San Juan, Puerto Rico
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Description
The oldest city under the American flag, San Juan vibrates to a lively salsa beat. There's an unmistakable zest in the air here. Perhaps it's the stunning natural setting: the verdant peaks, tropical forests, and gleaming white-sand beaches. Or maybe it's Puerto Rico's mix of cultures, the blend and occasional clash of four centuries of Spanish heritage overlaid with a century spent as America's only Commonwealth. Whatever the reason, San Juan is one of the most enticing ports in the Caribbean, and it only gets lovelier with age.
Points of Interest
- Old San Juan
- Fort San Cristobal
- El Morro de San Felipe
- Casa Bacardi
- El Yunque National Rainforest
- Condado Beach
- Cultural & Botanical Gardens of Caguas
- Outdoor Adventure
More about San Juan, Puerto Rico Points of Interest
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Old San Juan -
This 465-year-old neighborhood is a charming residential and commercial district. The streets are paved with blue cobblestones and feature restored Spanish-colonial buildings.
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Fort San Cristobal -
Built by the Spanish to defend San Juan from land invaders, this is the largest fortification constructed by Spain in the New World. At its completion in 1783, it surrounded the city of San Juan.
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El Morro de San Felipe -
This 16th-century citadel is a maze of tunnels, dungeons, barracks, outposts and ramps. Named after King Phillip of Spain, this six-level fortress guarded the bay from sea invaders.
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Casa Bacardi -
Home to the Bacardi family's extensive rum distillery, the visitor center has a fascinating tour with videos and olfactory exhibits, as well as a museum and replica of its very first distillery.
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El Yunque National Rainforest -
This region is made up of five different forests, including a cloud forest and a dwarf forest that is home to miniature trees as well as the island's rare tree frog.
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Condado Beach -
This peninsula of golden sand is a great venue to swim and sunbathe. Located just near the plaza, you can also shop or grab a bite to eat at the many cafes and hotels lining the strip.
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Cultural & Botanical Gardens of Caguas -
Puerto Rico has a perfect climate for growing some of the prettiest flowers and plants imaginable. This large park has many paths that let you meander.
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Outdoor Adventure -
Canopy ziplining, rainforest hiking, horseback riding, and kayaking are waiting for you.