Puerto Rico: 1-week Travel Guide

Juliska Cyntje
Oct 1
3 min read

Puerto Rico, overrated? Never! If you ask me. It all depends on how you wish to experience it. Puerto Rico is a tapestry of sun, sea, and story.

Here, cobblestone streets lead you through colorful colonial towns, while salsa rhythms spill into the night air. Golden beaches stretch into turquoise waters where adventure seekers surf, snorkel, and sail, while breathtaking rainforests like El Yunque invite you to chase waterfalls under emerald canopies.

By day, you’ll taste the island’s soul in its flavorful cuisine and warm hospitality; by night, you’ll feel its spirit in vibrant plazas and lively nightlife. Puerto Rico is where history, culture, and natural beauty intertwine, offering a vacation that stays with you long after you leave.

Here’s my top picks for stay, eat and experience. No fuzz, just a list!

Some booking links are affiliate links, if you click it, like it and book it, this island girl will do a happy dance at no additional cost to you.

General tips:

Best time to visit – late April through early June to avoid the crowd and skipping heavy rainy seasons.
Transportation – it is highly recommended to rent a car. Explore HERE.
Book 1 or 2 nights away in nature (recommendations below).

Where to stay:

Selection is based on ratings, location and aesthetics. Click to book.

Don Rafa Boutique Hotel & Residences – as from $190 p/n
Alma San Juan – as from $150 p/n
Residence Inn by Marriott San Juan Isla Verde – as from $178 p/n
TRYP by Wyndham Isla Verde – as from $170 p/n
AC Hotel by Marriott San Juan Condado – as from $185 p/n

What to do (guided tours, click to book):

What to do (on your own):

Wander Old San Juan on-foot (click on each sight for location);
Wander through Calle del Cristo, Calle Fortaleza, and Calle San Sebastián to admire vibrant colonial buildings, artisan shops, and local cafes.
La Fortaleza - The Governor’s mansion, the oldest executive mansion still in use in the Western Hemisphere, with beautiful architecture and gardens.
Have drinks at snacks at the various rooftop bars - Bar Catedral Rooftop, Atelier Rooftop Terrace, Al Fresco Rooftop Wine Bar.
Toro Verde Adventure Park, home of the longest zipline of America ($100).
Picnic on a kayak or floating decks at Aqua Fitness.
Road trip to Isabela for the best Mojito’s and views in PR (and delicious food too) at Jobos Mojito Beach Bar.
Jetcars adventure.