San Juan Travel Guide

Welcome to San Juan!

San Juan, the oldest city in Puerto Rico, has survived pirates, treachery, countless assaults by European nations and bombing by the United States during the Spanish-American War (fortunately many of the centuries old buildings have survived). Spanish tradition is more prevalent in Puerto Rico's capital than any other Spanish settled Caribbean destination, and since colonial times Spanish and indigenous cultures have merged to create a unique national identity. Wrought iron balconies line the cobblestone streets, while festivals fill the surrounding countryside. Spicy Latin flavours, theatre, casinos in Condado and the Isla Verde district generate lots of attention, and no tropical paradise is complete without a plethora of beaches to entertain and inspire.

Originally a fortress settlement founded in 1521 by Spanish explorer Juan Ponce De Leon, the port city of Old San Juan retains the feel and spirit of a colonial plantation town. Still, modernization has become more recognizable since the country became a U.S. commonwealth shortly before the 20th century, and the oldest city under the U.S. flag has evolved into a thriving metropolis integrating a rich historical atmosphere with modern living.