The Basics
City Name: San Juan
Where is it located?: San Juan is located in Puerto Rico, in the northeastern part of the island, on the Atlantic Ocean.
Why do people go there?: San Juan is the perfect draw for those who want all the offerings of a large city, but with beautiful beaches and oceanside accommodation to match.
How do travelers get there?: Flights into San Juan’s international airport is the easiest way to get there, although a cruise ship can do the trick as well.
Currency: US dollar (USD)
City Code: None needed
Population: 500,000
Languages: Spanish, English
Travel Information
Neighborhoods: Old San Juan, Puerta de Tierra, Miramar, Condado, Ocean Park, Villa Palmeras, Isla Verde, Hato Rey, Rio Piedras, Bayamon
Attractions: Old San Juan, Beaches, U.S. Proximity
Accommodations: San Juan Hostels, San Juan Hotels
Tourist Office: Puerto Rico-Tourism Co. Old San Juan San Juan, Puerto Rico +1-809-721-2400, 722-1709, 791-1014, 791-2551 +1-809-721-2400, 722-1709, 791-1014, 791-2551
Off-the-beaten-path: Plaza del Mercado, El Yunque, Luquillo Beach, Bacardi Plant
Health Issues: dengue
Tips for Visiting
When to go: Keep an eye on the weather (to avoid hurricanes) and head over during the fall for nice weather and less tourists.
Common Phrases: Hola – Hello; Como esta – How are you?; Cuanto es? / Cuanto cuesta? — How much is it?; Habla ingles? — Do you speak English?; Por favor – please; No entiendo – I don’t understand; Hable lento, por favor — Please speak more slowly; Lo siento — I’m sorry; No lo se — I don’t know; Aqui esta — Here it is; si – yes; no – no; esta manana — this morning; esta tarde — this afternoon; esta noche — tonight
City Specific Events: Festival of St John the Baptist in June, Las Navidades in December, Saint Sebastian Festival in January
How to get around?: Buses are the best, although trolley and ferry systems are in place in certain areas.
Good to know: San Juan has one of the finest harbors in Caribbean.
Cheapest airport to fly into: The cheapest airport to fly into San Juan is the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport.
Need more information?: Check out the San Juan travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.
