San Juan Cruise Port

San Juan Overview

The port sits right beside Old San Juan, so you can walk straight into colonial streets, forts, and plazas. Heat is heavy mid-day, and cobblestones are uneven.

A Little History

San Juan is one of the oldest European-founded cities in the Americas. Spanish forts guarded the harbor, and the old town layout still follows early colonial plans.

Museums

• Museo de las Américas • Casa Blanca • Art Museum of Puerto Rico (in Santurce) • Tip: Some museums close Mondays; check current schedule.

Major Parks and Attractions

• Castillo San Felipe del Morro • Castillo San Cristóbal • Paseo de la Princesa • Condado beaches (short ride)

Nearby Places (Easy Day Trips)

• Piñones boardwalk for food kiosks • El Yunque rainforest (allow extra time for transport)

Shopping

• Old San Juan boutiques • Local crafts and rum shops • Note: Cruise days get crowded; some shops open longer then.

Food and Drink

Practical eating tips: • Try mofongo and local fritters. • Water is generally safe. • Reservations help in Old San Juan at lunch. • Afternoon heat slows walking—plan shade.

Currency, Payments, ATMs

U.S. dollars. Cards accepted widely. ATMs throughout Old San Juan.

Opening Hours and Holidays

Most places open daily; local spots may close early Sunday. Holidays that may affect hours: • New Year’s Day • Three Kings Day • Good Friday • U.S. federal holidays • Christmas Day

Practical City Notes

Streets are steep in places. Traffic bottlenecks near the port. Pickpocketing is low but still keep bags close.

Quick Plans

• 3–4 hours: El Morro + Old San Juan streets. • 6–8 hours: Both forts + Condado beach break. • Full day: Old San Juan, Piñones food stops, and a sunset walk.