Attractions in Old San Juan (San Juan)

Paseo de la Princesa

Located in the southern tip of Old San Juan, this stylish promenade hosted a former Spanish prison, which now houses the Puerto Rico Tourism Company. It offers breathtaking views of the San Juan Bay and is bordered by a huge colonial wall. Several cultural activities are held here throughout the year. Walking the full promenade also offers views of Isla de Cabras, a beautiful small island located in the bay. The Paseo is the place for an afternoon 'Piragua', a traditional Puerto Rican sweet concoction made from ice and tropical fruit syrups.

Plaza del Quinto Centenario

This plaza, built in 1992 for the commemorate the Fifth Centenary of the discovery of America, extends from the San José Church and the rebuilt Ballajá Barracks. The 'Tótem Telúrico', an impressive, contemporary sculpture made by the local artist Jaime Suárez graces its center. The Plaza provides an excellent view of the El Morro grounds, the old San Juan cemetery, and the Atlantic Ocean. Teenagers can be found at the plaza, on weekends, skating and having fun; while, tourists like it as a place to relax, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Calle de San Sebastián

Located in the northern sector, this is one of Old San Juan's most famous boulevards. It is the major venue for local celebrations, including the annual January festival, the Puerto Rican equivalent of Mardi Gras. This is a classical colonial street. Also it is a must-see for visitors and the thoroughfare where one can find the well-known El Patio de Sam and Amadeus Café.

Plaza de San José

This century old plaza is host to the colonial-style Iglesia de San José, the San José Church, which stands on the corner of Calle de San Sebastián and Calle Cristo. Several annual events occur here and it is a hang-out for the San Juan youngsters on weekends. During the day, it is an oasis of tranquility and offers pleasant views of the Cristo Street, to the south.

Catedral de San Juan

Located on Calle Cristo and built in 1540 and restored several times, this Cathedral is the 'must-see' of the San Juan Archdiocese. Declared an official 'Minor Basilica' by the Vatican in Rome, the Cathedral is on most walking tours in and around Old San Juan. Learn about famous Spanish conquistador, the first Governor of Puerto Rico and Juan Ponce de León, whose remains are interred on the premises.

Casa Alcaldía

City Hall (Casa Alcaldía) stands imposingly in front of the Plaza de Armas in Old San Juan. It houses the city's Mayor and his staff. Its arches are flanked by two towers, very similar in design to Madrid's City Hall in Spain. Construction was accomplished in stages between 1604 and 1789. Today, the building contains a tourist information area downstairs and an exhibit and art gallery on the first floor. Visitors are welcome to tour and admission is free.

Ballajá Barracks

Refurbished in 1992, in time for the celebration of Columbus' discovery of the Americas in 1492, the Cuartel de Ballajá was once a military barracks. Today, it houses the Museum of the Americas where crafts and other exhibits detail the cultures of the Americas. Exquisite colonial architecture provides a handsome backdrop for the cultural events often celebrated in the building's central patio. Admission is free.

Plaza Dársena

Located on the southern tip of Old San Juan, this small, charming Plaza is frequented by locals. This is a great respite area for conversation and relaxation. It houses a small building dating back to 1937, now a Puerto Rico Information Center where you can pick up maps and tour information. This is a good starting point for a walking tour of Old San Juan.

Casa de los Contrafuertes

On Calle de San Sebastián, this private home now houses the Pharmacy Museum, which depicts a traditional apothecary shop in 18th century San Juan, with great attention to every detail. It's certainly different and well worth a visit for people who want to gain knowledge on the history of the city. There is no admission charge.

Capilla del Cristo

Capilla de Cristo, the Chapel of Christ, was built as a memorial to a celebrated miracle. In 1753, a youth participating in a horserace at the St. John's Day festival lost control of his horse and plunged over a precipice. Don Mateo Pratts, a secretary of the city, prayed to Christ to spare the boy's life and the youth was saved. To express his gratitude, the young man had the chapel erected later that same year. Today, the chapel, located on Calle Cristo near Paseo de la Princesa, is a landmark and its Campeche paintings and gold and silver altar are highlights. Admission is free. The chapel is open for a very limited amount of hours each week.

Government Reception Center

Visitors will find this exquisite architectural landmark in front of Plaza Colón, at the entrance to Old San Juan. Built during the early 20th century, this grand building once housed the Casino of Puerto Rico but is now used for the Puerto Rican Governor's inaugural balls, state receptions and the like. Access is usually by invitation only.

Plaza de Hostos

Plaza de Hostos stands just in front of the Plaza Dársena, and guests will find arts and crafts, the traditional piña coladas (yummy, a must try!), and several other locally-made traditional deserts for sale from kiosks dotting the square. Stop here after walking to the southern district of the city to watch the cruise ships enter the San Juan Bay.