Puerto Rico 5 Day Itinerary

Title: 5-Day Adventure in Puerto Rico

Day 1: Explore Old San Juan

  • Activities: Visit the historic district of Old San Juan, walk along its colorful streets (Calle del Cristo, Calle San Sebastián), and explore forts like El Morro and La Fortaleza. Don’t miss the vibrant Puerto Rico Museum of Art and the impressive Cathedral of San Juan Bautista.
  • Things to know: Old San Juan is a pedestrian zone, so you can walk around easily. Many restaurants and attractions accept credit cards, but it’s always good to carry some local currency (US dollars).
  • Transportation: The best way to get around Old San Juan is by foot. Taxis are also available if needed.
  • Visa Requirements: US citizens do not need a visa for travel to Puerto Rico as it is a U.S. territory. For other nationalities, check the official U.S. Department of State website for visa requirements.

Day 2: Bioluminescent Bay and El Yunque National Forest

  • Activities: Visit the Fajardo town in northeast Puerto Rico to experience the magic of the Bioluminescent Bay at night. Spend the day hiking in El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System.
  • Things to know: The best time to see the bioluminescent bay is after sunset when the water is darkest. Bring insect repellent for your forest hike.
  • Transportation: Rent a car or join organized tours from San Juan that include both activities.

Day 3: Caribbean Beaches and Ponce

  • Activities: Visit some of Puerto Rico’s beautiful beaches such as Playa Sucia, Playa Guánica, and Balneario de Boquerón. End your day in the charming city of Ponce, known for its stunning Sagrado Corazón de Jesús cathedral and Hacienda San Francisco plantation house.
  • Things to know: Bring sunscreen and snorkeling gear for beach days. Ponce is also a great place for shopping for local crafts.
  • Transportation: Renting a car is the best way to get around, but there are also tours available that include these destinations.

Day 4: Day Trip to Vieques Island

  • Activities: Spend the day in Vieques, an island with beautiful beaches like Sun Bay and Blue Beach. Don’t miss the bioluminescent Mosquito Bay at night.
  • Things to know: Ferry service from Fajardo is available multiple times a day. Be aware that there are wild horses roaming freely on Vieques.
  • Transportation: Take a ferry from Fajardo to Vieques. Rent a scooter or bike for transportation once you arrive.

Day 5: San Juan and Local Flavors

  • Activities: Spend your last day enjoying local cuisine in San Juan. Visit the Santurce district, known for its vibrant street art, and try dishes like mofongo, alcapurrias, and piña coladas.
  • Things to know: Many restaurants offer traditional Puerto Rican food. Ask for “platillo tipico” or “comida criolla” for local specialties.
  • Transportation: San Juan is easy to navigate by foot, taxi, or public transportation (bus).