Almost everyone heading to Puerto Rico touches down in San Juan first.
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The capital city is renowned for its long-running history. It was established back in 1521 by Spanish colonists, who dubbed it Ciudad de Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico translates to ‘rich port’, highlighting the area’s importance to merchants.
Fast forward five hundred years (or half a millennia, if you really want your mind blown) and we know the city as San Juan. It’s the cultural hub of Puerto Rico, along with a historical center that’s home to dozens of forts and landmarks.
For first-timers, San Juan is like a tropical peek into the past. It’s full of vibrant sounds, scents, and experiences.
Whether or not you plan on sticking to San Juan for the full length of your trip, I suggest keeping these tours on your radar.
They’ll take you closer to the city’s most iconic neighborhoods, dishes, dances, and venues.
San Juan Tours
Old Town Foodie Walking Tour with Tastings
History, culture, and gastronomy meet in this casual walking tour. Not only can you explore San Juan’s oldest historic neighborhood, but you also get to sample its tastiest eats.
Private Helicopter Island Tour
Want a bird’s eye view of the capital and beyond? This helicopter tour takes you around the island where you can marvel at its loveliest natural wonders, from beaches to rainforests, and its oldest stone forts.
Old Town Walking Tour and El Morro Fort Entry
This walking tour also brings you closer to the city’s living history. But instead of a few tasty bites along the way, guests explore Fort Morro. According to reviews, the guides are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about sharing the city’s history.
History Walking Tour With a Guide
Now, let’s assume you’re a history nerd like me. A visit through the old town and a stop at Fort Morro might not be enough for you. If that’s the case, I suggest checking out this highly-rated walking tour. It’ll give you two non-stop hours of facts, tales, and insights into the past.
Chiliboats Waterbike Adventure Tour
I’m going to be honest—the waterbikes look a little weird to me. That being said, Puerto Rico is a fantastic place to try out new water adventures. If you like kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and similar activities, the waterbike should be a fantastic experience.
Craft Cocktail Walking Tour with 3 Cocktails
San Juan is the birthplace of the piña colada. If you like sweet, frozen, and boozy things, book this tour immediately. It’ll also showcase the area’s best bars—which you might want to visit again later on in your trip.
Ron del Barrilito Distillery Tour
And where do Puerto Ricans get all of that rum for those pina coladas? Get closer to the magic of rum-distilling at this Ron del Barrilito tour. Not only will you learn about the art of distilling, but you also get to sample San Juan’s oldest rum brand.
Kayak Night Glow Tour in Condado Lagoon
It’s a kayak tour of San Juan by night—need I say more?
Morning Kayak Tour in Condado Lagoon
If the nighttime tour is a little too spooky for you (I’m not a fan of the water at night), then head out on this morning tour. The kayaks are see-through, letting you get a closer look at the world below the surface.
Elevated Sunset Dinner Experience with Ocean View
Have you been dreaming of being hoisted into the air by a crane to eat dinner two hundred feet in the air? Me, neither. But it seems like visitors really love this elevated sunset dinner experience. Along with a four-course meal, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of San Juan and the beach.
