The ultimate weekend in San Juan

09.10.2024 - 15:53 / lonelyplanet.com / Isla Verde

Oct 9, 2024 • 9 min read

As far as capital cities go, San Juan, Puerto Rico is a rare gem that has it all – beautiful beaches, a historic center with architecture dating back to the 16th century, a vibrant arts scene, an increasingly diverse population, and 18 neighborhoods with unique flavors, sounds and sights to discover. 

Born and raised in the metropolitan area, San Juan is more than just the place where I lived, hung out, worked and played. In all of my stories about Puerto Rico, the city itself is a character that shaped me.

The place that taught me how to find calm in the sea breeze, to embrace the chaotic nature of its streets, and to love places and neighborhoods that had been deemed unlovable.

It’s a place that combines big city allure with the unique charm of the Caribbean. Don’t be deceived by San Juan’s size. It's a small city, but a few days isn’t always enough to see everything it has to offer. Here are a few quick tips to help you pack as much as possible into a long weekend.     

When to arrive: Arrive on a Thursday morning so you can take advantage of the slow traffic on the main beaches for the day or get settled and grab a bite to eat. Avoid arriving during rush hours – 6am to 8am and 4pm to 7pm – as you may get stuck in endless traffic jams exiting the airport.  

How to get from the airport: While there is public transportation from the airport, it is not recommended for casual travelers. Plan on renting a car, using rideshares or grabbing a taxi authorized by the Puerto Rico Tourism Company.

Getting around town: Once you’re in San Juan, there are several ways to explore the island, depending on the area. Old San Juan is a walkable city, but other parts of the town may require the use of a rental car, rideshare or, alternatively, you can use Skootel for short distances between neighborhoods. 

Where to stay: The world is your oyster when it comes to high-end, mid-range and budget accommodations. For a more posh experience, choose a boutique hotel like El Convento in the center of Old San Juan or the historic Condado Vanderbilt. For budget-friendly stays, check out the Verdanza Hotel, steps from the Isla Verde beach, or the Doubletree in the buzzy Condado district. 

What to pack: You’ll never go wrong with packing comfortable clothes like t-shirts, shorts, sneakers and jeans. Beachwear and sunscreen are a must, but be advised that some places may not let you in when wearing just a bathing suit. When it comes to nightlife, check for dress codes and bring some nice shoes and more formal wear, just in case.  

Morning: Mornings in Old San Juan are a sight to behold, as the walled city is at its quietest. Wake up early and head over to Chocobar Cortés for a decadent breakfast. Their chocolate