Sun, sea, salsa and pina colada

San Juan is one of the Caribbean’s busiest cities and perhaps the most energetic. Five million tourists visit Puerto Rico’s capital every year, keen to see the atmospheric old city with its Spanish Colonial buildings and cobbled streets. Enjoy the beaches and buoyant nightlife and dine in the stylish eateries on Fortaleza Street. Tour the impressive historic fort of El Morro, and party until the early hours. Spend time in the historic walled city of Old San Juan with its great beach and array of bars, clubs and restaurants. Modern highways lead to the glamorous El Condado where boutiques, high-rise hotels and vibrant beach scenes are more contemporary chic than laid-back Caribbean. The city is alive with cruise ship day-trippers; effervescent locals and an eclectic mix of holidaymakers.

Why Go?
Go for the hip bars and clubs that mark San Juan as one of the Caribbean’s most popular cities. Unwind on idyllic beaches and explore the beautiful old town with its brightly painted houses and elegant colonial-era buildings. Enjoy the excellent choice of restaurants and relax in the warm Caribbean sun.

When to Go?
San Juan’s high season is from December to April when tourists from the US pour in and the weather is hot, sunny and dry. Away from these months accommodation is more affordable. The capital enjoys plenty of heat, with average high temperatures of 40°C. The rainy season runs from July to September. Between June and November there is a chance of hurricanes.

How to get there?
There are no direct flights to San Juan from the UK, but there are plenty of connecting flights from London Heathrow, London City, London Gatwick, Manchester and Bristol. San Juan’s Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU) is 9 miles from the centre of the city. Taxis and buses are available at the airport, with journey times of between 30 and 45 minutes.

Must see
Explore Old San Juan which dates back 500 years and named by Christopher Columbus. Wander around the historic steep cobbled streets and take in the 16th and 17th century colonial buildings; a wonderful place to spend a relaxing afternoon. Tour the impressive El Morro fort and see the exhibits showing the fort’s role in repelling attacks by the British, Dutch and Americans. Watch the sunset with a Pina Colada - this tropical sundowner was invented at the iconic Hilton Hotel in San Juan. For fabulous Salsa and Tropical music, head to local hot-spot Rumba in Old San Juan.