Puerto Rico's Absolute Essentials

Puerto Rico’s historical and natural landscape centers on the 16th-century fortifications of Old San Juan, including the massive San Felipe del Morro and the colorful La Fortaleza governor's residence. Beyond the colonial cobblestones and the San Juan Bautista Cathedral, the island features unique geological sites like Arecibo’s Cueva Ventana and the world's brightest bioluminescent waters at Mosquito Bay. Coastal highlights range from the white sands of Culebra’s Flamenco Beach to the active Casa Bacardi distillery, while the Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery offers a distinct perspective on the island's heritage.

Fuerte San Felipe del Morro

Castillo San Felipe del Morro, most commonly known as El Morro, is a large fortress and citadel in the historic district of Old San Juan,…

Viejo San Juan

Old San Juan is a historic district located at the "northwest triangle" of the islet of San Juan in San Juan.

La Princesa Promenade

The charming 19th century esplanade is always full of life. Beautifully restored, with an amazing genius loci.

Cathedral of San Juan Bautista

Cathedral of San Juan or San Juan Cathedral, and variants thereof, may refer to:

Flamenco Beach

Flamenco Beach is a public beach on the Caribbean island of Culebra. It is known for its shallow turquoise waters, white sand, swimming…

Mosquito Bay Beach

Undoubtedly the world's largest and brightest bioluminiscent bay. Seeing the neon-like glowing water is a lifetime experience!

Plaza de Mercado

Old-fashioned Puerto Rican market full of hawkers, tiny stalls and locals. A wonderful, genuine shopping experience!

San Juan Gate

The only gate out of former six that still remained standing. It is named after Saint John the Baptist and together with the fortification…

Bacardi Rum Factory

The world's largest distillery offers a very informative tour with tasting included. A must do!

Iglesia de San José

San José Church, located in Old San Juan within the historic colonial zone of the capital of Puerto Rico, is one of the first significant…

The Fortress

La Fortaleza, also known as Palacio de Santa Catalina, has been the official residence of the governor of Puerto Rico since the 16th…

Cueva Ventana

Cueva Ventana is a large cave situated atop a limestone cliff in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, overlooking the Río Grande de Arecibo valley.

San Juan Cemetery

The Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery is a colonial-era cemetery located in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Fort Saint John of the Cross

Dating back to 1610, this stately and perfectly preserved fort is well worth exploring. It also offers amazing views!