la fortaleza puerto rico tour

Visiting La Fortaleza in Old San Juan

La Fortaleza, designated a National Historic Landmark in 1960, isn't just the oldest governor’s mansion in continued use in the western hemisphere; it's also one of the loveliest. Its pale blue and white facade, tiled roof, patios and wrought ironwork recall the grace of Spanish colonial architecture.

The building is the official governor's residence, and has been for centuries—and the fine galleries, period furniture, and lush gardens of the museum is well worth the visit.

The History

La Fortaleza means “The Fortress,” and it was certainly intended as such when it was completed in 1540 as part of a massive construction effort to secure the island’s defenses. It didn't do so well, though, falling to the Earl of Cumberland in 1598 and the Dutch Commander Boudewyn Hendrick in 1625.

In 1846, it was remodeled and converted for full-time use as the governor’s house. The building, which is also known as El Palacio de Santa Catalina (Santa Catalina Palace), has housed no less than 170 governors of Puerto Rico.

La Fortaleza is located at Recinto Oeste Street in Old San Juan, near the San Juan Gate. It is open from 9 to 4 on weekdays, and guided tours are offered every weekday except holidays. . Entrance to the site is free.

Hours can change due to government business or special holidays, so call ahead to confirm the building is open. For more information, call 787-721-7000 ext. 2211. There is also a tour guide office by the west end of Calle Forteleza that you can stop by in person. 

La Fortaleza is located directly in the center of Old San Juan and is easily walkable from most parts of the city. There are many local buses that will let off travelers at the Terminal Covadonga San Juan. From the terminal, it will take under 15 minutes to walk to the site.

Don't Miss

One of the highlights in the entire palace is an ancient mahogany clock that stands along one of the corridors. Before he left La Fortaleza, the last Spanish governor of Puerto Rico paused in front of it and struck its face with his sword, stopping time at the very last moment of Spanish rule in the New World.

Don't Forget About Christmas

If you've bought the kids to the island for Christmas, check out what's cooking at La Fortaleza on December 25th—the children might just come away with a free gift.

Package Tours

Consider visiting La Fortaleza as part of a more extensive tour. Operators like Viator.com offer fun outings with expert guides that include a stop at the museum but include more sights. A benefit to booking a package tour is the operator will handle tickets and entry into La Fortaleza, so all you'll have to do is enjoy the scenery. 

Package options include historical walking tours through the streets of Old San Juan, zipping along on a Segway, visits to the Barcadi Factory, and breezy sailing excursions through the waters of the Old San Juan Harbor.the waters of the Old San Juan Harbor.

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La Fortaleza (The Fortress) is the official residence of the Governor. It is the oldest executive mansion in the New World still in continuous use. Built in 1533, it has housed over 170 governors since then.

La Fortaleza was the first structure built for defense against the Carib Indians and invaders on the island. It consisted of one tower (known as  La Torre de Homenaje or  Tower of Homage) and four immense thick stone walls that enclosed an interior patio. The tower had the nickname  Homage Tower  because the Governor, following Spanish military tradition, would go up to the top of the tower and take oaths to the King and Queen of Spain during critical moments on the island.

A few years later, the military added a second tower called the  Austral Tower . During its use as a military defense structure, it only suffered capture twice. The first capture occurred in 1528 when the British Earl of Cumberland, George Clifford attacked San Juan. General Boudewijn Hendrick of the Netherlands also captured it in 1625.

In 1822 it officially became the executive mansion of the governor. It went through a reconstruction in 1846 to change its military appearance into an executive mansion. The reconstruction gave it a more palatial facade and gardens.

Over the course of its history, La Fortaleza has hosted many notable dignitaries. Among them are John F. Kennedy and his wife Jacqueline, King Juan Carlos of Spain, Queen Juliana of the Netherlands, and U.S. President Barack Obama.

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La Fortaleza

Guarded iron gates mark the imposing La Fortaleza. Dating from 1533, it's the oldest executive mansion in continuous use in the western hemisphere. The original fortress for the young colony, La Fortaleza eventually yielded its military preeminence to the city’s newer and larger forts and was remodeled and expanded to domicile island governors for more than three centuries. There are free, 30-minute guided tours between 8:15am and 3:30pm. They include the mansion’s Moorish gardens, the dungeon and the chapel.

Tour schedules change daily, so call in advance to reserve a place. Be prepared for a security gauntlet, including handing over your ID – passport, driver's license – for the duration of the tour.

Recinto. Old San Juan

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La Fortaleza was the first fortification built in San Juan harbor. Constructed between 1533 and 1540, the original fort consisted of a circular tower and four massive stone walls. The Spanish military constructed a second tower, called the Austral, at the end of the 16th century. Although established to defend against Carib Indian raids, invaders only took the fortress twice in its history: first, by the English in 1598, and then by the Dutch in 1625. After an unsuccessful siege of the San Felipe del Morro fort the Dutch burned the city, including the fort, in 1625. From 1640 onward it was customary for the island's Governor to reside there. In 1846, La Fortaleza was enlarged and its street facade altered. The original tower, now called Torre del Homenaje, or "tower of homage," still stands; its name derives from an island tradition in which the resident governor climbs to the top of the tower to pledge a solemn oath of loyalty and courage during dangerous times. Today, the building, at one time designated the Spanish Captain-General of Puerto Rico's official residence, serves as the official residence and offices of Puerto Rico's Governor.

Take advantage of the search to browse through the World Heritage Centre information.

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Unesco social media, la fortaleza and san juan national historic site in puerto rico.

• Description

Between the 16th and 20th centuries, a series of defensive structures was built at this strategic point in the Caribbean Sea to protect the city and the Bay of San Juan. They represent a fine display of European military architecture adapted to harbour sites on the American continent.

Description is available under license CC-BY-SA IGO 3.0

La Fortaleza et le site historique national de San Juan à Porto Rico

Point stratégique de la mer des Caraïbes, la baie de San Juan s'est couverte du XVI e au XX e siècle d'ouvrages défensifs qui présentent un répertoire varié de l'architecture militaire européenne adaptée aux sites portuaires du continent américain.

فورتاليزا وموقع سان خوان التاريخي الوطني في بورتوريكو

يشكل خليج سان خوان نقطة استراتيجيّة من البحر الكاريبي، وقد غطته بين القرنين الخامس والتاسع عشر أعمال دفاعيّة تمثّل مخزوناً متنوّعاً من الهندسة العسكريّة الأوروبيّة المكيفّة بحسب حاجات مرافئ القارة الأمريكيّة.

source: UNESCO/CPE Description is available under license CC-BY-SA IGO 3.0

波多黎各的古堡与圣胡安历史遗址

公元16世纪至20世纪期间，在加勒比海的战略要地上建起了一系列防御工事用于保护圣胡安城和圣胡安海湾。这些建筑很好地展示了欧洲军事建筑与美洲大陆港口实际情况相结合后产生的和谐效果。

Fortaleza y sitio histórico nacional de San Juan de Puerto Rico

Situada en un punto estratégico del Caribe, la bahía de San Juan se protegió con toda una serie de obras defensivas construidas entre los siglos XVI y XX. Estas fortificaciones son un buen ejemplo de la arquitectura militar europea, adaptada a las zonas portuarias del continente americano.

プエルト・リコのラ・フォルタレサとサン・ファン国定史跡

source: NFUAJ

Nationaal-historisch gebied van La Fortaleza en San Juan in Puerto Rico

Tussen de 16e en 20e eeuw werd een reeks verdedigingsstructuren van vestingen en forten gebouwd bij La Fortaleza en San Juan op een strategisch punt in de Caribische zee om de stad en baai van San Juan te beschermen. Het verdedigingssysteem van La Fortaleza representeert Europese militaire architectuur aangepast aan het Amerikaanse continent. Het is achtereenvolgens een fort, wapenhuis en een gevangenis geweest. Door de eeuwen heen heeft San Juan het Spaanse rijk beschermd tegen Caribische Indianen, piraten en oorlogsschepen van andere landen. Het uitgestrekte, samenhangende verdedigingssysteem stond vroeger bekend om z'n doeltreffendheid. Vandaag de dag telt vooral de historische waarde ervan.

Source: unesco.nl

Outstanding Universal Value

Brief synthesis

La Fortaleza, along with the later fortifications of Castillo San Felipe del Morro, Castillo San Cristóbal and San Juan de la Cruz (El Cañuelo), and a large portion of the original San Juan City Wall, were built between the 16th and 20th centuries to protect the city and the Bay of San Juan. They are characteristic examples of the historic methods of construction used in military architecture over this period, which adapted European designs and techniques to the special conditions of the Caribbean port cities. La Fortaleza has served as a fortress, an arsenal, a prison, and residence of the Governor-General, and today as the seat and residence of the Governor of Puerto Rico.

These fortifications, which retain the general appearance of advanced 18th-century defense technology, clearly illustrate both a transfer of technology from Europe to America over a long period and its adaptation to the topography of a strategically significant yet difficult tropical site. Reflecting Italian Renaissance, Baroque, and French Enlightenment designs, the defenses express successive techniques and technologies in fortification construction. The varied examples of military architecture from the 16th to 20th centuries in the fortifications of San Juan are evidence of the imperial struggles that defined the development of the Americas. As one of the first as well as one of the last of the numerous seats of power in Spain’s American empire, these structures are now potent symbols of the cultural ties that link the Hispanic world.

Criterion (vi): La Fortaleza and San Juan National Historic Site outstandingly illustrate the adaptation to the Caribbean context of European developments in military architecture from the 16th to 20th centuries. They represent the continuity of more than four centuries of architectural, engineering, military, and political history.

Located within the boundaries of La Fortaleza and San Juan National Historic Site in Puerto Rico are all the elements necessary to understand and express the Outstanding Universal Value of the property, including La Fortaleza, Castillo San Felipe del Morro, Castillo San Cristóbal, San Juan de la Cruz (El Cañuelo) fort, and a large portion of the original San Juan City Wall, including San Juan Gate. The portion of the City Wall that belongs to the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico is not within the property. The property is nevertheless of sufficient size to adequately ensure a full representation of the features and processes that convey its significance. The property in general does not suffer from adverse effects of development or neglect, though urban encroachment near the north section of the City Wall and the deterioration of the San Juan del la Cruz fort’s facade and Castillo San Cristóbal’s outworks have been identified as concerns. There is no buffer zone for the property.

Authenticity

La Fortaleza and San Juan National Historic Site in Puerto Rico is authentic in terms of its forms and designs, materials and substance, and location and setting. The fortifications remain as a clear testimony to their original defensive purpose, and indeed continued to serve as such through the mid-20th century. The original construction methods, including those used in periodic expansions and improvements during the forts’ active service, are still evident and can be used to guide continuing conservation. Repairs have been constantly necessary over the life of the structures due to their age and the vulnerable materials of which they are composed; regular monitoring now supports repair work.

The site is fundamentally in a good state of preservation, despite conservation challenges posed by susceptible materials such as sandstone, brick, and plaster in the presence of the erosive action of the sea and heavy traffic in the area. Some early repairs using concrete also caused damage, but current professional conservation policies, including regular monitoring, are addressing these issues.

Protection and management requirements

La Fortaleza, which was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1960, is owned in fee by the Government of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico; San Juan National Historic Site, which was established in 1949, is held by fee title by the Government of the United States of America. La Fortaleza is protected under the regulations of the Puerto Rico Legislative Assembly, as well as by the Commission of the Historic Zone of San Juan, an independent commission of the Capital of Puerto Rico. The Institute of Puerto Rican Culture has established standards of conservation and restoration in the historic zone. In addition, there is a Consultant Committee for the Restoration, Conservation, and Improvement of La Fortaleza. San Juan National Historic Site in Puerto Rico – comprised of San Felipe del Morro, San Cristóbal, and El Cañuelo forts and most of what remains of the of the old San Juan City fortress wall along with the San Juan Gate – is protected under the National Park system, which affords it the highest possible level of protection by the federal government and assures a high standard of interpretation and public access. The inclusion in 2013 of both La Fortaleza and San Juan National Historic Site within the Old San Juan Historic District National Historic Landmark affords another level of protection as well.

Formal agreements are in place for cooperative management of the property between the Government of Puerto Rico and the National Park Service. Guiding documents include a General Management Plan (1985), a Long-Range Interpretive Plan (2006), an Alternative Transportation Plan, and various interpretive plans for waysides and exhibits for San Juan National Historic Site; the Commonwealth government has committed to compiling current practice into a formal management plan for La Fortaleza. A new visitor center established in 2002 at Castillo San Cristóbal allows for improved public access and there are plans to further enhance information for visitors and reduce traffic.

Sustaining the Outstanding Universal Value of the property over time will require completing, approving, and implementing a general management plan for La Fortaleza; continuing to apply appropriate conservation measures aimed at protecting vulnerable materials, including at the San Juan del la Cruz fort and Castillo San Cristóbal outworks; and managing urban encroachment near the City Wall.

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State of Conservation (SOC)

La Fortaleza “The Fortress”

San juan, puerto rico.

The Fortress “La Fortaleza” is the official residence of the governor of Puerto Rico . It is located in the city of San Juan , in the historic district known as Old San Juan .

La Fortaleza was built between 1533 and 1540 by order of the Spanish king, Charles V. It was originally a fortress, built to protect the port of San Juan from attacks by pirates and corsairs. The original building consisted of a circular tower and four stone walls. In the 17th century, two more towers were added, and in the 18th century, an interior courtyard was built.

In 1846, La Fortaleza was remodeled to become the official residence of the governor. The remodeling was designed by the Spanish architect Fernando Trueba, and the building was given a neoclassical style.

La Fortaleza has been the official residence of 170 governors of Puerto Rico. It is a historic and cultural landmark of great importance to the island. In 1983, it was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO as part of the “La Fortaleza and San Juan National Historic Site”.

The complex currently consists of a few attached buildings with formal living quarters on the second floor and private quarters on the third. It overlooks the high city walls that front the bay, and within the north perimeter of the house are sheltered gardens and a swimming pool.

Here are some interesting facts about La Fortaleza:

• The building is made of limestone and coral blocks.
• The original circular tower, known as the Torre del Homenaje, is still standing today.
• It has a total of 40 rooms.
• The interior is decorated with a variety of styles, including Spanish colonial, neoclassical, and art deco.
• La Fortaleza has a botanical garden with over 100 species of plants.
• The building has been the site of important historical events, such as the signing of the Declaration of Independence of Puerto Rico in 1868.
• La Fortaleza is a symbol of the sovereignty of Puerto Rico.
• La Fortaleza is a popular tourist destination. It is a beautiful and historic building that offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history of Puerto Rico.

La Fortaleza is open to the public for guided tours. Tours are offered Monday through Friday from 8:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Address and Map:

Physical address: La Fortaleza 54 Calle Fortaleza Edificio de la Real Audiencia San Juan, PR, 00901

Historic and Memorable Sites and Monuments in Puerto Rico

• Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Fort San Cristóbal
• City Wall of San Juan
• Plaza de Armas
• Old Ponce Fire Station
• San Felipe del Moro Castle
• The Fortress – “La Fortaleza”
• San Juan Gates
• El Yunque National Forest
• The Capitol
• Caverns of the Camuy River National Park
• Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Park

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El Morro & La Fortaleza Fort Tours In Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

The first Spanish fortification constructed in Old San Juan was La Fortaleza built in 1533 some 12 years after the first Spanish settlers occupied the region in 1521. Castillo San Felipe del Morro (generally referred to as El Morro) began construction in 1539 and was completed in 1790. In 1898 when the United States took possession of Puerto Rico, due to the Spanish American War, El Morro was designated part of Fort Brooke and used as a military in stallion during WWI and WWII. El Morro and Old San Juan were declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

This isn't history class or a History Channel Special (although the TV show "Drunk History might apply) so we will leave the rest of the history to the experts. Needless to say, the tours of these old Spanish forts are incredible. There usually isn't much of a wait, if any at all, and the tours are really well done.

What You Need To Know: 

• The SUN : Get there early to avoid the heat of the day and pack sunblock and water. The forts are actually pretty big and there is a lot of up-and-down large stair cases.
• Water: There are a few places you can get a drink but they may not be convenient depending on where you are and in case you didn't know..... PR get's pretty hot sometimes. Definitely bring water.
• Time & Planning: I usually split up the fort tours for different days when I have visitors on the island. You can easily do either fort in a half-day. If you plan to do both I would start early and plan for a full day. Of course you can breeze through and check each fort out in an hour or so each but to do it right you need some time.
• Food: There are many places to eat around the forts. If you are going to do both forts in a single day then you probably want to grab a bite on the way from La Fortaleza to El Morro. I usually grab some food and a beer at La Verguenza on the balcony/deck looking over the forts on the way from La Fortaleza to El Morro.
• Fees: $10 to get in.... can't beat that. Other passes are available at the National Park Service website below.

Contact Information

Address: 501 Norzagaray Street, Castillo San Cristobal, San Juan, PR 00901

Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/saju/planyourvisit/index.htm

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LA FORTALEZA

La Fortaleza

La Fortaleza / Palacio de Santa Catalina fue la primera fortificación construida para defender la ciudad de San Juan y la primera en una serie de fuertes militares, que incluyen al Castillo San Felipe del Morro, Fuerte San Cristóbal y Fortín de San Gerónimo. La construcción fue autorizada por el rey Carlos I de España como medida de protección contra los ataques de indios, corsarios y piratas. Se comenzó a construir en el 1533 y se terminó el 25 de mayo de 1540. Desde el siglo XVI, La Fortaleza ha servido como residencia oficial del gobernador, siendo así la mansión ejecutiva de más uso continuo en las Américas. La mansión fue remodelada afondo en 1846 por las autoridades españolas para adaptar su origen militar a su nueva función puramente administrativa. Aproximadamente 170 gobernantes han ocupado la mansión y ha recibido cientos de dignatarios, entre los cuales figuran el presidente estadounidense John F. Kennedy y su esposa, la primera dama Jacqueline Kennedy, quienes la visitaron en 1961, SS.MM. los Reyes de España Juan Carlos I y Sofía de Grecia en 1987, la reina Juliana de los Países Bajos, la primera ministra del Reino Unido, baronesa Margaret Thatcher, el presidente de Estados Unidos Barack Obama en el 2011, SS.MM. los Reyes de España Felipe VI y Letizia en el 2016, entre otros políticos, jefes de estado y miembros de la realeza.

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Gobernador de Puerto Rico

Comenzó su carrera profesional en Washington D.C. con el entonces Comisionado Residente Baltasar Corrada del Río y luego ejerció por seis años como abogado litigante en esa ciudad.  Regresó a trabajar a Puerto Rico en 1990 y durante el cuatrienio de 1993 a 1996 sirvió como Secretario de Justicia de Puerto Rico . Como principal oficial legal de nuestro gobierno publicó numerosas opiniones y argumentó dos importantes casos constitucionales frente al Tribunal Supremo de Puerto Rico, supervisó sobre 500 abogados y fiscales y se destacó en la lucha contra el crimen, consiguiendo la designación de Puerto Rico como Zona de Alta Incidencia de Tráfico de Drogas. Encomendado por la Casa Blanca, cabildeó en el Congreso para la aprobación de la Ley Anti-Crimen del Presidente Clinton. Antes de regresar al servicio público fue socio de un prestigioso bufete por más de 10 años.    Fue el decimonoveno Comisionado Residente de Puerto Rico en Washington desde enero de 2009 a diciembre del 2016. Durante su incumbencia en el Congreso, compiló un impresionante récord de logros en múltiples áreas. Aseguró miles de millones de dólares en fondos federales y créditos contributivos para Puerto Rico bajo la Ley para la Reinversión y Recuperación Económica (ARRA, en inglés), trabajó para asegurar que Puerto Rico y los otros territorios estadounidenses recibieran un trato justo en la Reforma de Salud federal (ACA, en inglés) la cual triplicó la cantidad de fondos federales que se le otorgaban a Puerto Rico para financiar el sistema de salud pública. De igual forma, Pierluisi trabajó para adelantar múltiples acciones concretas de parte de las agencias federales en torno la seguridad pública, el desarrollo económico, la educación, la salud y la protección del ambiente.   El ex Comisionado Residente siempre ha abogado para asegurar un trato justo para los ciudadanos americanos residentes en Puerto Rico, incluyendo una lucha sin tregua para conseguir la igualdad para Puerto Rico bajo todos los programas federales y bajo toda ley de Estados Unidos que solo se consigue con la Estadidad .  El pueblo de Puerto Rico votó mayoritariamente en noviembre de 2020 a favor de que la Isla se convierta en un estado de la nación americana y Pierluisi está comprometido con lograrlo. 

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La Fortaleza was the first fortification built in San Juan harbor. Constructed between 1533 and 1540, the original fort consisted of a circular tower and four massive stone walls.

La Fortaleza was the first fortification built in San Juan harbor. Constructed between 1533 and 1540, the original fort consisted of a circular tower and four massive stone walls. The Spanish military constructed a second tower, called the Austral, at the end of the 16th century. Although established to defend against Carib Indian raids, invaders only took the fortress twice in its history: first, by the English in 1598, and then by the Dutch in 1625. After an unsuccessful siege of the San Felipe del Morro fort the Dutch burned the city, including the fort, in 1625. From 1640 onward it was customary for the island's Governor to reside there. In 1846, La Fortaleza was enlarged and its street facade altered. The original tower, now called Torre del Homenaje, or "tower of homage," still stands; its name derives from an island tradition in which the resident governor climbs to the top of the tower to pledge a solemn oath of loyalty and courage during dangerous times. Today, the building, at one time designated the Spanish Captain-General of Puerto Rico's official residence, serves as the official residence and offices of Puerto Rico's Governor.

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A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Old San Juan with Map

October 13, 2019 By Somto Ugwueze 8 Comments

Last updated on April 1, 2023

The streets of Old San Juan were practically built to be strolled for hours. With colorful, Spanish colonial architecture, picture-perfect corners, and mesmerizing views of the Caribbean Sea, you’re bound to have at least a few awe-inspiring moments during your tour of this historic city. Founded in 1521 by Spanish conquistadors, this port city has long been the cultural and commercial hub of Puerto Rico. It is home to some of the country’s most important landmarks, from fortresses to art galleries. Old San Juan is a charming neighborhood at the heart of the city with cobblestone streets, brightly-colored buildings, a plethora of bars and restaurants, and a whole lot of soul. This post will show you how to put together your own walking tour of Old San Juan and experience the must-see sites in the city. It includes a map so that you can follow along on your phone.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, as explained in my disclosure policy

Time required for a tour of Old San Juan

Old San Juan is a compact area so this tour would take you about 60 minutes if you simply walked to each location without stopping. I would budget about 3-4 hours to give you enough time to take in the sites, tour the historic buildings, and enjoy the food. 

Items to bring with you

• Comfortable shoes – some parts of the tour are hilly so it’s a great idea to wear running shoes or something that won’t kill your feet after three hours of walking and climbing fortresses. This is completely up to you. I wore sandals and was mostly fine, except when it came to climbing steep concrete. Next time, I’ll wear definitely wear tennis shoes. 
• Water – stay hydrated, my friends!
• Snacks – pack some fruit, a granola bar, or my go-to travel snack, the WanderBar , a protein bar made specifically for travelers and frequent flyers. I can’t get enough of the Cocoa Crunch flavor.
• Map or GPS – Google maps, Apple maps, or whatever works best for you. Puerto Rico is a US territory so your phone service from any major US carrier should work just fine.
• Camera – you can use your phone camera, but a DSLR will capture those picturesque streets so much better! I always recommend the Nikon D3400 for beginners.

Old San Juan Walking Tour with Map for First-Time Visitors

The best sites to see, food to eat, and things to do in Old San Juan

Castillo San Cristobal

We’ll start at Castillo San Cristobal, the largest fortress that the Spanish built in the New World. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this fortress is part of the San Juan National Historic Site , an area that includes fortresses, bastions, and the old city wall. Castillo San Cristobal was built in 1783 to protect the city from attacks when other European powers were trying to take over. 

You need a ticket to tour the inside of the fortress, but there’s an outside area with bastions overlooking the Caribbean Sea that anyone can visit. The ticket is $7 and is valid for two days to allow you to see other parts of the San Juan National Historic Site. 

There are three levels to this fortress: the lowest level, the main firing battery, and the observation deck at the top. To get into the fortress, you have to go through some dingy tunnels at the lowest level. Along the way, there are dimly lit rooms, including a dungeon where prisoners were kept for execution. It was creepy, to say the least. 

Once you get past the tunnels, then everything brightens up – literally. You arrive at the main firing battery with rooms on the periphery that overlook the city. There are plaques explaining what the rooms were used for. Lastly, there’s the top level of the fortress, with breathtaking views overlooking the city. I spent a lot of time here just taking in the scenery.

You can purchase your ticket at the San Juan National Historic Site office or call +1 787 729-6777 . The fortress is open every day of the week from 9 am to 6 pm.

Address : 501 Norzagaray Street San Juan, PR 00901 Hours : 9 am to 6 pm every day Price : $7

Calle de La Fortaleza

Calle Fortaleza is a shopping street in Old San Juan, located by the governor’s mansion. There are tons of little shops and restaurants here. This street used to be an Instagram hotspot when there were umbrellas floating at the top. When I visited San Juan in Old San Juan in July 2019, the umbrellas were unfortunately no longer there. The street was barricaded during my visit to San Juan because of protests against the government due to an political scandal. Not going to complain. People’s livelihoods are more important than my Instagram photos. That said, the umbrellas could be back again, as they are a major tourist attraction. I’ll have to confirm when I visit again.

Address : Calle de la Fortaleza San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico Hours : 24 hours, 7 days a week Price : Free

La Fortaleza

La Fortaleza, also known as Palacio de Santa Catalina, is the official residence of the governor of Puerto Rico. Located at the base of Calle de La Fortaleza, it is the oldest, continuously used governor’s mansion in the western hemisphere. This blue building sits on a fortification by the Caribbean Sea that was built by the Spanish in the 16th century to protect the city against foreign attacks. You can take a free 30-minute tour of the interior, courtyards, and gardens every weekday from 9 am to 4 pm. To book a tour of La Fortaleza before you arrive in San Juan, you can email [email protected] or call +1 (787) 721-7000. Just can also arrive in person at the tourist office next to the mansion and book your tour, although same-day availability is not guaranteed. I didn’t know you could tour this building when I visited so I’m bummed! Now you know. 

Address : 54 Calle Fortaleza Edificio de la Real Audiencia San Juan, PR, 00901 Requirements : Must be at least 21 years and have a valid photo ID Hours : 9 am to 4 pm Price : Free

El Batey Bar

I was looking for some cheap mojitos and found this place on Yelp. When I walked in, I felt like I had stepped into some kind of punk rock tattoo parlor. That’s the vibe of this place – dimly-lit and dingy. With the somewhat pretentious writings on the wall, like ‘Prohibido Joder,’ and “Donald Eres Un Pendejo,” (not that I disagree with this statement), I didn’t have a good feeling about the place at first. 

But it turns out the mojitos were good and cheap. Also, the bartender, Javier, engaged me in a conversation for like an hour. Then, I ended up chatting with some locals at the bar, too. So I ended up liking this bar after all. It’s a great place to unwind and maybe meet new people.  El Batey is known for its casual atmosphere, politically incorrect posters, and affordable drinks.

Address : 101 Calle del Cristo, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico Requirements : Must be at least 21 years and have a valid photo ID Hours : 3 pm to 12 am every day Price : $3-$10

San Se Marisquería Bar de Tapas

San Se Marisqueria is a tapas bar-restaurant located down the street from the co-living community, Outsite San Juan, on Calle San Sebastian, from which it gets its name. This is by far the best restaurant in Old San Juan where I had the privilege of dining. I would recommend their Mofongo , a signature Puerto Rican dish consisting of mashed plantains, and their impeccably-seasoned Pulpo , or octopus (shown above). They are both unbelievably delicious! I’m sure the other items on the menu are equally so.

There is also a bar area serving cheap piňa coladas, mojitos, and other cocktails, which are around the same prices as other San Juan establishments. The food, though, is more expensive than at your average Old San Juan restaurant, but I think this place is definitely worth a visit. You can order takeout, but there’s no delivery.

Address : 152 Calle de San Sebastián, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico Hours : 3 pm to 2 am every day except Tuesday, when it’s closed Price : $3-$10

Calle Imperial

Calle Imperial is one of the iconic streets in Old San Juan with a flag of Puerto Rico on the wall. This flag is no ordinary mural; it has cultural significance. Known as Callejon de la Puerta Bandera, it is a symbol of Puerto Rican identity and pride and one of two flag murals in Old San Juan. The other one, located on Calle San Jose, is black and white. Calle Imperial is one of the most iconic places to snap a photo in San Juan. I wanted to get a photo of myself here and waited for someone to walk by. No one did so I just took a photo of the wall. The struggles of solo travel. Next time, I’ll be sure to take a tripod!

Address : Calle Imperial San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico Hours : 24 hours, 7 days a week Price : Free

Castillo Felipe del Morro

Further west of Castillo San Cristobal is another fort called Castillo Felipe del Morro, simply known as El Morro. This fortress is also part of the San Juan National Historic Center. It has six levels which were built over the course of 200 years, starting in the 1500s.  This place has so much history, it will take you at least 90 minutes to fully tour and appreciate all the parts, from the dungeons in the lower level to the narrow stairwell that leads to the top level to the canons on the roof.

El Morro was one of the original fortifications built by the Spanish to protect San Juan from foreign invaders. Today, it’s popular among locals and tourists alike. The different levels, particularly the higher ones, offer incredible views of the Caribbean Sea and the entire city of San Juan. All around the structure, you’ll find many garitas , or guard posts, which are a great place to snap a photo. 

The best way to experience El Morro is to do a guided tour, like this guided tour of El Morro with an entry ticket that includes stops at other must-see places in Old San Juan. This tour is organized by Get Your Guide, a tour operator I’ve been using since 2016. I love how deeply informative and engaging their tours are, from Spain to China. I always leave their tours with tons of notes on my phone. The local tour guides they employ are knowledgeable and friendly.

Address : 501 Calle Norzagaray, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico Hours : 9 am – 5 pm every day Price : $10

Paseo de la Princesa

Paseo de la Princesa, which translates to Princess Promenade, is a pedestrian walkway by the San Juan Bay. Located in the historic district of Old San Juan, this picturesque promenade was built in 1853. It has undergone various renovations since then. You’ll take in breathtaking views of the San Juan Bay on one side, with the waves from the Caribbean Sea crashing against the shores. On the other side, you’ll get a good look at the majestic fortifications that were built centuries ago to protect the city from invasion.

Beyond the views, you’ll find a long line of street vendors selling everything from empanadas to handmade crafts to beaded jewelry. There is also an famous work of art, the Raíces Fountain, that features paintings of the different ethnic groups that make up Puerto Rican society – the African-descended people, the indigenous Taino people, and the Spanish conquistadors. This promenade is the perfect place to go for a stroll in the afternoon, people watch, and go souvenir shopping.

Address : Paseo de la Princesa, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico Hours : 24 hours, 7 days a week Price : Free

Catedral de San Bautista

Catedral of San Juan Bautista, also known as the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, is the second-oldest cathedral in the Americas. Completed in 1540, this Roman Catholic cathedral finest examples of Spanish colonial architecture. It features a mixture of Gothic and Baroque architecture, with an ornately-decorated altar made of gold. This towering cathedral has played a pivotal role in the cultural and spiritual life of Puerto Ricans for centuries, with many weddings, baptisms, and even state occasions taking place here. The Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León is also buried at this cathedral. There are many churches in San Juan but Catedral de San Bautista is perhaps the most important. That makes it a must-see on your visit to Old San Juan, even if you’re not Catholic. The church is open to the public for free.

Address : 151 Calle del Cristo, San Juan, 00902, Puerto Rico Hours : 9 am – 4 pm every day Price : Free

Plaza de Armas

Plaza de Armas is the main plaza, or public square, in Old San Juan. Originally built as a training facility for the Spanish military, the plaza is now a a place of leisure. Tourists and locals alike gather here to enjoy concerts, festivals, and other cultural events. There are also a few notable structures at this plaza, including a a statue of the Spanish explorer, Juan Ponce de León and a statue of King Juan Carlos I of Spain. At the center, you’ll find a fountain with statues of religious and historical figures. This plaza is a great place to end your tour of San Juan. In the vicinity, you’ll find the San Juan City Hall and the Department of State building of Puerto Rico. You can sit down, relax, and bird watch before returning to your accomodation.

Address : FV8M+48H, San Juan, 00969, Puerto Rico Hours : 24 hours, 7 days a week Price : Free

Want to tour Old San Juan with a local guide?

While I’m a huge fan of self-guided walking tours, I also know the value of having a local guide show you around their city and explain what you are looking at. That’s why I’d recommend doing at least one guided tour of San Juan with a local operator in addition to your own self-guided tour.

One of the perks of doing a guided tour with my favorite tour operator, Get Your Guide, is being able to skip the long lines. If you wait until you arrive in San Juan to buy your tickets, you may be waiting for a long time, especially during the peak summer travel season. With a guided tour, you also get to learn directly from a local about the culture and history of San Juan, allowing you to better appreciate the sites, food, and other attractions. Below are the Get Your Guide tours I’d recommend in Old San Juan.

First, we have a foodie walking tour of Old San Juan that will give you a taste of Puerto Rican cuisine. A local guide will take you to the must-try restaurants in Old San Juan, where you’ll sample 10 delicious bites. You’ll also participate in a culinary class, where you’ll learn how to make the classic mofongo . The 3-hour tour comes with a bonus rum cocktail so that you can try Puerto Rico’s specialty drink.

The second tour I’d recommend is a sunset walking tour of Old San Juan . The sunsets in San Juan are something special, and you’ll get epic photos of the city at this time of the day. During this tour, a local guide will take you to historic places that aren’t included in this self-guided walking tour, such as the iconic Plaza Colón, Plaza de la Barandilla, and the ancient Palacio de la Intendencia. You’ll also discover the urban legend and mystery behind a chapel known as Capilla del Santo Cristo de la Salud. This 2-hour tour will fully immerse you in Puerto Rican culture and history.

Last but not least, it’s a good idea to get off the island and take in the whole scenery from a sailboat! This 90-minute sailing tour of San Juan is one of the best ways to experience the city. You’ll board a topsail and cruise around Old San Juan, taking in the city from a different vantage point. The sailing adventure comes with complimentary drinks, including rum, of course, so that you can unwind while you spot El Morro, La Fortaleza, and other iconic structures in the city. This would be an epic way to conclude your visit to San Juan.

Travel Resources I Love

CabinZero 36L Backpack – this trusty backpack has has been my go-to luggage for both domestic and international trips since 2018. I’ve used dozens of backpacks over the years and keep coming back to this one. I almost never check in luggage so I need a carry-on bag that is spacious, sturdy, and comfortable, with a laptop compartment. The Cabin Zero 36 L fits the bill. The size makes it small enough for a weekend getaway and big enough for a month of backpacking in Europe. The bag also comes with a tracker in case it gets lost. How convenient! Check out my complete review of the backpack.

Travel WiFI Pocket WIFI Device  – With portable WiFi, you can say goodbye to ridiculous roaming charges and SIM cards for good. I’ve been using the Travel WiFi Portable Hostspot device for years and love the peace of mind it gives me. The device provides 3G-4G WiFi for at least 6 hours and works in 100+ countries. In my experience, it lasts 9 hours. It also works in a variety of landscapes and terrains. I even filmed a Facebook Live from a boat in the Atlantic Ocean using my device. I can also use Google Maps, request an Uber, call my mom, and do tons of other things I couldn’t do before. Quick tip: turn off the device when you’re not using it so that the battery can last longer.

Booking.com – Booking.com is my go-to website for booking discounted accommodations around the world.  What I love most about Booking.com is the variety of properties you can find, from luxury apartments to treehouses to university housing. It’s hard to beat the insanely low prices. The website also has a flexible cancellation policy, which is great if things come up or you change your mind. 

For more travel product recommendations, check out my travel essentials page .

One more thing: if you enjoyed this post, please share it!

Somto Ugwueze

Hi! I'm Somto. Two years ago, I stopped making excuses, ditched my indecisive friends, and started booking flights. Today, I'm a full-time solo traveler on a mission to inspire young women to seek new adventures.

@somtoseeks

Reader Interactions

January 10, 2020 at 12:43 pm

I just got back from Puerto Rico shortly before Christmas 2019. Visited beautiful Old San Juan, with it’s lovely blue cobblestone streets. You forgot to mention their love of gatos! The cats roam the area and are fed by those that live there. ❤️

July 19, 2020 at 9:51 pm

Hi Peggy, yes, I forgot to mention those gatos! I loved seeing all the cute cats roaming around.

February 3, 2020 at 4:15 pm

Isn’t there a walk outside the walls of the city?

March 9, 2021 at 1:18 am

This is AMAZING!!!! It’s absolutely perfect, exactly what I’ve been looking for! THANK YOU!!! I never ever ever write comments/reviews on websites, but I absolutely had to for this. I’m with a group of 11 friends who wanted to see Old San Juan but didn’t plan anything specific, and I didn’t want to waste the whole day going back and forth. Having this all set up in order is going to save our lives! Thank you!!!

April 23, 2021 at 5:04 pm

Hi Auria, I’m overwhelmed that you found this guide helpful. Keep visiting to find more useful content dedicated to travelers!

June 2, 2021 at 11:42 am

Thanks for creating this blog! It was just what I needed. I was asked to come to Puerto Rico at the last minute for work and decided to bring my 15,16, and 20-year old children. We knew we wanted to visit Old San Juan but didn’t know what to do. Your blog came in handy! We didn’t hit every spot but definitely enjoyed our time. As an update for anyone reading the comments, the tour tickets are now $10 for anyone over 15. 15 and younger are free! Also, there was a food truck near El Morro selling non-alcoholic piña coladas. My children said they were delicious! Keep inspiring us through your travels. You are appreciated!

May 1, 2022 at 8:33 am

Very informative article . Thank you for the order. Will be visiting these places ❤️

March 1, 2023 at 11:04 pm

Thank you for writing this blog!! Very helpful! I am planning a trip with my family. I can’t wait to visit Old San Juan and Puerto Rico! It’s our first time.

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Who Is Somto Seeks?

Hi there, I’m Somtochukwu. Can you try pronouncing that? I've always gone by Somto (Sohm-toe). I'm a child of Nigerian immigrants who decided to pursue her dream of living an extraordinary life. In 2015, I chose faith over fear, packing my bags and moving to Spain with $1,000 in my pocket. This was after being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that caused me to develop a giant bald patch in the middle of my scalp. Living in Spain and traveling around Europe for a year changed my life forever, allowing me to discover the freedom of solo travel and the freedom of working from anywhere. Today, I’m a full-time travel writer whose mission is to help you navigate this big, beautiful world with confidence and have those omg-pinch-me-moments you’ll remember for a lifetime.

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The UNESCO La Fortaleza Was Built In 1540 & Remains The Governor's Palace (& Offers Guided Tours)

La Fortaleza predates any English building in the USA, and the historic building is open for guided tours.

Quick Links

History & value of san juan's la fortaleza, la fortaleza: the historic governor's residence of puerto rico, what to know about visiting la fortaleza.

The oldest colonial structures in modern American territory are found in Puerto Rico. Here visitors can find some of the oldest European structures in the Western Hemisphere, including the old Spanish fort of La Fortaleza. The first permanent English settlement in today's United States was Jamestown (1607) followed by Plymouth (1620).

The official residence of the governor of Puerto Rico is La Fortaleza in the historic part of old San Juan. It is the oldest executive mansion in continuous use in the Western Hemisphere (built between 1533 and 1540). La Fortaleza is one of the many excellent colonial buildings to discover in San Juan. Established in 1521, San Juan is the oldest city in the United States .

"La Fortaleza, along with the later fortifications.... are characteristic examples of the historic methods of construction used in military architecture over this period, which adapted European designs and techniques to the special conditions of the Caribbean port cities." - UNESCO

La Fortaleza was the first fortification built for the Spanish colonial town of San Juan. It was built to protect the settlement from both the native Island Caribs and the rival European powers (it was captured in 1598 by the English and in 1625 by the Dutch). For a long period of time, the rivalries of Europe played out in the Caribbean, with many of the islands being invaded and swapping hands multiple times.

It has been used as the governor's residence since 1544, and over its time, it has housed at least 170 Puerto Rican governors.

• Built: Between 1533 and 1540
• Uses: Fortress, Arsenal, Prison, Governor's Residence

In the beginning, La Fortaleza had four large stone walls and a circular tower. The fort was later expanded by the Spanish. As the structure has been added to over the years, it has included Italian, Renaissance, Baroque, and French Enlightenment design elements.

Most of Spain's empire in the Americas achieved independence in the early 1800s. It was the United States that wrestled control of the remaining Spanish possessions of Cuba and Puerto Rico from Spain in 1898. That war effectively ended Spain's colonial presence in the Western Hemisphere. This means that La Fortaleza was one of the first and last seats of Spanish power in the Americas.

Related: These Tours Explain Why Willemstad's Colonial Caribbean Architecture Is UNESCO Listed

La Fortaleza (or 'The Fortress' in English) was built to defend the harbor of San Juan (one of the oldest European-era cities in the Western Hemisphere). La Fortaleza has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983 (as part of a greater San Juan UNESCO site).

La Fortaleza has been used as a fortress, an arsenal, a prison, and a residence for the island's governor (its current role).

• Location: Colonial San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Address: 54 Calle Fortaleza, Edificio de la Real Audiencia, San Juan
• Oldest: Executive Mansion in Continous Use In The Americas
• Contact: [email protected]

Visiting La Fortaleza is not only a chance to learn about the rich colonial history of the island but also a great chance to learn about the current governance of the territory. La Fortaleza is a living monument that continues to serve the island.

Another of the oldest and most historic Spanish colonial cities to see in the Americas is Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic .

Related: Why The Colonial Spanish Architecture Of Cusco Makes It Worth Visiting

La Fortaleza is open to the public, although visitors need to take a guided tour to access the fort. There are guided walking tours of La Fortaleza during the week (Monday to Friday).

The tours of La Fortaleza are offered from 8.15 am to 3.30 pm, and they last 30 minutes.

Guided Tours Of La Fortaleza:

• Days: Monday to Friday
• Times: 8.15 am to 3.30 pm
• Duration: 30 Minutes

The tour explores the gardens of La Fortaleza and explores the inside of the building - if the government is not in session at the time of the tour. Note that the building is a functioning government building, and the tours may be canceled at any time.

Visitors over the aged of 21 are required to bring a photo ID.

While in San Juan, take the time to explore the historic parts of the old city. It is not common to find colonial buildings almost 500 years old in the Western Hemisphere. It is one of the most historic colonial cities and the oldest on American territory (the oldest European settlement on the American mainland is St. Augustine of Florida - founded in 1565).

There is more to see in Puerto Rico than its colonial heritage. It is worth visiting the ' Spanish Virgin Islands of Puerto Rico, including Culebra Island (famous for its beaches).