Things to do & places to visit in San Juan, Puerto Rico

The festive city of San Juan is the perfect place to experience true Puerto Rican culture. Get to know its roots by exploring the vibrant neighborhood of El Viejo San Juan (Old San Juan), which consists mostly of Spanish colonial buildings. Flesh out your self-guided history lesson with a visit to El Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a 16th century citadel that’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then reward yourself with a cooling dip at Luquillo or Carolina Beach, then a tasty tour of the Bacardi rum plant.

San Juan #1 destination in Puerto Rico 2023. The average rating score is 4.67 based on 72.5k traveler reviews, of 59 attractions. Timezone: America/Puerto_Rico, current date and time: Friday, May 03, 2024, 8:49.

Top things to do (44)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Flavors Food Tours - San Juan (4.397 reviews)
- Food Tour in a 500 year old city!
Friday: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM City Tours • Cultural Tours • Walking Tours • Private Tours • Food Tours

Ricardo was amazing!!! From his consummate hospitality, his sincere excitement. Let me know right away, that he truly loves what he does. One of the most interesting things I took away from this magnificent experience, was how much history I learned about the city, and the characters of yesterday that I had never even heard of 10 for 10 not only what I recommend, but I look forward to having this experience again! Ricardo, you are the best, thank you so much for making my day and helping me love a city even more than I already did. See more..
5.0 Try Scuba Diving (2.967 reviews)
- One of the best parts of our trip!
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Scuba & Snorkelling • Adrenaline & Extreme Tours • Water Sports • Eco Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours

Super fun! We had a group of 7 and were very well accommodated by the company. We went for the 9-10 time slot and I would recommend going earlier in the day to avoid the noontime sun on your back and legs. Our guide Grant was very friendly and pointed out several features/animals for us, including a sunken boat, reef frames, urchins, fish, turtles, and even an eel. We got pictures of several! I even have a fear of deep water and still found this to be manageable and a wonderful time. Overall, would definitely recommend this for any group who wants to learn about and see more of the beautiful waters around Puerto Rico! See more..
5.0 LED Night Kayak & SUP (2.268 reviews)
- Best kayaks in Puerto Rico
Friday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM Stand Up Paddleboarding • Kayaking & Canoeing

We had an amazing time during our night Kayak experience. Our tour guides, Shelly and Andres, were very knowledgeable and made the experience even better. We got lucky and got to see the water glowing, something that our tour guides pointed out, does not happen often. Would totally recommend to locals and tourist alike. See more..
5.0 Ecoquest Experiences & Tours (1.751 reviews)
- Zip line with Fernando
Friday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Adrenaline & Extreme Tours • Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks • Climbing Tours • Eco Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours

Had an awesome friendly guide named Fernando. Was great at explaining the zip line protocol and also taught us a bit about the wild life and its cultural significance. The course itself was great, just enough adrenaline but nothing too scary. Perfect if you have never been zip lining before. There’s some mild hiking in between the lines that gets a bit uneven and steep but totally manageable. Our booking was for 2 people and we joined about 12 others for the tour but I think you can book private tours if you prefer. Great activity to do with friends/family if you’re looking for a break from the beach. See more..
5.0 Aventuras Tierra Adentro, Inc. (1.612 reviews)
- Most amazing experience of my life <3
Friday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Adrenaline & Extreme Tours • Climbing Tours

I had the most amazing experience on this tour! Definitely gets your adrenaline pumping, honestly I've never been more terrified in my life. I found it so reassuring that the guide, Rosanno and his crew had been training climbers and much more for a very long time. Safety is always prioritized and they made it so fun! They are funny and personable. As for the experience itself you're climbing across cliff walls, ziplining, and swimming/trekking in a cave?....Better than a dream I absolutely loved it. From the equipment to the experiences you get, it is worth more than the price. I went in April of 2021 and I would highly recommend going then the water levels for the water falls and the caves are just right. Jasmine See more..
5.0 Rocaliza Adventure Tours (1.528 reviews)
- Waterfall adventure
Canyoning & Rappelling Tours • Adrenaline & Extreme Tours • Climbing Tours

I did this tour years ago, and i loved it and i decided to do it again with my boyfriend. He never did simething like this.The best part of the trip is waterfall repeling, zipline, and walking through the river, and also the lunch and the yummy drink at the grandma's house... See more..
5.0 Jet Snorkel (1.035 reviews)
- Unique experience
Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Scuba & Snorkelling

This was a unique adventure and allowed all in our group to be together and separate as needed. We all had fun!. We saw turtles! Not a ton else to see that day. Suggest going on earlier tour as the small area of water can get crowded as the days goes on. See more..
5.0 The Spoon Experience (1.020 reviews)
- Flavours of Puerto Rico Cooking Class
Friday: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM City Tours • Cultural Tours • Historical & Heritage Tours • Walking Tours • Food Tours

This cooking class was amazing! Chef Nivia was knowledgeable and patient. She shared information about Puerto Rico’s culinary history and skillfully guided us through the preparation of several local dishes. Highly recommend this experience to any foodies visiting PR or those who are just looking for something fun and interesting to do! See more..
5.0 Charlie's Custom Day Tours Puerto Rico (952 reviews)
- December 2019 Harmony of the Seas Cruise- San Juan
Friday: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM Sightseeing Tours • Private Tours

I can't say enough about Charlies Custom Day Tours! He was fantastic! We had a party of 7 ranging in age from 19-55. This was our first trip to San Juan and we had no idea what to do. This tour was great! We got to see so many things and learn so much about the culture. Carlos is super friendly and knowledgable. His van is very roomy, he has it stocked with drinks, beer, and snacks. I am so glad we went with Carlos rather than a cruise excursion. I feel like we got to see so much more of the island; we even got to experience the rainforest. hopefully, my pictures will load so you get a glimpse of what we experienced. Also, I feel like it was a great bargain. His van will accommodate 8 passengers, so it was much cheaper than a boat excursion also. We thought San Juan was going to be boring but Carlos made it our favorite excursion of the trip! Even my young adult children loved it! Please do yourself a favor and book with Carlos! You won't regret it! See more..
5.0 Puerto Rico Tour Desk (881 reviews)
- Beautiful tour with a knowledgeable guide
City Tours • Scuba & Snorkelling • Boat Tours • Hiking & Camping Tours • Kayaking & Canoeing

Went on this tour for Dia de los Reyes. Frankie was a wonderful tour guide. As someone who doesn’t love heights, was a little nervous but felt safe and enjoyed the pace and knowledge of Frankie. Been to the island a few times and have never been able to enjoy these beautiful sites. 10/10 would recommend for a great hiking experience and site seeing in the rainforest See more..
5.0 Puerto Rico as a Local (857 reviews)
- Fantastic Cave Swim Experience!!
Cultural Tours • Walking Tours • Private Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Day Trips

Yemile is the absolute best. She picked us up in her pristine van, her information about the island was fascinating and engaging, the recommendations she gave to prepare for the swim was spot on, and she took so many pictures and shared them with us. Lunch was at an authentic local spot and then the last nature walk was perfect. Our whole group loved her and her tour was most definitely a highlight of our trip! See more..
5.0 De Tour Con Ali (694 reviews)
- Ali was the best!
Friday: 7:00 AM - 11:00 PM City Tours • Cultural Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Private Tours • Day Trips

We spent 2 days with Alicia. Alicia was fantastic. She was like family. She understood our needs. My husband and I are handicapped and she created tours that would satisfy what we were looking for and was entertaining for my kids (teenager and a grown up). I wanted to show my family the highlights of San Juan and Ponce. The first day rained all day but Alicia was able to improvise so well and we were able to see most of San Juan and get those great pictures. We even went to an artisan festival with music. Our trip to Ponce was great. We learned so much. We ate well and the Serallles Castle had the most amazing view. To make up for the bad weather the day before, she took us to the Hot Srings in Coamo at sunset. It was a great way to end our 2 day tour. I will definitely be calling on Alicia again when we return. I definitely recommend Ali and her company for a real look at Puerto Rico. She was very nice, funny, engaging, and entertaining. Thank you, Ali. See more..
5.0 Casa Venturas (666 reviews)
- Best Experience Ever
Taxis & Shuttles • Day Trips

It was my first time there and the experience was AMAZING. Eliu and Paul were the best, I for one can’t swim and am terrified of just being around water. They helped me and I was comfortable enough to just be in the water. My daughter took advantage of the whole experience and she had a great time. Next year, am coming back to PR I will definitely book another tour and hopefully I get Eliu and Paul as our guide tours. Definitely would recommend this place to my family and friends See more..
5.0 Jerrys Adventures (586 reviews)
- A Must-do Adventure!!!
Friday: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM Boat Tours • Eco Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Kayaking & Canoeing

I did the Hidden waterfall tour and I must say, it was amazing! My tour guide was Jesus and he was very friendly and knowledgeable about the history of Puerto Rico. He picked us up from our hotels and Airbnb’s then took us all the up the mountain. The tour was definitely intermediate level depending on your age. Quite a few people were slipping and falling into the rocky water streams and the mud so be ready to get down and dirty! To get directly underneath the waterfall you have to do some bouldering which was quite difficult for me but Jesus and his co-your guide Manny show you the best foot placement to climb along the side of the rocks. The scenery was stunning and I will be doing this again when I return to PR. Afterwards, Jesus took us to a local restaurant, the food was inexpensive and delicious. Then he dropped all us off at our hotels. 10/10 recommend this tour!! See more..
5.0 Puerto Rico Green Transportation (564 reviews)
- Robert/Roberto is the best guide!
Taxis & Shuttles

Enjoy a seamless transportation experience from the airport, cruise ship or your hotel to any part of the island, 24/7, In the most modern Vehicles that fit your exact need. Or, explore the wonders of Puerto Rico in our private guided tours, from the majestic rainforest to the architectural wonder of old San Juan, Puerto Rico has it and we take you there. See more..
5.0 Sail PR (496 reviews)
- Look No Further! This is the one!
Friday: 10:30 AM - 7:00 PM Boat Tours • Water Sports • Sightseeing Tours • Boat Rentals

Amazing sailing experience! I booked the whole boat for 6 people. Glasses were never empty, we played our own music, got some history of what we were seeing, happened to see dolphins. The sunset was 10000% worth it and I am recommending everyone to book with Sail PR. See more..
5.0 Kalichi Adventures (477 reviews)
- Total departure from just another outdoor excursion!
Temporarily closed - Closed until further notice Canyoning & Rappelling Tours • Adrenaline & Extreme Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours

From body boarding down the river, jumping off rocks into beautiful and inviting pools, repelling down the side of small cliffs like a boss, being silly and meeting some incredible humans – Kalichi is truly a treat for any PR visitor or local. Traveling as a solo female, I was taken SUCH good care of by the guides. Kevin, Jose and Tony. My boos. An adventure like this might seem a bit overwhelming – but if you feel hesitant at all, the guides will give you an alternative option equivalent to a delightful hike though El Yunque just steps away from the rest of the group. It’s a super family friendly tour and quite honestly the kids in my group had the best time ever. BRING CASH TO TIP YOUR GUIDES. These guys bust their butts off and as someone who works in the outdoor industry - the pay doesn't match the hard work. If you have to choose one tour in PR– choose this one. You will be SO happy that you did! See more..
5.0 Sailing Dreams (460 reviews)
- Capt. Judith is a delight!
Friday: 12:00 AM - 11:30 PM Boat Tours

We had an adventure and more. We booked an afternoon sail, and after a friendly greeting and orientation, headed out under skies with building clouds. Maybe 20 minutes after setting sail, it started to rain. It quickly began to pour. Our captain suited up and sent us below with the friendly first mate, who kept our drinks refreshed, though we had to head for port. Of course the downpour ended about the time we tied up! It's the tropics. We had flexibility so we returned the next day for a full 90 minute+ very sunny and lovely sail out to the fort at the end of Old San Juan. Judith shares history of the area along with helpful tips if one is steering the boat, which she encourages! We had an amazing time - both times! :) (I did find the booking and payment process confusing, but phone support was quick and responsive.) See more..
5.0 TripByJC (441 reviews)
- Awesome!!
City Tours • Cultural Tours • Historical & Heritage Tours • Walking Tours

This guide was EXTREMELY personable and so knowledgeable about the culture history and architecture of San Juan. He guided us through the hidden gems of This beautiful city and wove a thrilling and magical tale that will make San Juan impossible to forget. Dodging between rain showers and timing everything perfectly for the most beautiful light for picture taking, he took such good care of everyone in our small group as we tread on the iconic blue cobblestones that can be treacherous. I would highly recommend this thorough and fascinating tour! See more..
5.0 Altura (380 reviews)
- Big Waterfall Adventure
Friday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Cultural Tours • Canyoning & Rappelling Tours • Climbing Tours • Eco Tours • Hiking & Camping Tours

Wow. This Puerto Rico waterfall adventure was absolutely epic in every way. Andre and his team were incredible guides as our party enjoyed a jam packed adventure complete with rock climbing, repelling down not 1 but 3 breathtaking waterfalls and enjoying the great outdoors. Andre went above and beyond to accommodate the special needs of our party (one person had to leave with enough time to make it back to San Juan airport) and made sure everything worked out As we needed with the time constraint. This outdoor adventure was hands down one of the best experiences I have been able to partake in, especially being a first time repeller. I felt safe in the hands of Andre and his team. This is an absolute must if you travel to PR. See more..
5.0 Archie Jetski Rental (376 reviews)
- All the way from New York!!!!
Friday: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM Boat Tours • Waterskiing & Jetskiing • Boat Rentals • Speed Boats Tours

Best excursion to do in PR! The process was quick and easy and everyone is very professional, nice and helpful. Vanly made sure we felt comfortable and did an amazing job at explaining how to work the jet ski and the boundaries where we can go! It was my first time jet skiing so I was super nervous but the guy in the water (wish I had his name) made sure I felt comfortable in the jet ski before letting me ride off he even had one of his colleagues stay close to me until I was comfortable enough. Sincerely an amazing experience can’t wait to come back!!! See more..
5.0 Atabey Tours (376 reviews)
- Beautiful and Majestic
Private Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours

Beautiful and Majestic! Thank you Andres for sharing the beauty and splendor of El Yunque with us. The hospitality from pick up at the hotel to drop off was on par with top rated restaurants and hotels of the world. The knowledge and descriptions of the biodiversity and history of Puerto Rico left me more informed and curious. Cliff Jumping, Waterfalls, and hiking. What a day! 10 out of 10 — I can’t recommend this trip and Andres enough! See more..
5.0 Caribbean Fishing Academy (362 reviews)
- Exceptional experience!
Friday: 5:00 AM - 9:00 PM Adrenaline & Extreme Tours • Boat Tours • Water Sports • Eco Tours • Fishing Charters & Tours

Our family of six (two adults and four kids ages 8-12) was lucky enough to sail with Luis today. Although we had booked off-shore, the forecast required us to modify to in-shore, which we were promptly notified of and we didn’t mind one bit. Luis was positive, friendly, and super engaged with our kids. He went above and beyond to ensure we had a great time, though he was transparent that it was a “fishing” trip and not a “catching” trip. In the end, not only did we catch a trifecta of fish, we got a seaside tour of Old San Juan, the kids learned many fun facts about the area, and we had a lot of laughs along the way. I would recommend this trip without hesitation, and we would absolutely sail with him again!! See more..
5.0 Hidden Excursions PR, LLC (357 reviews)
- Fun Adventure, Great Tour Guide
Hiking & Camping Tours • Private Tours • Day Trips

Jean was an awesome tour guide! He was very nice and welcoming and taught us all about the environment and history of Puerto Rico. Along the way he took photos and videos of us and shared it right afterwards. The lunch place we went to was delicious and the transportation being included was a huge plus! Definitely recommend if you’re looking for an adventure (be prepared to get muddy and scale some rocks - it’s worth it for the view of waterfalls and the fun). See more..
5.0 Peacock Bass and Tarpon Tours (353 reviews)
- Awesome tarpan fishing
Water Sports

Had a great time with Captain Paco! He was prepared with lots of bait, waters, sodas, and bug spray (trust me, use this). We left at 7am and were on the water for around 4 hours, catching 13 fish (huge and beautiful) and on our way back, helped a friend of his catch a 100 lb tarpan! So awesome and Paco was knowledgeable and very friendly. Would recommend. See more..
5.0 Adventure Mermaid (329 reviews)
- The best snorkeling experience!
Scuba & Snorkelling • Nature & Wildlife Tours

Haley was our guide and we couldn't have enjoyed the experience more! She is amazingly knowledgeable and skilled, and provided a personalized experience on our last morning in San Juan. She's a great teacher and so helpful with tips and suggestions. When one of us started to get a little seasick in the choppy water- Haley noticed it and gently guided him to the water's edge almost before he was even aware that he was feeling off. See more..
5.0 Seeing Puerto Rico (249 reviews)
- Waterfall hike in Canóvanas!
City Tours • Multi-day Tours • Cultural Tours • Historical & Heritage Tours • Private Tours • Bus Tours • Adrenaline & Extreme Tours • Taxis & Shuttles • Walking Tours • Eco Tours • Hiking & Camping Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Day Trips

Narayan and Lismar are polite, friendly, considerate, and entertaining guides! They have spent most of their lives on the island and know it well. I absolutely loved my 6 hour trip with them to a hidden waterfall in Canóvanas. The waterfall is a 20-30 minute uphill and downhill hike. Certain parts have a rope that their children put up. Expect to get your shoes muddy and wet on this trip! The waterfall and natural swimming pool are absolutely beautiful! There’s a natural rock slide under the water and your guides will show you which rocks to jump off of into the deeper part of the water. Lunch was at a local Puerto Rican restaurant. Food was amazing and highly recommend trying the mashed green bananas. Very affordable for the portions you get! Thank you Narayan and Lismar! I felt safe, comfortable, well fed with them. You must book with them to see the other side of PR! See more..
4.5 Old San Juan (16.6k reviews)
- The best of PR
Spent More than 3 hours Historic Sites • Neighborhoods • Historic Walking Areas

This historic area in San Juan exudes old-world charm. Walk along the cobbled streets and past colorful buildings, historic fortresses, and old city walls, some of which date back to the 16th century. You might even chance upon local musicians playing some salsa or jazz tunes. There are also several museums where you can learn more about the history, art, and culture of the area, plus cool cocktail bars and restaurants for a quintessentially Puerto Rican meal. Don't miss all the best sights (and food!) on a walking tour of Old San Juan. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 San Juan National Historic Site (7.129 reviews)
- Two forts and in between
Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Historic Walking Areas

Constructed to defend the San Juan coastline during the 17th and 18th centuries, this dramatic fortress rises 140 feet above the sea on a rocky promontory, and is composed of six huge levels of ramps, barracks, dungeons, turrets, towers and tunnels. See more..
4.5 Castillo de San Cristobal (4.629 reviews)
- The biggest fort of the Americas
Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Military Bases & Facilities

This massive, 27-acre historic fort protecting the eastern gate of old San Juan is considered the largest Spanish fort built in the Americas. See more..