Start your trip in Old San Juan, the historic center of the city. Walk along the cobblestone streets and marvel at the colorful colonial buildings. Visit the San Juan National Historic Site, Fort San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristobal, two Spanish forts that once protected the city from pirates and invaders. Stop by the Museo del Mar to learn about Puerto Rico's maritime heritage. End the day at the Plaza de Armas, the main square of Old San Juan, where you can enjoy local food and live music.
Spend the morning at Condado Beach, a beautiful urban beach with calm waters and soft sand. Take a dip in the ocean, rent a paddleboard, or have a drink at one of the many beachfront bars. In the afternoon, head to the Santurce Art District, a trendy neighborhood known for its street art and galleries. Visit the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico, a world-class museum with a collection of more than 5,000 works of art from Puerto Rico and Latin America. End the day with a craft cocktail at La Factoría, a speakeasy-style bar that was named one of the world's 50 best bars.
Take a break from the city and visit the El Yunque National Forest, a lush rainforest with hiking trails, waterfalls, and panoramic views. Walk to the top of El Yunque Peak, the highest point in the forest, for amazing vistas of the coast and the mountains. After your hike, head to Luquillo Beach, a crescent-shaped beach with calm waters and a lively atmosphere. Grab a bite to eat at the kiosks that line the beach, serving everything from fried plantains to fresh seafood.
Drive to the southern coast of Puerto Rico and visit the Ponce Art Museum, a beautiful neoclassical building that houses a collection of European and Puerto Rican art. Walk around the lush grounds and admire the sculptures and fountains. In the afternoon, head to the La Guancha Boardwalk in the nearby city of Ponce, where you can stroll along the seafront, listen to live music, and try local food at the many food stalls. End your trip watching the sunset over the Caribbean Sea.
If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to Culebra Island, known for its picturesque beaches and turquoise waters. If you have less time, skip the Ponce Art Museum and spend more time at the beaches or exploring Old San Juan. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as many of the streets in Old San Juan are steep and slippery. Don't forget to try mofongo, a traditional Puerto Rican dish made with mashed plantains and garlic.