Almost everyone who goes to Puerto Rico lands first in San Juan.

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The capital is renowned for its long history. It was founded in 1521 by Spanish settlers, who nicknamed it Ciudad de Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico translates to “rich port,” highlighting the region’s importance to traders.

Fast forward five hundred years (or half a millennium, if you really want to blow your mind) and we know the city as San Juan. It is the cultural center of Puerto Ricoas well as a historic center that is home to dozens of forts and monuments.

For starters, San Juan is like a tropical glimpse into the past. It’s full of vibrant sounds, scents and experiences.

Whether or not you plan to stay in San Juan for the duration of your trip, I suggest keeping these tours on your radar.

They will bring you closer to the most emblematic districts of the city, dishesdances and places.

San Juan Tours

Old Town Food Walking Tour with Tastings

History, culture, and food collide on this relaxed walking tour. Not only will you be able to explore San Juan’s oldest historic district, but you will also be able to taste its tastiest dishes.

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Private island tour by helicopter

Want a bird’s eye view of the capital and beyond? This helicopter tour takes you around the island where you can admire its most beautiful natural wonders, from beaches to rainforests to its oldest stone forts.

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Old Town Walking Tour and El Morro Fort Entrance

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.

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Historical walking tour with a guide

Now, let’s assume you’re a history buff like me. A tour of Old Town and a stop at Fort Morro may not be enough for you. If so, I suggest you check out this highly rated walking tour. This will give you two non-stop hours of facts, stories and insights into the past.

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Chiliboats Water Bike Adventure Tour

I’ll be honest: water bikes seem a little weird to me. That being said, Puerto Rico is a fantastic place to try new water adventures. If you enjoy kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and other similar activities, water biking should be a fantastic experience.

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Craft Cocktail Walking Tour with 3 Cocktails

San Juan is the birthplace of the piña colada. If you like sweet, icy, and boozy things, book this tour immediately. It will also feature the best bars in the area, which you may want to visit later in your trip.

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Visit to the Ron del Barrilito distillery

And where do Puerto Ricans get all that rum for those pina coladas? Get up close to the magic of rum distilling on this tour from Ron del Barrilito. Not only will you learn about the art of distilling, but you’ll also get to taste San Juan’s oldest brand of rum.

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Night Kayak Tour in Condado Lagoon

This is a nighttime kayak tour of San Juan. Need I say more?

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Morning Kayak Tour in Condado Lagoon

If the nighttime tour is a little too scary for you (I’m not a fan of the water at night), then go for this morning tour. Kayaks are transparent, allowing you to get a closer look at the world beneath the surface.

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Elevated Sunset Dining Overlooking the Ocean

Have you dreamed of being hoisted into the air by a crane to dine two hundred feet up? Me neither. But it seems visitors really love this elevated sunset dining experience. In addition to a four-course meal, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of San Juan and the beach.

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