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9 Days in San Juan: A Tropical Adventure

Marina Wagner

Marina Wagner

29 Dec 2023

Join me on a thrilling 9-day journey through the vibrant streets of San Juan. From historic landmarks to breathtaking natural wonders, this itinerary is packed with excitement and cultural immersion. Get ready for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Puerto Rico!

Trip to San Juan

Day 1Exploring the Vibrant Markets and Coastal Beauty
+

$0

·

$ 3

La Plaza del Mercado de Santurce
Outdoor plaza with daytime farmer's market & food vendors & a restaurant/music scene at night.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
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Free
12 - 18 min

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Directions

La Ventana al Mar
Condado oceanfront park, aka the "Window to the Sea," with shady palms & nighttime entertainment.
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
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Free
5 - 6 min

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Directions

Luis Muñoz Rivera Park
Sprawling, landscaped recreation area with paved walkways & shade trees, plus a fountain & statue.
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
•
Free
Day 2Bouncing Fun and Serene Bay Views
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$38

·

$ 3

Altitude Trampoline Park
Sprawling enclosed park for high-energy trampoline activities, such as dodge ball & free jump.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
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$38
39 - 47 min

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Directions

Bahía de San Juan
Along with a bustling harbor, this large, scenic bay features a historical fort & other landmarks.
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
•
Free
Day 3Botanical Marvels and Tranquil Park Escapes
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$0

·

$ 3

Jardín Botánico y Cultural William Miranda Marín
Guided tours are available at this botanical garden on the site of a historic sugar mill.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
•
Free
21 - 26 min

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Directions

Parque Luis Muñoz Marín
Public park with a river, trees, fields, playgrounds, a large water-play area & trails.
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
•
Free
Day 4Unveiling the Rich History and Majestic Fortresses
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$25

Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista
Landmark 1540 cathedral, second oldest in the Americas, holding tomb of city founder Ponce de León.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
•
Free
10 - 15 min

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Directions

Castillo San Felipe del Morro
Enduring 16th-century Spanish fortification atop a promontory with cannons pointing seaward.
9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
•
$25
Day 5Rum Tasting, Ancient Gates, and Colonial Charm
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$38

·

$ 3

Casa BACARDÍ
Renowned rum distillery featuring historical tours, mixology classes, tastings & an outdoor patio.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
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$38
35 - 42 min

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Directions

Puerta de San Juan
This large, circa-1635 gate was the main entry into the walled city during its Spanish colonial era.
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
•
Free
9 - 14 min

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Directions

Plaza Colón
Tree-lined square close to the old city, with outdoor cafes & a monument to Christopher Columbus.
11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
•
Free
Day 6Discovering Fortress Legends and Island Mysteries
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$25

·

$ 3

Castillo San Cristóbal
Walled & heavily fortified citadel built 1765-1785 & largest of the Spanish built forts in Americas.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
•
$25
31 - 38 min

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Directions

Isla de Cabras National Historic Site
National park with a non-swimming beach, ruins of a fort & scenic views, plus a snack bar.
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
•
Free
Day 7A Day of Wonder and Imagination at the Children's Museum
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$13

Museo del Niño de Carolina
Children's museum with hands-on educational exhibits, plus go-karts & a colorful outdoor play area.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
•
$13
Day 8Journeying through the Historic National Site
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$25

San Juan National Historic Site
This 1949 historic destination features colonial fortifications, powder houses & old city walls.
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
•
$25
Day 9Art Appreciation at the Puerto Rico Museum
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$25

Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico
Esteemed art museum specializing in Puerto Rican art, housed in 1920s neoclassical former hospital.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
•
$25

Budget breakdown: $203 In total

Activities & Food:$188
Transport:$15