Things To Do
in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a vibrant Caribbean island known for its rich culture, stunning beaches, and diverse landscapes. As a U.S. territory, it blends American and Latin influences, offering visitors a unique experience. From the historic streets of Old San Juan to the lush rainforests of El Yunque, Puerto Rico is a paradise for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.

The island's warm climate and friendly locals make it an inviting destination year-round.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering San Juan
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café followed by a visit to the historic San Juan National Historic Site, where you can explore Castillo San Felipe del Morro.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Old San Juan, then take a leisurely stroll through the colorful streets, visiting shops and the famous La Fortaleza.

evening
:

Dine at a waterfront restaurant, then experience the nightlife at a local salsa club to immerse yourself in Puerto Rican music and dance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Head to El Yunque National Forest for an early morning hike to La Mina Falls, where you can take a refreshing dip.

afternoon
:

After hiking, have lunch at a nearby roadside eatery serving local specialties, then explore the Luquillo Beach for some relaxation.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a sunset dinner at a beachside restaurant, followed by a night stroll along the beach.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-$30
🌮Street food snack$3-$5
🍺Beer$4-$7
🚌Public transport fare$0.75-$1.50
🏨Hotel night$100-$200

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and beaches.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Hurricane season can disrupt travel plans.
  • Some areas may have safety concerns.
  • Public transportation can be limited outside major cities.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Puerto Rico

Visit one of these nice places.

El Morro

This historic fortress offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a perfect spot for breathtaking sunset photos.

Old San Juan

The colorful colonial buildings and cobblestone streets create a picturesque backdrop for photography.

Luquillo Beach

Famous for its palm trees and golden sands, it’s ideal for capturing the essence of a tropical paradise.

Culinary Guide

Food in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico's culinary scene is a delightful blend of indigenous Taino, Spanish, and African influences, making it a gastronomic paradise. The island is known for its unique flavors and vibrant dishes that are a must-try for any traveler.

Puerto Rico Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mofongo

A traditional dish made of fried plantains mashed with garlic, olive oil, and pork cracklings.

Must-Try!

Arroz con Gandules

Puerto Rican rice with pigeon peas, seasoned with sofrito and cooked in a flavorful broth.

Lechón

Slow-roasted whole pig, a popular dish during festivals and celebrations.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

La Placita de Santurce

A lively market in Santurce offering fresh produce, local snacks, and street food.

Pinones

Famous for its food kiosks serving alcapurrias, bacalaítos, and other street food delights.

Climate Guide

Weather

Puerto Rico enjoys a tropical climate with average temperatures ranging from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C) throughout the year. The dry season runs from December to April, while the wet season occurs from May to November, often accompanied by tropical storms. Humidity levels can be high, especially during summer months, making it feel warmer than the actual temperature.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A warm handshake and a friendly smile are common; it’s polite to greet people you meet.

Dress Code

While beach attire is acceptable in coastal areas, casual but neat clothing is preferred in restaurants.

Respect for Culture

Puerto Ricans take pride in their culture, so showing interest and respect for their traditions is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Puerto Rico is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious when using ATMs. It's advisable to stay in well-populated areas at night and to be aware of your surroundings.

Tipping in Puerto Rico

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping in Restaurants

It is customary to tip around 15-20% in restaurants, as service is often included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (December to February)

Expect pleasant temperatures and less humidity, making it the peak tourist season.

Spring (March to May)

Warm temperatures continue, with occasional rain; it’s a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer (June to August)

Hot and humid with more rainfall; this is the off-peak season, but great for budget travelers.

Fall (September to November)

Hurricane season; expect rain and storms, but also fewer tourists and lower prices.

Nightlife Guide

Puerto Rico at Night

Puerto Rico boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, especially in San Juan where bars, clubs, and live music venues come alive after dark. Salsa clubs, rooftop bars, and beach parties are popular, offering a mix of local and international music. The atmosphere is lively, and locals are welcoming, making it easy for visitors to join in the fun.

Hiking in Puerto Rico

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

El Yunque National Forest Trails

Offers a variety of trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes through lush rainforests and stunning waterfalls.

Cerro de Punta

The highest peak in Puerto Rico, providing a challenging hike with panoramic views of the island.

Airports

How to reach Puerto Rico by plane.

Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU)

Located in Carolina, it's the main international gateway to Puerto Rico, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Puerto Rico's urban areas, particularly San Juan, are quite walkable, with many attractions located close to each other. The streets are often lined with shops, cafes, and historical sites, making it enjoyable to explore on foot. However, outside of urban centers, some areas may require a car to navigate.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Puerto Ricans

The majority of the population identifies as Puerto Rican, blending Taíno, African, and Spanish ancestry.

Expats and Tourists

A growing number of expats and tourists visit the island, contributing to its diverse cultural landscape.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is the most popular sport in Puerto Rico, with a rich history and many players competing in Major League Baseball.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys a strong following, with local leagues and teams representing the island in international competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in urban areas can be heavy, especially during rush hours. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, but many tourists prefer to rent cars for greater flexibility in exploring the island. Parking can be challenging in busy areas, so plan accordingly.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan

While traditional Puerto Rican cuisine includes meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian options, and local markets have fresh fruits and vegetables.

Gluten-Free

Rice and beans are staples, but always check with restaurants about cross-contamination.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Puerto Rico are generally of good quality, with both public and private facilities available. Major hospitals in urban areas provide comprehensive medical care. Visitors should have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses, as healthcare can be expensive for non-residents.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Puerto Rico.