Our recent cruise started in San Juan, Puerto Rico. San Juan is the busiest cruise port in the Caribbean, with many cruises beginning, ending, or have a port stop here. We always recommend coming a day or two early before your cruise so if your flight gets delay you won’t miss the cruise. Also, you will have the time to discover your departure city.
Note that the forts and other area attractions in San Juan may be closed for major US holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Cruise lines often do not plan their excursion schedules around local holidays. Don’t be surprised by your plans getting cancelled at the last minute!
Historic sites in Old San Juan
We enjoyed starting our Cuba cruise in San Juan as we would have the opportunity to see the forts. Also, these forts were designed by Italian engineer Juan Bautista Antonelli who designed the forts in Santiago de Cuba and Havana. We thought this was an excellent starting point as we could compare the forts on the different islands.
We started our tour by walking from Paseo de La Princesa, past the San Juan gate, and along the old city wall. The walk along the wall is about 20 minutes. We recommend starting early and wearing sunscreen as it was very hot. There are animals to see along the way such as cats, iguanas, and dolphins.
During the tour we learned why the fort was built, when it was built, the history about the fort, how many times it has been attacked, and the difference between Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristobal. We had the opportunity to visit both Castillos. They are about a 25 minute walk apart.
Finish out your day in San Juan by continuing to explore old city on foot. The old city is very walkable and it is fun to wander through the historic streets. You will find many restaurants and shops in this area. Don’t want to walk? No problem. LBL Travel can recommend expert local guided tours.
What else is there to do in Puerto Rico?
The Castillo San Felipe del Morro is the main attraction in old San Juan but there are other things to see and do in Puerto Rico:
- San Juan Cathedral
- Old San Juan city
- Museo de Las Americas
- Bacardi Rum factory
- Shopping
- Drinking rum cocktails
- Eating mofongo
- Visiting Cueva Ventana
- Arecibo Radio Telescope
- Kayaking
- Snorkeling
- Ziplining
- Horseback riding
Are you thinking about visiting Puerto Rico or elsewhere in the Caribbean? Our expert travel advisor can guide you on your exploration of this tropical oasis. Contact us today for the best deals and trip advice on your next vacation!