Cathedral Of San Juan
One of the oldest buildings in Old San Juan, the beautiful Cathedral of San Juan Bautista is the Roman Catholic cathedral and the second oldest in the Americas. Built in 1521, the graceful cathedral features beautiful statues and relics, stained glass windows, the mummy of St. Pio and the tomb of the Spanish explorer and settlement founder Juan Ponce de León. Cathedral of San Juan is a historic landmark in the heart of the old city.
Information About Staying In San Juan
Read these important travel tips before booking a hotel in San Juan
How long do people stay in San Juan?
A stay of 3 nights is most popular when visiting San Juan.
How much does a hotel cost in San Juan?
The price of a hotel in San Juan depends on several factors such as star rating, location and demand. Generally speaking, the average cost of a hotel is around $170 per night.
When is the best time to book a hotel in San Juan?
Hotels in San Juan are usually cheapest during the month of January, you can expect a price decrease of around 23% during this period.
Which day is cheapest to stay in San Juan?
Room prices for hotels in San Juan will be at their lowest on Sunday and peak on Wednesday.
How much does a hostel in San Juan cost?
On average, a hostel in San Juan will be priced around $108. This price will be per person, per night and was obtained using hostel and 2 star or below hotels. In comparison, this will be $62 lower than your typical San Juan hotel.
Where should I stay in San Juan?
Whilst there are several neighbourhoods to choose from, most users tend to stick to Santurce, Hato Rey Sur, San Juan Antiguo and Hato Rey Norte when staying in San Juan.
Based on the weather in San Juan, what attractions are popular during July?
Does San Juan have vacation rentals?
There are 88 vacation rentals in San Juan, with Placid Suites being the most popular among momondo users. Find deals on vacation rentals in San Juan.
Does San Juan have hostels?
Fairmont El San Juan Hotel
Nestled in two miles of the award-winning Isla Verde beach, Fairmont El San Juan Hotel is a gem of the 1960s Puerto Rican hospitality. Designed by legendary architect Morris Lapidus in 1958, the resort became a beacon for tourists and iconic entertainers like Sammy Davis Jr., Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra, Eddie Fisher, Carol Channing, and Liza Minelli, among other icons of the time.
A grand chandelier remains as a testament of the era it was built, as the hotel followed a redesign to blend its timeless splendor with modern-tropical elegance.
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Where Should I Stay In San Juan
If you want to stay somewhere that highlights island culture and history, head to Old San Juan, a cobble-stoned idyll that dates back more than 400 years. If you prefer to maximize your beach time, visit Condado or nearby Isla Verde.
The best part of San Juan is that it’s a small enough place that visitors don’t need to choose between beach or city. All of the hotels we’ve listed offer easy access to San Juan’s museums, historic sites, restaurants, shopping, art, and beaches.
Things To See And Do In Isla Verde
- Hit the waves at Pine Grove Surfing Beach.
- Enjoy some watersports at Isla Verde Beach West.
- Make a visit to Parque Acuático Infantil Aquasol.
- Play volleyball at Carolina Public Beach.
- Explore the underwater world at one of Isla Verdes best snorkelling spots.
- Watch the sun go down at Mist Rooftop Bar and Kitchen.
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Old San Juan might not have beaches, resorts, five-star hotels, or picturesque natural beauty to boast of, unlike other places in Puerto Rico. But despite all this, this quaint town has over 500 years of history that is exhibited in its timeless historical architecture, tropical climate, and timeless vibes, which makes it a must-visit place among other cities, not only in Puerto Rico, but in the whole of the Caribbean! This walled city is a great place for you to find out more about the history of this US colony. While there are many kid-friendly resorts and hotels with or near casinos, make your experience in this town more memorable by staying at one of these best Airbnbs in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
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Start your day right while in Old San Juan when you stay at this very welcoming hideaway in town. Have your morning coffee and breakfast out on the terracotta-tiled patio and have a glimpse of the sun and the surrounding beauty of the city.
This loft comes with a spacious living room, a full kitchen, a bedroom with a queen bed, and a full bathroom. Other amenities include self-check-in, a washer and dryer, Wi-Fi, a TV, toiletries, bedding, and a coffeemaker.
Puerto Rico Convention Center San Juan
The Puerto Rico Convention Center District is a popular option for cruisers due to its close proximity to the piers. This district is very popular for business meetings. Those attending an event at the Convention Center have three hotel options and various restaurants within walking distance. On this tourist district families, couples and business travelers alike can enjoy spacious rooms at great rates. Beaches, restaurants, casino, shops are within walking distance. Hotels in Puerto Rico Convention Center District.
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San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino
Courtesy of San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino
This resort is an ideal choice for travelers looking for a beach getaway that requires minimal planningthe hotels beachside location and long list of onsite recreation options and amenities make it possible to enjoy an entire vacation without having to leave the resort.
The majority of the rooms have a standard hotel feel, but as soon as you step outside to the balcony, youre greeted with sweeping views of either the ocean or the city. If you splurge for one of the penthouse suites, you have close to 360-degree views of the area.
No matter which room youre in, the resorts beach location means youre just a few steps away from the surf and sand. Grab one of the available chairs to relax on the beach, or snag a seat by the pool instead. Its got a swim-up bar for adults and a slide and play area for kids, meaning the entire family can enjoy a pool day. The resort also has a fitness center and classes, a spa, five dining options, a 13,000-square-foot casino , and childrens games and activities.
After a 15-month closure due to Hurricane Maria that hit the island in 2017, Caribe Hilton completed a $150 million renovation and reopened in June 2019. Located between Condado and Old San Juan, the newly opened 652-room hotel has a large pool complex, a secluded beach, a spa, tropical gardens and bird sanctuary, and a fitness center with tennis and basketball amenities.
Camuy River Cave Park
Just about an hour outside of Old San Juan, Camuy River Cave Park is the perfect day trip to explore one of the most amazing natural attractions in Puerto Rico. The third largest cave system in the world, Camuy Caves are beautifully illuminated caverns with stunning stalagmites and stalactites that make for incredible photos. Take a guided tour that includes insights from biologists and park rangers leading each group.
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Hike And Swim In El Yunque
No list of things to do in Old San Juan isnt complete without at least mentioning El Yunque rainforest.
The only rainforest in the U.S. National Forest Service system, El Yunque is about 45 minutes to an hour away from San Juan .
Comprising some 29,000 acres, the lush forest is home to 240 tree species, waterfalls, rivers and freshwater pools. As for wildlife, you may spot lizards, the scarlet-crowned Puerto Rican parrot and singing coqui frogs.
Several hiking trails lead to waterfalls and natural rock pools, where you can cool off with a swim.
Climbing the Yokahu Observation Tower is also popular.
Evocative of a Scottish castle, the tower is perched at an elevation of 1,575 feet and offers expansive views of the surrounding green hills and blue ocean in the distance.
To get to El Yunque, its possible to take an Uber from Old San Juan.
But finding a return Uber can be difficult because cell service isnt the best in the park.
If you dont have a rental car, your best bet is to take an all-day guided tour.
This adventurous full-day El Yunque tour includes hiking to watering holes and rocky waterslides, rope swinging and a stop for a late local lunch.
Or you might like this hiking, swimming and kayaking tour from San Juan .
Pop Into The Historic San Juan Cathedral
The oldest cathedral in the United States is actually on Puerto Rican soil in Old San Juan.
Originally built from wood in 1521, then refashioned over the years, the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista ” rel=”nofollow”> Cathedral-Basilica of Saint John the Baptist) is where the Spanish explorer and former governor Juan Ponce de Leon is buried.
The cathedral is free to visit, so you can walk inside and admire the vaulted ceiling and beautiful stained glass windows.
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Things To See And Do In Palmas Del Mar
- Soak up the sun on the exotic Palmas del Mar beach.
- Explore one of San Juans finest nature parks at Pterocarpus Forest.
- Explore the nature reserve of Punta Icacos.
- Go on an adventure to find Secret Beach.
- Be amongst nature at Punta Yeguas.
- Gorge on some of food at one of San Juans finest restaurants: La Pescadería.
Recommended Area: Viejo San Juan
Old San Juan is the heart of the historic city of San Juan. It is the epicenter of the cultural, historical, and commercial activity of the city
Old San Juan is located on a small islet connected to the main island of Puerto Rico by bridges.
Old San Juan is a safe district.
Viejo San Juan is packed with attractions such as the Malecón de San Juan, a boardwalk surrounded by restaurants, cafes, small shops, and many souvenir stalls.
The citys main colonial defensive buildings like the San Felipe Castle, Castillo de San Cristóbal or the San Jerónimo de Boquerón fortress are all located in San Juans islet.
Some other attractions in this lively area include the governors palace La Fortaleza, San Juan Bautista Cathedral, the Casa Blanca, Fortaleza Street, and the central square Plaza de Armas.
This area is connected to the rest of the city by bus, taxi, and the Cataño ferry.
The Old Quarter is also a very pedestrian-friendly area.
Old San Juan is also one of the best areas to stay in San Juan, Puerto Rico, thanks to its variety of hotels, including boutique properties located in refurbished colonial buildings.
Why is this a recommended area to stay in San Juan, PR:
- Best area for sightseeing
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What Is There To Do In San Juan
San Juan is a relaxed, accessible destination that is family-friendly, easily walkable, historically and architecturally interesting. Old San Juan boasts colorful Spanish colonial buildings and the centuries-old fortresses of El Morro and La Fortaleza. There are rum tastings, street art tours, an exploding culinary and cocktail scene, wallet-bending shopping destinations, and museums for art lovers of all stripes.
Check out the museum at Casa Blanca, a house built for the Spanish explorer Ponce de León, pay respects to the island’s oldest cathedral, San Juan Bautista, or ogle the art at Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico.
Have a cocktail at La Factoria, sip a pina colada where they were invented at the Caribe Hilton, or kick back at La Placita, a favorite local weekend hang. The Plaza Las Americas is also great for shopping, as is Ashford Avenue, San Juan’s version of Miami Beach.
Or just sit on at the beach Condado, Ocean Park, and Pine Grove are some of the best.
Best Hotel In San Juan
Love the convenience of a hotel? 352 Guest House is a chic guesthouse with a colonial edge located in the heart of San Juans old town. It boasts an incredible location along with spectacular views from the roof terrace, not to mention an amazing breakfast. Rooms are stylish and have all the amenities you could want for an awesome stay.
San Juan is the largest city and capital of the luscious Caribbean island of Puerto Rico. Its one of the most unique and culturally rich places to stay in the Caribbean and is a true travel gem.
The city has a colourful, vibrant, and fun nature with the perfect combination of rich history and culture, beautiful natural landscapes, and awesome nightlife.
If youre heading to San Juan for the first time, then youre probably going to want to base yourself near the hotspots. This makes Viejo San Juan the perfect place to stay. A lively and bustling area in heart of the city, it offers an endless array of cultural and historic attractions. Its also well-connected to the areas fantastic nature parks and beaches.
Looking to party the night away but not up for heading to mega nightclubs? Isla Verde provides the perfect mixture of party and relaxation. With plenty of laid-back beach bars boasting all different types of live music, its an amazing place to have a few drinks without feeling it too much the next morning.
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Viejo San Juan Best Place To Stay In San Juan For Your First Time
Viejo San Juan is hands down the best neighbourhood to stay in for those who want to be in heart of San Juans history. The district is a great contrast between old and new and today has a fascinating culture to discover.
The immaculate boardwalks and colourful streets are perfect for those looking to explore. If you get peckish, youll have hundreds of restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from, many of which come with a beautiful colonial exterior.
Viejo San Juan is also the place to be if youre looking for somewhere to stay on a budget. Theres lots of affordable accommodation and the area is easily walkable, so you wont have to pay for transport within the Old Town.
Sip Pia Coladas Where They Were Created
History buffs, rejoice! Old San Juan is home to several massive fortresses whose cannons, ramparts, and layered defenses have guarded the walled city for centuries. Start by visiting El Morro and Castillo de San Cristóbal, which are among the most visited attractions on the island, and for good reason. Then, stop by the governor’s mansion, called La Fortaleza because it served as one of the Spanish settlement’s early defensive structures.
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Condado The Best Place To Stay In San Juan For Luxury
If youre looking to treat yourself during your holiday to San Juan, and money is not an issue, then go to Condado. The area is one of the most luxurious districts in the city, and located just 3 miles away from Old San Juan, is the perfect spot for you!
Expect to see many Beachfront hotels, high-end boutique stores, and fine dining restaurants in Condado. Here, everyone comes to relax, do yoga, eat delicious food, and just enjoy the good life!
Ashford Avenue, also known as the Puerto Rican Fifth Avenue, is where youll find la creme de la creme! Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Cartier are some of the big brands that have stores here. What better way to end a full day of shopping than with dinner and drinks? Ashford Avenue is also home to a few high-end restaurants.
Condado offers its visitors the full package! Shopping, food, and one of my favorite parts: the beach! Condado Beach is super popular among the people who stay in San Juan, and the Sailing Dreams Sunset & Cruises offer some amazing sailing trips. And lets not forget about the beautiful Condado Lagoon, which is perfect for anyone who likes kayaking.
Things to do in Condado
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The Best Airbnb In San Juan Puerto Rico
If you prefer Airbnbs because you want to self-cater, you want to save some money, or you simply prefer them to hotels , then definitely check out some of these great spots.
If youve never used Airbnb before, .
The first place that I want to recommend is located in Ocean Park and was the perfect place when I was there by myself. I also think it would be a great apartment for a couple. Its a single bedroom apartment with a little living room area, a kitchen, and a bathroom. Its two blocks away from the beach and it took me less than 5 minutes to walk from the front door of the apartment to the beach. Its super reasonable at $56 per night. Check it out here.
This Airbnb Plus option in Old San Juan looks like utter perfection. Its a loft-style apartment and is packed with natural light. You can literally walk out your door and just start exploring one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in San Juan, and the kitchen is big and well stocked so you can self cater. It costs $99 per night. Check it out here.
This luxury apartment in the Condado area is great for those that want to be near all of the resort action without paying the resort prices. Its less than 10 minutes walk to the beach. Its near all of the restaurants in this area, and its a quick Uber ride to the airport or Old San Juan. Its only $76 per night and sleeps up to three so is a great option for families with one or two small children. Check it out here.
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