San Juan
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About San Juan
Captivating and historic, Puerto Rico’s capital of San Juan is a brilliant base for an island getaway. Expect beautiful Spanish colonial-era architecture in the old town, and a funky, modern feel in the bars, boutiques and glossy nightclubs of the eastern part of the city and the coast. Accommodation options range from intimate B&Bs in converted heritage mansions to swish seaside resorts, fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Whether you’re eager to immerse yourself in the city’s history or to party at the beach, the best places to stay in San Juan certainly promise a trip to remember.
Established just over 500 years ago as the second European-founded settlement in the Americas, San Juan has long been a bustling trade hub. The port city grew around a well-protected natural harbour to encompass lively cobblestone streets featuring markets bursting with local produce, flavoursome eateries and a plethora of striking architecture. Highlights for culture buffs include Spanish forts — El Castillo San Felipe del Morro, El Castillo de San Cristobal and El Castillo de San Jerónimo — as well as an imposing cathedral, and the large Capitol building. There’s plenty to discover at the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico and the Museo de las Américas, too. Don't miss the chance to sample excellent fresh produce at the Santurce Mercado.
For watersports, sunbathing, sandcastle-building and beach parties, head to Condado, Ocean Park or the white sands of Isla Verde. San Juan’s spectacular coastline abounds with opportunities to try kayaking, sailing, snorkelling, diving and fishing, whilst Puerto Rico's lush interior is ideal for hiking and cycling adventures. Book a room at the best places to stay in San Juan well in advance — the smaller hotels fill up fast!
The Best Places to Stay in San Juan
For the Old Town
- Palacio Provincial features crisp, understated rooms in a carefully restored 200-year-old residence. Think soaring ceilings, big windows with wooden shutters, and modern bathrooms, as well as a smart roof terrace with a refreshing swimming pool. The Consular Restaurant & Bar is excellent. Perfectly located for exploring.
- The Gallery Inn is a beautiful heritage mansion-turned-hotel. Expect antiques, tapestries and artwork aplenty, as well as top-notch tapas. Plus, the Obamas stayed in 2008, and the hotel has its own beach house. A lavish pick for history buffs and romantics.
- Villa Herencia has eight rooms and stacks of old-school charm. Set close to the Puerta de San Juan, this wonderful little hotel is ideal for strolls around the historic Old Town. Life centres around the spacious sun deck, and breakfast is served in the quirky communal dining room. Artsy and romantic.
- El Convento boasts opulent, colonial-era interiors, with tiled floors and whimsical four-poster beds. Cool off in the rooftop swimming pool, kick back in the courtyard and feast on delicious tapas and gourmet fare. For couples, friends or families.
- Hotel CasaBlanca is an affordable Old Town choice, with Moroccan-inspired interiors, and lovely rooftop views across the city. Large two-bedroom suites make this a great base for families.
For a Family-Friendly Beach Break
- The Ritz Carlton Puerto Rico is the ultimate luxury beach resort, with sleek rooms and suites, swimming pools, tennis courts and several restaurants and bars. The kids club is great for little ones, whilst grown-ups can unwind at the spa. Elegant and exclusive.
- Condado Vanderbilt has undergone a recent transformation, fusing its Spanish Revival architecture with lavish contemporary interiors. Families, couples and groups will delight in the multi-room suites, ample dining options, large swimming pool and brilliant beach location. Speak to the team about watersports and island excursions.
For Grown-Ups
- Olive Boutique Hotel is an opulent choice for a romantic escape on the Condado Lagoon. This adults-only property features spa showers and sleigh beds, as well as a rooftop terrace, plunge pool and extensive spa. The pan-Mediterranean cuisine is sublime. An intimate and luxurious treat.
- O:LV Fifty Five Hotel offers a glamorous boutique base on the Condado Lagoon, close to San Juan's beaches. Stay here for award-winning contemporary decor, a swish restaurant and an appealingly sophisticated feel. High-end and adults-only.
- Condado Ocean Club is a smart, adults-only beach resort in trendy Condado. Think white-on-white decor with pops of blue in slick rooms and suites, superb sea views, two restaurants and a hip pool bar. One for party-minded couples or groups of friends.
- The Water Beach Club & Hotel has a lively vibe, with a rooftop pool, bar & eatery serving cracking cocktails. The hotel may not strictly be just for grown-ups, but the vibe certainly fits a youthful party crowd. Expect minimalist blue-and-white interiors and views over Isla Verde beach. Very trendy.
For a Bohemian B&B
- Dreamcatcher Guest House is an eclectic property close to the coast in Ocean Park. Rooms are filled with vintage treasures, the terraces are hung with hammocks and there are yoga, meditation and salsa classes on site. The veggie/vegan brunches are a real highlight, made in part with produce from the edible garden. A bohemian traveller's dream.
FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA
- If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.
Travel Information
- Fly to San Juan International Airport before taking a bus or taxi into the city centre. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pickup if contacted in advance.
- Alternatively, contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car to explore Puerto Rico's many attractions.
- Expect balmy temperatures of around 25-28°C throughout the year. Peak season is between mid-December and mid-April — travel outside those months for fewer crowds and great hotel deals. The hurricane season officially lasts from June to November, but it's August and September which are the highest risk months.
Still not sure?
- Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Puerto Rico.
- Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the Caribbean.
- Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.
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Best Hotels in San Juan
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Hotel CasaBlanca Old San Juan 32 rooms from €112
Local exploring - Ideally located in the heart of historic San Juan. Walk to sites, museums, restaurants, bars and the port in no timeFamilies - Two-bedroom Superior Suites offer rooms ideal for parents and kids, as well as fab views over Fort San CristobalRoof terrace - Ride the panoramic elevator up to the roof terrace with sun loungers, hot tubs and soaring Old Town viewsValue chic - Incredible value for pretty rooms with a prime location, fun decor and access to panoramic rooftopA boutique hotel with an exotic Moroccan theme and an Old Town location. Styled with Moorish charm, each room is decorated with local art and antique furniture, while the restaurant and lobby lounge are dripping in oriental splendour. The rooftop offers wonderful views. Fab value and location. See More
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The Gallery Inn Puerto Rico 20 rooms from €121
Romantic Break - Eclectic mix of antiques, tapestries and courtyards in this boutique and romantic hotel in 200 year old mansionGreat walks - From the hotel's Beach House in La PerlaSights nearby - Castillo de San CristobalFull of characterRecommended by - Fodors, FrommersBoutique hotel within historic mansion. Rooms are filled with antiques, tapestries, four poster beds and artworks. Outdoor pool, leafy courtyards and roof terrace. Superb Tapas cuisine in opulent dining room. Quirky and full of character with excellent service. See More
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Dreamcatcher Guest House San Juan, Puerto Rico 10 rooms from €134
Groups - Eco hotel with focus on vegetarian food and meditation classes, ideal for younger groups to explore city fromLocal markets - In Old San Juan, a ten minute driveFull of characterQuirky - An experience!Recommended by - FrommersEclectic guesthouse close to the beach. Rooms are filled with vintage furnishings, hammocks and terraces. Yoga and meditation classes held in hotel; excellent vegetarian breakfasts. Bohemian, friendly and laid-back. See More
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Water Beach Club San Juan, Puerto Rico 78 rooms from €134
Romantic Break - Slick decor, swimming pool and roof terrace with outstanding views, beach a few minutes away and romantic dining tooLocal markets - In Old San Juan, 15 minutes awaySights nearby - Jose Miguel Agrelot ColiseumSwimming Pool - Indoor/outdoorRecommended by - FodorsContemporary hotel on the beach. Rooms have minimalist furniture, enormous windows and ipod docks. Roof terrace with outdoor pool. Gym and direct beach access. Excellent modern Spanish cuisine, trendy cocktail bar. Modern, chic and perfect for younger couples. See More
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Villa Herencia Old San Juan 8 rooms from €156
Local exploring - Explore charming cobblestone streets of colourful San Juan. Walk to restaurants, galleries, sites, bars and markets in minutesCity Style - Offers an authentic experience of Old San Juan in a homely setting; close enough to everything yet tucked away and tranquilSit-out Terrace - Upper rooftop Sun Deck is the heart of the property; relax on loungers, day beds and hammocks before soaking in the hot tubSights nearby - The property is located between two of Old San Juan's most famous sites; Puerta de San Juan and Cathedral of San Juan CitadelDelightful boutique hotel located in the pretty historic district. The colonial-style building features an atmospheric courtyard and spacious sundeck with a hot tub. Bold and beautiful communal rooms blend modern art and antique furnishings. A quaint slice of history with character and charm. See More
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El Convento San Juan, Puerto Rico 58 rooms from €179
City Style - Walking distance to many of the city's sights, opulent interiors, pool, terrace and excellent diningSailing - San Juan Nautical ClubSights nearby - San Cristobal FortressFull of characterRecommended by - Small Luxury Hotels, TabletRegal hotel in Old San Juan district. Decor is opulent and colonial with Andalusian floor tiles, mahogany furniture and enormous beds. Outdoor pool, gym, library and sun terrace. Both excellent gourmet and tapas menus, elegant bar. Luxurious, chic and historic. See More
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Palacio Provincial San Juan (Old Town) 43 rooms from €200
Roof terrace - Set amongst crumbling colonial buildings, the airy rooftop with outdoor seating, pool deck and cathedral views is a real drawLocal exploring - Perfectly-situated base to explore North America's oldest European settlement on footCity Style - An exciting new entry into Old San Juan's established hotel sceneSights nearby - Cristo Chapel, San Juan Bautista Cathedral, Museum of San Juan and Ponce de Leon Statue are just around the cornerEffortlessly combining old & new, this beautifully restored 200-year old building offers a fresh & on-trend stay. Contemporary rooms feature soaring ceilings, shutters & sea views. Enjoy a rooftop terrace with a pool plus an on-site restaurant. A chic boutique base well placed in the Old Town. See More
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Ritz Carlton Puerto Rico San Juan, Puerto Rico 416 rooms from €242
Beach Life - Hotel leads right onto the white sand beach, with pool close by, and palm trees keeping you company alongside superb serviceRomantic Break - Superb beach side pool, excellent spa with couples' treatments, romantic creamy bedrooms and dining for twoKids Club - Supervised activities for children from 5-12 years.Local markets - In Historic Old San JuanRecommended by - FodorsLuxurious 5* hotel on the beach. Creamy rooms have silk furnishings, marble bathrooms, contemporary furniture. Outdoor pool, beach access, tennis courts, gym, spa and full casino. Outstanding Italian, Tapas and American cuisine; elegant bar. Opulent, exclusive and idyllic. See More
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Condado Vanderbilt San Juan 316 rooms from €276
Romantic Break - Couples love the luxurious linens and cosy restaurant at this exclusive beach hotel; book a romantic couples' massageTotal relaxation - With a spa, wellness centre and pool onsite, this hotel offers guests total relaxationBeach Life - With a prime, seafront location, this hotel is perfect for a relaxing beach getawayRomantic - Good for couples.This luxury beach resort is located in a newly restored heritage property in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Guestrooms boast plush soft furnishings, French windows and custom-made, dark wood furnishings; book a suite for living space and sea views. Unwind at the spa before dinner; a refined beach getaway. See More
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Condado Ocean Club San Juan (Condado) 96 rooms from €288
Total relaxation - Spend idyllic days at The Deck; enjoy the infinity pool, sandy beach, private cabanas and lively cocktail bar with guest DJsBusiness meetings - Located five mins from Puerto Rico Convention Center, the hotel offers sea-view meeting rooms and impressive event cateringLocal exploring - Explore the lively local area, venture our for day trips, visit shops, museums and restaurants or simply relax by the beachBeach Life - As well as the island's many nearby beaches, it's mere steps to the hotel's protected sandy beachLuxury adult-only beach resort in the heart of San Juan. Enjoy modern hi-tech rooms with fresh nautical colour schemes, fab sea views, two restaurants and a happening pool bar. Ideal for those who want to relax yet have plenty of entertainment, sightseeing and nightlife options on the doorstep. See More
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Olive Boutique Hotel San Juan, Puerto Rico 15 rooms from €296
Romantic Break - Adults only hotel with spa showers, roof terrace to enjoy champagne, plunge pool and superb cuisineSights nearby - Conservatory of Music of Puerto Rico and Plaza del MercadoLocal markets - 10-minute drive from San Juan’s Old TownRestrictions on children - Over-18s hotelRecommended by - Small Luxury Hotels, Tablet, FrommersOpulent 5* hotel by the lagoon. Elegant rooms have enormous spa showers, sleigh beds and antique touches. Roof terrace, outdoor plunge pool, spa treatments available. Sublime pan-Mediterranean cuisine, atmospheric bar lounge. Grown-up, chic and very romantic. See More
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O:LV Fifty Five Hotel San Juan (Condado) 26 rooms from €432
Romantic Break - Couples love the relaxed atmosphere at this adults-only hotel; book a table at the restaurant for a romantic mealBeach Life - Sitting right on the seafront in San Juan, this hotel is perfect for a luxury beach breakCity Style - With contemporary, award-winning interiors, this hotel has lots of chic city styleRestrictions on children - Adults-only hotelRecommended by - TabletThis stylish boutique hotel sits between the Condado Lagoon and the beach in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Guestrooms feature bespoke marble bathrooms, leather accents and custom-made furnishings; book the Panorama Suite for floor-to-ceiling views and a terrace. Dine at the sleek restaurant; a chic hotel. See More