Overview
The San Juan Cathedral, also known as Catedral de San Juan Bautista, is a historic Roman Catholic cathedral located in the heart of Old San Juan. It is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of San Juan de Puerto Rico and a significant cultural and historical landmark.
The cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in San Juan and holds significant historical and cultural importance. It houses the tomb of the Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León.
Location
Address
151 Calle Del Cristo, Old San Juan, San Juan, Puerto Rico
Neighborhood: Old San Juan
Coordinates
18.465500, -66.106100
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, cooler weather
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
warm and pleasant
- • beautiful flowers
- • pleasant weather
summer
hot and humid
- • longer daylight hours
autumn
warm to cool
- • cooler weather
- • fall colors
winter
cool and occasionally rainy
- • holiday decorations
- • cooler weather
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Respect the religious significance of the site
- Dress modestly
- Check for any special events or closures
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: low
- • uneven surfaces inside the cathedral
Medical facilities: first aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit cards
Currency
US Dollar
Typical Costs
Dress Code
modest clothing (no shorts, tank tops, or revealing clothing), comfortable shoes for walking, comfortable walking shoes, shorts, tank tops, revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • not typically required
- • official website or local tour operators
- • varies by tour operator
- • available for guided tours
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Old San Juan Guide
Size: 50 MB
Features: map of the area, information about local attractions, event calendar
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: near the entrance
Charging Stations: limited availability
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU)
Distance: 10 km
Travel Time: 20-30 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 2 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: A historic and spiritual landmark that is central to the cultural identity of San Juan
Historical Significance: One of the oldest cathedrals in the Americas, with a rich history dating back to the 16th century
Insider Tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience
- Check the schedule for special events and masses
Local Recommendations
- • Try local café 'Café Colón' for a traditional Puerto Rican coffee
- • Ask for a guide who speaks both Spanish and English for a richer experience
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Spanish, English, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance
Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon
Tips: Capture the intricate details of the facade
Result: Stunning shots of the cathedral's exterior
Interior
Best Time: During the day with natural light
Tips: Focus on the altars and stained glass windows
Result: Beautiful images of the cathedral's interior
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Castillo San Felipe del Morro
Distance: 500m
Walking: 10 min
Type: Historic Site
Castillo San Cristóbal
Distance: 800m
Walking: 15 min
Type: Historic Site
Paseo de la Princesa
Distance: 300m
Walking: 5 min
Type: Scenic Walkway
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience"
- "Don't miss the tomb of Juan Ponce de León"
- "Respect the religious significance of the site"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
42
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
free (donations welcome)