Walking Guided Tour of History and Myths of Old San Juan

4.4
(5 reviews)

2 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English and 1 more

All tours to this magical city are different because Old San Juan is a city filled with history and tales. While we share the history from the books, we also share the tales passed down from generation to generation. When you put the history and tales together, you can feel as you were there present.

Immerse yourself in Puerto Rico’s culture, history, and some of the best spots in the city with our guided walking tour through Old San Juan’s beautiful streets. This family-friendly 2.5-hour tour will let you discover the old city’s magical corners and sight-see its wonderful architecture.

What's Included

Bilingual Tour
Gratuity

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Please wait at Plaza Colon taxi stand.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1
    Paseo de la Princesa

    Paseo de la Princesa is considered one of the most scenic walkways in the world. This promenade is imporant because of the important historical sites and statues along the walkway.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2
    La Fortaleza - Palacio de Santa Catalina

    La Fortaleza (The Fortress) is the official residence of the governors of Puerto Rico. La Fortaleza was the first fortification built in San Juan harbor. The original tower, now called Torre del Homenaje, or "tower of homage," still stands; its name derives from an island tradition in which the resident governor climbs to the top of the tower to pledge a solemn oath of loyalty and courage during dangerous times.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista

    The cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in San Juan, and the oldest cathedral in the United States, and is the second oldest cathedral in the Americas. The building of the San Juan Cathedral was part of the establishment and spread of Catholicism on the island. The cathedral contains the tomb of the Spanish explorer and settlement founder Juan Ponce de León.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4
    La Puerta de San Juan

    Also known as the (Old Entrance of San Juan), the gate was built in 1635, this gate was the main entry into the walled city during its Spanish colonial era. It is 16 feet tall and 20 feet thick and leads you to the romantic Paseo La Princesa.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5
    La Rogativa

    La Rogativa, one of the most beautiful sculptures in Old San Juan, takes center stage at the plaza. The sculpture was made out of bronze. Rogativa means “The Procession”, which tells the legend about a Catholic Bishop and his companions who made a procession in faith holding crosses, torches, and chanting during an invasion by the British on the city in 1797.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • Casa Blanca Museum (Pass by)

    Built in 1521, it was the residence for Juan Ponce de León and his family. Now serves as a museum.

    Admission ticket free
  • 6

    The Bastion was built next to Castillo San Felipe del Morro and it was meant as an added defense to the fort. In the 1800s, this bastion served as barracks for the soldiers.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 7
    Cuartel de Ballaja

    Built in 1854 and used until 1898 by the Spaniards. The Cuartel was built as barracks for the Spanish Infantry. It was made to house 1000 soldiers and their families. After the 1898 invasion by the US Army, the US infantry occupied the Cuartel de Ballajá until 1936. During the Second World War, this structure became a hospital.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Wheelchair accessible
Supplied by Bestours - Outdoors Adventures Puerto Rico

Tags

Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

4.4 Based on 5 5 reviews
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