If you associate Puerto Rico's capital with the colonial streets of Old San Juan, then you know only part of the picture. San Juan is a major metropolis, radiating out from the bay on the Atlantic Ocean that was discovered by Juan Ponce de León. More than a third of the island's nearly 4 million citizens proudly call themselves sanjuaneros. The city may be rooted in the past, but it has its eye on the future. Locals go about their business surrounded by colonial architecture and towering modern structures.By 1508 the explorer Juan Ponce de León had established a colony in an area now known as Caparra, southeast of present-day San Juan. He later moved the settlement north to a more hospitable peninsular location. In 1521, after he became the first colonial governor, Ponce de León switched the name of the island—which was then called San Juan Bautista in honor of St. John the Baptist—with that of the settlement of Puerto Rico ("rich port").Defended by the imposing Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro) and Castillo San Cristóbal, Puerto Rico's administrative and population center remained firmly in Spain's hands until 1898, when it came under U.S. control after the Spanish-American War. Centuries of Spanish rule left an indelible imprint on the city, particularly in the walled area now known as Old San Juan. The area is filled with cobblestone streets and brightly painted, colonial-era structures, and its fortifications have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Old San Juan is a monument to the past, but most of the rest of the city is planted firmly in the 21st century and draws migrants island-wide and from farther afield to jobs in its businesses and industries. The city captivates residents and visitors alike with its vibrant lifestyle as well as its balmy beaches, pulsing nightclubs, globe-spanning restaurants, and world-class museums. Once you set foot in this city, you may never want to leave.

The sunny island has a long and storied history that encompasses hundreds of years, and you can take a glimpse into its past through its food, colonial towns and even souvenirs and attraction. Witness the cultural heritage come alive with your cruise to Puerto Rico. 

Colorful Colonial Houses in Puerto Rico

A colorful center of culture, food and one of the best bars in the world (La Factoria), Old San Juan is an almost 500-year-old Spanish colonial town with the vibrant panache of the tropics. Wear comfortable shoes and explore every ancient nook of this wonderful walled city.

San Felipe del Morro Castle in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

While you're in San Juan, learn more about Puerto Rico's Spanish roots at the Castillo San Felipe del Morro. This UNESCO World Heritage site was built in the 16th-century in Old San Juan and faces the open sea.

Traditional Ceramic and Handcrafts from Puerto Rico

Bring the island home with keepsakes like woven hammocks, percussion instruments, artesanias (artisan crafts), island photography books or local coffee and rum. The best souvenir shopping can be found in Old San Juan, but also during town festivals around the island.

INSIDER TIPS

1. Stop by La Factoria, voted one of the 50 best bars in the world, and try craft cocktails with an island twist.

2. Hungry? Pay a visit to Calle Loiza, where local restaurateurs are cooking up a storm of Puerto Rican flavors.

3. Salsa dancing is a wildly fun local activity here, so head to La Placita in Santurce or La Factoria in Old San Juan and get your groove on.