BLOG Post: Old San Juan
Old San Juan, located on the north coast of Puerto Rico, is a charming neighborhood steeped in culture and history. The area is home to many of the island's most popular attractions, including colonial-era buildings, churches, and plazas. Visitors to Old San Juan can explore the colorful streets and learn about the island's rich history and culture. Getting to Old San Juan from Isla Verde is best done by Uber (15min) as street parking is limited to residents. The municipal bus #53 or taxis are also an option.
The El Morro fortification is among Old San Juan's most recognizable sights. This hilltop stronghold from the 16th century overlooks the ocean and is a favorite destination for tourists to take in the scenery. The fortress was built by the Spanish to protect the city from invasions and today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can take a guided tour of the fortress and learn about the history of its construction and the role it played in the island's defense.
Another must-see attraction in Old San Juan is the San Cristobal fortress. This fortress, also built in the 16th century, is the largest fortification built by the Spanish in the New World. Visitors can take a guided tour of the fortress and learn about the history of the fortification and the role it played in the island's defense.
Old San Juan is also home to many historical buildings and churches. The Cathedral of San Juan Bautista is the second oldest cathedral in the Americas and is a great place to visit for those interested in architecture and history. Visitors can also explore the Casa Blanca, the oldest house in San Juan and the residence of the first Spanish Governor of Puerto Rico.
The streets of Old San Juan are lined with colorful colonial-era buildings, many of which have been beautifully restored. Visitors can stroll through the streets and admire the architecture, stop at one of the many plazas, or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants and cafes.
Old San Juan is also home to many museums, art galleries, and cultural centers. The Museum of the Americas is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the Caribbean and Latin America. The Museum of San Juan is also worth a visit, which is dedicated to the history of Puerto Rico and its capital.
The island of Puerto Rico is known for its vibrant and lively festivals and events, and Old San Juan is no exception. The San Sebastian Street Festival, which takes place in January, is a lively celebration of Puerto Rican culture and heritage, with music, food, and dance. Visitors can also attend the Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastian which is an annual event that takes place in January and features live music, art, and food stalls.
Old San Juan is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Puerto Rico. The area is home to many of the island's most popular attractions, including historic fortresses, colonial-era buildings, and churches. Visitors can explore the colorful streets, learn about the island's rich history and culture, and experience the vibrant festivals and events that take place in the area. Old San Juan is a perfect destination for history buffs and culture enthusiasts, and a great place to get a taste of the island's unique blend of Caribbean and Spanish influences.
