San Juan Maps

San Juan, the capital and most populous city of Puerto Rico, is situated on the island's Atlantic coast. Founded in 1521 by Spanish colonists, it is the second oldest city established by Europeans in the Americas. The city serves as Puerto Rico's financial, cultural, and tourism center.

The metropolitan area of San Juan is home to approximately 2.35 million residents, representing nearly half of Puerto Rico's total population. The city proper contains several distinct neighborhoods, with the most historically significant being Old San Juan (Viejo San Juan), a UNESCO World Heritage site. This district features colorful Spanish colonial architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and two notable 16th-century fortifications: Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo de San Cristóbal, which together formed part of the city's defensive system.

San Juan has a tropical monsoon climate with warm temperatures year-round. Average temperatures range from 75°F (24°C) to 85°F (29°C), with high humidity levels and frequent short rainfall episodes. The city experiences hurricane season from June through November, though direct hits from major storms are relatively rare.

The city serves as a major port and is one of the busiest harbors in the Caribbean Sea. Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, the region's main air transportation hub, handles over 8 million passengers annually. San Juan's economy is diverse, encompassing tourism, manufacturing, pharmaceutical industries, and financial services. The Convention Center District, one of the largest in the Caribbean, attracts numerous business events and conferences throughout the year.

Cultural attractions include the Museum of Art of Puerto Rico, Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Puerto Rico Museum of History, Anthropology, and Art. The city is also home to several educational institutions, including the University of Puerto Rico's main campus. Plaza Las Américas, the largest shopping mall in the Caribbean, is located in the Hato Rey district. The Condado and Isla Verde areas are famous for their beaches, luxury hotels, and vibrant nightlife, making them popular tourist destinations.

The city's public transportation system includes a rapid transit system called Tren Urbano, as well as an extensive bus network. Despite being a U.S. territory, San Juan maintains its distinct Spanish-Caribbean cultural identity, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. The city regularly hosts festivals and cultural events, including the San Sebastián Street Festival, one of the largest cultural celebrations in Puerto Rico.

Main sights in San Juan

Barrios of San Juan