San Juan, Puerto Rico

January 2024

We definitely got our steps in! We started at the port and wandered uphill, through Plaza De Colon, toward the Castillo San Cristobal. This fort is maintained by the National Park Service and has incredible history, dating back to 1539. We enjoyed learning while climbing the three levels, taking in the incredible views from every single angle. We went to the visitor's center then walked, about 30 minutes, along the coast to Castillo San Filipe del Morro. People were flying brightly colored kites and lizards were sunning themselves on the grass. This six level fortress offers even more fantastic views and a light house. On our way back towards the port we stopped in a market an bought a small painted feather from a local artist.

Pros

• Very walkable city with a lot to see and do.

• The city feels vibrant with art, parks, restaurants, shops, narrow brick streets, and a lot of personality.

Cons

• I wish we could have stayed longer. We barely scratched the surface of all the cool things to see in San Juan and further into Puerto Rico.

Tips

• If you have a National Park Pass, it will get you into Castillo San Cristobal and San Felipe del Morro. (I was absolutely giddy with the fact that I was prepared enough to know this AND remembered to bring our pass that day!)

• If you are visiting for one day from a cruise, like we were, I'd recommend just wandering on foot instead of paying for an excursion or city tour.