10 Days in San Juan: A Journey of Art, History, and Adventure

Maritza Bonano

21 Dec 2023

Embark on a 10-day adventure in San Juan, Puerto Rico, exploring its rich art scene, historical landmarks, and breathtaking natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture as you visit museums, cathedrals, fortresses, and picturesque sites. Get ready for an unforgettable journey filled with art, history, and thrilling experiences.

Trip to San Juan

Tours & Activities

Viator Tours

Day 1Exploring the Wonders of Childhood at Museo del Niño de Carolina and Puerto Rican Art & Crafts

$13

$ 3

Children's museum with hands-on educational exhibits, plus go-karts & a colorful outdoor play area.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

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$13

28 - 34 min

Directions

Gallery stocking colorful sculptures, masks, paintings, souvenirs & jewelry by local artists.

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

•

Free

Day 2Dive into the World of Art at Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico and Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Puerto Rico

$38

Esteemed art museum specializing in Puerto Rican art, housed in 1920s neoclassical former hospital.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

$25

16 - 23 min

Directions

Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Puerto Rico

Museum showcasing regional/Latin American contemporary art in 1918 white-columned middle school.

10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

•

$13

Day 3Unveiling the Beauty of Art and Architecture at Centro de Bellas Artes Luis A. Ferré and Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista

$ 3

Major performing arts center offering concerts, plays, ballet & events, named for local politician.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

Free

14 - 17 min

Directions

Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista

Landmark 1540 cathedral, second oldest in the Americas, holding tomb of city founder Ponce de León.

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

•

Free

Day 4Journey through History at Castillo San Cristóbal and Theatrical Delights at Teatro Alejandro Tapia y Rivera

$25

Walled & heavily fortified citadel built 1765-1785 & largest of the Spanish built forts in Americas.

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

$25

4 - 5 min

Directions

One of the oldest freestanding theaters in use in the U.S., built in 1824 in horseshoe-shaped tiers.

10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

•

Free

Day 5Discover the Heart of Puerto Rico's Government at El Capitolio de Puerto Rico and Museo de San Juan

$13

$ 3

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

Free

6 - 8 min

Directions

Museum displaying Puerto Rican art through the ages plus historic artifacts in old marketplace.

10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

•

$13

Day 6Island Adventures at Isla de Cabras, La Fortaleza, and Fortín de San Jerónimo del Boquerón

$ 6

Small island with an old fort & a recreational park with gazebos & a beach for swimming or fishing.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

Free

34 - 41 min

Directions

Monumental fortification incorporating residence of the island's governor, dating from 16th-century.

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

•

Free

14 - 17 min

Directions

Remains of a small 17th-century fort built in Condado Lagoon to defend San Juan.

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

•

Free

Day 7Savor the Beauty of Bahía de San Juan and Explore Fortín San Juan de la Cruz (El Cañuelo)

$ 3

Along with a bustling harbor, this large, scenic bay features a historical fort & other landmarks.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

•

Free

34 - 41 min

Directions

Historic fort on an island with a walking path, palm trees & educational signage.

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

•

Free

Day 8Indulge in the Legacy of Casa BACARDÍ and Marvel at the Grandeur of Castillo San Felipe del Morro

$63

$ 3

Renowned rum distillery featuring historical tours, mixology classes, tastings & an outdoor patio.

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

$38

38 - 46 min

Directions

Enduring 16th-century Spanish fortification atop a promontory with cannons pointing seaward.

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

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$25

Day 9Immerse in the Rich Heritage of the Americas at Museo de las Américas and Isla de Cabras National Historic Site

$13

$ 3

Exhibits in an 1800s army barracks showing pre-Columbian to modern art from the Americas.

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

$13

37 - 45 min

Directions

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 10Step into History at San Juan National Historic Site

$25

This 1949 historic destination features colonial fortifications, powder houses & old city walls.

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

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$25

Budget breakdown: $212 In total

Activities & Food:$188

Transport:$24