5-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in San Juan, Puerto Rico

• Day 1: Old San Juan - Start the trip by exploring the vibrant and colorful cobbled streets of Old San Juan. Take a stroll through the historic neighborhood and visit landmarks such as the Castillo San Felipe del Morro and the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista. End the day with a sunset stroll along the Paseo de la Princesa boardwalk for beautiful views of the bay.
• Day 2: Beach Day - Take a day trip to the beautiful Isla Verde Beach for sun, sand, and relaxation. The beach offers various water activities, including paddleboarding, jet skiing, and scuba diving. Don't miss the opportunity to try local food trucks and refreshing cocktails at beachside bars.
• Day 3: El Yunque National Forest - Explore the lush rainforest at El Yunque National Forest, home to numerous waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints. Take a dip in the swimming holes and relax in the tranquil environment of nature.
• Day 4: Bioluminescent Bay - Experience the magical glow of the bioluminescent bay of Laguna Grande in Fajardo. Take a guided kayak tour on the bay to see the glowing organisms in the water, which offer an enchanting and unique experience.
• Day 5: Casa Bacardi and Santurce - Start the day with a tour of the famous rum-making company, Casa Bacardi, to learn about the history of rum in Puerto Rico. Then, visit the vibrant district of Santurce for a taste of local art, culture, and food. Don't miss the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico to see some impressive works of art.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Castillo San Felipe del Morro (2 hours, $15)
• Cathedral of San Juan Bautista (1 hour, free)
• Isla Verde Beach (4 hours, free)
• El Yunque National Forest (6 hours, $30 park entry fee)
• Laguna Grande Kayak Tour (2 hours, $50)
• Casa Bacardi Tour (1.5 hours, $17)
• Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico (2 hours, $10)
Total Estimated Costs: $122 per person

Transportation

Public transportation in San Juan is affordable and a convenient mode of travel around the city. The Tren Urbano metro system and buses are also a reliable option. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available but can be more costly. Expect to pay around $15-20 for a taxi ride from the airport to the city center.

Useful Tips

Consider adding extra days to the itinerary to visit other attractions such as the Bacardi Factory or the Arecibo Observatory. For those interested in adventure, book a zip lining tour in El Yunque National Forest for a thrilling ride through the canopy.

Airports

The main airport for San Juan, Puerto Rico is the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU). The airport is located in Carolina, around 3 miles southeast of the city center. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available for transportation to and from the airport.