Puerto Rico 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day Puerto Rico Itinerary: Sun, Sand & Culture

This itinerary focuses on exploring the diverse offerings of Puerto Rico, from its stunning beaches to its vibrant culture and history. It’s easily adaptable to your interests and can be tailored for a variety of budgets.

Day 1:

  • Arrive in San Juan (SJU): Fly into Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (LMM International).

  • Accommodation: Consider staying in the historic district of Old San Juan for its charm and proximity to attractions.

  • Things to do:

    • Explore the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan: Visit charming forts like El Morro and Castillo San Cristobal, stroll through the colorful plazas, and soak in the vibrant history and architecture.
    • Enjoy a sunset walk along the Paseo de la Princesa: Take in breathtaking views of the harbor and admire the beautiful sculptures and historic buildings.

Day 2:

  • Morning: Spend the morning relaxing on the beach. San Juan has many beautiful beaches, including Condado Beach (San Juan), Isla Verde Beach (Carolina), and Luquillo Beach (Luquillo).
  • Afternoon: Visit the vibrant streets of Old San Juan and explore its art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.

Day 3:

  • Transportation: Spend a few minutes exploring the public transportation options in Puerto Rico.

    • Buses: The public bus system is affordable but limited in its scope. Consider using it for local travel within San Juan or to reach nearby towns.

  • Things to do:

    • Visit El Yunque National Forest: Experience the lush rainforest with its stunning waterfalls and hiking trails. (Tip: Rent a car for this day trip!)
    • Hike to a waterfall.

Day 4:

  • Experience Old San Juan’s history: Visit the historic forts like Castillo San Felipe del Morro or explore the charming cobblestone streets and visit historical landmarks like the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista.

Day 5:

  • Departure Day: Enjoy one last breakfast with a stunning view before heading to the airport.

  • Things to do:

    • Visit a local market, such as Mercado de Santurce, for souvenirs and authentic Puerto Rican flavors.

Things to know:

  • Currency: The US Dollar is the official currency of Puerto Rico.

  • Language: Spanish and English are both official languages in Puerto Rico.

  • Visa Requirements: As a US territory, US citizens do not need a passport or visa to enter Puerto Rico.

  • Language: While Spanish is the official language, English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

  • Electricity: The electrical outlets in Puerto Rico use 110 volts and the standard plug type is A/A/A.

  • Getting Around:

    • Tip: San Juan offers a variety of transportation options, including taxis, public buses (guaguas), Uber and Lyft, but for exploring the rest of the island, renting a car is recommended.
    • Things to consider:

      • Driving: Puerto Rico drives on the right side of the road.

      • Road Conditions: While roads are generally well-maintained in urban areas, they can be rougher in more rural parts of the island. Be prepared for narrow roads and winding mountain passes.

  • Transportation (continued):

    • Taxis (Guaguas): These are readily available but use “guaguas” to refer to public transportation.
    • Flights: San Juan’s airport is Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU), which serves as a major hub for flights coming from the mainland US and other international destinations.

  • Transportation (Car Rental):

Consider renting a car for greater flexibility in exploring the island. Driving times can be longer than expected due to mountainous terrain.

  • Language: English is generally understood in tourist areas, but learning some basic Spanish phrases will enhance your experience and interactions with locals.

Things to consider when planning:

  • Seasonality: Puerto Rico has a tropical climate, so it’s warm year-round. The best time to visit is during the dry season (November-April) for optimal weather.
  • Cultural Immersion: For a more immersive experience, try staying in locally-owned guesthouses or “casas de huéspedes” outside of the main tourist areas.

Things to do with this itinerary:

  • Explore San Juan’s beaches:

San Juan boasts stunning beaches like Isla Verde and Condado Beach (both popular for surfing and sunbathing), and Flamenco Beach (renowned for its snorkeling).

  • Discover local flavors: From mofongo (a fried plantain dish) to pasteles (meat-filled tamales), Puerto Rico offers a vibrant culinary scene. Be sure to try these dishes, which are a testament to the island’s rich cultural influences.

  • Enjoy the nightlife: Old San Juan has a bustling nightlife with a variety of bars and restaurants offering live music, delicious cocktails, and local delicacies.

  • Don’t forget:

  • Puerto Rican culture: Puerto Rico has a vibrant culture influenced by its Spanish heritage.

  • Culture (continued): Immerse yourself in the island’s rich history by visiting historical sites like Old San Juan’s forts and the historic district itself.

Enjoy your 5 days in Puerto Rico!