Discover the Cultural Treasures of Spanish Colonial Puerto Rico

Posted - June 7, 2021

Exploration of European-founded Puerto Rico often begins in the capital and most populous city of San Juan, with over 500 years of history. Explore the historic San Felipe del Morro and San Cristobal citadels, built by the Spaniards during the 16^th century, and stroll the cobblestone streets with their colonial architecture. In your sightseeing itinerary be sure to also include the landmarks of Museo Casa Blanca, once the residence of the family of Juan Ponce de Leon; San Juan Cathedral, the Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery, and the Museo de las Americas.
  
Cosmopolitan San Juan is home to local designers and artists, which have shops and boutiques in Condado featuring some of the world’s most luxurious brands. You’ll also find some of the biggest shopping centers in the Caribbean in San Juan, including Plaza Las Americas, where you are bound to find some island treasures. After the sun sets, head to San Juan’s many nightclubs and bars where you can dance the night away.
  
Beyond, San Juan you’ll discover the Puerto Rico’s six regions offer many varied and unique experiences.
    
World class destinations in their own right, Culebra and Vieques, just a short boat ride from the mainland, boast world-renown white sand beaches, an active reef, and the world’s brightest bioluminescent bay. In the east region, explore El Yunque, the only subtropical rainforest in the United States, where you can enjoy waterfalls, hiking trails and panorama vistas. With its laid-back surfer vibe, the west region has some of the best beaches on the island. Nine towns comprise the north region, with a diversity of landscapes, including one of the largest underground cave systems in the world. In the agriculturally rooted interior mountain region la Cordillera Central, find adventures such as Tanama River cave-tubing and zip-lining at Toro Verde Nature Adventure Park. The southern region of the island is its hub of culture and history. Be sure to visit Museo de Arte de Ponce, with features an impressive European art collection.
  
Whether you want to spend a couple of days in Puerto Rico as a pre- or post-cruise stay, or you’re ready to spend a week or two exploring in depth, you’ll find this island to be warm and welcoming.