Puerto Rico’s culture, history and heritage sites

Explore Old San Juan’s historic streets and fortresses, plus a rum visitor centre, a Spanish-era lighthouse and other heritage sites.

Puerto Rico’s history is visible in its walled city, Spanish fortifications and historic buildings. This guide also includes places where visitors can learn about rum-making and explore a restored lighthouse or an old coastal landmark.

1. Barrachina

   Food & Drink, San Juan

   On Calle Fortaleza in Old San Juan, this courtyard restaurant serves Puerto Rican and Spanish dishes. It claims the piña colada was invented here in 1963, a story marked by a plaque outside.

2. Casa Bacardí

   Things to do, Cataño

   Across the bay from Old San Juan, the visitor centre offers guided experiences about the Bacardí family’s history since 1862 and the rum-making process, with tastings or a mixology class.

3. Castillo San Cristóbal

   Things to do, San Juan

   This 18th-century Spanish fortification was built to defend San Juan from land attack. Its dry moats, tunnels and layered outworks are part of the San Juan National Historic Site.

4. Castillo San Felipe del Morro

   Things to do, San Juan

   Built by the Spanish in the 16th century to guard San Juan Bay, El Morro has six levels of walls, tunnels and ramparts. It is part of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage listing.

5. Faro Los Morrillos (Cabo Rojo Lighthouse)

   Things to do, Cabo Rojo

   This lighthouse dates to 1882, when Puerto Rico was under Spanish rule. A walk along the headland brings views of limestone cliffs, natural arches and salt flats.

6. Hotel El Convento

   Accommodation, San Juan

   A 17th-century Carmelite convent now operates as a hotel in Old San Juan. Its colonial walls and Spanish tile preserve the character of the former convent.

7. Las Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve

   Parks & Nature, Fajardo

   Guided tram tours through the reserve’s mangroves end at the restored 19th-century Fajardo lighthouse. Its rooftop looks toward Culebra and the Virgin Islands on a clear day.

8. Old San Juan Historic District

   Things to do, San Juan

   Old San Juan’s UNESCO-listed historic district brings together colonial houses, plazas, churches, museums and city walls. Visitors can walk the Paseo del Morro at the base of the walls.