San Juan that carry a more modern vibe, look no further than El Paseo de la Princesa. Although the intricate lamp posts and gorgeous fountains serve to remind you of the city’s storied past, you can access hip restaurants and gastropubs as you stroll along the promenade.
10. Iglesia de San Jose (San Jose Church)
One of the major points of interest in Old San Juan is the second-oldest church in the Americas. Juan Ponce De León, the first governor of Puerto Rico, was entombed here for more than three centuries, and the church remains the resting place of artist José Campeche.
11. Puerta de San Juan (San Juan Gate)
The entrance to the walled city has been in place for centuries, long before anyone considered booking Southern Caribbean cruises from San Juan. Standing 16 feet high and measuring 20 feet thick, colorful, and imposing, Puerta de San Juan is waiting to welcome visitors to El Paseo de la Princesa.
12. Casa Museo Felisa Rincón de Gautier
Doña Fela, the first female mayor of San Juan, once made her home in this historic landmark. Inside, you can still find plenty of artifacts that commemorate her life, including awards, photographs, and a stunning collection of hand fans.
13. Plaza del Quinto Centenario (Quincentennial Square)
Across from El Morro in the northernmost point of the city, you’ll find this plaza, which was built to commemorate the 500th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’ fateful 1492 voyage. The 40-foot tall tower, El Tótem Telúrico, stands as a symbol of the origin of the New World.
14. Parque de las Palomas (Pigeon Park)
The name of this park translates to “Pigeon Park” in English—a decidedly less lovely moniker. But the park itself is one of the best points of interest in Old San Juan if you have young children with you. There are street vendors who sell dried corn that kids can feed to the birds, and the views—like so many in San Juan—are glorious.
15. El Malecon de la Perla (La Perla Neighborhood)
El Malecon de la Perla is one of the most colorful points of interest in Old San Juan—literally and figuratively. Even if it weren’t close to a San Juan cruise ship port, the area’s thriving nightlife would continue to attract tourists as well as locals. Find out which cultural event or festival might be taking place along Norzagaray Street during your visit.
16. Museo de las Américas
Stop by the Museo de las Américas and celebrate the cultural history of Puerto Rico and the other countries that make up the bulk of the Western Hemisphere. In addition to three permanent collections, the museum offers a revolving selection of temporary exhibits.
17. Casa Cortés ChocoBar
Chocolate lovers won’t want to miss out on this one. The art gallery is enchanting enough on its own, but throw in a restaurant that features cocoa in all its glory and you have an experience to be treasured.
18. La Rogativa
This sculpture can be found near La Fortaleza, so if you’re already visiting the governor’s mansion, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to visit. La Rogativa was erected to commemorate a religious procession—led by women—that allegedly spooked the British Armada and thereby prevented their forces from invading the city in 1797.
19. Cementerio Santa María Magdalena de Pazzi (Old San Juan Cemetery)
Cemeteries might not be high on the to-do lists of many tourists, but this particular cemetery is one of the most beautiful in the world. Even if you don’t recognize any of the names—many of which belong to famous Puerto Ricans—you’re bound to appreciate the awe-inspiring views.
20. Cuartel de Ballajá (Ballaja Barracks)
While you’re visiting El Morro, don’t forget to check out the Cuartel de Ballajá, the bastion of the Spanish and Puerto Rican regiments from 1854 to 1864. It’s no longer a military structure, but it remains one of the key points of interest in Old San Juan. Within its wall, you’ll find the Puerto Rico Academy of the Spanish Language, as well as the Museo de las Américas.
Sights of Old San Juan are Pure History
There’s no shortage of points of interest in Old San Juan, especially if you’re a history buff. Why wait? Make sure your next cruise features a stop in San Juan—or better yet, offers the city as a departure point.