3 day itinerary for San Juan

Itinerary

San Juan is a vibrant city with a rich history, stunning beaches, and delicious food. Let’s dive into a fun-filled 3-day itinerary that skips the museums but still gives you a taste of the local culture and beauty!

## Day 1: Explore Old San Juan

Morning:

• Breakfast at Cafetería Mallorca: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at this local favorite. Try the Mallorca, a sweet pastry dusted with powdered sugar, and pair it with a strong Puerto Rican coffee.
• Stroll through Old San Juan: After breakfast, take a leisurely walk through the colorful streets of Old San Juan. Don’t miss the iconic blue cobblestones and the vibrant colonial buildings. Snap some photos at the famous Calle del Cristo!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at La Fonda del Jibarito: Enjoy a hearty Puerto Rican meal at this cozy spot. Try the mofongo or arroz con gandules for an authentic taste.
• Visit El Morro: Head to Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a historic fortress with stunning views of the ocean. Explore the grounds, take in the sea breeze, and don’t forget to bring your camera for those Instagram-worthy shots!

Evening:

• Dinner at La Casita Blanca: This charming restaurant serves up traditional Puerto Rican dishes in a homey atmosphere. The pernil (roast pork) is a must-try!
• Sunset at Paseo de la Princesa: After dinner, take a stroll along this beautiful promenade. It’s a perfect spot to watch the sunset and enjoy the local street vendors and artists.

## Day 2: Beach Day and Local Flavors

Morning:

• Breakfast at Panadería España: Grab a quick breakfast of fresh pastries and coffee at this popular bakery. Their sandwiches are also a hit!
• Beach Time at Condado Beach: Spend your morning soaking up the sun at Condado Beach. You can rent a beach chair and umbrella, or just lay out a towel and enjoy the waves.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at La Playita: Located near the beach, this casual eatery offers fresh seafood and local dishes. Try the fish tacos or ceviche!
• Water Activities: After lunch, consider renting a paddleboard or kayak to explore the coastline. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even try parasailing!

Evening:

• Dinner at Orozco’s: Head back to Old San Juan for dinner at this lively restaurant known for its Puerto Rican cuisine. The seafood paella is a crowd favorite!
• Nightlife in La Placita de Santurce: After dinner, experience the vibrant nightlife at La Placita. This area is filled with bars and live music, perfect for dancing the night away!

## Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

Morning:

• Breakfast at Café Cuatro Sombras: Enjoy a delicious breakfast with locally sourced coffee. Their avocado toast is a great way to fuel up for the day!
• Visit El Yunque National Forest: Take a short drive to El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. Hike one of the many trails, like La Mina Falls, and enjoy the lush scenery and waterfalls.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Local Kiosk in Luquillo: After your hike, head to the famous Luquillo kiosks for lunch. Try the alcapurrias or pinchos (skewered meat) from one of the many vendors.
• Relax at Luquillo Beach: Spend your afternoon lounging on the beautiful Luquillo Beach. The calm waters are perfect for swimming, and the scenery is just breathtaking!

Evening:

• Dinner at Fonda el Jibarito: On your way back to San Juan, stop for dinner at this beloved spot. The ambiance is cozy, and the food is deliciously authentic.
• Evening Stroll at the San Juan Waterfront: End your trip with a peaceful walk along the waterfront. The views of the ocean and the city lights are a perfect way to wrap up your San Juan adventure!

And there you have it! A delightful 3-day itinerary that captures the essence of San Juan without stepping into a museum. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to savor every moment (and every bite)! 🌴✨