8 Days in San Juan: A Journey of History and Culture

David Wiebe

2 Dec 2023

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the vibrant streets of San Juan, Puerto Rico. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this enchanting city as you explore ancient cathedrals, majestic castles, and captivating museums. Indulge in the local cuisine, soak up the sun on beautiful beaches, and discover the hidden gems that make San Juan a true gem of the Caribbean.

Trip to San Juan

Tours & Activities

Viator Tours

Day 1Unveiling the Architectural Marvels

$25

$ 6

The Condado Plaza Hotel

Depart from your stay 🏨

13 - 16 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.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

•

Free

10 - 15 min

Directions

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

9:30 AM - 11:30 AM

•

$25

Day 2Delving into the Artistic Heritage

$25

$ 6

The Condado Plaza Hotel

Depart from your stay 🏨

10 - 12 min

Directions

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

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

$13

5 - 8 min

Directions

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

10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

•

$13

Day 3Strolling through Historic Plazas and Parks

$25

$ 9

The Condado Plaza Hotel

Depart from your stay 🏨

10 - 12 min

Directions

Tree-lined square close to the old city, with outdoor cafes & a monument to Christopher Columbus.

8:00 AM - 8:45 AM

•

Free

4 - 6 min

Directions

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

9:15 AM - 10:45 AM

•

$25

8 - 10 min

Directions

Sprawling, landscaped recreation area with paved walkways & shade trees, plus a fountain & statue.

11:15 AM - 12:15 PM

•

Free

Day 4Embracing Nature's Beauty

$ 9

The Condado Plaza Hotel

Depart from your stay 🏨

28 - 34 min

Directions

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

20 - 24 min

Directions

Public park with a river, trees, fields, playgrounds, a large water-play area & trails.

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

•

Free

Day 5Immersing in Contemporary Art and Local Flavors

$13

$ 3

The Condado Plaza Hotel

Depart from your stay 🏨

6 - 8 min

Directions

Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Puerto Rico

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

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

$13

8 - 11 min

Directions

Outdoor plaza with daytime farmer's market & food vendors & a restaurant/music scene at night.

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

Free

12 - 18 min

Directions

Condado oceanfront park, aka the "Window to the Sea," with shady palms & nighttime entertainment.

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

•

Free

Day 6Appreciating the Fine Arts

$ 6

The Condado Plaza Hotel

Depart from your stay 🏨

7 - 9 min

Directions

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

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

Free

Day 7Unearthing the Secrets of San Juan's History

$25

$ 6

The Condado Plaza Hotel

Depart from your stay 🏨

12 - 15 min

Directions

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

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

•

$25

Day 8Immerse in the Vibrant Art Scene

$25

$ 6

The Condado Plaza Hotel

Depart from your stay 🏨

6 - 8 min

Directions

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

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

$25

Budget breakdown: $189 In total

Activities & Food:$138

Transport:$51