Old San Juan and San Cristobal Castle Tour with Empanada Tasting
San Juan
Explore Old San Juan's history and flavors with a guided tour of San Cristobal Castle and a delicious empanada tasting.
Duration: 2 hours, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Plaza Colon - Known as the welcoming plaza of Old San Juan, Plaza Colon is the perfect spot to meet your certified tour guide. The guide will be positioned in front of the large white monument at the center of the plaza, wearing a blue shirt and red cap.

The square is just a few blocks north of the cruise port and the main parking garages of the town. Ubers and taxis can drop you off right at the plaza.

At this plaza, you’ll learn about Puerto Rico’s colonial history and the former defensive structures that once stood nearby.

  • Castillo de San Cristobal - This World Heritage Site is the largest fortification built by Spain in the Americas! You’ll tour the castle’s interior to enjoy some of the most picturesque views of Puerto Rico’s main island, San Juan Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean. The tour includes visits to an underground tunnel, former dungeons, and barracks.
  • Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista - With over 500 years of history, this cathedral is one of the most significant Catholic churches in Puerto Rico. It is considered the second oldest church in the Americas. You’ll have the chance to explore the church’s interior, including its sacred altar, the mausoleum of Juan Ponce de Leon, and the cathedral’s oldest structure from the 16th century.
  • La Fortaleza - Palacio de Santa Catalina - La Fortaleza has been the residence of Puerto Rico’s Governors from the 1500s to the present day. Participants will have the opportunity to view its front facade and enjoy the exhibition hanging over “umbrella street.”
  • Capilla del Santo Cristo de la Salud - This small chapel is locally famous for a miracle that occurred right where it was built centuries ago! Here, you’ll learn about this urban legend and its significance today.
  • La Casa Estrecha - North America’s narrowest house is located in Old San Juan. You’ll see it as part of this tour!
  • Antiguo Palacio de la Real Intendencia - This is one of Old San Juan’s most stunning historic buildings. Originally built to house the island’s treasury, it now serves as the Department of State of Puerto Rico.
  • Plaza de Armas - Plaza de Armas is the town’s main square. Here, you’ll see the City Hall and the former Palace of the Treasury of Puerto Rico. You’ll also enjoy beautiful sculptures representing the four seasons and a statue of the legendary music composer Tite Curret Alonso.
What's Included
  • Snacks
  • Bottled water
  • Beverage (bottle water, soda or local can beer)
  • Entry Tickets to the San Cristobal Castle ($10 value)
What's Not Included
  • Comfortable Walking Footwear
  • Sun Protection (shades, sunscreen, hats or caps, etc)
  • Hotel Pick-Up (all participants must meet at Plaza Colon)
  • Gratuities
Additional Information

This is the only walking tour in Old San Juan that includes a visit to the interior of the San Cristobal Castle and a tasteful local empanada.

Wander through cobblestone streets lined with colorful facades, and listen as your guide shares tales of conquest and resilience spanning over 500 years of colonial history.

Included in your experience is admission to the majestic San Cristobal Castle, offering panoramic views of Puerto Rico’s landscape and a glimpse into its military past.

The adventure continues with a culinary delight at a local bar, where you’ll sample authentic empanadas paired with refreshing beverages, celebrating the gastronomic heritage of the island.

  • Not recommended for travellers with walking limitations
Location
Patria Tours Puerto Rico
Please, meet your guide in front of the big white statue at the center of the square. The guide will be wearing a blue shirt and red cap.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.