Old San Juan Self Guided Walking Tour Map
San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a beautiful and historic city that is rich in culture and has plenty of things to see and do. One of the best ways to explore the city is by taking a self-guided walking tour of Old San Juan. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the best sites to see and things to do while walking through the old city.
Start Your Tour in Plaza Colon
One of the best places to start your walking tour is in Plaza Colon. This plaza is named after Christopher Columbus and features a statue of the explorer in the center of the square. From here, you can see the beautiful San Cristobal fortress and take in the beauty of the city.
Explore the Historic Forts of San Juan
San Juan is home to two historic forts, both of which are located in Old San Juan. The San Cristobal fortress is the largest fortification built by Spain in the New World and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Castillo San Felipe del Morro is another impressive fortress that is worth visiting. Both of these forts offer stunning views of the city and are rich in history.
Take in the Beauty of La Fortaleza
La Fortaleza is a beautiful 16th-century building that serves as the governor’s mansion. It is one of the oldest governor’s mansions in the Western Hemisphere and is a must-see on your walking tour of Old San Juan. The building has beautiful architecture and is surrounded by lush greenery and stunning views of the ocean.
Visit the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista
The Cathedral of San Juan Bautista is a beautiful Roman Catholic church that was built in the 16th century. It is one of the oldest cathedrals in the Americas and is known for its stunning Gothic architecture. The cathedral is home to many religious artifacts and is a must-see on your walking tour of Old San Juan.
Stop by Casa Blanca
Casa Blanca is a beautiful white house that was built in the 1500s. It was the residence of Ponce de Leon and is now a museum that houses many artifacts from the time period. The house has beautiful architecture and is surrounded by lush greenery and stunning views of the ocean.
End Your Tour in Paseo de la Princesa
Paseo de la Princesa is a beautiful promenade that was once used by the Spanish military for access to the San Juan Bay. It is now a popular spot for tourists and locals alike and offers stunning views of the ocean and the historic city walls. The promenade is lined with trees and is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of the city.
Conclusion
A self-guided walking tour of Old San Juan is a great way to experience the beauty and history of this vibrant city. There are plenty of sites to see and things to do, so be sure to bring comfortable shoes and take your time exploring. With this comprehensive guide, you will be well on your way to experiencing the best that Old San Juan has to offer.
