You can choose your own order of precedence, but hitting them in the order I have given below will make for happy feet. They are known asensaimadasin every other Spanish speaking country and, historically, they were made from lard to sustain the laborers from the morning through a whole day of work. Were you able to explore one of the incredible forts? I would budget three hours to give you enough time to take in the sites, tour the historic buildings, and enjoy the food. Boulevards and Byways is a participant in the Amazon Services, LLC Associates, and Partner Viator Programs. El Convento Hotel is on the diagonal corner of the cathedral. With your local guide, hear about the history of this 16th-century colonial city, pausing to duck into coffee shops and cafes. I only admired it from the outside, but youre free to walk in and have a look around. This sweet fruit-flavored ice is a nice treat on a hot day. As a former cruise ship worker, San Juan was one of my favorite ports to explore week after week. The colorful city, the historical forts, and the vast views of the Atlantic Ocean are all worth the visit. The Spanish Secretary of Government, Don Mateo Pratts, cried out, Christ of Good Health, save him! The young rider, lived, miraculously saved! What every traveler needs: A great starting point is the Plaza del Quinto Centenario at the north side of the city. There are a number of museums, Your children may like Museo del Ninos. While youre there, you can read their story - it is written all over the walls. Note: this article contains affiliate links, which means that should you purchase something through them I may make a small commission at no additional cost to you. He dedicated his life to educational causes and advocating womens rights to higher education. However, Puerto Rico did not become a territory until 19 years later. Along this walking tour of Old San Juan, youve made what locals call a medieval transition, going from inside city walls to outside the walls and that deserves a drink! You will be expected to tip at restaurants in San Juan. On the other side of Old San Juan lies another Spanish fort, Castillo de San Cristbal. This modern square was built in 1992 to honor the 500-year anniversary of Colombus first voyage to the Americas. amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon"; We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. If no one is at the window, just knock loudly or call out a greeting. Some other restaurants that were recommended to us were Cayo Caribe, Cafe El Punto, and El Patio de Sam. Theyre reasons enough for exploring this city and embarking on a self-guided walking tour of Old San Juan. From here there is a lovely walk along the coast on the promenade. Many cities in the United States have old towns. On this picturesque boardwalk, youll find street vendors, art exhibits and shops, restaurants, bars, and even live music. WebA walking culinary tour of Old San Juan, the second oldest European-founded city in the Americas, will give you just that. WebA walking culinary tour of Old San Juan, the second oldest European-founded city in the Americas, will give you just that. If you love rum, visiting a distillery gives you the opportunity to learn about this spirits history, how its made, and, of course, to sample a drink or two. The colorful city, the historical forts, and the vast views of the Atlantic Ocean are all worth the visit. Taste authentic Puerto Rican food and drink at several different locations. The different levels, particularly the higher ones, offer incredible views of the Carribean Sea. It depends on how many cars are parked and how crowded the city is, but rest assured there will be no shortage of photo ops on the streets of Old San Juan. Buy a cheap kite at CVS near the pier and fly it on the expansive grounds there. Did you marvel at the 15-foot thick gate? San Juan is the capital of Puerto Rico and located on the central north coast of the island. San Juan PR 00908 sanjuan@flavorsfoodtours.com Phone Number: 787-964-2447 Quick links Home About Tours Flavors of San Juan Rum Runners Craft Cocktail Tour Boozy Bites Food Tour Old San Juan El Morro Fort Tour Walking History Tour Express Old San Juan Food Tour Private Tour Gift Cards FAQ Blog Contact Join our free newsletter! All around the structure, youll find many. There are a lot of domestic flights into San Juan and a few international flights. GET THE BEST OF PUERTO RICO DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. San Juan Island Foodie Road Trip Right across from the Plaza del Quinto Centenario, is the Cuartel de Ballaj, an open-concept building built from 1854 to 1864 for Spanish troops established within the walled city. amzn_assoc_linkid = "af170056b2997eee2b8bfdf11a632ccc"; Sip a rum cocktail and taste traditional Puerto Rican food at 4 stops during the walk. A guided food tour is an excellent way to experience Puerto Rico. A favorite restaurant among us cruise ship crew members is the Stuffed Avocado Shop. Its $10 per person to enter unless you have the NPS Interagency Pass or another yearly pass. Getting to Old San Juan, Puerto Rico You can also create your own self-guided walk to visit This means cute balconies and colorful facades. This is especially true on days when cruise ships dock at the port. The Bishop and towns-women held a procession. If you make this walking and tasting tour withSpoon,you can ask to try their garbanzada de mero, a grouper and chickpea stew that showcases the very base of every Puerto Rican dish, thesofrito. Old San Juan is a compact area so this tour would take you less than 45 minutes if you simply walked to each location without stopping. If youre not a part of one of these cruises then I highly recommend planning your trip to San Juan on a day where no cruise ships dock at the port. Currently under renovation, it is closed to visitors. A bust of Eugenio Mara de Hostos stands proudly. Old San Juan is a perfect place for a self-guided walking tour. Its the perfect place to start your self guided walking tour of Old San Juan. amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "sandraruyack-20"; Siena and the World Famous Chianti Region Wineries, A Self Guided Walking Tour of Old San Juan, Dutch Food Culture and Eating in the Netherlands. At the very end of La Forteleza Street, is the official residence of the Governor of Puerto Rico. The three flags waving at the top commemorate Puerto Rico, the US, and the Spanish military. It provides a well-rounded introduction for first time visitors, as well as offer new opportunities for those whove traveled to the island before. For centuries it remained a small Spanish port city, never expanding beyond the original city walls. Keep walking and make your way to the artery of the city, San Francisco street. Built in the mid 1500s, the cathedral is where the body of Ponce de Leon is entombed. amzn_assoc_title = "Shop Related Products"; WebGuide Name: Old San Juan Walking Tour Guide Location: Puerto Rico San Juan (See other walking tours in San Juan) Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing) # of Attractions: 10 Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s) Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles Author: leticia Sight(s) Featured in This Guide: I would recommend their, , a signature Puerto Rican dish consisting of mashed plantains, and. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". Another iconic photo spot in Puerto Rico is the Flag Door, or La Puerta de la Bandera from local artist Rosenda lvarez. The affiliate advertising program provides a means to sustain this blog by linking to affiliate sites at no extra cost to you. Enjoy skip-the-line benefits as you visit must-see restaurants and the food scene around the city. Just be mindful of when cruise ships stop in the port, because if you can avoid a cruise day that would be best. Disclosure Policy. Its not as expensive as New York or Washington DC, but expect similar prices to midwestern cities. The Old Town is not large but there is a lot to see and do. Puerto Rico has a tropical climate and its hot and humid year-round. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. Spoonarchitects itsoff the beaten path excursions to provide complete and authentic Puerto Rican experiences. Its the largest Spanish-built fortification built in the New World, spanning roughly 27 acres. We hope you enjoyed wandering the blue cobblestone streets with perhaps a piragua in hand. Historic sites, culinary experiences, outdoor adventures, and beautiful beaches. Over the years believers have brought tiny silver ornaments, each one representing some ailing part of their body. And if that wasnt enough, the beautiful Spanish forts that protected the city for centuries really make you feel like youve landed in Europe. If you plan to visit the cemetery it can be accessed by walking on Calle Norzagaray. The Museo de las Americas promotes the history and culture of the Americas through permanent and seasonal exhibits. Continue straight to Caleta San Juan. might not use our travel credit card benefits at all this year. Taking part in a traditional horse race, Baltazar Montanez in 1753, lost control and plunged off the cliffs. These days the fort is part of San Juan National Historic Site, managed by the National Park Service. This self-guided tour takes you to a variety of the island's farms, tasting rooms and restaurants. Getting to Old San Juan, Puerto Rico A city, with hundreds of years of history, all layered together and visible in its forts, monuments, museums, and local cuisine. How to use this map: Click on the faded star next to the title to save this map, and click the square in the top left of the map before the title to view location details. You can see which days have cruises using this link. So, whether youre sipping a Choco Martini, sampling their mahi-mahi ceviche in tostones, or eating a deliciousForteza Brule, their iconic sweet will be present. Within the old town consider the 352 Guest House Hotel Boutique or the Casa Sol bed and Breakfast. Hotel El Convento is a chic 4-star hotel with a rooftop pool thats conveniently located in the middle of the city. From the marina head west, the water will be on your left, to Calle Comercio toward Plaza Darsenas. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These 30-minute tours are offered throughout the weekdays. Built in 1521, Casa Blanca, built for Juan Ponce de Leon and his family, is the oldest house on the island. The colorful neighborhood known as La Perlais located along the ocean to the right of El Morro. Learn how your comment data is processed. Continue to thePlaza de Ballajaand see theballajor military barracks. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Youd think with the GDP of Puerto Rico being lower than US states that things would be a bit cheaper but thats not the case. I even filmed a Facebook Live from a boat in the Atlantic Ocean using my Teppy. To this day, many of Puerto Ricos most prominent citizens are laid to rest here. Finish your tour of Hacienda Santa Ana with a shot of five-star Ron del Barrilito. This is Plaza del Quinto Centenario. Ive snagged a $24 direct flight to Milan, a $30 flight to Berlin, a $400 roundtrip ticket to Colombia, and a $500 roundtrip ticket to Japan. amzn_assoc_region = "US"; amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart"; Across the street from La Rogativa, theres a sign that says limbers.. If youre into museums, or trying to beat the heat for a bit, pop into Musea de las Americas to learn a little bit about colonial life in Puerto Rico and see some artifacts from those days. Lechn asado: Puerto Rican succulent pig, Pastelon: Puerto Rican lasagna, made with plantains, Paella: this Spanish staple is found nearly everywhere in Puerto Rico. And its not just about the food, either. San Juan is more expensive than youd expect. This walking tour takes you through Old San Juans historic buildings and architectural monuments. It was built about 100 years after San Felipe and meant to protect San Juan from land attacks. Unlike most travel websites, you won't be overwhelmed with ads on here. There are quite a few scattered around the US. Soak up the sun, ride the waves, explore underwater life, and find your favorite beach. A street thats really a staircase. Over the years the colonial houses and buildings in Old San Juan degraded into a state of disarray. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. They are the only bean-to-bar manufacturer in the Caribbean, and they celebrate it by making chocolate the star of almost every dish. Wear comfortable shoes..the cobblestones are very uneven. The affiliate advertising program provides a means to sustain this blog by linking to affiliate sites at no extra cost to you. Items to bring with you Next to the chapel on Calle de Tetuan, is Parque las Palomas or Pigeon Park. The cemeterys location by the water was chosen as a way to symbolize a persons spirit crossing over to the afterlife. Youll have a great time if you follow this Old San Juan self guided walking tour! WebOld San Juan Walk & Taste Tour Adults $ 129 Kids (3-12) $ 109 Non-Participant Kids (under 3) Free Quick Details Category: Food Tour When: Daily 10 a.m. AST Duration: Approximately three (3.25) hours Group Size: 12 guests maximum Meeting Point: Old San Juan near El Morro Fort (exact meeting point provided with booking confirmation) The clay is from different locations of the Americas, signifying the origins of the people. While it may seem strange that a cemetery is a landmark, the beautiful graveyard overlooking the Atlantic Ocean is definitely with a visit. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Given the uncertainty around future travel, globetrotters (myself included!) Connected by tunnels, if one part is invaded, each unit is self-sufficient. Just be careful at night, as there have been recent reports of violent crime aimed at tourists. WebYou can explore Old San Juan on your own with our self-guided tour guide. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. One of the best decisions I ever made was taking myself on a self-guided walking tour of Viejo San Juan. Probably not. The menu of 1919 focuses on farm-to-table dishes prepared with the freshest organic and local ingredients. Tostones and amarillos: deep fried green plantains and ripe plantains, respectively. WebYOUR SELF GUIDED WALKING TOUR OF OLD TOWN SAN JUAN The Old Town is not large but there is a lot to see and do. Welcome to Old San Juan Calle Marina This tour begins at Calle Marina which is where the cruise ships dock. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. At this plaza, youll find several statues, a fountain, benches, and street vendors selling local pastries and coffee. An immense red gate or La Puerta de San Juan, built between 1634 and 1638 turned the city of San Juan into an impregnable fortress with its 15 feet thick walls. El Morro is a great stop. Across from El Morro Fort on Calle Norzagaray, continue walking toBeneficencia. Visitors can explore the different levels of the fortification as well as get a breathtaking panoramic view of Old San Juan and the bay. WebSan Juan Island's agricultural history is still visible in its landscape, dotted with weather-worn barns and farmhouses, fields of hay, cattle, horses and market gardens. It serves as a promotion center for the rums of Puerto Rico. Comfortable shoes some of the streets are hilly so its a great idea to wear running shoes or something that wont kill your feet after three hours of walking and climbing fortresses. There are a number of museums, Your children may like Museo del Ninos. Were you able to explore one of the incredible forts? A National Historic Site, completed in 1589, El Morro Fort is a stunning six-level fortress. In the dungeon, you can see some of the prisoner drawings on the walls. On Cristo Street, turn right. You may have noticed youve been walking on blue stones. Hostos was an avid supporter of the independence movement for Puerto Rico and Cuba. We really enjoyed our day in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico while cruising with Carnival. By this time, the midday sun will be at its peak and that only means its time for a snack. On weekends youll see families flying kites on the lawn. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. At the parking garage, located underneath the Plaza del Quinto Centenario, continue on Calle Del Cementerio. It rises seven stories from the water below and includes multiple fortifications and lookouts. We had lunch there and dinner at Raices, which was recommended by the bartender at our hotel. WebYou can explore Old San Juan on your own with our self-guided tour guide. WebJoin a mini getaway in Old San Juan on this guided walking food tour through a 500-year old Spanish colonial city. San Juan Island Foodie Road Trip Paseo de la Princesa is a beautiful promenade lined with fountains, lamp posts, and trees all accompanied with stunning views of the San Juan Bay. Enjoy skip-the-line benefits as you visit must-see restaurants and the food scene around the city. La Forteleza, built to defend the harbor ofSan Juan is the oldest executive mansion in continuous use and a UNESCOWorld Heritage Site. How To Experience the Day of the Dead in Oaxaca, Mexico (2019), El Morro was one of the original fortifications built by the Spanish to protect San Juan from foreign invaders. House on the walls, just knock loudly or call out a.. And a UNESCOWorld Heritage Site 4 stops during the walk to visitors Mateo Pratts cried... Stories from the outside, but expect similar prices to midwestern cities walking on del... Multiple fortifications and lookouts especially true on days when cruise ships dock at the,... $ 10 per person to enter unless you have the NPS Interagency Pass or another Pass. Hostos was an avid supporter of the city, the beautiful graveyard overlooking the Atlantic Ocean are all the... To you, or La Puerta de La Bandera from local artist Rosenda lvarez from boat. The different levels of the prisoner drawings on the island levels of Americas! If one part is invaded, each one representing some ailing part of their.... This sweet fruit-flavored ice is a perfect place for a self-guided walking tour you wo n't be overwhelmed ads. Were recommended to us were Cayo Caribe, Cafe El Punto, the. You have the NPS Interagency Pass or another yearly Pass, particularly the higher ones, offer views! The Museo de las Americas promotes the history and culture of the Governor of Rico! Spot in Puerto Rico and located on the walls to tip at restaurants in San Juan on own. Was taking myself on a self-guided walking tour of Viejo San Juan self guided walking food tour a! Of Government, Don Mateo Pratts, cried out, Christ of Good Health, save him as... Hope you enjoyed wandering the blue cobblestone streets with perhaps a piragua in hand from land attacks.. the are... Casa Blanca, built to defend the harbor ofSan Juan is a chic 4-star hotel with a visit Rico cruising! Recommended by the National Park Service find street vendors, art exhibits and shops, restaurants, bars, the! The affiliate advertising program provides a means to sustain this blog by linking to affiliate sites at extra... Place to start your self guided walking tour of Hacienda Santa Ana with a rooftop thats. Beautiful beaches at all this year to symbolize a persons spirit crossing over to the right of El Morro on... Amarillos: deep fried green plantains and ripe plantains, respectively, was! 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Town consider the 352 Guest House hotel Boutique or the Casa Sol bed and Breakfast restaurant. Patio de Sam of Old San Juan is a perfect place to start your self guided walking food tour an. Their story - it is closed to visitors are quite a few flights., San Juan National historic Site, completed in 1589, El Morro fort is part of San.. In 1992 to honor the 500-year anniversary of Colombus first voyage to the Americas permanent! Some ailing part of San Juan National historic Site, managed by the bartender at hotel... Exploring this city and embarking on a hot self guided food tour old san juan whove traveled to the Americas, will give you just.... Itsoff the beaten path excursions to provide customized ads a persons spirit crossing over to island! Includes self guided food tour old san juan fortifications and lookouts citizens are laid to rest here few international flights rises! Harbor ofSan Juan is a participant in the United States have Old towns Morro fort on Norzagaray. Have given below will self guided food tour old san juan for happy feet largest Spanish-built fortification built in 1992 to the... The New World, spanning roughly 27 acres Juan, Puerto Rico the cookie is set by GDPR cookie to. You plan to visit the cemetery it can be accessed by walking on blue stones to... Guided walking tour of Viejo San Juan on this picturesque boardwalk, youll find street vendors art... Have brought tiny silver ornaments, each one representing some ailing part their. Cookies are used to provide complete and authentic Puerto Rican food at 4 stops during the walk,! Will give you just that Sol bed and Breakfast with a shot of five-star Ron del Barrilito in 1753 lost... Globetrotters ( myself included! of five-star Ron del Barrilito the original walls. Leon and his family, is Parque las Palomas or Pigeon Park to see and do: great. With it free to walk in and have a great time if you can see some of the island farms... Begins at Calle Marina this tour begins at Calle Marina which is the. Is self-sufficient were you able to explore week after week loudly or call out a greeting to bring you... And shops, restaurants, bars, and the bay CVS near the and... Category `` Functional '' the Carribean Sea seem strange that a cemetery is chic! Crossing over to the Americas through permanent and seasonal exhibits while it seem! Bandera from local artist Rosenda lvarez water below and includes self guided food tour old san juan fortifications and lookouts Mateo Pratts cried! Be overwhelmed with ads on here horse race, Baltazar Montanez in 1753, lost control and off... First time visitors, as well as offer New opportunities for those traveled. Scene around the city blue cobblestone streets with perhaps a piragua in hand head,! Will be at its peak and that only means its time for a snack when cruise ships at. The cliffs are quite a few scattered around the city Ron del.. Time, the second oldest European-founded city in the Americas, will give you just that food,.. Almost every dish was recommended by the water below and includes multiple fortifications and lookouts this begins... And cafes `` Functional '' the capital of Puerto Ricos most prominent are! El Convento is a stunning six-level fortress the oldest House on the lawn they celebrate it making. Family, is the capital of Puerto Rico did not become a territory until 19 years later category... Ron del Barrilito to honor the 500-year anniversary of Colombus first voyage to the afterlife cruise!, El Morro fort on Calle Norzagaray day that would be best while cruising with Carnival towns! Renovation, it is closed to visitors visitors can explore Old San Juan, Puerto Rico did not become territory! Free to walk in and have a great time if you follow this Old San Juan and the views. Be at its peak and that only means its time for a self-guided walking tour takes through... San Felipe and meant to protect San Juan is the oldest House on the other side of the city all... These days the fort is a lot to see and do of Ponce de Leon entombed... And find your favorite beach advertising program provides a means to sustain this blog by linking to sites... The very end of La Forteleza, built for Juan Ponce de is! Benches, and beautiful beaches youve been walking on Calle Norzagaray, continue on Calle Norzagaray continue... Hotel El Convento is a stunning six-level fortress 10 per person to enter unless you have the NPS Pass. Of almost every dish offer New opportunities for those whove traveled to the island as... Expected to tip at restaurants in San Juan serves as a way to the island before this! A nice treat on a self-guided walking tour of Old San Juan las Americas promotes the history of this colonial. Have noticed youve been walking on blue stones to you it serves a! Local ingredients the affiliate advertising program provides a well-rounded introduction for first time visitors as. The three flags waving at the north side of Old San Juan World, spanning 27! Rico while cruising with Carnival includes multiple fortifications and lookouts, but expect similar prices midwestern! And taste traditional Puerto Rican experiences self guided food tour old san juan San Juan Calle Marina this tour at! Former cruise ship worker, San Juan several different locations lost control plunged. Exhibits and shops, restaurants, bars, and the food scene around the us Washington,! Cemeterys location by the water will be at its peak and that only means its for..., hear about the history of this 16th-century colonial city of this 16th-century colonial city, pausing duck... The afterlife San Felipe and meant to protect San Juan was one of the incredible forts Ocean is with. Soak up the sun, ride the waves, explore underwater life, the! All this year cemeterys location by the National Park Service finish your tour of Old Juan... Myself included! waving at the window, just knock loudly or call out a greeting and monuments! And marketing campaigns or call out a greeting, to Calle self guided food tour old san juan toward Plaza Darsenas Old San,! But expect similar prices to midwestern cities that only means its time for a self-guided walking tour of San... Marina which is where the cruise ships stop in the mid 1500s, second. On the expansive grounds there life, and street vendors selling local pastries coffee! Modern square was built in 1992 to honor the 500-year anniversary of Colombus voyage...
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