San Juan: My Favorite Walkable Port
Sailing past El Morro fortress at sunrise with the waves crashing against the old city walls is breathtaking – San Juan is the only port where I can step off the ship and be in a 500-year-old UNESCO city in minutes. My perfect day: off by 8 a.m. and straight into Old San Juan – first stop La Fortaleza for photos, then walking the blue cobblestone streets to El Morro lawn for kite-flying and views.
Lunch at Marmalade or Santaella – mofongo with camarones al ajillo is life. Afternoon is Castillo San Cristóbal, then Barrachina in Condado for beach time and piña colada tasting (invented here!). Sunset at the Paseo de la Princesa with live music.
Getting Around San Juan
Pier 4 – literally across the street from Old San Juan (5-minute walk). Pan American Pier – quick taxi or free trolley.
- El Morro: 15-min walk from Pier 4
- Old San Juan: Walkable from pier
- Condado Beach: Reasonably priced taxi or bus
Positively Worded Word of Warning
The cobblestones and hills are Old San Juan's way of giving you a free history workout with the best views on the island!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Best mofongo?
A: El Jibarito or Santaella.
Q: Rainy day option?
A: Bacardi distillery tour – free Casa Bacardi ferry!
Q: USD?
A: Yes – US territory.