Puerto Rico Itinerary: 7 Days in Paradise
With countless options to fill your week in Puerto Rico, this itinerary offers a perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and immersion in the island’s unique culture. San Juan serves as an ideal base for your hotel, providing easy access to a plethora of exciting attractions nearby. Check out this Puerto Rico itinerary for 7 days of paradise.
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For added flexibility, consider renting a car, although there are also numerous tour and transfer options available throughout the island. Above all, the key to a memorable Puerto Rican vacation is to have fun and fully embrace the rich cultural experiences that await you!
Day One
Arrive at San Juan in the early afternoon and check into your hotel. It is a great time to get to know your hotel and grab lunch to recharge before heading out to explore Old San Juan. Your Puerto Rico itinerary 7 days starts now!
Take a leisurely walk along the colorful streets of Old San Juan, admiring the vibrant colonial architecture and visiting the numerous boutiques.
If it isn’t too late in the day, stop at the National Gallery and Museum of the Americas. Discover paintings from Puerto Rican artists Jose Campeche and Francisco Oller at the National Gallery. Explore the heritage of Puerto Rico at the Museum of the Americas. Then wander into the Plaza de Armas. Here you can enjoy the fountain and one of the many street performers that enjoy entertaining those strolling about.
In The Evening
As the day turns to evening, savor some authentic Puerto Rican cuisine at one of the local restaurants in Old San Juan. Make sure you try some local favorites such as Rellenos de papa, pasteles, mofongo, or the familiar empanadillas!
If you are up for it, San Juan has a lively nightlife culture. Pick a bar to visit and enjoy some famous local cocktails such as the Pina Colada, which was invented in Puerto Rico.
Puerto Rico Itinerary: Day Two
Enjoy a quick breakfast this morning as you will be visiting El Yunque Rainforest and want to get an early start. El Yunque National Forest is the only tropical rainforest in the United States National Forest System. Whether you are joining a tour group or heading out to the rainforest on your own (only recommended for seasoned outdoorsmen), make sure you are prepped for a day in nature.
The rainforest is about an hour’s drive from San Juan. Your day will consist of hiking numerous trails where you can marvel at the lush vegetation and cascading waterfalls. You may even see some exotic wildlife!
Take a dip in one of the natural pools or feel the rush of La Mina Falls while taking a swim to cool off. This is a great time to stop and enjoy your prepacked lunch. Once you are finished with lunch, don’t miss the Yokahu Observation Tower for panoramic views of the rainforest and coastline.
Make your way back to your hotel to freshen up for a romantic night out in the Condado neighborhood. This area is known as a luxurious district where you can visit a casino and do some shopping after your dinner.
Puerto Rico Itinerary: Day 3
You have earned a relaxing day at the beach today! Take advantage of sleeping in and have a peaceful breakfast where you can try some Puerto Rican pastries such as pan de mallorca and quesito. Don’t forget your big cup of café con leche.
It is time to relax on one of San Juan’s beautiful beaches, such as Isla Verde Beach or Condado Beach. Spend the day resting on the soft sand, soaking up the sun, and taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. When you are ready for lunch, stop at a beachfront kiosk and take advantage of the fresh mouthwatering seafood available.
When you need a break from the beach, visit La Placita de Santurce, a lively market and entertainment area known for its vibrant nightlife. This market is over 100 years old and is a two-tiered market square. Cozy up in one of the restaurants or visit a kiosk to grab a quick bite to continue shopping. This is a great place for Puerto Rican cocktails and salsa. Don’t be afraid to dance the night away to the live music!
Puerto Rico Itinerary: Day 4
Today promises to be an exciting adventure as you embark on a journey from your hotel in San Juan to the secluded waters of Vieques Island. Start your day with a hearty breakfast to fuel up for the approximately 8-hour excursion full of activities such as snorkeling, paddle boarding, kayaking, and maybe even some beach relaxation. It takes approximately 2.5 hours for the scenic ride to reach Vieques Island.
Prepare to be welcomed by the crystal-clear waters of Vieques Island, inviting you to go in for an unforgettable snorkeling experience. Immerse yourself in the underwater world (some refer to the area as your private aquarium) and swim with marine life, including a variety of fish species and sea turtles. The reef surrounding the island boasts vibrant and colorful formations, which have flourished undisturbed during the years it was off-limits to the public due to its military use.
Following your snorkeling adventure, enjoy some relaxation time on the pristine and tranquil beaches of Vieques Island, secluded from the bustling crowds, as they can only be reached by boat. Treat yourself to a delightful lunch accompanied by refreshing snacks, enhancing the serenity of your surroundings.
Arrive back in San Juan in the evening and enjoy a local dinner at a restaurant near your hotel. If you have energy, enjoy a couple of Puerto Rican cocktails and salsa music in the Old San Juan area.
Puerto Rico Itinerary: Day 5
Start your morning by indulging in a delicious Puerto Rican breakfast at a local café. Make sure to try some traditional dishes like mofongo (mashed plantains), tostones (fried plantains), or a hearty plate of scrambled eggs with local flavors. After breakfast, head to La Placita de Santurce, a vibrant marketplace and gathering spot known for its lively atmosphere. Explore the colorful stalls offering fresh fruits, vegetables, and local products. This is a great place to engage with the friendly local vendors and soak up the lively ambiance of this cultural hub.
Next, it’s time to explore Santurce’s thriving art scene by visiting the many art galleries and museums in the neighborhood. Explore the cutting-edge contemporary art at the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Puerto Rico or discover local talent at various independent galleries, where you can admire diverse artistic expressions.
As lunchtime approaches, take a culinary adventure through Santurce’s gastronomic landscape. Sample Puerto Rican cuisine at one of the neighborhood’s renowned restaurants. Enjoy dishes like lechon asado (roast pork), arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas), or fresh seafood preparations. After lunch, take a leisurely stroll along Paseo de la Princesa, a picturesque promenade that leads to the stunning waterfront. Enjoy the views of San Juan Bay and admire the historic city walls.
Grab an early dinner because it is the perfect night to enjoy some kayaking at the Bioluminescent Bay of Laguna Grande Mangrove Reserve. Don’t forget your mosquito spray; you will need it on this eco-adventure! Follow your guide by kayak through the mangrove forest wrapping up your night witnessing the water light up with glowing plankton.
If you want to stay a few more days, I recommend diving into Old San Juan. You can check out what to do (and what not to do) here.
Puerto Rico Itinerary: Day 6
Start your morning by visiting El Morro, the iconic fortress located in Old San Juan. Marvel at the impressive architecture as you take in the rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Take your time exploring,
taking in the views of the Atlantic, and even stopping and grabbing some breakfast and coffee at the café. An in-depth visit to El Morro will take you roughly 3 hours.
For lunch, savor Puerto Rican cuisine at a traditional restaurant in Old San Juan. Indulge in dishes like arroz con pollo (chicken with rice), pernil (roast pork), or tostones (fried plantains). Immerse yourself in the flavors of the island while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of the city. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Old San Juan. Explore the boutique shops for souvenirs to bring home. Stop and admire the San Juan Cathedral and learn about the history surrounding this cherished building.
Next, make your way to La Fortaleza, the official residence of the Governor of Puerto Rico. Admire the colonial architecture and the stunning blue cobblestone streets surrounding this historic landmark. Take a guided tour or simply enjoy the surroundings and the fascinating stories associated with La Fortaleza. If you’re in need of a snack, try a refreshing piragua (shaved ice) or a tasty bacalaito (cod fritter), from a street vendor.
Puerto Rico Itinerary: Day 7
For your last night in Puerto Rico, take part in a cooking class near Condado to learn about traditional Puerto Rican cuisine and have an authentic farewell dinner. Spend the rest of the evening exploring the lively nightlife of Condado.
Grab your favorite Puerto Rican Breakfast as you bid the island farewell today! If you have extra time before your flight, it is the perfect time to finish up any shopping you still need to get done or tour the Bacardi distillery for a goodbye rum tasting! Make sure to leave for the airport 2-3 hours prior to your flight.
Puerto Rico itinerary: 7 Days
Congratulations! You now have a comprehensive 7-day itinerary to embark on an unforgettable journey through the diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture of Puerto Rico. If you’re ready to turn this dream itinerary into a reality, our dedicated team of travel experts is here to assist you in planning your Puerto Rico getaway. Book your consultation today and let us tailor this itinerary to your preferences, curate personalized experiences, and ensure a seamless and memorable trip to this captivating Caribbean gem. Just click here!