San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a city that perfectly blends history, culture, and excitement. Its colorful streets, centuries-old forts, and lively harbor make it a natural playground for travelers. What’s particularly appealing about San Juan is the variety of tours available, catering to different interests—whether you want to dive into craft spirits, explore historic landmarks, or enjoy thrilling water adventures. We’re especially fond of the Casa Bacardi Distillery Tour for its engaging history and exclusive rum tastings, and the Old Town Sunset Walking Tour for its enchanting sunset views and local insights. Whatever your vibe, San Juan offers something memorable.
If you’re considering what type of tour to pick, this list has it all—whether that’s private driving tours, cultural trips, ghost stories, or exciting water activities. Each tour brings a unique flavor to your visit, and many are highly rated, ensuring you’ll get a quality experience. Read on for a detailed look at the best options in San Juan.
1. San Juan: Casa Bacardi Distillery Tour
Savor the taste of Bacardi rum as you explore the iconic Casa Bacardi Puerto Rico. For around $45 per person, this tour lasts 45 to 75 minutes and includes a comprehensive look at how the world’s most famous rum is made. The tour begins with a welcome drink at the Bacardi pavilion, setting the tone for an engaging experience. You’ll learn about the history of Bacardi, the craft behind its production, and finish with a tasting of Casa Bacardi’s exclusive Special Reserve, which you can’t find elsewhere.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to sip on a world-renowned rum while discovering its story. The reviews are excellent—rating 4.7/5 from over 1,200 travelers—highlighting the friendly guides and authentic atmosphere. It’s perfect for anyone interested in spirits, history, or simply eager to enjoy a fun, informative experience with a relaxed vibe. The value for money is clear: you get a detailed tour, tastings, and a chance to learn about a famous brand in a lively setting.
Bottom Line: If you enjoy spirits or want a relaxed way to start your trip, the Casa Bacardi tour offers a memorable introduction to Puerto Rico’s famous rum and culture.
2. San Juan: Old Town Sunset Walking Tour
At number 2, the Old Town Sunset Walking Tour is a wonderful way to experience San Juan’s charm as the day winds down. For just $39 per person, the 2-hour stroll takes you through the most picturesque parts of Old San Juan, where you’ll admire colorful colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and historic landmarks bathed in the glow of sunset. The tour also offers a chance to learn about local culture and history from a knowledgeable guide.
What makes this tour special is the timing—sunset in Old San Juan transforms the city into a picture-perfect scene. The ocean breeze, soft lighting, and relaxed pace make it ideal for travelers who want a laid-back, scenic experience. With a 4.7/5 rating from nearly 600 reviews, visitors praise the guide’s storytelling and the immersive atmosphere. It’s a top choice for couples, photographers, or anyone looking to soak in the city’s romantic side without a rush.
Bottom Line: For an easy, scenic introduction to Old San Juan, this sunset tour combines beautiful views with cultural insights at a reasonable price.
3. San Juan: Private City Highlights Driving Tour
If you prefer a personalized approach, the Private City Highlights Driving Tour is ideal. For $250 per group (up to 4 people), this 2.5-hour tour offers a tailored exploration of San Juan’s top neighborhoods and landmarks. Your certified guide will take you through Old San Juan, Santurce, and other famous districts, pointing out notable sights and sharing stories behind them.
The uniqueness of this tour lies in its flexibility—your guide can customize the stops based on your interests, whether that’s history, art, or local secrets. The reviews are stellar, with a 4.8/5 rating from 56 reviews, emphasizing the personal attention and in-depth knowledge. It’s perfect for travelers who want a more intimate experience or have limited time but still want to see the city’s highlights comfortably.
Bottom Line: For a private, flexible introduction to San Juan, this tour balances tailored sightseeing with comfort and expert guidance.
4. Puerto Rico: Old San Juan Jet Ski Tour
For those craving adventure, the Old San Juan Jet Ski Tour offers a thrilling ride along the coast. At $130 per person for a 1-hour session, you’ll navigate the turquoise waters on your own jetski, with the option to bring a passenger for an additional fee. This experience is perfect for active travelers who want to combine sightseeing with adrenaline.
You’ll cruise around beaches, piers, and the historic brick walls lining Old San Juan. The review score of 4.7/5, based on 66 reviews, reflects how much visitors love the fun and freedom of this water adventure. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy water sports and want a unique way to see the city from the bay. Keep in mind, some physical activity is involved, so it’s best for those comfortable on jetskis.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a high-energy, memorable experience in the Caribbean, this jet ski tour packs a punch and offers great photo opportunities.
5. Tour de Viejo San Juan en Español
For Spanish speakers, the Tour de Viejo San Juan en Español offers an intimate exploration of Old San Juan’s secrets. Priced at $30 per person, this 2-hour tour is led by certified guides passionate about sharing their language and love for the city. You’ll walk through historic streets, learn about the city’s past, and visit key sites, all in Spanish.
What makes this tour memorable is the focus on cultural storytelling, making it ideal for native speakers or those comfortable with Spanish. With a perfect rating of 5/5 from 23 reviews, participants note the guides’ enthusiasm and in-depth knowledge. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a culture or practicing their language skills.
Bottom Line: For a culturally rich, language-specific tour, this is a lively, engaging way to understand Old San Juan.
6. Old San Juan: San Cristobal Castle and Old Town Walking Tour
History and architecture buffs will appreciate the San Cristobal Castle and Old Town Walking Tour. For $49, the 2.5-hour tour covers the impressive San Cristobal Fortress plus other cultural landmarks, with entry included. You’ll wander through cobblestone streets, admire colorful buildings, and learn about San Juan’s strategic defenses.
The tour is led by professional, certified guides in small groups, ensuring an intimate experience. Reviewers highlight the guide’s knowledge and the opportunity to see the city’s most important historic sites. Water and soda are provided, making it comfortable in warm weather. It’s suited for explorers who want an immersive walk through history.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, historic walking tour that combines architecture, history, and local color.
7. San Juan: Bacardi Rum Distillery and Old San Juan Combo Tour
For a full taste of San Juan, the Bacardi Rum Distillery and Old San Juan Combo Tour offers a 4-hour experience. At $99 per person, you’ll explore the distillery’s history and enjoy a cocktail, then visit Old San Juan’s major landmarks like San Felipe del Morro Fortress and the Capitol Building.
This tour combines culture, history, and spirits, making it ideal for those who want variety in one day. The reviews praise the depth of insight and the smooth combination of activities. It’s especially good for first-time visitors who want a rundown with some fun added. The value is excellent, considering the length and inclusions.
Bottom Line: For a multi-faceted experience, this tour packs history, culture, and a bit of fun into one outing.
8. Puerto Rico: Old San Juan Guided Private Walking Tour
If a private, in-depth exploration suits you, the Old San Juan Guided Private Walking Tour is a top choice. Costing $695 for up to four people, this 3-hour tour is perfect for those who want personalized attention. You’ll walk through the oldest parts of San Juan, visit the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, and learn about the city’s history and culture from a local guide.
Reviewers appreciate the comprehensive storytelling and the opportunity to customize the experience. It’s best for travelers who want a deeper understanding of San Juan or are celebrating special occasions. This private tour provides flexibility, comfort, and expert insights.
Bottom Line: For an exclusive, tailored experience, this private tour offers a detailed, intimate look at Old San Juan.
9. San Juan: Ghosts and Spooky History Walking Tour
Explore San Juan’s haunted side with the Ghosts and Spooky History Walking Tour. Priced at $54 for 2 hours, this tour takes you through Plaza Colón, the Cathedral, and more, revealing stories of cursed stones, ghostly nurses, and haunted buildings like the El Convento Hotel.
Rated 4.2/5 from 55 reviews, it’s a hit for night owls and history lovers who enjoy spooky tales. The stories add a layer of local color that’s both entertaining and chilling. Suitable for those who aren’t shy about ghost stories and want a different perspective on San Juan’s past.
Bottom Line: For a fun, spooky twist on San Juan’s history, this tour delivers both thrills and local legend.
10. Old San Juan: Photoshoot Walking Tour
Capture your trip with the Old San Juan Photoshoot Walking Tour. For just $95, this 1-hour tour focuses on making sure you get beautiful photos at the city’s most photogenic spots, including San Cristobal Castle and colorful houses. You’ll walk through iconic locations and stop for picture-perfect moments.
Reviewers love how this tour helps visitors leave with professional-quality photos and a deeper connection to the city’s most scenic corners. It’s suited for travelers who want to remember their trip with quality images or those interested in photography.
Bottom Line: A quick, picturesque stroll designed to give you stunning photos and lasting memories.
11. From San Juan: Full-Day Cultural Road Trip to Ponce
Venture outside San Juan with the Full-Day Cultural Road Trip to Ponce. At $270 per person, it’s a comprehensive 7-hour journey exploring Ponce’s historic streets, plazas, and cultural sites. The trip includes stops at the Ponce Art Museum and Serrallés Castle, with optional visits and local food tastings like pork in Guavate.
Led by a local, this tour is perfect for travelers wanting a deeper dive into Puerto Rican culture beyond the capital. Reviewers mention its flexible, personalized stops and the chance to taste authentic cuisine. It’s a long day but rewarding for those interested in the island’s southern traditions and history.
Bottom Line: For a full-day cultural experience beyond San Juan, this trip offers a well-rounded look at Puerto Rican life and art.
12. San Juan: Visit Old San Juan and New San Juan Highlights
Rounding out the list is the Old and New San Juan Highlights. Priced at $198 and lasting about 4.5 hours, this tour takes you around both historic and modern parts of the city. You’ll enjoy local ice cream, see the town of Rio Piedras, and visit scenic spots like Fortaleza Street.
Ideal for those wanting a broad overview of both Old San Juan and contemporary San Juan, it balances sightseeing with local treats. The tour provides a good introduction to Puerto Rico’s capital city and the chance to sample local flavors.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive look at San Juan’s past and present.
$198 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour in San Juan
When selecting your San Juan tour, consider your interests and how much time you want to spend exploring. If spirits and history excite you, the Casa Bacardi Distillery offers a fun, relaxed way to learn and taste. For culture and history lovers, the San Cristobal Castle or private walking tours provide deep dives into the city’s past.
Water sports enthusiasts should check out the jetski tour, while those wanting memorable photos can opt for the photoshoot tour. For a day outside the city, the Ponce cultural trip is a great way to see another side of Puerto Rico.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like the Old Town Sunset or private options. Tailor your choice to your interests, schedule, and budget, and you’ll enjoy a memorable San Juan experience.
San Juan offers a wonderful mix of history, culture, and adventure. From easily accessible walking tours to adrenaline-pumping jet skis, the options are diverse enough to satisfy nearly every traveler. Whether you want to learn about rum, explore historic forts, or capture perfect photos, there’s a tour suited for you. Remember to book early, especially for highly rated experiences, and enjoy everything this lively city has to offer.