No idea what to do in SJ!

[TNIris]

Hi all!

 

Our cruise docks at 7 a.m. and leaves at 2 p.m. when we go to San Juan. Yikes!

 

We kind of want to go the do it yourself route in San Juan, and I would like to avoid taxis/buses if at all possible.

 

How much is there to do within walking distance (1-2 miles) around the ship? Are the forts within walking distance? Are they worth seeing?

 

The other alternative would be maybe getting a hotel using some of DH's points he has built up to go to the beach, but I felt like it would kind of be a waste of points, we wouldn't have more than a few hours.

 

Thoughts?

[mefinephotoman]

You should be berthed in the Old San Juan piers which puts you right in the heart of Old San Juan. You will have 2 forts tons of history, shops and parks all within a very short distance. there is also a trolley that you can use. There are previous posts that describe it. You won't have to leave the area to have a great time. Check this site out it will get you started. http://www.puertoricodaytrips.com/old-san-juan-walking-tour-1/

[dcikon2]

You are probably on a Carnival ship. You can take your time getting off of the ship since the forts and most stores don't open up until 9:00 am. Depending on how much you want to (or are able to) walk, you could head left and follow the route along the bay. There are great photo opportunities along the path. Get to either El Morro or San Cristobal when they open. Take the free trolley between the forts. San Cristobal is closest to the pier. Save some time to shop in OSJ. I definitely wouldn't take a tour unless you are interested in visiting El Yunque.

[kona_wahine]

I googled and printed a walking tour which helped. Gave some points of interest. We headed to el morro fort forst. Passed by the Raices fountain. Walked on outside of the city walls to the city gate, then up to the fort. It was a very pleasant walk. A but uphill but not bad. Walked back thru town, stopped at the old church. Enjoyed the cobblestone streets and old buildings.