There are a few ways to get to VSJ (Viejo San Juan): car, bus, or ferry. Let's start with the easiest way, car!
To get to VSJ by car there are only a few ways to enter, so Google Maps isn't a pain. The only IMPORTANT thing is to know where to park. The majority part of VSJ has cobblestone streets so I highly recommend parking right before heading into this area.
You will find a lot of parking structures and lots in VSJ, all ranging in different prices. The farther away you are from the center of the area the less it will be. Parkopedia.com is always a great resource to check out the prices!
Spanish Tip: Parking in Spanish is Estacionamiento~
Personally we always do "Estacionamiento Doña Fela" it's always a happy medium. Not too far but also you save a few dollars! It's CASH ONLY and it gets full quickly, arrive early to get a spot.
By bus: Getting to VSJ by bus is pretty simple. The T9 and E10 will take you. The station is called "Terminal Covadonga San Juan". Google Maps is useful here too, so far it hasn't failed me in knowing the bus stops and when buses will arrive.
Terminal Covadonga
@CosmicKern
Bus terminal, where you get dropped off when coming into Viejo San Juan. You also go here when you are ready to head out.
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Lastly, we got the ferry from Cataño. I'm going to be honest, I haven't done this way yet since I live pretty close, but, a lot of people use it if they are going to the Barcadi Factory after exploring VSJ (Taxi is around $3-5 dollars).
The ferry runs every 15 mins during rush hours and every 30 mins before and after. The last ferry from Cataño to VSJ is at 9:30pm, vice verse is 10pm. Below is a site with more info and where you can buy tickets!
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Cafés
Café Cola'o
@CosmicKern
A local and family owned café! Personally not a coffee person, but they offer a lot of great dishes for brunch or lunch! Right by the water too~
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Café del Nino
@CosmicKern
Super cute café that is dedicated to the children of the world. If you have kiddos and need some coffee, bring them here! They a lovely area with outdoor seating with games. I haven't gone. but I've passed by and it's absolutely charming.
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Café Cuatro Sombras
@CosmicKern
A chill coffee shop that offers café meals, pastries, and a variety of drinks. You can also pick up some coffee beans!
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Filtrado
@CosmicKern
Amazing place that matches the earthy, boho aesthetic. Wonderful place to sit and take a break while enjoying their menu of coffee drinks and pastries .
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Good Eats
MMMMM...need I say more?
Cafe Mimosa
@CosmicKern
If you are in a small party, this is my favorite place for brunch! It was a hidden gem when I first moved here since it was tucked away in a hotel (CasaBlanca). They have a pretty good deal for mimosas ($2 for $10) and they came in a variety of flavors. My go-to meal is the french toast! Y'all...it's the best I've ever had and that says something since I actually don't like sweets like that.
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Café Manolín Old San Juan
@CosmicKern
If you want something more traditional, check out this place! Amazing sandwiches and coffee. It definitely gives you a local-eye. Great food, great vibes all around.
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Mercado La Carreta
@CosmicKern
Great place for breakfast or lunch! Their chicken and waffles are yum. They also have a great tapas menu if you just want to nibble and drink.
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Cayo Caribe
@CosmicKern
Great dinner spot! The mofongo (a Puerto Rico staple) is delicious. I always go right before dinner or when it opens for lunch. After, you might have to wait a bit for a table.
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La Garita
@CosmicKern
Want delicious food, drinks, views and an ocean beeze? La Gatrita is where it's at!
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Barrachina
@CosmicKern
When I first moved to PR, a lot of family and friends told me to come here. A year later...and I haven't yet (lol). Just because I love exploring hidden gems. I will get to it one day. So just know, it's my Puerto Rican family approved.
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Anita La Mamma del Gelato
@CosmicKern
I'm not a sweet person, but my husband lovessss sugar. Soft, creamy, cold gelato. Hit the spot when you've been walking around all day in the sun.
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Drink Time!
There are a ton of bars in VSJ, but these are always my go-to's! Keep an eye out for a guide for bar crawling.
La Vergüenza Viejo San Juan
@CosmicKern
Delicious drinks and local food! If there's room, head to the rooftop and for a view.
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La Taberna Lúpulo
@CosmicKern
Chill, funky taproom offering a wide variety of craft beers (local and imports) on tap or in bottles. Also offer a menu of small bites.
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La Factoría
@CosmicKern
One of my favorite bars! I first came here for my bach and one or two of their famous Lavender mules. The bartenders are super-friendly and I enjoyed chatting with them.
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Things To Do
Honestly, when I go to VSJ, I just walk wherever I'm vibin' with that day. The beautiful color streets are great for photos. These are just a few things you must see when you're in the area!
Paseo de la Princesa
@CosmicKern
Promenade lined with lamp posts and extends for a quarter of a mile along the southern city walls of Old San Juan. Beautiful plants, art pieces and historical spots among the way~
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Los Paraguas de la Fortaleza
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Instagram photo spot! Sometimes you have umbrellas, sometimes flags or butterflies. It's a hot spot so definitely recommend coming here early before the crowds flood in.
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Castillo San Felipe del Morro
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Known as El Morro for short, it's a castle with an amazing view. It's also a museum and you can learn about the history. Entrance fee: $10
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San Cristóbal
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Another castle from the Spanish colonial era. Built to protect against land-based attacks. Now it's a lovely museum and a stunning view of the town and ocean. They also said there's a ghost here. oooooooo~
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Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista
@CosmicKern
Beautiful church! Heads up though, if you are in shorts and a tank you won't be allowed in. However you can look from the outside in.
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Cementerio Santa María Magdalena de Pazzi
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The final resting place of many Puerto Rico's most famous natives and residents. Great piece of history! If you speak Spanish and if they are free, the groundkeepers sometimes will give you a little tour. (Don't forget to tip if they do!)
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Puerta de San Juan
@CosmicKern
Historical landmark that has a nice walk along the water. This was the main entry for the walled city during the Spanish colonial era.
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Parque de las Palomas
@CosmicKern
Excellent place with a nice view! As the name states, you will see a lot of pigeons that you can feed. If you have a fear of birds...maybe don't go here.
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