Garitas, or sentry boxes, crown the wall at prominent points along the bay. Completed in 1782, the towering fortification stretches for 3.4 miles and once enclosed the entire colonial capital. Sand poured between the sections helped absorb the impact of cannon balls. The massive wall, known as “La Muralla,” stands 42 feet high and was constructed with parallel sections of sandstone blocks. Pocket parks and benches provide resting places along the way. Two orange columns mark the entrance to the Paseo, the tree-lined promenade winding along the ancient city wall and the rocky shore of San Juan Bay. Customs House with its pink stucco exterior and Moorish details will be on your left the towering Art Deco edifice of Banco Popular will be on your right across the street. Here you can pick up maps, brochures and a free daiquiri sample before venturing into the heart of Old San Juan.įrom the visitor center, follow the paved brick walkway west along the port toward Paseo de La Princesa. The building is on the waterfront at Plaza de la Dársena, just across the street from Pier 1. Don't forget sunscreen, bottled water and a hat in the hottest months.īegin your walking tour at the visitor center of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company. The historic district is small-a seven-square-block area of pastel-colored colonial buildings-but the cobbled streets are often steep and uneven wear comfortable shoes and walk with care. Old San JuanThis walking tour of Old San Juan will take 2-4 hours, depending on your pace as well as the number of listed sites you visit.

San juan walking tour map