San Juan, Puerto Rico's capital and largest city, sits pretty on the Atlantic coast. Its wide beach fronts, and resort-like strips featuring bars, nightclubs, and casinos, blend into the cobblestone-lined Spanish colonial buildings and 16th-century landmarks. 

Only a few hours from mainland USA, Puerto Rico is a great destination for those wanting to experience a taste of the Caribbean, without the added stress of passports and visas. 

This is San Juan, Puerto Rico!

A Quick Guide to San Juan, Puerto Rico

Population: 395,326
Currency: United States Dollar (USD)
Language: English & Spanish 
Climate: Tropical Marine Climate

Passports & Visa for Puerto Rico

U.S. citizens coming from mainland destinations do not need passports to enter Puerto Rico. However, a government-issued photo ID is necessary to board a plane.

Visitors from other countries, need a valid passport to land in Puerto Rico. For those from countries requiring a visa to enter the U.S., the same visa is necessary to enter Puerto Rico.

Arriving in San Juan, Puerto Rico

The main airport, Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport - San Juan Airport (SJU), is the largest in Puerto Rico. San Juan Airport is located approximately 12 km (7.5 miles) from Old San Juan.  

The quickest way to get from SJU to Old San Juan is by taking a taxi or rideshare which can cost between $20 - $50 USD and takes approximately 14 min.

Getting Around San Juan, Puerto Rico

By Ride-Share –

Uber operates a limited-service within the San Juan area. However, other ride-share apps like Lyft or Juno, do not operate in Puerto Rico. We found Uber to be relatively easy and inexpensive to use for trips to/from the airport and to/from Old San Juan from Condado. 

By Bus –

In the greater San Juan area, the Metropolitan Bus Authority operates bus services. While fares are relatively inexpensive (~$0.75), the service can be unreliable and confusing for visitors and its use is generally discouraged. 

By Taxi –

San Juan taxis operate on a flat-rate system for most destinations around the city. Taxis are relatively inexpensive, and depending on your destination, generally cost less than $30 USD. 

What To See In San Juan, Puerto Rico

• Wander the streets of Old San Juan

• Roam the ruins of Castillo San Felipe del Morro

• Soak up the sun at Condado Beach

• Walk Down Calle Fortaleza (formerly Umbrella Street)

What To Eat & Drink In San Juan, Puerto Rico

Dishes to Try:

• Empanadillas

• Mofongo 

• Tostones (fried plantains)

• Arroz Con Gandules

Sweet Treats to Try:

• Tembleque (coconut milk custard)

• Flan

• Coquito

• Arroz Con Dulce (coconut rice pudding)

Where To Stay in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Condado
Located right on Condado Beach, Condado is within walking distance of everything San Juan has to offer. The oceanfront, tree-lined community offers an array of hotels, restaurants, casinos, boutiques, and more. 

Condado is the perfect location for those wanting the luxury combination of oceanfront and accessibility, right at their doorstep. However, if you are trying to avoid the crowds, consider staying elsewhere. 

Old San Juan 

Old San Juan oozes the perfect combination of history and spice for life. Brightly colored houses line cobbled streets and shady plazas, alongside cool cocktail bars and renowned Caribbean fusion restaurants.

However, if you’re looking for a vacation spot with easy beach access, Old San Juan may not be for you. 

Isla Verde

Isla Verde is home to chic resorts and high-rise hotels with an array of water activities for both the faint and brave-hearted. Local and global eateries, casinos, and buzzing nightclubs line this busy seafront promenade. 

With the SJU airport less than 1-kilometer (0.6 miles) away, some may see that as an advantage, but those wanting that true vacation feel may want to wander a little further away. 

Day Trips From San Juan, Puerto Rico

• El Yunque National Forest

• Culebra 

• Cuevas Arenales Caves

• Casa Blanca

• Fajardo

For more of my adventures, follow along on Instagram.