Introduction to San Juan, Puerto Rico
In 1508 the Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon established the town of Caparra behind a protected bay on the north shore of Puerto Rico. In 1521 the town was abandoned and resited to the island of Old San Juan. In the early 16th century, San Juan was the base for Spanish expeditions to undiscovered parts of the Caribbean.
Nowadays the original section of San Juan offers an authentic Old World atmosphere with over 300 original Spanish 16th and 17th century buildings. It also contains many shops, restaurants, bars, and casinos for travelers to visit and see.
Don’t Miss Out on San Juan itself
Picturesque Old San Juan is perched on a hill overlooking the Atlantic northwards, and the port southwards. This walled fortified area, today an important historical landmark, was established in 1510. It is compactly sized, quick to get around on foot. If your energy runs out take the free trolley bus that runs around the sights. Take time to stroll along the tight cobblestone streets and investigate the brightly colored buildings, chic boutiques, and wander around the fascinating museums.
El Morro Fort
El Morro, a huge fort dating back to 1539, protects San Juan from attack. Its complete name is Castillo San Felipe del Morro, after the patron saint of King Philip . A tour takes you around six sets of gun emplacements and hugestone walls that tower over the Ocean.
Cathedral de San Juan
This beautiful cathedral dates back to 1592, on the same site of the previous cathedral that was destroyed by a hurricane. Located on Calle Cristo, this gothic structure contains the tomb of Ponce de Leon, a renowned Spanish seaman, and the 1st governor of Puerto Rico.
La Fortaleza
Another must-see is La Fortaleza, San Juan’s most ancient fortification, built in 1540. It later became the official residence of the governor. Guided tours lead youon a walk through the opulent interior, with gilded banqueting hall, high galleries, and rooms furnished in period style.
Escambron Beach
All beaches in San Juan are public, and Escambrion beach, on the Atlantic coastline is amongst the most beautiful in the city. It’s easy to get to, and gives fabulous views along the coastline to El Morro. Condado beach, just further along the coast, is also worth a visit.
Shopping
Most of the shopping in Old San Juan is centered on the multitude of stores along Cristo, Fortaleza and San Francisco streets. As an alternative make your way to the two markets to find a big range of jewelry, fashions, art and souvenirs. One of the markets is situated at the Plaza de la Darsena, by pier 1, the other on the Paseo de la Princesa, a short distance west of pier 1.
Suggested Cruises
Knowledgeable cruisers pick San Juan as an alternative to a Florida port. Due to its central Caribbean location, San Juan provides quick access to unique Southern Caribbean ports, such as the Netherland Antilles and the Windward Isles. A two-hour flight removes the need for the long cruise to these areas from mainland Florida. The choice of cruises on offer from Puerto Rico includes the Leeward Isles (USVI, St Maarten, St Kitts, Guadeloupe), the Windward Isles (Dominica, St Lucia, Barbados, St Vincent, Grenada,Tobago), and the Netherland Antilles off the northern coast of Venezuela (Aruba, Curacao and Bonaire). Several cruiselines offer cruises from San Juan, such as Carnival, Royal Caribbean, PO Cruises, Princess Cruises, Silversea and Celebrity Cruises. For a comprehensive listing see cruises from San Juan, Puerto Rico
San Juan Cruise Port
There are three main pier areas in San Juan port. Old San Juan quays 1-6, the Navy Frontier pier, and the Pan American pier. Most times ships calling at San Juan dock at the Old San Juan Piers, so passengers can walk into Old San Juan. Cruise ships based out of San Juan will dock Old San Juan pier 4, or the Pan American Pier, about a 15 minute cab ride from Old San Juan.
Transferring to the Cruise Terminal
From the Airport
San Juan airport is situated about ten miles from the Pan American dock and 12 miles from the Old San Juan quays. It usually takes around three quarters of an hour in a taxi for the journey. The cost is around twenty dollars. There are supplemental charges for luggage.
Other Information
Official Language Spanish and English
Currency US Dollar
Weather Puerto Rico basks in near summer weather year-round, with daily highs varying from 75 to 85F.
Timezone Atlantic Standard Time GMT-4































