Plaza Colón: A Historic Heartbeat of San Juan
Explore the vibrant Plaza Colón in San Juan: A historic monument surrounded by lush greenery, local culture, and stunning architecture.
Plaza Colón is a vibrant and historic square in the heart of San Juan, Puerto Rico, where culture, history, and leisure converge. Visitors can admire the stunning statue of Christopher Columbus, take in the beautiful architecture surrounding the plaza, and enjoy leisurely strolls amidst lush greenery and local vendors. It’s a must-visit for those seeking to experience the essence of Puerto Rican heritage.
A brief summary to Plaza Colón
- FV8Q+C57, C. de la Fortaleza, San Juan, San Juan Antiguo, San Juan, 00901, PR
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Don't forget your camera; the architecture and statue are perfect for memorable photos.
- Check local schedules for any festivals or events that may be happening in the plaza.
- Take time to explore nearby historical sites such as the San Juan Cathedral and Fort San Cristóbal.
- Enjoy some local snacks from nearby vendors to get a taste of Puerto Rican cuisine.
Getting There
-
Walking
If you are staying in Old San Juan, start at the San Juan Gate (Puerta de San Juan). From the gate, head east along Calle San Sebastián until you reach the intersection with Calle de la Fortaleza. Turn left onto Calle de la Fortaleza and continue walking for about 5 minutes. Plaza Colón will be on your right, marked by a large monument.
-
Walking
From the cruise ship terminal, exit the terminal and head towards the main road, Avenida de la Constitución. Turn left and walk towards the San Juan Gate (Puerta de San Juan). Once you reach the gate, follow the same directions as above, walking east along Calle San Sebastián and then turning left onto Calle de la Fortaleza to reach Plaza Colón.
-
Public Transport (Bus)
If you are coming from Condado, board the public bus route D53 towards Old San Juan. Get off at the stop near the San Juan Gate (Puerta de San Juan). From there, follow the walking directions mentioned above: walk east along Calle San Sebastián and turn left onto Calle de la Fortaleza. Plaza Colón will be on your right.
-
Walking
If you are near the Capitol Building, start by heading west along Calle de la Fortaleza. Continue straight until you reach Plaza Colón, which will be on your left. This walk takes about 10 minutes.
Discover more about Plaza Colón
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Discover Puerto Rico
0.3 km
Discover Puerto Rico: Your essential hub for exploring San Juan and uncovering the island's hidden treasures.
San Juan Cruise Port
0.3 km
Explore the San Juan Cruise Port, your gateway to Puerto Rico's rich culture, historic architecture, and beautiful Caribbean beaches.
Garita del Diablo
0.3 km
Explore Garita del Diablo, a historic sentry box in San Juan offering breathtaking coastal views and a peek into Puerto Rico's rich military past.
Jose V. Toledo United States Courthouse
0.3 km
Explore the architectural splendor of the Jose V. Toledo United States Courthouse in San Juan, a historical landmark steeped in culture and justice.
C. de la Fortaleza
0.4 km
Explore C. de la Fortaleza, a vibrant street in Old San Juan filled with colorful architecture, shops, and rich Puerto Rican culture.
Plaza Dársena - Plaza de la Marina
0.4 km
Explore the scenic beauty and cultural richness of Plaza Dársena - Plaza de la Marina in San Juan, Puerto Rico, a must-visit state park for tourists.
End of Fort Wall
0.4 km
Discover the End of Fort Wall in San Juan, a historical landmark with stunning views and vibrant local culture, perfect for history and photography enthusiasts.
Santa Rosa Door
0.4 km
Discover the historical allure of Santa Rosa Door in San Juan Antiguo, a captivating landmark rich in Puerto Rican culture and heritage.
Estatua al Inmigrante
0.4 km
Explore the Estatua al Inmigrante in San Juan, a monumental tribute to the immigrant spirit and Puerto Rico's rich cultural heritage.
Bastión de la Derecha de San Justo y Pastor
0.5 km
Discover the rich history and stunning views at the Bastión de la Derecha de San Justo y Pastor in San Juan, Puerto Rico's captivating historical landmark.
La Perla
0.5 km
Discover La Perla: A vibrant coastal community in San Juan, Puerto Rico, blending rich history with stunning ocean views and local culture.
Casa Alcaldía de San Juan
0.5 km
Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of Casa Alcaldía de San Juan, a central landmark in Puerto Rico's vibrant capital.
Plaza de Armas
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant culture and historical charm of Plaza de Armas, the iconic heart of San Juan, Puerto Rico's capital city.
Fideicomiso de Conservación de Puerto Rico / Casa Ramón Power y Giralt
0.5 km
Explore Casa Ramón Power y Giralt, an iconic historical site in Old San Juan that showcases Puerto Rico's rich colonial heritage and stunning architecture.
Fuente de la Herencia de las Américas
0.5 km
Experience the enchanting Fuente de la Herencia de las Américas in San Juan, where culture and history intertwine amid stunning artistic designs.
Unmissable attractions to see
Christopher Columbus Monument
0.0 km
Discover the rich history of the Christopher Columbus Monument, a stunning landmark in San Juan, Puerto Rico, celebrating exploration and culture.
Puerto Rico Historic Building Drawing Society
0.0 km
Discover Puerto Rico's architectural heritage at the Puerto Rico Historic Building Drawing Society, where history and artistry converge.
Haitian Gallery
0.0 km
Discover the captivating beauty of Haitian art and culture at the vibrant Haitian Gallery in San Juan, a must-visit destination for art lovers.
I Love SJ Sign
0.0 km
Discover the vibrant I Love SJ Sign in San Juan, Puerto Rico, an iconic spot for capturing memories and embracing the city's colorful spirit.
Teatro Alejandro Tapia y Rivera
0.0 km
Experience the vibrant performing arts scene at Teatro Alejandro Tapia y Rivera, a historic theater in San Juan, Puerto Rico, rich in culture and creativity.
Antiguo Casino de Puerto Rico
0.1 km
Explore the historical elegance and vibrant cultural scene at Antiguo Casino de Puerto Rico, a premier event venue in San Juan.
Museo del Mar
0.1 km
Explore the vibrant maritime history of Puerto Rico at Museo del Mar, where the sea's tales come to life.
La Corazon Steps
0.1 km
Explore the vibrant history and stunning views at La Corazon Steps, a picturesque gem in San Juan's cultural landscape.
Callejon Del Tamarindo
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant culture and artistry of Puerto Rico at Callejon Del Tamarindo, a must-visit alleyway in San Juan filled with local charm.
Clue Murder Mystery
0.2 km
Discover the captivating world of Clue Murder Mystery in Viejo San Juan—where thrilling adventures and interactive puzzles await you!
Calle Tetuan, Old San Juan PR
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant streets of Calle Tetuan in Old San Juan, where history and culture blend seamlessly in a picturesque setting.
Parroquia San Francisco de Asis
0.2 km
Experience the rich heritage and tranquility of Parroquia San Francisco de Asis, a stunning Catholic church in the heart of San Juan's historic district.
Casa Old San Juan
0.2 km
Immerse yourself in the historical charm of Casa Old San Juan - a perfect homestay for cultural explorers in Puerto Rico.
Castillo San Cristóbal
0.2 km
Discover the grandeur of Castillo San Cristóbal, a historic fortress in San Juan that showcases stunning architecture and breathtaking Caribbean views.
I tour Puerto Rico
0.2 km
Discover the ultimate adventure in Puerto Rico with I Tour Puerto Rico, offering thrilling boat tours, kayaking, and guided sightseeing experiences.
Essential places to dine
Sofia's Old San Juan
0.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Old San Juan at Sofia's - where flavor meets tradition in a vibrant setting.
Puerto Criollo
0.1 km
Experience authentic Puerto Rican cuisine at Puerto Criollo in San Juan - where every dish is a taste of tradition.
La Cucina di Ivo
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Cucina di Ivo in San Juan Antiguo—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
La Ó Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience Puerto Rico's culinary delights at La Ó Restaurant in San Juan's historic district - where tradition meets modern flavor.
La Madre
0.1 km
Savor authentic Mexican cuisine at La Madre in San Juan, where every dish tells a flavorful story.
El Asador The Grill House Old San Juan
0.1 km
Discover exquisite seafood and Puerto Rican delicacies at El Asador The Grill House in Old San Juan – where history meets flavor.
Marmalade
0.1 km
Experience the finest culinary artistry at Marmalade, where local flavors meet international cuisine in San Juan's charming atmosphere.
Bodega Chic
0.2 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine in the heart of San Juan at Bodega Chic – where elegance meets flavor.
Vaca Brava - Old San Juan
0.2 km
Experience authentic Puerto Rican cuisine at Vaca Brava in Old San Juan - where every meal tells a story.
Istanbul Restaurant
0.2 km
Discover authentic Turkish cuisine at Istanbul Restaurant in San Juan - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Restaurante Raíces
0.2 km
Experience authentic Puerto Rican cuisine at Restaurante Raíces in San Juan - a culinary gem showcasing traditional flavors and vibrant ambiance.
Muelle 13
0.2 km
Discover Muelle 13: A must-visit restaurant in Viejo San Juan offering delicious local cuisine with breathtaking waterfront views.
Cayo Caribe
0.2 km
Experience authentic Puerto Rican seafood at Cayo Caribe, where fresh ingredients meet vibrant Caribbean flavors.
Tropicaleo Urban Paradise
0.3 km
Discover Tropicaleo Urban Paradise: where vibrant flavors meet a lively atmosphere in the heart of San Juan's culinary scene.
El Jibarito
0.3 km
Experience authentic Puerto Rican cuisine at El Jibarito in San Juan – where tradition meets flavor.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ecléctica
0.0 km
Discover the essence of Puerto Rican culture at Ecléctica, a boutique featuring unique art and handmade crafts that celebrate local talent.
sensy gifts and souvenirs
0.1 km
Discover authentic Puerto Rican treasures at Sensy Gifts and Souvenirs, your ideal stop for unique gifts and local crafts in San Juan.
James Souvenirs Shop
0.1 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at James Souvenirs Shop, a gem in San Juan's historic district, perfect for preserving your travel memories.
La Garita souvenirs
0.1 km
Explore the essence of Puerto Rico at La Garita Souvenirs, where local craftsmanship meets heartfelt memories.
Hello Coqui Gift And Crafts
0.1 km
Explore unique crafts and souvenirs at Hello Coqui Gift And Crafts, reflecting the vibrant culture of San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Marfil Store
0.1 km
Discover Puerto Rican fashion at Marfil Store in Viejo San Juan—your ultimate shopping destination for unique clothing and accessories.
The Artisan Corner
0.2 km
Uncover the beauty of Puerto Rican handicrafts at The Artisan Corner, a unique shopping destination in San Juan Antiguo.
La Casa de las Guayaberas
0.2 km
Discover authentic Puerto Rican fashion at La Casa de las Guayaberas in San Juan, where tradition meets style in every stitch.
Borinquen Discount Souvenirs
0.2 km
Explore Borinquen Discount Souvenirs for authentic Puerto Rican gifts, clothing, and unique treasures that capture the island's vibrant culture.
Oceanna Boutique
0.2 km
Explore Oceanna Boutique in San Juan for unique souvenirs and gifts that celebrate Puerto Rico's vibrant culture and artistry.
Pink Tree
0.2 km
Discover Pink Tree, a charming clothing store in San Juan, where vibrant styles meet Puerto Rican culture for an unforgettable shopping experience.
The Best Souvenir Shop
0.2 km
Explore The Best Souvenir Shop in San Juan for authentic Puerto Rican crafts and gifts, perfect for capturing your travel memories.
Souvenir Outlet Puerto Rico
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant Souvenir Outlet in San Juan for unique gifts, local crafts, and charming apparel that capture the essence of Puerto Rico.
See U Soon The Gift Shop
0.3 km
Explore See U Soon The Gift Shop in San Juan for unique local crafts and memorable souvenirs that embody the spirit of Puerto Rico.
Origen
0.3 km
Explore Origen in San Juan Antiguo for exceptional fashion accessories and captivating local art, reflecting the vibrant culture of Puerto Rico.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Los 3 Cuernos
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Los 3 Cuernos, the quintessential bar in San Juan Antiguo.
Moreno Spot Bar & Grill
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rico at Moreno Spot Bar & Grill, where delicious grilled dishes and refreshing drinks await in San Juan Antiguo.
La Grieta
0.1 km
Discover La Grieta in San Juan, a lively bar featuring live jazz and innovative mescal cocktails that capture the spirit of Puerto Rico.
Antiguo 26
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Antiguo 26 in San Juan, where innovative cocktails and delightful tapas create an unforgettable dining experience.
El Adoquín del Patio
0.3 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and unique cocktails at El Adoquín del Patio, a must-visit bar in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
The Red Monkey
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Red Monkey, a lively bar in San Juan Antiguo offering delicious cocktails and a friendly atmosphere.
The Cannon Club - Restaurant & Piano Bar
0.5 km
Experience the best of San Juan's nightlife at The Cannon Club, where exquisite dining meets extraordinary live music in a vibrant setting.
Al Fresco Rooftop Wine Bar
0.5 km
Experience exquisite wines and stunning views at Al Fresco Rooftop Wine Bar in San Juan, the perfect spot for relaxation and culinary delight.
The Mezzanine
0.5 km
Discover The Mezzanine, San Juan's premier cocktail bar, where every drink tells a story and the atmosphere is electric.
LA SOMBRILLA ROSA
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Juan at La Sombrilla Rosa, a welcoming gay bar known for its fun ambiance and excellent cocktails.
El CAFETÍN
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at El CAFETÍN in San Juan, where delicious mojitos and a lively atmosphere await you.
Bar Catedral Rooftop | Old San Juan
0.6 km
Discover the perfect blend of breathtaking views, expertly crafted cocktails, and vibrant ambiance at Bar Catedral Rooftop in Old San Juan.
La Taberna Lúpulo
0.6 km
Discover La Taberna Lúpulo: the ultimate beer hall in San Juan, offering craft brews and delicious cuisine in a lively atmosphere.
La Cubanita
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Juan at La Cubanita, where delicious cocktails and lively music create unforgettable moments.
La Factoría
0.6 km
Discover La Factoría, a vibrant cocktail bar in San Juan's historic district, where innovative drinks and a lively atmosphere come together.
