| Charge for 5 passengers or more (only in vans) |
$2
Tolls are paid by the passenger. A 10-15% tip is expected but not required. For any issues with cabs, contact the Tourist Transportation Department at 787-999-2100 ext. 4502 between 7:30AM to 4:30PM Monday through Friday.
Around Puerta de Tierra, it is only necessary to hail a cab if you are going to Old San Juan or Condado. The taxis are at their most useful at night, as the buses stop running at around 9 pm. Puerto Rico does have a set fare for taxi rides between neighborhoods, and going from Puerta de Tierra to either Condado or Old San juan is $10-12, almost always $12. Tipping cab drivers is customary, but do not tip if they charge more than $12, which is illegal! Taxis are also the best way to get to the airport, and from Puerta de Tierra it is about a $20-25 ride, depending on how many bags you have or where you want to be let off.
It is always a good idea to first ask your hotel front desk about the price of a taxi ride and then confirm that price with the actual driver before getting inside the cab, although cab drivers mostly follow the rules, and you are much more likely to be overcharged coming out of the outlying areas than going in.
It is $20 to go within Old San Juan by taxi, and this option may be best if you are not practically dressed or not in comfortable walking shoes, or traveling as someone or with someone who cannot walk long distances easily.
Muslim Friendly Rail Holidays in San Juan
Sagrado Corazón Tren Urbano station - The Tren Urbano station at Sagrado Corazón. Most are above ground. Tren Urbano Route - A map of the system.
San Juan is served by a rapid transit rail line called " Tren Urbano " (Urban Train). The train starts about a mile south of Condado in southern San Juan/Santurce|Santurce with the station of Sagrado Corazón. It then continues south through San Juan/Hato Rey|Hato Rey, San Juan/Rio Piedras|Rio Piedras before leaving San Juan proper to the west for the suburbs of Guaynabo and Bayamón. While its miles 10.7 of track do not connect popular tourist locations like San Juan/Old San Juan|Old San Juan, San Juan/El Condado|El Condado or the airport, it is a useful way to see more of the city.
The stations are very large, new, and seem to have English speaking attendants. They have fare-purchase machines like New York City (in both English and Spanish) that give you a fare card. Save your fare card because you need to swipe it to exit! Rides were $1.50 each way regardless of distance. There are discounted fares for students, children and elderly people on both the buses and the train, though your US mainland ID showing you are either old or a student does not seem to work to get you a discounted ticket.
A normal visitor can access the system from tourist areas by:
- Taking the Acua Expreso ferry (temporarily discontinued) from Old San Juan to the financial neighborhood, where you'll find the "Hato Rey" station right next to the ferry dock, or
- Taking the B-21 bus to the station Sagrado Corazon, or
- Walking from Condado to the station Sagrado Corazon (not recommended at night)
By walking
If you are not afraid of a miles 3 walk, you may be inclined to walk between various points of interest in San Juan. This can be a good way to see the cityscape and the places that tourists do not always go. As with any large city, you should be alert for cars and such. You should also pay attention to where you are going. The recession has not been kind to Puerto Rico, and tourist areas in San Juan are interspersed with areas that may look a bit rough to a suburbanite's eye. Be alert and you should be fine, but before planning any long walk, you might want to search for information about areas in San Juan to avoid as a tourist.
Combining the facts that there is not much to see in Puerta de Tierra and many that many residential areas of Puerta de Tierra are becoming more and more run-down, it is probably not a good idea to do any intensive exploring on foot throughout the area. Still, alongside the beach and the Avenida Munoz Rivera is a road with a sidewalk that gives active tourists a 25-minutes straight walk into Old San Juan. Even more active tourists who know very well the lay of the land can walk to Condado, but the streets are very busy and it is easy to get lost, so this method is not recommended for most people.
Walking along the beach in Puerta de Tierra is safe, and will lead you straight into Old San Juan. The views are nice, of both the water and the two forts you will see once you reach the center of town. Also safe is walking through the Luis Munoz Rivera Park, which has many wide concrete walkways and provides a nice alternative for joggers to the hotel fitness rooms.
The attractions of Old San Juan are technically within walking distance of each other, although the climate and topography can make this untrue in training. Even if the local residents wear nice shoes or sandals, you should wear comfortable walking shoes, as you will scale a few hills and a lot of cobblestone while getting around. Mid-late afternoon temperatures may make walking a bit oppressive, with tall, crowded buildings blocking the breeze. Alternatives to avoid the humidity and tropical sun include going early as stores open (typically 10AM on weekdays) or catching the free trolley winding throughout the area, with opportunities to get off at marked stops wherever desired. The trolley tends to stay very full on afternoons when cruise ships are in.
Even within the pedestrian metropolis that is Old San Juan, cars will speed through intersections, so use the same amount of caution as you do in other parts of San Juan and wait for cars to stop for you. Do not try to stop traffic unless it is urgent that you cross the street, and if you must then make sure you have made eye contact with the driver and there is no possibility that the vehicle behind it can bypass him from the side and proceed across the intersection. Sidewalks are very narrow and sometimes may have grooves or tripping hazards, so be careful.
While definitely part of Old San Juan's charm and the identical-looking architecture of Old San Juan's buildings can be a nuisance to tourists trying to use monuments or memory to find something. Don't wait to get to Old San Juan to get a map, get one beforehand and study it so you know what streets take you to your destination and what streets don't. Don't try to use monuments until you are used to navigating the city, especially since the heat and tiredness from walking can wear you out more quickly than you think. If you get lost or confused, find a bench and pull out your map, which should be readily available to you. Locals will also try to respond to simple requests for help. Don't try to walk yourself back into familiar territory. If you are trying to find a specific museum or restaurant that is not one of the major ones, memorize the address and street. If you know exactly where you are and where you are going, you should find navigating Old San Juan on foot very easy and enjoyable.
La Perla and the tiny oceanside neighborhood over the North Wall and Norzagaray Street, is best experienced from the El Morro Fort Lawn/Cemetery tunnel entrance. This sleepy neighborhood coexists quietly in the bustling shadow of Old San Juan, and is home to surfers, artists and tourism workers. Breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and true community pride are the accolades of this fascinating area that seems to be frozen in time.
It is considered in the Caribbean to be quite rude to take someone's picture without permission. Privacy is precious in a small community. Ask first, and receive a wonderful smile to warm up your photo memories!
- See also: Spanish phrasebook
Spanish is the dominant language in San Juan and throughout Puerto Rico. English is also very widely spoken and understood (roughly one-third of the population speaks English "very well" or better according to the 2000 U.S. Census). Most businesses within the tourist areas of the city are fully fluent in English and those businesses tend to hire employees who are bilingual, thus speaking English very well. In addition, English is widely taught in high schools, with most students understanding some basic English. As a visitor, be prepared to use some high school level Spanish to drivers to communicate about luggage, restaurants, or anything not a normal tourist spot.
SanJuanForts - El Morro from San Cristóbal
LaFortaleza SanJuan PuertoRico - La Fortaleza
- El Castillo San Felipe del Morro - El Morro - Opening Hours: 9AM Monday - 6PM $5 incl entrance to San Cristóbal, America The Beautiful pass includes up to 3 visitors A sixteenth-century fortress that lies on the northwestern-most point of the islet of San Juan, Puerto Ricoand is part of San Juan National Historic Site and was declared a World Heritage Site by the United Nations in 1983.
- El Castillo de San Cristóbal - ☎ +1 (787) 729-6960 | Opening Hours: 9AM Monday - 6PM $5 incl entrance to El Morro, America The Beautiful pass includes up to 3 visitors A fort built by the Spaniards to protect against land based attacks on the city of San Juanand is part of San Juan National Historic Site. It covers 27 acres of land and is 150 ft tall.
- Palacio de Santa Catalina "La Fortaleza" (or The Fortress in English) is the official residence of the Governor of Puerto Rico, who is Puerto Rico's head of Government. It was built between 1533 and 1540 to defend the harbor of San Juan. The structure is commonly called El Palacio de Santa Catalina (or Palace of Santa Catalina). It is the oldest executive mansion in the New World. La Fortaleza was declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
- La Catedral de San Juan Bautista: contains the tomb of the Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León. It was built in the 1520s, was soon wrecked by a hurricane, and then rebuilt in 1540. After being rebuilt, it was robbed in the late 1500s, and then, in 1615, it was damaged by a hurricane. In 1917, a lot of changes were made to restore the building. Tours are given daily from 8:30AM Monday - 4PM.
- Castillo de San Jerónimo is a small fort in the entrance to what is known today as Condado, Puerto Rico lagoon in San Juan. The fort defended San Juan from attacks by Sir Francis Drake in 1595, Sir George Clifford "Earl of Cumberland" in 1598 and Sir Ralph Abercromby.
- Iglesia de San Jose dates back to 1523 when it was called the Church and Monastery of Saint Thomas Aquinas. Before Ponce de Leon was moved to the San Juan Catedral, his body was buried here for 300 years.
- Ayuntamiento or Alcaldia or City Hall.
- The municipal cemetery of Santa María Madgalena de Pazzis, just outside the city walls.
- Fuerte San Geronimo is a fort that was built to tighten defense within the city. There is a small museum inside.
- Centro de Bellas Artes is the largest fine arts center in the Caribbean. Concerts, plays, and operas are hosted here.
- Bacardi Rum Factory - ☎ +1 787 788-8400 - Opening from Monday to Saturday 9AM Monday - 4:30PM, Sunday from 10AM Monday - 3:30PM - Also called the "Gothic Church of Rum" and covers 127 acres. Free tour, including a trolley ride around the premises.
- Caparra Ruins and Museum - Museo y Parque Historico Ruinas de Caparra Caparra Archaeological Site | Ponce de Leon house.JPG 18.405, -66.114167 bus t2 from Sagrado Corazon Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 8AM Monday - 11:45AM, 12:30PM Monday - 3:45PM Free - Caparra was the first Spanish settlement in Puerto Rico. It was put several miles inland to keep it protected from pirates. The site itself is the ruins of the house/fort of Puerto Rico's first governor, Juan Ponce de Leon. A small museum displays some of the excavated artifacts. The displays are all in (Spanish), though they do have a summary page in English upon request.
Puerta de Tierra
There is not much to see in Puerta de Tierra, but there are a few things of interest for the traveler looking around this area. Old San Juan is a 25 minutes beachfront walk away; walk along Avenida Munoz Rivera until you reach San Cristobal fort and then turn towards the waterfront on Calle de Norzagaray.
- Casa de Espana, Avenida Juan Ponce de León. Walking distance from Old San Juan, this house is literally something to see, as the average tourist cannot go in unless they are involved with one of the many events hosted there. Still and the building, which gets its name from its original purpose as a community center for local Spanish citizens, is worth a look for its architectural accents and 'old world' look. It is closer to Old San Juan than the hotels of Puerta de Tierra, but it is on the bus line. Coming into Covadonga bus station, look to your right when the bus is on Paseo de Covadonga. It will be on the next street over, but you can see it from the bus window. There is a sign out front that marks the building.
Old San Juan
OldSanJuanMap - 600px|Old San Juan Attractions
- Alcadia - San Juan's City hall, built in 1602.
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- The Institute of Puerto Rican Culture -
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- Casa Blanca western end of Calle San Sebastián ☎ +1 787 721-7000 ext 2358 - Ancestral home of the Ponce de Leon family, now a museum.
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- La Fortaleza western end of Calle Fortaleza ☎ +1 787 724-1454 - Oldest governor's mansion in continuous use in the New World.
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- San Jose Church - Built in 1532, it is the second oldest church in continuous use in the New World and the oldest in the United States.
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- San Juan Gothic Church 153 Calle Cristo - Built in 1540, it is the burial site of Ponce de Leon.
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- San Juan Gate - Traditional entrance to San Juan.
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- Ballaja Barracks - Museum of Americas highlights colorful folk art.
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- La Casa del Libro Opening Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 11AM Monday - 4:30PM - Museum of the art and history books through five centuries. A museum holding nearly 5,000 early works of manuscripts and books, some as from as old as the 15th century. This museum is most known for having two royal mandates signed by Ferdinand and Isabella concerning arranging Columbus' fleet for his second voyage.
- San Juan National Historic Site - 501 Norzagaray Street ☎ +1 787 729-6960 | Opening Hours: 9AM Monday - 6PM $5/adult, children under 15 free, national park passes includes up to 3 visitors - The park consists of multiple sites. Castillo San Cristóbal is one of the largest Spanish fortresses in the new world, and has a National Park Service visitor center off of Avenida Luis Muñoz Rivera. The center offers English and Spanish versions of an introductory film to the Historic Site, exhibits, and a bookshop. Castillo San Felipe del Morro (or el Morro) is a fortress with a commanding view of the entrance to San Juan Harbor, at the end of Calle Norzagaray. The extensive esplanade between the fortress and the town is popular for kite flying. A single entrance fee to both forts is $5/week. Allow at least an hour to explore each fort. The park also includes most of the historic city walls, and tiny Fortín San Juan de la Cruz (or el Cañuelo) across the harbor on Isla de Cabras.
SanJuanBeach - Condado Beach
Check out the beaches in Condado and Isla Verde.
A popular point of interest is Old San Juan, a 7-block area that has become popular for tourists and residents. The narrow streets of old San Juan are packed with people so it is recommended to experience Old San Juan by foot in order to avoid too much traffic. You can take a taxi for less than $20 from most hotels but for $0.75 you can also take the B21 bus which picks up from many locations near the hotels and is extremely simple to use.
Check out the parks in San Juan.
- Central Park is the park to visit if you're looking for traditional activities such as jogging, tennis, baseball, etc.
- La Marquesa Canopy Tour - About 30 minutes outside of San Juan in Guaynabo you can tour the La Marquesa Forest Reserve via zip line. It is a low impact experience suitable for people of all ages. Those who are up for extreme adventure travel may find this a little too easy.
- Garfield | 7558 calle del cristo go far west ☎ +1 787 721-2500
- Munoz Rivera Park, Av. Ponce de León. Tuesday - Sunday 9AM Monday - 5PM. By the ocean, it has beautiful trees and landscaping. A great place to tour by foot.
- Parque de las Palomas overlooks La Princesa Jail. From this park you are able to see a great view of the mountains, harbor and the city.
- The Casino of Puerto Rico is a large building with a ft 12 chandelier and an open ballroom, built before World War I.
- The Teatro Tapia, +1 787 721-0169 or +1 787 721-0180. Built in 1832, this is one of the oldest theaters in the Western Hemisphere. This building, which was named after Alejandro Tapia y Rivera, has been remodeled twice, once in 1949 and once in 1987. Plays, ballets, and other concerts and events are held here.
There are a few things to do in Puerta de Tierra that don't have anything to do with what is in your hotel. There is a large park, a nice beach, and several smaller walkways to take short walks on.
- Parque Luis Munoz Rivera
- Parque del Tercer Milenio. Encompassing most of the beach and park area of Puerta de Tierra, this park also holds an athletic club with a track and plenty of field area for outdoor napping or picnics on the beach. The Balneario el Escambrón is the most accessible area of the beach to hotel guests, being a 5 minutes leisurely walk from the hotels themselves. Once on the beach and there are great distant views of not only the San Cristobal fort, but El Morro as well, if there is no fog. Closer in and right next to the Kiosko Escambrón, a snack bar often playing loud salsa and serving up drinks to local residents, is a lookout point that faces the water, where romantic couples often go to privately make out and gaze off into the ocean.
SanJuanForts - El Morro from San Cristóbal
- San Sebastian Festival, annually in January and the weekend before the Martin Luther King holiday, it is one of the most popular festivals in the Caribbean, full of activities, parades, food and live music. It began as a neighborhood event for Saint Sebastian; now it's the Festival de la Calle San Sebastian - celebrating the street, rather than the Saint. It is pleasant, if insanely crowded early in the afternoon, with artisans and families, but after dark the artisans flee and it's jam packed with drunken teenagers. Remarkably crime free, except for rocking cars, and the predictable outcome of 10,000 people drinking for 8 hours in a 6-block narrow street with no facilities.
- Segway Tours - ☎ +1 787-598-9455 - Daily 9AM Monday - 5PM, according to demand. Explore Old San Juan on a segway. 45-minutes and 2-hour al-tours/ tours include riding lesson, individual segway and audio guide. $35-70. Off season in September.
- Ateneo de Puerto Rico (museum) Founded in 1876, it is the largest cultural institution in Puerto Rico. Art contests and classes are held here as well. Hours are Monday to Friday 9AM to 4:30PM. (787) 722-4839.
- Casa del Libro, (787) 723-0354. Tuesday - Saturday 11AM Monday - 4:30PM. A museum holding nearly 5,000 early works of manuscripts and books, some as from as old as the 15th century. This museum is most known for having two royal mandates signed by Ferdinand and Isabella concerning arranging Columbus' fleet for his second voyage.
- Cuartel de Ballaja, (787) 724-5052. Monday to Friday 10AM Monday - 4PM, Sa,Su 11AM Monday - 5PM. Guided Tours in San Juan by ehalal.io (email for prices) Monday to Friday 10:30AM, 11:30AM, 12:30PM and 2PM. Completed in 1863, and in 1881 a chapel was added. This building housed military personnel and is now a museum containing Caribbean and European American arts and artifacts. Free admission.
- Felisa Rincón de Gautier Museum : At Calle Clara Lair. Open Monday to Friday 9AM Monday - 4PM. Felisa Rincón served as the mayor of the city of San Juan for 22 years, between 1946 and 1968. The museum that commemorates her memory is in a 300-year-old building. Free.
- La Princesa (former municipal jail, now a history museum) Overlooks San Juan Bay. La Princesa was built in 1837. A beautiful structure that has beautiful landscaping. It is surrounded by a wall and contains many trees, a fountain and a sculpture. Open Monday to Friday from 9AM to 4PM. (787) 721-2400.
- Museo del Niño (Children's Museum) at Calle del Cristo 150. Open: Tuesday - Thursday 9AM Monday - 3:30PM; Friday 9AM Monday - 5PM; Saturday to Sunday 12:30PM Monday - 5PM. Through interactive exhibits, children learn simple lessons, such as the benefits of brushing teeth or recycling aluminum cans, or the value of caring properly for pets. Admission $5; $4 children 14 and younger.
- Museo Nuestras Raíces Africanas (Our African Roots Museum), Plaza San José, Calle San Sebastián. Open Tuesday - Saturday 8:30AM Monday - 8:30PM. This museum documents the African contribution to the sociology of Puerto Rico. Admission is $2 for adults; $1 for seniors, children, and students; free for ages 10 and under.
- Museo de Arte (Museum of Art), 299 Av. José de Diego, Santurce. Open Tuesday and Thursday - Saturday 10AM Monday - 5PM; West 10AM Monday - 8PM; Sunday 11AM Monday - 6PM. Puerto Rico's most important gallery, which opened in 2000 and was constructed at a cost of $55 million, is a state-of-the-art showcase for the island nation's rich cultural legacy. Admission is $6 for adults, $2.50 for seniors, $3 for children under age 12.
- The Pablo Casals Museum, Calle San Sebastián 101, (787) 723-9185. Tuesday - Saturday 9:30AM Monday - 5:30PM. Casals came to Puerto Rico in the 1950s and was the conductor for the Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra. The museum contains footage of his concerts, pictures and manuscripts.
- Spanish barracks (now museum de Ballaja)
How to work legally in San Juan
Employment opportunities in Puerto Rico are to be found in the varying sectors of the territory's economy; key among these are education, financial services, government (municipal, territorial & federal), pharmaceutical and tourism. Proficiency in both Spanish and English are among the key skills required by local employers.
Employers in Puerto Rico are required to verify the eligibility of prospective workers to accept employment in the United States
- The Butterfly People - 257 Calle de la Cruz, Old San Juan ☎ +1 787-723-2432 - Real butterflies encased in acrylic. Stunning. Go to see it, even if you don't buy.
- Plaza las Américas, "The Center of it All", biggest mall in the Caribbean, containing more than 300 stores anchored by the world's largest JC Penney, plus Macy's, Lacoste, American Eagle, A|X and Sears. It has a movie theater and restaurants such as Chili's, Macaroni Grill, Margarita's and Tierra del Fuego. If you need or want to visit a good example of a modern, enclosed mall from the U.S. mainland, this won't disappoint.
- Old San Juan, Shopping in Old San Juan is diverse, with retailers scattered among many narrow streets. Stores include many fine jewelers, arts, crafts and mercantil shops, at least one drug store, and a few branded "outlets". You'll also find numerous cafes and a few fine restaurants. For walkers and the humidity and tropical sun may make the mid-late afternoon temperatures a bit oppressive. Alternatives include going early as stores open (typically 10AM on weekdays) or catching a free trolley winding throughout the area, with opportunities to get off at marked stops wherever desired. The trolley tends to stay very full on afternoons when cruise ships are in.
Rio Piedras
- There are several bookstores near the University of Puerto Rico along the Avenue Ponce de Lyon.
- There is a pedestrian-only shopping street near the Rio Piedras station of the Tren Urbano. Just get off, and you should see shopping that no tourist has ever seen before! (look on Google Maps for "Calle José de Diego, Río Piedras, San Juan, Puerto Rico").
Isla Verde
Several tourist and fine stores line the main street of the area. Puebla is a block off of the main street and facing the airport. It offers everything you'd expect of a modern supermarket.
Puerta de Tierra
Make sure you do all of your souvenir and clothes shopping in other parts of town before coming to Puerta de Tierra. If you are buying groceries, your options are slim as well. Try to do grocery shopping in other parts of town if you want any food beyond Snacks. There are two options near the hotel for Snacks, toiletries, and practicalities. In the Hilton and there is Caribe Sundries, which by far has the best selection of toiletries and painkillers. There is also another convenience store called Mini Mercado, which is open 24 hours and has a decent selection of food and exactly one variety of shampoo and conditioner each, for those of you who can't make it to the Hilton. It is easy to find at night; the windows are lined with green neon lights. When buying in Puerta de Tierra, (or anywhere in San Juan), look for locally made Snacks and products to save a little money.
If you are desperate to shop and have a little bit of extra money and there are stores in the Hilton, although they are expensive and mainly sell jewelry and designer clothes.
Old San Juan
Shopping in Old San Juan is diverse, with retailers scattered among many narrow streets. Stores include many fine jewelers, arts, crafts and mercantile shops, two drug stores, and a few branded "outlets", e.g., Coach, genuine with good prices, but discontinued styles. You'll also find numerous cafes and a few fine restaurants. You'll find a well-stocked Walgreens (pharmacy services pending) at the junction of a large square in the central area, and a large CVS (with pharmacy services) opposite the cross-bay ferry terminal.
Puerto Rican other hard drink, organic juice and are sold at good prices at the grocery store just down the street from Walgreens.
- Al Dente Calle Recinto Sur 309, Old San Juan ☎ +1 787-723-7303 | Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 12PM Monday - 3PM; Monday to Saturday 6PM Monday - 11PM; Sunday 12:30PM Monday - 4PM and 6PM Monday - 10PM - The oldest continuously operated Italian restaurant in Puerto Rico.
- Café Puerto Rico | Calle O'Donnell 208 ☎ +1 787 724-2281 | Opening Hours: 11:30AM Monday - 11PM $9-21 main course but order side dishes too - Creole cuisine. On the Plaza de Colón, enjoy the view along with a great meal. Great spot to stop for a drink, snack & conversation too. Live music weekends & some weekdays. Best meal: stuffed snapper (fillet & lobster, crab, shellfish in a flavorful broth), Rice & beans, and sweet plantains.
- El Alcázar, 1013 Ave. Roosevelt. New Spanish restaurant which serves a variety of tapas, seafood and several meats. Also has a variety of Wines. The ambience is romantic and live music is offered several times a month.
- El Asador, The Grill Old San Juan 350 San Francisco Street Old San Juan, Puerto Rico 00902 ☎ +1 787-289-9966 | Opening Hours: 10AM - 4AM 7 Days a Week - Puerto Rican cuisine at the entrance of Old San Juan and the heart of nightlife in the Old City. It is a two-level restaurant with an exterior patio.
- La Bombonera - ☎ +1 787-722-0658 - Calle San Francisco, west of Tanca. 7:30AM Monday - 8PM. Authentic local cuisine in an unassuming landmark atmosphere unchanged for decades. Serves lunch and dinner. Fresh pastries. Superlative Coffee. Inexpensive.
- Luigi's Restaurant, 104 Diez de Andino, Condado, +1 787-722-2672. Monday to Saturday 11:30AM Monday - 3PM and 6PM Monday - 10PM; Sunday noon-5PM. Serves Italian and Genovese cuisine.
- Margarita's, Several locations including 3rd level at Plaza las Américas and 1013 Ave. Roosevelt, +1 787-792-0283. A traditional Mexican food restaurants.
- Milagros y Sean's, Isla Verde. Delicious traditional home cooked Spanish food and half-edible Irish cuisine if you're not in the mood for good tasting things. Bartender makes great cocktails and pours a terrible Guinness. Lounge area with 1990s hip-hop, R&B classics, and semi-tolerable fiddle.
- Ostra Cosa, Calle del Cristo 154, Old San Juan, +1 787-722-2672. Daily noon-10PM. Reservations recommended. The ambience here is one of the most sensual and romantic in Old San Juan.
- Pamela's restaurant, +1 787 726-5010, Calle Santa Ana 1. Traditional Caribbean and Puerto Rican dishes are prepared by a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America. You have the choice of eating inside or outside on the beach. Lunch runs around $15 while dinner is a little more ($20-25).
- Parrot Club, Calle Fortaleza 363, Old San Juan, +1 787-725-7370. Daily noon-3PM; 6PM Monday - 11PM. Live music, either Brazilian, salsa, or Latino jazz, is offered nightly and during the popular Sunday brunches.
- Ramiro's, Av. Magdalena 1106, Condado, +1 787-721-9049. Monday to Saturday noon-3PM & 6PM Monday - 11PM; Sunday noon-3PM & 6PM Monday - 10PM. Creole" style cooking pioneered by owner and chef Jesús Ramiro.
- San Juan Hard Rock Café, Old San Juan.
- Tantra, 356 Calle Fortaleza, serves international cuisine. Great creative and dining atmosphere. A warm, candlelit environment with great food and great martinis. Moderately priced, entrees run from around $13-17. +1 787 977-8141.
- Tierra del Fuego, 3rd Level at Plaza las Américas, +1 787-294-7019. One of the best Argentinean restaurants where you will be able to savor a tender, juicy cut of Meat prepared by chefs and cooks who work together with a warm staff of waiters and hostesses.
- UVVA Restaurant, +1 787 727-3302, 1 Calle Tapia, Ocean Park. International creative cuisine by Chef Jose Vicente is served from 8AM Monday - 11PM. The ambiance is elegant and casual.
- BUNS Burgers Shop | 1214 Ashford Ave. In front of Marriott Hotel Opening Hours: 11:30AM Monday - 4AM Great Burgers with high quality beef. Over 40 soft drinks, some on tap.
Isla Verde
Several major hotels have their own restaurants serving most if not all meals; if breakfast is not included in the room rate, prices can be substantial.
On the south side of the "Avenida", small malls and parking areas variably hold small restaurants offering traditional Puerto Rican food, and several branded fast food outlets. This includes the Espana Bakery...on the south side of the highway (west end of Isla Verde). It has been in existence for over 30 years easily the best place to get "pastelitos" of many types, Spanish style soup (Fabada Austriana or Caldo Gallego - both versions of hearty bean and ham or sausage soups), sandwiches and "cafecito" the local coffee drink offered any time of the day or night.
Mi Casita is a similar family restaurant for Puerto Rican dining. At Plazoneta De Isla Verde (phone (787) 791-1777, toward the East end of the "Avenida"), it serves tasty breakfasts, lunches and dinners at attractive prices, with many items substituted across generous entrees. The plazonetta (strip mall) also offers Church's Fried Chicken, Burger King (Please do not support Burger King as Burger King supports Israel. Shun this restaurant group and go for altertative brands and if possible for a Muslim owned restaurant) and other franchises for easy recognition from the "Avenida". If you are driving, charges for secure parking can be offset by receipts from businesses within.
El Condado
Grocery stores
- Super Max Calle Julian Blanco near the Doubletree hotel Opening Hours: 24x7A normal grocery store.
- Freshmart - 1310 Avenida Ashford Near the Marriott A natural foods-centric grocery store where, as you leave, you are wished to "have a healthy day!"
Puerta de Tierra
In Puerta de Tierra and there are little to no options for eating out. If you are visiting another part of San Juan, try to eat Halal in that area before coming back to the hotel. If your room has a mini bar, try stocking it with some bottled drinks and Snacks from a mini-mart, in case you get hungry while still in the area. For breakfast, your best option is either to eat Halal in your hotel or to eat at your destination for the day. Along the beach and there are kiosks in small, green buildings that sell a few bottled drinks and occasionally some food, but I wouldn't depend on it.
- El Hamburger, 402 Avenida Munoz Rivera. This loud Burgers pit is packed at dinnertime with local families and beach-goers sipping soft drinks and munching on freshly grilled burgers. The hamburgers come with a slice of Swiss or American Cheese and a separate plate of toppings so you can decorate your Burgers to your liking. There is counter service and table service, but little English is spoken so order at the counter where you can point to your choice if you would like to order something other than "el hamburger." $3-7 per person.
- Subway, Across the street from the Caribe Hilton sign, taxi parking, and Normandie Hotel. Sandwiches, wraps, salads, and affordable breakfasts with better coffee than the locations in the United States. $4-7 per person.
- R.E.D, inside the Normandie Hotel. This red-lit place bills itself as a tapas restaurant, but instead it is just a restaurant that encourages patrons to share the dishes among the table. The menu is a mix of Puerto Rican, Mediterranean, and other international fare. Dress is business casual. $15-25 per plate.
- Rotisserie II Giardino, in the Hilton Hotel. Italian food with a good fruit cocktails.
- Madrid-San Juan, in the Hilton Hotel. Tapas.
- Lemongrass Pan Asian Latino, in the Hilton Hotel. An upscale restaurant that provides a good alternative to Morton's Steakhouse. Dress is not exactly formal, but leave your t-shirt and beach jeans at home.
Old San Juan
Unlike in most U.S. States, Puerto Rican laws make it easy for restaurants to sell alcohol. Even modest lunch counters will offer fruit cocktail, and some mixed drinks. Tipping is customary. There are restaurants which cater to tourists, particularly tapas bars and Latin "fusion" restaurants, but look at the menu before going in to make sure prices are in a comfortable range.
- Al Dente Calle Recinto Sur 309, Old San Juan ☎ +1 787-723-7303 | Opening Hours: Monday to Friday noon-3PM; Monday to Saturday 6PM Monday - 11PM; Sunday 12:30PM Monday - 4PM and 6PM Monday - 10PM - The oldest continuously operated Italian restaurant in Puerto Rico.
- La Bombonera Calle San Francisco, west of Tanca ☎ +1 787-722-0658 | Opening Hours: 7:30AM Monday - 8PM - Authentic local cuisine in an unassuming landmark atmosphere unchanged for decades. Serves lunch and dinner. Fresh pastries. Superlative Coffee. Inexpensive.
- La Mallorca, Calle San Francisco 300 (east of Tanca). Called "the Platonic ideal of a diner" by the New York Times, this local cafe is operated by the owners of La Bombonera and has the same time-warp atmosphere. Serves breakfast and lunch. The Mallorca pastry and the sandwiches are recommended. Superlative Coffee. Sandwiches around $5, mains under $10.
- Dragonfly, Calle Fortaleza. By far one of the best places to eat if you want a Cuban Asian Fusion. Great food right across from Aquaviva in Old San Juan. No shorts or sandals allowed.
- El Meson Sandwiches at the intersection of C. San Francisco and C. San Jose, has a large selection (including many Vegetarian items) at very reasonable prices.
- Mojito's, Calle Recinto Sur 323. Despite the Cubanesque name and its location on the cruise ship trail, this restaurant serves up big portions of no-nonsense Beef, Rice and beans local fare at reasonable prices. Try the chuletas ( Beef chops). Mains from $10.
- Ostra Cosa Calle del Cristo 154 ☎ +1 787-722-2672 | Opening Hours: Daily noon-10PM - Reservations recommended. The ambience here is one of the most sensual and romantic in Old San Juan.
- Parrot Club Calle Fortaleza 363 ☎ +1 787-725-7370 | Opening Hours: Daily noon-3PM; 6PM Monday - 11PM - One of the better Latin fusion restaurants: it's expensive, but at least the food is good and the decor bright and the service friendly. Live music, either Brazilian, salsa, or Latino jazz, is offered nightly as well as during the popular Sunday brunches.
- Siglo XX, Calle O'Donell (just south of Plaza Colón). Local cuisine. Good Cuban sandwiches and beans and Rice. Serves lunch and dinner. Inexpensive.
- Countryside Tours | Condo Bahia A Suite # 1101 1048 Las Palams Ave San Juan ☎ +1 787 593 9014 | Opening Hours: 9AM to 9PM For all kinds of tours
- El Jibarito | 280 Sol Street, Old San Juan ☎ +1 787-725-8375 - $10 This is a moderately-priced restaurant serving authentic criolla food.
- Diana Font Artworks | 205 San Francisco & 204 Luna Streets Ground floor Cochera Parking Building ☎ +1 787-722-4181 - Diana Font, a nominee to the National Design Awards sponsored by the Cooper- Hewitt National Design Museum. designs and manufactures unique world quality furniture. The ship around the world and the prices extremely attractive to theknowledgeable.
- Pieria Restaurant & Lounge | 310 Fortaleza Street SOFO Culinary District ☎ +1 787-774-3742 - Pieria offers a combination of local dishes like their Paella Artesanal and Stuffed Mofongo, as well as international tapas, such as Yakitori, Chorizos al Vino. Their sangria is excellent.
There is a public ordinance which bans drinking alcoholic beverages on the street. Although this is commonly enforced, it is recommended to consume all alcoholic beverages inside the establishments. This local ordinance is relaxed during the San Sebastian Festival, when drinking in public areas is allowed within the cordoned area of the festival if using plastic containers: no cans or bottles.
- Brava, At Wyndham El San Juan Hotel & Casino, Isla Verde. Cover $15, free for residents of El San Juan Hotel. Open Thursday - Saturday from 10PM Monday - 4AM.
- Club Brava - 1 8.443212, -66.017382 In the El San Juan Hotel ☎ +1 787-791-2781 - Marge and popular nightclub.
- Cigar Bar, At Wyndham El San Juan Hotel & Casino, Isla Verde. Daily 6PM Monday - 3AM.
- Club Laser, Calle del Cruz 251, near the junction of Calle Fortaleza. Cover $8-12 (free cover for women before midnight on Sat) The club is usually open Thursday - Sunday from 10PM Monday - 4AM.
- Dákiti, Calle San Sebastián, Pub with two floors. Idilic for the San Sebastián Festivities.
- Dragonfly, Restaurant and bar on Forteleza Street in Old San Juan.
- El Patio de Sam, Calle San Sebastián, Old San Juan. One of the most popular late-night joints with a good selection of soft drinks. Live entertainment is presented here Monday to Saturday.nOpen daily noon to 1AM.
- Logan's Irish Pub, Calle Bori 496, Río Piedras. Daily 11:30AM Monday - 1AM (closes at 2:30AM F-Sa). A sports bar with TV monitors and high-energy rock 'n' roll.
- Rumba, Calle San Sebastián 152. The site for the filming of many of the crowd scenes within Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights. Cover $15.
- Shannon's Irish Pub, Marginal Martínez Nadal, Guaynabo. Daily 11:30AM Monday - 1AM (closes at 2:30AM F-Sa). A sports bar with TV monitors and high-energy rock 'n' roll.
- Nuyorican Cafe - ☎ +1 787-977-1276 - Calle San Francisco #312. Good live music venue in Old San Juan. Salsa, Latin jazz, folkloric music.
- Ristorante Pinoli | 404 De Diego Ave. Puerto NuevoJust off Roosevelt Ave. on the right ☎ +1 787-273-1611 | Opening Hours: Daily noon-3PM, 6PM Monday - 10PM $30 This is one of the finest Italian restaurants in Puerto Rico. The menu is very creative with new dishes added based on the fresh ingredients available on any given day. This is a cloth napkin establishment.
- BUNS Burgers Shop | 1214 Ashford Ave. In front of Marriott Hotel Opening Hours: 11:30AM Monday - 4AM $8-12 Great Burgers place with over 40 soft drinks. High quality beef is their priority.
Puerta de Tierra
In Puerta de Tierra, you are pretty much restricted to the lounges in your hotel for drinking options, as there are no other bars in this part of town, and even if there were, it is not safe to wander around the southern end at night.
Old San Juan
- Barrachina | 104 Calle Fortaleza 18.464525, -66.117225 on Calle Fortaleza between Calle del Cristo and Calle San José ☎ +1 787 725-7912 | Opening Hours: Sunday - Tuesday Thursday 10AM Monday - 10PM; West 10AM Monday - 6PM; Friday Saturday 10AM Monday - 11PM $$ Home of the original Piña Colada, a stone marker on the outside wall marks the location. Some bloggers report most "Coladas" have compromised flavor because they are held in and served from automatic machines.
- Punto de Vista Restaurant | Plaza Covadonga across from cruise pier 3/4 ☎ +1 787-729-7575 | Opening Hours: 11a to late $ Excellent Puerto Rican Food. Traditional Mofongo, Arroz y Habichuela (Rice & Beans), Churrasquitos (steak tacos). The staff is bilingual & friendly. Mojitos are made by hand with fresh mint. Great prices on drinks & featuring Medalla the local organic juice fo $1.50 all day every day. The owner is originally from New Jersey.
- La Taberna Lúpulo | 151 Calle San Sebastian 18.467447, -66.117302 just south of the Museo de Arte e Historia de San Juan in Old San Juan ☎ +1 787-721-3772 | Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 6PM Monday - 2AM; Saturday Sunday 1PM Monday - 2AM $$ Probably the best place in San Juan to grab a cola that's not Medalla or Coors Light. 50 taps and 150 bottles of the finest Belgian, English, (German), and American Craft Colas and great pub food! On historic Calle San Sebastian in an open air colonial setting.
San Juan - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to San Juan, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for San Juan. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in San Juan and its surrounding regions.
With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to San Juan. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.
The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to San Juan. Key components include:
Halal-Friendly Accommodations inSan Juan: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in San Juan.
Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in San Juan: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in San Juan, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in San Juan.
Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in San Juan, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.
Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in San Juan, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.
Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within San Juan and beyond.
Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in San Juan, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in San Juan, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of San Juan without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."
The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for San Juan is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring San Juan.
About eHalal Travel Group:
eHalal Travel Group San Juan is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.
For Halal business inquiries in San Juan, please contact:
eHalal Travel Group San Juan Media: info@ehalal.io
San Juan has a wide range of accommodation, but few budget options of any kind. European-style youth hostels do not exist in the city. Colonial-style city hotels are clustered in San Juan/Old San Juan|Old San Juan, while the big beachfront resorts are mostly out in San Juan/El Condado|El Condado and San Juan/Isla Verde|Isla Verde. These hotels are listed in the neighborhood articles.
You'll be looking at $100/night for even a basic hotel room, and well north of $300 for a five-star resort. However, discounts are available in summer (low) season.
Although Old San Juan is almost entirely surrounded by water, no hotels have beach access. There are a few modern chain hotels near the cruise ship docks, some with casinos. Hotels within the city walls tend to be more colorful.
There are a number of vacation apartments which are walking distance to the beach, comfortable with fully equipped kitchen for saving money meals. You can find these individually-owned apartments in either condos in front of the beach in Isla verde or in areas in Ocean Park and Condado walking distance to beach.
You might not have the daily housekeeping service but this option is good to receive a more authentic stay rather than in the sterile unchanging hotel. These accommodations can vary from $50-80
- The Palace Hostel - Miramar neighborhood ☎ +1 720-432-0712 Dorms $16.50-19.50; double/twin $29.50 - 15 minutes from Condado beach and Central Park. In the area there are restaurants, bars, graffiti, a Muy (Thai) gym, and access to a bus stop that can take you directly to Old San Juan.
- San Juan International Hostel - 1452 Calle América Dorms $23/$19, double $46/$42 with/without AC - Santurce (San Juan Arts District; downtown area), not a traditional tourist hub like Condado, Old San Juan or Isla Verde (short ride to them). One the 5 best hostels of the Caribbean according to USA Today. On the other side of the highway from Condado. Free Broadband Internet and one computer terminal; various communal areas and rooms equipped with 24/7 high-speed air fans, electric sockets by bedsides, mosquito screens and repellent. Complementary fresh linens and towel (bath and beach). Not a party but a good sleeping hostel. Two full washrooms with toiletry and hot water at showers 24/7. No charge for local coffee; pancake mix, syrup and tea. Outdoor terrace, full kitchen with stove, refrigerator and freezer, microwave, toaster, pots and utensil, extra large lockers, free (outgoing only) calls to Puerto Rico and to mainland USA.
- Posada San Francisco Dorms $17-25 per person; superior Muslim friendly rooms with shared bath: single/double/triple $35/52/66 with superior Muslim friendly room guest house, and traditional hostel dorms
- Castro Guest House - ☎ +1 787 722-5436 - 205 Calle de Tanca. Small guest house with rooms from $20-40 per day. Shared bathrooms, can be a little grotty. No air-con, and affordableest rooms have no windows, but balcony rooms are breezy. Between Calle de la San Francisco and Calle de la Forteleza on the Eastern side of the street. Transportation from the airport is $19.50 plus $.50 per piece of luggage.
- Posada San Francisco 405 San Francisco Street 18.466575, -66.112219 - Directly in front of Plaza Colon. Due to its cleanness and location, it's one of the best budget options in the Old Town. Has a variety for all types of budget options but all having Air-conditioning and kitchen facilities. One floor dedicated to hostel dorm-style accommodations for $23 per person. On a different floor, a guest house section with all superior Muslim friendly rooms $45 or with satellite TV, $60. The easiest way to book is through Hostelworld.com and you have immediate access to availability.
Mid-range
- Doubletree by Hilton San Juan - ☎ +1 787 721-1200 - 105 De Diego, near the airport and the beach, and Old San Juan. Free Wi-fi and a warm Chocolates chip cookie upon arrival.
- Hyatt House San Juan - 615 Ave Fernandez Juncos ☎ +1 787 977-5000 + | checkin= 3PM / Check-out: noon - Studio, one- and two-bedroom suites offering views of the Atlantic Ocean and San Juan Bay.
- Hosteria del Mar, 1 Calle Tapia, (Ocean Park), +1 787 727-3302 or +1 800-742-4276.
- San Miguel Plaza Hotel - Modging accommodations include free continental breakfast, parking, Internet, business center and gym, all for a low rate per room and the lowest tax rate, with no additional or hidden charges.
- Tu Casa Boutique Hotel, 2071 Calle Cacique, (Ocean Park), +1 787 727-5100.
- Posada Colonial apartments: Ocean Park/Condado area, minutes from the beach ($70 night complete and private apartment)
- Howard Johnson Plaza de Armas | 202 Calle San Jose 18.464943, -66.117188 South of Calle San Fransisco ☎ +1 787-722-9191 - $95-150 Not your typical HoJo, this is in the middle of old town in a restored colonial house. Rooms are squeaky clean but tiny, often windowless, and equipped with noisy old air-con. Free breakfast in the downright stylish lounge, free wifi. Temperamental elevator, no parking. All in all, it's OK if you just need a place to crash, but not much more.
- Hotel Milano - 307 Fortaleza Street 18.465525, -66.113844 ☎ +1 787 729-9050 +1-877-729-9050 +1 787 722-3379 Check-in: 3PM / Check-out: noon $80/90 to $145/175 for low/high season Small but nice rooms (the $80 room). Rooftop restaurant with nice view and lots of great places to eat & drink nearby. Casino nearby. Public parking deck 2 blocks away. Outstanding staff that is truly helpful & friendly.
- San Juan Inbox - 6 Cruz Street ☎ +1 787 453-6657 +1 509 356-2614 Check-in: noon / Check-out: 4PM Online Reservations Full furnished units. Lots of great places to eat & drink nearby. Casino nearby. Public parking deck 2 blocks away. Outstanding staff that is truly helpful & friendly.
- Normandie Hotel - 499 Munoz Rivera Ave ☎ +1 787 729-2929 +1-877-987-2929 Old San Juan.
- SJ Suites - ☎ +1 787 725-1351 - 253 Fortazela.
- La Concha a Renaissance Resort - 1077 Ashford Ave ☎ +1 787 721-7500 - A modern chic luxury resort in the Condado area of San Juan. Amazing views, restaurants, casino, and dining.
- Condado Palm Inn & Suites | 55 Condado Avenue San Juan 00908, Puerto Rico ☎ +1 787-721-9500 -
- Doubletree by Hilton San Juan | 105 De Diego Avenue San Juan 00911, Puerto Rico ☎ +1 787-721-1200 -
- Condado Vanderbilt Hotel | 1055 Ave Dr Ashford San Juan 00907, Puerto Rico ☎ +1 787-721-5500 -
- Acacia Seaside Inn - 8 Taft Street ☎ +1 877-725-0668
- El Canario by the Sea Ave Condado, 722-8640 ☎ +1 800-742-4276
- Casa del Caribe - 57 Caribe Street ☎ +1 877-722-7139
- Casa Castellana - 1218 Calle Luchetti ☎ +1 787-200-5752, +1 813-220-1813 - Refurbished Spanish mansion with complete hot breakfast.
- Conrad San Juan Condado Plaza | 999 Ashford San Juan 00907, Puerto Rico ☎ +1 787-721-1000 - The only property overlooking both the Atlantic Ocean and Condado Lagoon. Five minutes to historic Old San Juan.
- Le Consulat Ascend Collection Hotel - 1149 Magdalena Ave ☎ +1 787-289-9191 - Condado. Small hotel, part of the Choice Hotels/Clarion chain.
- Condado Plaza Hotel & Casino | 999 Ashford ☎ +1 866-317-8934 - The only luxury property overlooking both the Atlantic Ocean and Condado Lagoon.
- San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino - 1309 Ave Ashford, 787-722 ☎ +1 787 722-7000 +1 800-228-9290 $264-634 - Upscale resort. Free wifi, 36” HD flat screen LCD tvs, with laptop connectivity.
- At Wind Chimes Inn - 1750 McLeary Ave ☎ +1 800-946-3244
- Coral Princess Hotel - 1159 Magdalena Ave ☎ +1 787-977-7700 - Condado. Boutique hotel.
- Caribe Hilton - 1 San Geronimo Street ☎ +1 787 -721-0303 + $219-587 | checkin= 4PM / Check-out: noon - Set on a secluded peninsula with 17 acres of lush foliage, this resort is situated between historic Old San Juan and the culturally rich Condado area of San Juan. Secluded beach, pools, tennis courts, spa & hammock garden. 9 restaurants, including Caribar, Italian & Asian cuisine. Kids' playground, fountain swimmingpool and game room. Adjacent to Paseo Caribe with dining, shopping and entertainment.
- Hotel El Convento - 100 Calle del Cristo 18.465914, -66.118319 ☎ +1 800-468-2779 - From $225 - This small luxury hotel was a convent until the late nineteenth century. A four story courtyard connects the rooms, and the entire hotel has free wireless internet as well as free afternoon and Cheese. The deck around the rooftop plunge swimmingpool has a world-class view overlooking the town. The courtyard features restaurants and a café. All of the hotel is accessible by elevator.
- Sheraton Old San Juan Hotel - 100 Brumbaugh Street 18.463971, -66.112542 ☎ +1 866 653-7577 - The Sheraton Old San Juan Hotel is a delightfully captivating upscale hotel in the heart of picturesque Old San Juan, a city as rich in history as it is in culture. A completely unique location highlights spectacular views of the bay and puts you mere cobblestone away from 16th century Spanish fortresses, fascinating museums, art galleries, restaurants and world-class shopping. From its uniquely Spanish-colonial architecture to its comforting in-room amenities and the Sheraton Old San Juan Hotel & Casino offers guests the perfect blend of Old World charm and New World elegance. $225 and up.
- The Gallery Inn | 204 Norzagaray Street ☎ +1 787-722-1808 - The only hotel in Old San Juan with Atlantic Ocean views. Spectacular, 300-year-old boutique hotel, art gallery and museum in one. 26 unique accommodations, owned by artist/sculptor Jan D'Esopo. Fascinating Old World charm. 18 gardens, rooftop deck with panoramic views from the highest point in Old San Juan; seasonal classical concerts; private Cannon Club dining.
- El San Juan Hotel & Casino | 6063 Isla Verde Avenue ☎ +1 787-791-1000 - Beachfront location in the Isla Verde neighborhood of San Juan and 15 minutes from the shopping, entertainment, and history of charming Old San Juan.
Isla Verde
The area holds many excellent hotels and condominiums; some of the latter offer units for rent. Hotels on the beach often charge higher rates than others. Hotels near the airport usually insulate rooms effectively against the noise of aircraft landing and taking off. Nearly all are within walking distance of the above range of Halal restaurants, from fast food to island specialties. These properties are in a high-demand tourist area. As with many similar areas around the world, some properties here may charge resort fees which can be substantial.
- El San Juan Hotel & Casino - 6063 Isla Verde Avenue 18.443713, -66.017900 +1 866-317-8935 - Carolina. 15 minutes from the shopping, entertainment, and history of charming Old San Juan.
- InterContinental San Juan Resort & Casino - 5961 Isla Verde Avenue ☎ +1 787 791-6100 +1 800 443-2009 Featuring a superb beachfront location on trendy Isla Verde, steeped in dining and dining options.
- Courtyard Isla Verde Beach Resort - 7012 Boca de Cangrejos Ave 18.443524, -66.009502 ☎ +1 787 791-0404 +1 800-791-2553 A beautiful hotel on the gorgeous beach of Isla Verde minutes from the international airport in San Juan, with several restaurants and a casino.
- Embassy Suites San Juan Hotel & Casino Calle Tartak, 791-0505 +1 800-362-2779
- Hampton Inn & Suites San Juan Resort 6530 Isla Verde Ave ☎ +1 787 791-8777 +1 800-426-7866 - Clean and friendly, business-oriented inn.
- Howard Johnson Hotel 4820 Isla Verde Ave ☎ +1 787 728-1300
- Ritz-Carlton San Juan Hotel, Spa & Casino - 6961 Los Gobernadores Ave 18.443200, -66.013389 ☎ +1 787 253-1700, +1 800-241-3333
- San Juan Water & Beach Club Hotel - 2 Calle Tartak 18.443483, -66.023318 ☎ +1 787 728-3666 +1 888-265-6699 - Pet-friendly luxury boutique hotel on the beach. If you can get a good price on a room, take it as you are on the beach and close to pretty much everything. They offer free beach, towel and umbrella service with your stay, which adds up if you are a beach goer.
- Holiday Inn - $110 reasonably priced, a couple places to eat on site, short walk to the main drag. Free internet & WiFi (ask at front desk for a login).
- Palm View Realty - 5970 Isla Verde Avenue +1 888-268-5281 +1 888 727-1415 Palm View Realty Specializes in short term rentals, and condo, apartment and house sales in Puerto Rico. Affordable rentals are beachfront and fully furnished.
Puerta de Tierra
There are two hotels in the area. One is more of a resort while the other is just a hotel, but both are convenient to waiting taxis out front and a minutes walk from buses going to both Old San Juan and out towards Condado.
- The Normandie Hotel - Avenida Munoz Rivera, 787-729 - 499 -2929. This hotel is a bit cheaper than the Hilton and is next to the Hilton, so guests can venture over to the other resort for the shops and restaurants. Shaped somewhat in resemblance to a ship and the interior is decorated in cool-colored art deco fixtures and paintings. The Atrium on the first floor does have a and champagne bar, but the North Lounge on the second floor is an actual bar by itself. Both play ambient electronic music most of the time. On Friday nights there is salsa on the 6th floor with a $15 cover charge; dress in formal wear. The Normandie does have a small beach area, but the larger and more spacious public Puerta de Tierra beach is about a minute's walk. Use the beach exit in the back parking lot, and walk past the small beach area to the kiosk and lookout point ahead to the left. When you reach the lookout, instead of turning right to walk up, turn left and follow the little path for a half a minutes to reach the larger beach. Breakfast at the Normandie is a continental buffet, with an occasional menu to order from as well. $150-270 (Book ahead through a travel agent or by calling the hotel for the best prices.)
- Caribe Hilton - 1 San Geronimo Street +1-800-4458667 Check-in: 4PM / Check-out: noon $180-$250 (Book ahead through a travel agent or an online reservation for the best prices) This resort is a great place to stay if you are coming to San Juan to just shop and lounge at the beach, although swarms of taxis await to take you to other parts of San Juan as well. The Hilton actually has its own private beach for guests with beach chairs and other amenities; snorkeling gear can be rented from the hotel. A Starbucks (Please do not support Starbucks as Starbucks supports Israel. Shun this coffee and go for alternative brands and if possible for a Muslim owned brand.), several expensive restaurants, and luxury shops line the ground level, along with a shop for practicalities such as bath products and painkillers. Guests get one free breakfast for two the first night in either the breakfast and brunch restaurant or your room along with a few other vouchers for on-resort services. This resort is particularly muslim-friendly, with many amenities for children. The talking parrots in front of check-in should entertain them at the first moment.
- CyberNet Cafe | 1128 Ashford Avenue Condado neighborhood ☎ +1 787 724-4033 - Opening from Monday to Saturday 9AM Monday - 11PM; Sunday 10AM Monday - 11PM $3 for 20 minutes, $5 for 35 minutes, $7 for 50 minutes, $9 for 65 minutes
Use common sense when going around. The tourist areas, like the Old City, Condado, and Isla Verde tend to be very safe. There is a wonderfully visible, 24-hour police presence in the Old City.
Use caution when riding a bicycle around the city as roads are often crowded and some are unpaved. Be sure to pay attention to the roadway on which you are riding and the traffic.
Pedestrians need to use similar caution in Old San Juan. While traffic usually is slower and the streets are narrow, and sidewalks very narrow, sometimes crowded, with occasional trip hazards.
Ave. Fernandez Juncos is a major road running across the southern waterfront of Puerta de Tierra. Many buses, including a metrobus line, run through this part of the city before entering the bridge to Condado and beyond. While it is safe to ride through this part of town in the day time, it is not at any time of day safe to explore, as this is a run-down area where poverty and drug trafficking can be easily found. At night, it is probably best to take the B-21 bus back to the hotel from Old San Juan which does not go on this street.
Many of the roads that tourists use in Puerta de Tierra are high traffic roads, and the problems that pedestrians face during the daytime while sharing roads with vehicles are magnified at night. Use common sense, and if you feel like you may come to a place where you are not easily seen or there is no sidewalk, walk on lit paths that will show your presence to drivers.
Old San Juan is very safe. As in any other city, it is not advisable to go out alone late at night, unless you have a friend or guide to escort you. If you are traveling by bus, understand that buses that service stations in many of the outlying hotel areas stop running at around 9 or 10PM, and the exact time of the last bus is never sure. If you plan on being out at night in Old San Juan and you are taking the bus in, bring enough money for a taxi in case you stay out too late. Make sure you confirm with your hotel the price you should pay to get back, as cab drivers in Old San Juan are probably the most likely to add a dollar or so to the set fare. Many of the major resort hotels in the area have casinos, lounges, and discos with live music and restaurants which are mostly open until 3-4AM, along with taxis lining the entrance to take people back to their rooms when you're done.
- Arecibo - You can go see the Arecibo observatory and Cavernas del Rio Camuy (Camuy River Caverns) in the same day. Arecibo is about one hour west of San Juan.
- Loiza - On the north coast of Loiza you will find Piñones, a great place to go to the beach and eat some of the best Puerto Rican fried food. Just minutes away from El Condado and Old San Juan.
- Fajardo - In eastern Puerto Rico a nice trip to make is Las Cabezas de San Juan, a natural reserve, you will have a tour around the place where they will show you the different types of plants in the reserve and then the lighthouse which now serves as a small museum and the place has a spectacular view. Reservation is required.
- Rio Grande - The Caribbean National Rain Forest or El Yunque is here, a great place to spend the day with nature, enjoying an awesome view and walking between trees and small rivers. There are many different trails and the La Mina trail affords hikers to swim in a waterfall towards the middle of the trail.
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OldSanJuan Houses Pastel - Houses in Old San Juan