Excursion Old san juan on foot tour at San Juan

Cruise line: Silversea
Difficulty:

Explore the splendid architecture and landmarks of Old San Juan on-foot during this picturesque sightseeing excursion.  

Old San Juan, Guided Walking Tour

Depart the pier for a scenic, approximately two-hour walking tour along the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, an UNESCO World Heritage Site. During your leisurely stroll led by an informed local guide, learn about the history behind the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, its unique ties to the United States, as well as its rich Spanish, Taino Indian, and western African heritage. Whilst exploring the 500-year-old legacy of Old San Juan, marvel at the incredible architecture and landmarks of a bygone era.

La Casa Estrecha, Cathedral Visit, Defensive Walls, La Puerta de San Juan, Fortaleza, La Rogativa

Along the way, explore landmarks such as the Banco Popular Building and Bastion de Palmas, stop to admire and talk about La Casa Estrecha, one of the narrowest houses in the Western hemisphere. Afterward, proceed for a guided visit inside La Catedral de San Juan Bautista ( might be outside visit only due to mass, wedding, closure) to discuss its history, architecture, and culture. Old San Juan’s venerated Cathedral is Puerto Rico’s grandest religious building, and one of its most important.

San Juan Gate, La Rogativa Statue, Fortaleza, Hotel En Convento, Calle Cristo, Iglesia San Jose

From here, continue on for a look at parts of the city’s impressive defensive system, namely its walls, La Puerta de San Juan (San Juan Gate), the only remaining entrance door, and Fortaleza, the fort ‘mistake’ made by the Spanish. A photo stop is also made at the La Rogativa Statue, which overlooks San Juan Bay, followed by a walk up to the Hotel En Convento on Calle de Las Monjas. Upon arrival, step inside and tour this former convent to discuss balconies and cobblestones, and learn about its history and architecture. Finally, walk up Calle Cristo, a large hill, and tour inside the Iglesia San Jose, with photo stops along the way. Your sightseeing tour concludes back at the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Old San Juan, La Casa Estrecha, La Catedral de San Juan Bautista, Defensive Walls, La Puerta de San Juan, Fortaleza, La Rogativa Statue, La Capilla de Cristo

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately two miles (about 3.2 kilometres), at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces, sidewalks, curbs, hills, and heavy inclines, with steps to negotiate at the sites visited. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, bottled water, and US Dollars or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Proper attire is required to enter the cathedral; shorts, bare shoulders, and see-through clothing are not permitted. Guests must be at least eight years old to participate on this tour; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. Guests must be at least 18 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Photography/videography inside religious buildings should be done tastefully and respectfully. This tour does not operate on December 25, December 31, January 1, Easter Sunday, and Thanksgiving Day. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.