From spectacular beaches, to impressive monuments, to electrifying nightlife, San Juan, Puerto Rico is bursting with historical and cultural attractions that are sure to inspire and exhilarate.

A former Spanish colony established by explorer Ponce de León, San Juan is replete with monuments dating back to the sixteenth century. Originally built to fortify the Spanish military against attacks from native Taíno peoples and rival European colonial powers, both the Castillo San Cristóbal and Castillo San Felipe del Morro fortresses are popular sites for educational tours detailing the island’s extensive colonial history. These expansive bastions sit on San Juan’s rocky seaside cliffs and offer spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean.

San Juan’s many beaches beckon you! Relax with warm sands, snorkel in glittering turquoise waters, and marvel at vast lines of palm trees on Condado Beach, Ocean Park Beach, Carolina Beach, and a host of other coastal havens. Better yet, go for a nighttime boat ride in one of Puerto Rico’s three bio-luminescent bays, Laguna Grande, where dinoflagellates illuminate the water in hues of neon aqua. The city’s nearby natural parks and ecological wonders are equally worth a visit, including the limestone caves of Cueva Ventana and the lush tropical ecosystem of El Yunque National Rainforest.

Your stay in San Juan won’t be complete without experiencing the city’s thrilling nightlife scene. San Juan boasts a number of bars, breweries, and dance clubs with delicious cocktails and mouthwatering (and authentically Puerto Rican!) culinary creations. Sip on the sweet coconut flavor of a classic piña colada, a Puerto Rico original, or sample some mofongo, a staple dish made of chicharrón and fried plantain.

Unwind in this vibrant Caribbean capital and let San Juan regale you with its many charms!