autoeurope

A trip to the Caribbean islands is a must on everyone’s travel bucket list. A diverse set of islands that vastly differ from culture and history to geographic landscapes. Puerto Rico is a medium sized island in relation to the other Caribbean islands and is located in the heart of this vacation destination, between the Dominican Republic and the Virgin Islands. Historically, the island was part of Spain as part of its colony which has now seceded to the United States. A unique political structure due to its inclusion as part of the USA overseas territory but not officially a state, meaning that travel for American passport holder is relatively simple.

Puerto Rico is a lush tropical island with stunning beaches and breathtaking mountain vistas, leaving its visitors amazed with its natural beauty. The capital San Juan is a charming city and is a gateway to the island with a seaport serving cruise ships and an international airport receiving flights from all over the world.

While visitors may spend most of their time in Puerto Rico renting a vehicle and exploring natural areas outside of the city, San Juan still has a great list of activities. Below is a list of the top things to do in the capital city of San Juan.

El Morro

A 500-year-old monument, El Morro was tasked in defending the New World. An imposing fortress, its protection has prevented multiple enemy attacks of the island. It is now a place for people to hang out on its foregrounds, or for people to visit its rustic interior and walk through its ramparts to be a part of its history. Climb to the top for majestic views out into the sea.

Calle del Cristo

The area of the Old San Juan boasts quaint architecture and cobblestone streets transporting you back in time. Calle del Cristo is the centerpiece of the Old district with its postcard-worthy colored buildings and a bustling center for shopping and gastronomy. From whimsical little chapels to picturesque parks, Calle del Cristo is the nerve that connects the Old San Juan.

Casa Bacardi

The world-renowned drink Bacardi Rum hails from Puerto Rico and its distillery is in San Juan. You can take a tour at the visitor center for an exclusive insight into how this delectable drink is made and how it has received its popularity. You can even fill up your own bottle directly from the barrel and label it yourself for the ultimate souvenir.

Museums in Puerto Rico

To learn about the history and the traditions of Puerto Rico, you can visit the numerous museums in the capital. From the Museo de las Americas where it exhibits historic to modern art, to the Museo de Arte e Historia showing historic artifacts.

Castillo De San Cristobal

Similar to the El Morro, the Castillo de San Cristobal is another fort designed and built by the Spanish to protect the island and the New World from invasion. It is the largest fort built by Spain in the Western Hemisphere and is a great trail for visitors to walk through to see the interior grounds. It also doubles as a museum where you can learn its history from the military barracks.