5-Day Puerto Rico Itinerary: Shop & Party All Night

Puerto Rico

5 days

Isla Verde beach
Museum de las Americas in San Juan
Juan Diego falls
Colorful houses in San Juan
El Morro castle in San Juan

About Puerto Rico

Discover the enchanting island of Puerto Rico, a Caribbean gem offering a blend of tropical beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Explore the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, a UNESCO World Heritage site, adorned with colorful Spanish colonial buildings. Experience the bioluminescent bays in Vieques, a natural wonder that will leave you spellbound. Indulge in the local cuisine, a flavorful fusion of Spanish, African, and Taino influences. Enjoy the pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and the majestic El Yunque National Forest. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, foodie, or beach enthusiast, Puerto Rico offers a diverse range of experiences. Don't miss the lively festivals, showcasing the island's music, dance, and traditions. Puerto Rico, where the warmth of the people is as captivating as the island itself.

5-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Old San Juan and Condado

Morning

Start your day with a stroll through the historic district of Old San Juan, where you can admire the colorful Spanish colonial architecture and visit the local shops for unique souvenirs.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Puerto Rican lunch in a local restaurant. Try the famous mofongo, a dish made from mashed plantains.

Afternoon

Visit the impressive El Morro Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and learn about Puerto Rico's rich history.

Dinner

Have dinner in a trendy restaurant in the Condado district, known for its vibrant nightlife and upscale dining options.

Evening

Experience the lively nightlife in Condado. Visit a salsa club and dance the night away to the rhythm of Latin music.

Morning

Spend the morning exploring the high-end boutiques and designer stores in the upscale neighborhood of Condado.

Lunch

Have lunch in a chic café in Condado, where you can enjoy a variety of international cuisines.

Afternoon

Take a guided tour of the Bacardi Rum Factory and learn about the history of this world-renowned brand.

Dinner

Enjoy a seafood dinner in a beachfront restaurant in Isla Verde, another popular area for nightlife.

Evening

Visit the casinos and nightclubs in Isla Verde for an exciting evening of entertainment.

Morning

Start your day with a shopping spree at Plaza Las Americas, the largest shopping mall in the Caribbean.

Lunch

Have lunch in one of the many restaurants in the mall, offering a wide range of cuisines to choose from.

Afternoon

Visit the Museum of Art of Puerto Rico and admire the works of local and international artists.

Dinner

Dine in a trendy restaurant in Santurce, known for its vibrant arts scene and nightlife.

Evening

Explore the nightlife in Santurce, visit a jazz club or enjoy a live music performance in one of the local bars.

Morning

Spend the morning shopping for local crafts and souvenirs in the artisan market in Rio Piedras.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Puerto Rican lunch in a local restaurant in Rio Piedras.

Afternoon

Visit the Botanical Garden in Rio Piedras and enjoy the tranquility of this urban oasis.

Dinner

Have dinner in a stylish restaurant in Miramar, a neighborhood known for its fine dining options.

Evening

Experience the nightlife in Miramar, visit a cocktail bar or enjoy a live music performance in one of the local venues.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Outlet Mall in Barceloneta for some last-minute shopping.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant in Barceloneta, where you can try the local seafood dishes.

Afternoon

Visit the Arecibo Observatory, the world's largest single-dish radio telescope.

Dinner

Enjoy your last dinner in Puerto Rico in a fine dining restaurant in San Juan.

Evening

Spend your last evening in Puerto Rico exploring the nightlife in San Juan, visit a salsa club or a trendy cocktail bar.

Attractions in Itinerary (13)

Old San Juan

1
Old San Juan

Old San Juan is a historic district of San Juan, Puerto Rico, containing many colonial buildings and fortresses.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Neighborhoods
El Morro Fortress

2
El Morro Fortress

A 16th-century citadel that offers panoramic views of the San Juan Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Condado

3
Condado

A vibrant neighborhood known for its beautiful beach, luxury resorts, and a variety of restaurants and bars.

Neighborhoods
Beaches
Bacardi Rum Factory

4
Bacardi Rum Factory

A popular tourist attraction offering guided tours that include rum tasting and a look into the rum-making process.

Tours
Food and Drink
Isla Verde

5
Isla Verde

A luxurious neighborhood known for its beautiful beaches, upscale hotels, and a variety of dining options.

Beaches
Neighborhoods
Plaza Las Americas

6
Plaza Las Americas

Plaza Las Americas is the largest shopping mall in the Caribbean, located in San Juan.

Shopping
Museum of Art of Puerto Rico

7
Museum of Art of Puerto Rico

A museum showcasing a vast collection of Puerto Rican art from the 17th century to the present.

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences
Santurce

8
Santurce

A lively neighborhood known for its cultural scene, street art, music venues, and food markets.

Neighborhoods
Cultural Experiences
Rio Piedras

9
Rio Piedras

A neighborhood known for its university, local markets, and a variety of shops and restaurants.

Neighborhoods
Cultural Experiences
Botanical Garden in Rio Piedras

10
Botanical Garden in Rio Piedras

The Botanical Garden in Rio Piedras is a large botanical garden located in the University of Puerto Rico, showcasing a variety of tropical and subtropical plants.

Parks
Gardens
Miramar

11
Miramar

A historic neighborhood known for its beautiful architecture, including art deco and Spanish revival styles.

Neighborhoods
Cultural Experiences
Outlet Mall in Barceloneta

12
Outlet Mall in Barceloneta

A large shopping center offering a variety of stores and dining options.

Shopping
Arecibo Observatory

13
Arecibo Observatory

The Arecibo Observatory is a radio telescope in the municipality of Arecibo. It's one of the world's largest single-aperture telescopes, used for various areas of science including radio astronomy and atmospheric science.

Attractions
Landmarks

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Mofongo

Mofongo

A popular Puerto Rican dish made from fried plantains as its main ingredient. The plantains are picked green and fried then mashed with salt, garlic, broth, and olive oil in a wooden pilón, a kitchen device also known as mortar and pestle.

Lechón Asado

Lechón Asado

A traditional Puerto Rican dish, it's a whole pig roasted over charcoal for several hours. The result is a tender, flavorful pork with crispy skin, often served with rice and beans.

Arroz con Gandules

Arroz con Gandules

This is the national dish of Puerto Rico, made with pigeon peas and rice. It's a staple dish during Christmas season but also enjoyed year-round.

Pastelón

Pastelón

Often referred to as Puerto Rican lasagna, Pastelón is a sweet-and-salty dish, layered with sweet plantains, ground beef, and cheese.

Alcapurrias

Alcapurrias

These are deep-fried fritters made from a mixture of grated yautía (taro root) and green bananas, and stuffed with meat. They are a popular street food in Puerto Rico.

Pasteles

Pasteles

A traditional Puerto Rican dish typically served during the Christmas season. It's made of a masa (dough) filled with a variety of ingredients like pork, chickpeas, and olives, then wrapped in banana leaves and boiled.

Tostones

Tostones

These are twice-fried plantain slices, a popular side dish in Puerto Rico. They are salted and often paired with a garlic dip.

Coquito

Coquito

A traditional Puerto Rican drink, often called Puerto Rican eggnog. It's made with rum, coconut milk, sweet condensed milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and cloves. It's especially popular during the Christmas season.

Pernil

Pernil

A slow-roasted marinated pork shoulder, it's a traditional Puerto Rican dish often served during holidays and special occasions.

Tembleque

Tembleque

A coconut pudding dessert from Puerto Rico. It's creamy, sweet, and topped with cinnamon.

Sorullitos de Maiz

These are fried cornmeal sticks, often served with a side of mayo-ketchup sauce. They are a popular appetizer or snack in Puerto Rico.

Piña Colada

Piña Colada

A sweet cocktail made with rum, coconut cream or coconut milk, and pineapple juice. It's served either blended or shaken with ice. The Piña Colada is known as the national drink of Puerto Rico.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Puerto Rico as a tourist is generally from mid-April to June, right after the busy winter season and just before the rainy summer. During this period, you'll find room rates are slightly reduced and the weather is at its most pleasant. However, Puerto Rico is a year-round destination due to its tropical climate, so it largely depends on your personal preferences.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 6

Sat

Epiphany

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

May 12

Sun

Mothers' Day

June 16

Sun

Fathers' Day

November 28

Thu

Thanksgiving Day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Renting a car is one of the most convenient ways to get around Puerto Rico. The island has a well-maintained network of highways and roads, making it easy to travel between cities and towns. Most international rental companies have offices at the airport and in major cities.

Public buses, known as 'guaguas', are a cheap way to travel around the main cities in Puerto Rico. However, they can be unreliable and routes are often limited. It's best to use buses for short trips within cities.

Taxis are readily available in Puerto Rico's major cities and tourist areas. They operate on a fixed fare system, so it's best to confirm the price before starting your journey. Taxis are a good option for short trips or if you're not comfortable driving.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Puerto Rico, particularly in San Juan and other major cities. This can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're traveling in a group.

Ferries operate between the main island and Puerto Rico's smaller islands, such as Vieques and Culebra. This is a scenic and relaxing way to travel, but schedules can be subject to change due to weather conditions.

Private transfers can be arranged from the airport to your hotel or other destinations. This is a convenient option if you're traveling with a lot of luggage or prefer not to drive.

In some areas, particularly in San Juan, bicycles are available for rent. This is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the local area, but may not be practical for longer distances or trips outside the city.

Many of Puerto Rico's cities, including Old San Juan, are best explored on foot. This allows you to take in the sights at your own pace and discover hidden gems that you might miss when traveling by car or bus.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency$ USD

Time zoneUTC-4

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone911

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type B

Voltage120 V

Things to know about Puerto Rico as a first time visitor

1

Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, so U.S. citizens do not need a passport to travel there.

2

The official languages of Puerto Rico are Spanish and English, but Spanish is more widely spoken.

3

The currency used in Puerto Rico is the U.S. dollar.

4

Puerto Rico operates on Atlantic Standard Time, which is one hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time.

5

The island has a tropical climate, with average temperatures ranging from 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit (21-27 degrees Celsius).

6

Hurricane season in Puerto Rico runs from June to November.

7

Tipping in Puerto Rico is customary and similar to the U.S., with 15-20% being standard for restaurants.

8

Public transportation in Puerto Rico is limited, so renting a car can be a good option for getting around.

9

Driving in Puerto Rico can be challenging due to aggressive local driving habits and poorly maintained roads.

10

The legal drinking age in Puerto Rico is 18.

11

Tap water in Puerto Rico is safe to drink.

12

Puerto Rico uses the same electrical outlets as the U.S., so no adapter is needed for U.S. visitors.

13

Cell phone service in Puerto Rico is generally good, especially in urban areas.

14

Healthcare facilities in Puerto Rico are of a high standard, but it's recommended to have travel insurance.

15

Puerto Rico has a high sales tax rate of 11.5%.

16

The island is known for its vibrant nightlife, especially in San Juan.

17

Puerto Rican cuisine is a blend of Spanish, African, and Taino influences.

18

Casual beachwear is acceptable in most places, but some restaurants and clubs may require more formal attire.

19

Puerto Rico has a high crime rate, so it's important to take precautions such as not displaying expensive items and avoiding certain areas at night.

20

It's customary to greet people with a handshake, and close friends and family often greet with a kiss on the cheek.

Basic Spanish and English to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hola

oh-la

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Adiós

ah-dee-ohs

Leaving or saying goodbye to someone

Please

Por favor

por fa-vor

Making a request

Thank you

Gracias

gra-see-as

Expressing gratitude

Yes

see

Agreeing or confirming

No

No

no

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Perdón

per-don

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Lo siento

lo see-en-to

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

¿Hablas inglés?

ah-blas in-gles

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

No entiendo

no en-tee-en-do

Expressing confusion or misunderstanding

Where is the bathroom?

¿Dónde está el baño?

don-de es-ta el ban-yo

Asking for directions

How much does it cost?

¿Cuánto cuesta?

quan-to cues-ta

Asking the price of something

I would like...

Me gustaría...

me gus-ta-ree-a

Expressing a desire or preference

Help!

¡Ayuda!

a-yu-da

In an emergency or needing assistance

Can I have the menu, please?

¿Puedo tener el menú, por favor?

pwe-do te-ner el me-nu, por fa-vor

At a restaurant

Water

Agua

a-gua

Ordering a drink or asking for water

Beer

Cerveza

ser-ve-za

Ordering a drink

Cheers!

¡Salud!

sa-lud

Making a toast

Taxi

Taxi

taxi

Transportation

Hotel

Hotel

o-tel

Accommodation

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear (5 pairs)

  • Socks (5 pairs)

  • T-shirts (5)

  • Shorts (2-3 pairs)

  • Long pants/jeans (1-2 pairs)

  • Dresses/Skirts (for women, if applicable)

  • Swimwear (2)

  • Beach cover-up (for women, if applicable)

  • Lightweight jacket or sweater

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sandals/Flip flops

  • Hat/Cap for sun protection

  • Sunglasses

  • Pajamas

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • After-sun lotion or aloe vera

  • Insect repellent

  • Makeup (for women, if applicable)

  • Hairbrush or comb

  • Prescription medications

  • First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport/ID

  • Airline tickets

  • Hotel reservation confirmations

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Credit cards and cash

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Portable power bank

  • Travel adapter (if needed)

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Books or e-reader for the flight

  • Travel pillow and blanket for the flight

  • Snacks for the flight

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Beach bag

  • Beach towel

  • Snorkeling gear (if planning to snorkel)

  • Travel-size laundry detergent

  • Plastic bags for dirty clothes

Weather Conditions

Puerto Rico enjoys a tropical marine climate with an average year-round temperature of 80°F (27°C). However, the weather can vary depending on the region and the time of year. The island experiences two main seasons: the dry season, which runs from December to April, and the rainy season, which runs from May to November. If you're planning to visit during the dry season, you can expect warm, sunny days with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). This is the best time for outdoor activities like hiking, beach hopping, and exploring the historic sites. During the rainy season, the island receives most of its annual rainfall. While the temperatures remain relatively warm, ranging from 75°F to 88°F (24°C to 31°C), the frequent showers can disrupt outdoor activities. However, the rain usually comes in short, intense bursts, followed by sunshine. It's a good idea to pack a light rain jacket or umbrella if you're visiting during this season. Regardless of when you visit, it's important to remember that Puerto Rico is located in the hurricane belt. The hurricane season officially runs from June to November, with the peak period being from August to October. While the chances of a hurricane hitting during your visit are relatively low, it's always a good idea to check the forecast and be prepared. In terms of what to wear, light, breathable clothing is recommended year-round due to the island's humid climate. Don't forget to pack a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen to protect yourself from the strong Caribbean sun. Lastly, if you're planning to explore the El Yunque National Forest or other high-altitude areas, keep in mind that temperatures can be significantly cooler, with averages between 60°F and 75°F (16°C to 24°C). A light sweater or jacket may be necessary for these excursions. Remember, the weather can change quickly in Puerto Rico, so it's always a good idea to check the local forecast before heading out for the day.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

29° / 21°

January is a pleasant month to visit Puerto Rico, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 29°C. It's a great time for beach activities and exploring the island.

February

29° / 21°

February is similar to January, with temperatures between 21°C and 29°C. It's a perfect time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

March

30° / 22°

March sees a slight increase in temperature, ranging from 22°C to 30°C. It's an ideal time for water sports and hiking.

April

31° / 23°

April is a warm month with temperatures between 23°C and 31°C. It's a great time to visit the beaches and enjoy the local festivals.

May

32° / 24°

May marks the beginning of the rainy season, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C. However, it's still a good time for indoor activities and exploring the local culture.

June

33° / 25°

June is a hot month, with temperatures between 25°C and 33°C. Despite the heat, it's a good time for water activities and enjoying the nightlife.

July

33° / 25°

July is similar to June, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 33°C. It's a perfect time for beach activities and exploring the rainforest.

August

33° / 25°

August is a hot and humid month, with temperatures between 25°C and 33°C. Despite the humidity, it's a good time for water sports and indoor activities.

September

33° / 25°

September is the peak of the hurricane season, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 33°C. It's advisable to check the weather forecast before planning outdoor activities.

October

32° / 24°

October is a rainy month, with temperatures between 24°C and 32°C. However, it's a good time for indoor activities and exploring the local cuisine.

November

31° / 23°

November sees a decrease in temperature, ranging from 23°C to 31°C. It's an ideal time for sightseeing and exploring the local culture.

December

30° / 22°

December is a pleasant month to visit Puerto Rico, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 30°C. It's a great time for beach activities and celebrating the festive season.

Did you know?

Did you know that Puerto Rico is an unincorporated territory of the United States, meaning its citizens are U.S. citizens, but they cannot vote in presidential elections?

1 of 10

Places near by Puerto Rico

Vieques

Vieques

A beautiful island off the east coast of Puerto Rico known for its stunning beaches and the world's brightest bioluminescent bay.

1.5h
11.3 km / 7.0 mi
How to get there
Culebra

Culebra

An island municipality of Puerto Rico, known for its wildlife refuge and beautiful beaches like Flamenco Beach.

1.5h
27.4 km / 17.0 mi
How to get there
St. Thomas

St. Thomas

Part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, known for its beaches and snorkeling spots.

2h
110 km / 68.4 mi
How to get there
St. John

St. John

Smallest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, but it's famous for its well-preserved natural beauty.

3h
130 km / 80.8 mi
How to get there
St. Croix

St. Croix

The largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, known for its sugar plantations and rum distilleries.

3h
215 km / 133.6 mi
How to get there
British Virgin Islands

British Virgin Islands

A British overseas territory, known for its reef-lined beaches and as a yachting destination.

3.5h
130 km / 80.8 mi
How to get there
Anguilla

Anguilla

A British overseas territory in the Caribbean, known for its coral reefs and white sandy beaches.

3h
300 km / 186.4 mi
How to get there
Antigua

Antigua

Known for its many sandy beaches, including Half Moon Bay and Jolly Beach.

3h
500 km / 310.7 mi
How to get there
Barbuda

Barbuda

Known for its secluded pink and white sandy beaches, and its frigate bird sanctuary.

4h
550 km / 341.8 mi
How to get there
St. Martin

St. Martin

An island split between French and Dutch control, known for its vibrant nightlife, beaches, jewelry, drinks made with native rum-based guavaberry liquors, and casinos on the Dutch side.

3h
300 km / 186.4 mi
How to get there