| The most beautiful city in the Caribbean
See the brickstone streets of the old city in all it's splendor. Enjoy shopping at the small shops for jewelry, arts and crafts, clothing and many unique treasures without sales tax. Visit the many plazas and parks with statues of Ponce De Leon and Christopher Columbus all over the city. See the oldest church in Puerto Rico, the capital building and more. Let WTD in PR's expert guides show you the city's most interesting sights.
Overview of Old San Juan
A leisurely walk through Old San Juan is one of the most pleasant experiences anyone could have here in Puerto Rico. The colonial architecture of hanging balconies and cobble stone streets make you feel like you have gone back in time. Here are only some of the nice places to visit in Old San Juan.
La Casita – Here at the Tourist Information Center you can pick up free literature and maps of Puerto Rico for your tour of Old San Juan and all of Puerto Rico. La Casita is located next to Plaza de la Dársena, overlooking San Juan Bay, near Pier 1. Telephones (787) 1709 or (787) 724-4788.
Paseo de la Princesa – A great place to spend weekend afternoons. Local artisans display and sell their work. Also there is live music early Sunday evenings and on many other occasions.
Massive City Wall – Construction of this 42-foot-high wall that surrounded the city began in the 1630s. It is made of solid sandstone blocks and held together with mortar, limestone, sand and water.
La Puerta de San Juan – The San Juan Gate was constructed in 1520. This strong, heavy wooden door was the official entrance for those who came to Puerto Rico on wooden sailing ships during the colonization. Up the block is La Catedral de San Juan where Mass would be held to thank God for allowing them to make the journey.
La Fortaleza – Originally built as a defense fort, this small castle has been utilized as the governor's mansion for centuries. Guided tours Monday through Friday.
La Catedral de San Juan – This beautiful Cathedral, built in 1540 is a good example of Gothic architecture in the New World. Here in a marble tomb lie the remains of Juan Ponce de Leon.
El Morro – Six level castle 140 ft above the sea, overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and San Juan Bay.
San Cristobal Fort – Completed in 1771, this castle was designed to protect the city from land invasions.
Teatro Tapia – This is one of the oldest theaters in the Western Hemisphere. Performances of plays, ballets and concerts are held regularly.
Museums – Old San Juan is full of museums. Art exhibits and collections of historic items can easily be found throughout this historic neighborhood. These are just a few.
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Institute of Puerto Rican Culture – Puerto Rican paintings and sculptures.
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Museo de Las Americas – Archaelogical findings, santos (woodcarvings of saints), crafts and more. Located in El Cuartel Ballajá.
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Museo de Arte e Historia – Exhibits Puerto Rican art and music. Many concerts and festival are held here.
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Casa del Libro – Displays the art of printing and bookmaking. On display also, is a rare collection of books from the 16 th century.
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La Princesa – This restored building was formerly a jail. Today it is the headquarters for the Puerto Rico Tourism Department. On exhibit is Puerto Rican Art.
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La Casa Blanca – This house was built as a home for Governor Juan Ponce de Leon who died in Florida before he could live there. His family lived here for 250 years.
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