San Juan

This charming old part of town is a great place to explore restored buildings from the 16th- and 17th-century Spanish colonial period. Walk through the narrow cobblestone streets and enjoy a lively and colorful area full of history, culture and personality.

This small square is home to one of the most emblematic sites in Old San Juan. It is a "must-see" landmark located just a couple blocks from the Cathedral, and the site of the famous bronze statue La Rogativa, made by Lindsay Daen. The statue represents a bishop and his companions who helped frighten away the British troops during the 1797 attack on the city by carrying torches and chanting.

The museum, which was built in 1992, hosts permanent exhibits exploring New World art and its African heritage, as well as indigenous and archaeological artifacts. It also hosts exhibits by local artists, creative workshops and other events for the community.

The Puerto Rico Museum of Art, which boasts more than ten exhibit halls, includes permanent collections and a compilation of Puerto Rican art from the 17th century to the present. There is also a lovely garden with a pond where you can relax and engage in some people-watching.

This is a beach with splashes of graffiti, games of volleyball and plenty of Atlantic surf. Playa Condado is the most popular beach in the city with smooth and clean sand and warm water. But be aware, there can be some pretty rough waves, so be careful.

San Juan Botanical Garden has more than 200 species of tropical and subtropical vegetation, and it is the Universidad de Puerto Rico's main attraction. Stroll around the lotus lagoon, walk along the bamboo promenade and admire the orchid and palm gardens.

Built in honor of the Spanish princess of Asturias, this street has a broad pedestrian walkway full with flowers, trees and benches as well as historic buildings, restaurant and cafes. You will find this lovely place on the southern side of the Old San Juan.

The Bacardí family built a small rum distillery here in the 1950s. Today it's the world's largest, capable of producing more than 20 million cases a year. A basic tour of the visitor center includes one free drink, or you can opt for a mixology class or rum tasting.