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13 Best Hotels in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico 2024
Are you traveling to Puerto Rico and need a place to stay in Old San Juan?
I’ve got you covered!
Viejo San Juan (Old San Juan) is the most popular area for travelers to visit in San Juan and a great place to stay. It includes well-preserved colonial architecture and the famous El Morro fort.
I’ve traveled to dozens of countries, and I know how important it is to find the perfect hotel in a central location.
There are definitely advantages to staying right in Old San Juan, including being able to walk to lots of attractions and great restaurants. It is also home to San Juan’s cruise port, so many travelers taking a cruise will want to stay here.
This list will introduce you to 13 of the best hotels in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, to make it easier for you to decide where to stay.
My Top 3 Picks: Best Hotels in Old San Juan
#1 TOP PICK
#2 PICK
#3 PICK
13 Best Hotels in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
1. Casa Sol Bed and Breakfast
⭐️ RATING: /10 Stars |📍 LOCATION: Calle Sol | ✅ Book it!
If you are looking for a bed and breakfast that takes sustainability seriously, this is it. Casa Sol has the highest possible sustainability ranking on Booking.com (level 3), so you won’t find any little plastic shampoo bottles here.
This bed and breakfast serves organic food and can easily accommodate dietary restrictions. They even have a garden and solar panels on the roof!
“This B & B is in the perfect spot, as it is close enough to the tourist spots (such as El Morro and San Cristobal forts) in the Old Town, but is far enough from most of the noisier party spots so that you can get a good night’s sleep. Also, the owners were kind and helpful” – Jennifer (Read more reviews)
Guests love eating breakfast in the open-air courtyard, and with only five rooms, you’ll have it almost all to yourself.
Rooms do not have TVs, but with so much to do in walking distance, you won’t have time to miss your shows. You can even grab a book from the charming bookshelf to read and relax.
2. 352 Guest House
⭐️ RATING: 9.7/10 Stars |📍 LOCATION: Calle San Francisco | ✅ Book it!
352 Guest House is one of the top-rated boutique hotels in Old San Juan.
A booking here will get you personalized service in one of the 12 rooms, and you’ll be close to many attractions in the old town.
The decor of white stucco and exposed wooden beams brings the charm of Old San Juan right into the rooms. The building’s colonial architecture dates to the 1700s.
“This hotel was fantastic. The whole place was comfortable and beautiful and the bed was very comfy. The hotel’s aesthetic (with wood beams and art) was so charming.” -Jessica from the U.S. (Read more reviews)
Enjoy the night lights of El Morro and Old San Juan from the cozy sitting area or the jacuzzi on the rooftop.
You can also book a room with a balcony for city views.
Guests rave about the complimentary full breakfast and the central location. Wi-Fi is also complementary and available at high speeds. There is a desk in each room for guests who need to get work done.
3. EL Colonial
⭐️ RATING: 9.3/10 Stars |📍 LOCATION: Calle de San Francisco | ✅ Book it!
El Colonial is one of the highest-rated San Juan Old Town hotels. This 33-room old San Juan boutique hotel is known for its outstanding service and friendly staff.
The building is newly refurbished and has clean, modern decor. Note that there is no elevator available, so pack light!
“I loved EVERYTHING about my stay here! Probably the best hotel stay I’ve ever had. The grounds are stunning! Service is FIVE star and the location is perfect.” -Scott (Read more reviews)
Registered guests get free drinks at the bar 24/7 during their stay, so you can enjoy that Puerto Rican rum! Wifi is also free.
The hotel is adults-only, making El Colonial perfect for a romantic couples’ getaway. Book a room with a terrace and an outdoor tub and shower.
The only downside is El Colonial doesn’t have a pool, but there are plenty of beaches in San Juan for guests who want to swim.
4. Palacio Provincial
⭐️ RATING: 8.8/10 Stars |📍 LOCATION: San Francisco Street | ✅ Book it!
Palacio Provincial mixes modern decor with the history of Old San Juan.
The rooms are modern and spacious, with high ceilings and walk-in rain showers. A microwave and fridge are hidden in the custom closets, and free wifi and large desks provide plenty of space to work in the rooms.
“The building was lovely. The courtyards were beautiful. The roof-top area was really enjoyable. Staff were helpful and friendly. The room was comfortable and spacious, especially for in old San Juan.” -Mary from the U.S. (Read more reviews)
The outdoor courtyard lounge has a modern fountain and plenty of space to chat with fellow travelers while enjoying a drink at the Consular bar and restaurant. If you prefer the air conditioning, there is a large, comfortable lounge in the lobby.
Palacio Provincial is for adults only.
The rooftop area has lounge chairs, a large plunge pool, and a whirlpool. You’ll want to come up at sunset to see the views over the harbor. Palacio Provincial even hosts rooftop yoga on occasion!
5. Villa Herencia Hotel
⭐️ RATING: 8.6/10 Stars |📍 LOCATION: Caleta Las Monjas | ✅ Book it!
Villa Herencia blends its old colonial building with tile floors and dark wood with modern pops of color, adding that Puerto Rican flare.
Avoid the afternoon heat by chilling in your room with free Wi-Fi and a flat-panel satellite TV.
“Perfect for our one day trip. Hotel is located on a beautiful quiet street off one of the main streets. It really gave you a feel of embracing the city’s history as it’s very quaint with a lot of charm.” -Brenda from the U.S. (Read more reviews)
All the rooms open up to the colorful indoor courtyard with multiple options for lounging. There are even bathtubs for a refreshing soak and a jacuzzi on the rooftop.
The location is right in the middle of the action, but guests report that the hotel is away from the noise, so you can still get a good night’s sleep.
The front desk is only open from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. However, late check-ins can be accommodated.
6. Hotel El Convento
⭐️ RATING: 8.1/10 Stars |📍 LOCATION: Cristo Street | ✅ Book it!
This building started as a Carmelite convent over 350 years ago! It has been transformed into a comfortable hotel that still retains the old-world feel.
If you are a fitness buff, this is one of the few hotels in Old San Juan with a fitness center. After working out with the free weights and machines, you can head to the rooftop for a dip in the large plunge pool or unwind in the jacuzzi.
“The location of the hotel is prime- near the local restaurants & bars, shopping, & attractions. The hotel provides a beautiful ambiance in style & historic charm. A very picturesque hotel.” -Fatima from the U.S. (Read more reviews)
Guests also receive beach club privileges at El Convento Beach Club on Isla Verde Beach, just a short drive away.
You won’t go hungry with two on-site restaurants, tapas, wine, and room service.
The wifi is not the best here, but with so much to do, you won’t even notice.
7. Decanter Hotel
⭐️ RATING: 8.4/10 Stars |📍 LOCATION: Calle San Jose | ✅ Book it!
Decanter Hotel gets excellent ratings for its location close to all the sites in Old San Juan.
There is no restaurant, but as you might expect from the name, the hotel serves top-notch wine and champagne.
“This hotel was fantastic…Great people, great room, great roof bar with view and a great location in old San Juan. Would stay there again.” -Cindy from Canada (Read more reviews)
There is a range of rooms available, from two twin beds to queen beds to the French balcony suite. Some of the 20 rooms are large enough to include a sitting area or kitchenette, and some have a balcony or terrace.
If your room doesn’t have a balcony, head up to the roof, where there are comfy sofas and chairs on the sundeck.
8. Fortaleza Suites Old San Juan
⭐️ RATING: 8.5/10 Stars |📍 LOCATION: Fortaleza Street | ✅ Book it!
Fortaleza Suites stands out for its colorful Spanish tiles decorating the rooms and the old colonial architecture. It’s also family-friendly and has 24-hour front desk service.
Each room or suite can be viewed and booked directly, so guests know exactly what room they are booking. Some suites have full kitchens and living rooms, and others are small but full of character.
“The location was excellent, and the colonial interior was wonderful.” -Andrew from Colombia (Read more reviews)
Guests give Fortaleza Suites high ratings for its great location and staff.
Be sure to order a creative cocktail at the on-site Marmalade Restaurant and Wine Bar after a long day of sightseeing.
9. CasaBlanca Hotel
⭐️ RATING: 8.4/10 Stars |📍 LOCATION: Fortaleza Street | ✅ Book it!
The CasaBlanca Hotel is for art lovers! Guests love to take pictures in the Instagramable lobby.
The decor is a modern twist of the Moroccan style from the film Casablanca. Each room is individually decorated and has premium bedding for maximum comfort.
This is one of the larger hotels in Old San Juan, with 57 rooms.
“Nice size room with a comfortable bed. Amazingly clean. The hotel lobby is inviting and just as pictured. The staff was friendly and accommodating.” -Andres from the U.K. (Read more reviews)
The hotel’s trendy café offers food and colorful cocktails. If you need cash, there is an ATM on site as well.
CasaBlanca was actually the first hotel in Puerto Rico to get the EPA certification for energy efficiency.
The rooftop sun deck has views of the cruise ships in the harbor and plenty of space to lounge around. There are even individual stone tubs to relax in.
10. Sheraton Old San Juan Hotel
⭐️ RATING: 7.9/10 Stars |📍 LOCATION: Brumbaugh Street | ✅ Book it!
This is the largest of the Old San Juan hotels in Puerto Rico. It sits right at the port where the cruise ships come in, making the Sheraton Old San Juan Hotel a great choice for passengers who are embarking on a cruise.
You can watch all the ships from the terrace at Palio Restaurant on the second floor. The Aroma Wine and Coffee Lounge serves fancy Nespresso coffee to get you going in the morning and tapas for afternoon and evening bites.
Rooms at the Sheraton are comfy and have bright blue accents that give them a refreshing beachy vibe.
“Very attentive personnel. very well located, close to everything. The rooftop pool was very nice. The breakfast was also great. I’d definitely come back.” – Leandro from the U.S. (Read more reviews)
You can feel good about staying at the property with a Level 2 sustainability rating.
Amenities include a business center and a well-equipped fitness center. There’s also a rooftop pool and whirlpool for guests to enjoy.
This is also one of the more accessible hotels in Old San Juan for disabled guests. It also allows animals if you are traveling with your pet. See this dog travel checklist to make sure you don’t forget anything if you are traveling with your dog.
11. La Terraza de San Juan
⭐️ RATING: 7.5/10 Stars |📍 LOCATION: Calle Sol | ✅ Book it!
This upscale boutique hotel is a great place to enjoy the warm Puerto Rican weather. The large rooftop terrace is open 24/7 and has a plunge pool that is great for a cool dip on a hot day. You can even see the El Yunque rainforest from here!
“Absolutely can’t beat the location in Old San Juan! Also loved the decor and vibes of the hotel. Bed was super comfy and shower was great (plenty of shower pressure and hot water). -Melissa from the U.S. (Read more reviews)
Breakfast is available for a small fee on certain days only. The front desk is open continuously, so you won’t have to worry about checking in or out at odd times.
If you’re feeling social, chat with other guests at the cocktail and espresso bar.
12. SJ Suites Hotel
⭐️ RATING: 7/10 Stars |📍 LOCATION: Fortaleza Street | ✅ Book it!
SJ Suites is a lovely budget-friendly option in Old San Juan. It is no-frills but at a great price!
All rooms have double beds and ensuite bathrooms. The rooms don’t have windows, but they include air conditioning and WiFi.
“We were worried when we saw how much less expensive the property was from others in the area. We were happily surprised. Helpful staff….room was clean and large. -Suzann from Puerto Rico (Read more reviews)
There is a communal sitting area with tables and sofas if you want to stretch out and relax.
The staff are friendly and helpful and can provide helpful recommendations on what to do around Old San Juan.
SJ Suites has a Level 1 sustainability rating and are taking steps to be more eco-friendly.
13. Navona Studios
⭐️ RATING: 8/10 Stars |📍 LOCATION: Calle San Francisco | ✅ Book it!
Navona Studios provides basic but modern accommodation and is one of the better deals in the historic center.
The rooms here are smaller and windowless but cheerfully decorated for an enjoyable stay. There are flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, and coffee machines in the rooms, plus air conditioning and a fan.
“Very nice rooms, good air conditioning, very comfy beds, located in the perfect position for exploring old San Juan.” -Kelly from New Zealand (Read more reviews)
If you are trying to save money by not eating out, there is a microwave and a refrigerator in the common area on the second floor.
You’ll want to spend your time up on the 5th-floor sundeck that has faux grass and tables and lounge chairs for a little relaxation. There is also an interior patio to hang out at if it rains.
FAQs About Hotels in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico:
Is there a difference between San Juan and Old San Juan?
Yes, there is a difference. Old San Juan is the name of the historic colonial district in the northwest part of the city of San Juan.
What is the nicest area of San Juan Puerto Rico?
Old San Juan and Condado are the nicest and most popular tourist areas. Miramar is also very nice and popular for people traveling for business.
How long do you need in Old San Juan?
You should be able to see the sights of Old San Juan in just one day. The forts of El Morro and San Cristóbal are the main attractions that would take the longest to see. The area is full of colorful streets that are super walkable.
Does Old San Juan have a beach?
While Old San Juan is surrounded by water, it does not have a swimming beach. The harbor is full of boats and ships, and it is not safe to swim right in Old San Juan, nor is it clean. Balneario del Escambrón is a public beach less than two miles from the old city where you can swim and enjoy lying in the sand.
Verdict: The best hotel in Old San Juan
San Juan has plenty of great accommodation options. You can’t beat the historic charm and prime location.
Be sure to check for deals during hurricane season and the summer off-season for better prices on accommodation. If you want more luxurious San Juan hotels, extend your search to the Condado area.
If you are looking for more of a guest house, Casa Sol’s organic breakfasts are to die for!
If you need all of the amenities of a large hotel chain, consider staying at the Sheraton Old San Juan Hotel.
If you like trendy, boutique hotels, 352 Guest House is a tourist delight.
No matter which of these best places to stay in San Juan you choose, you’re sure to have a great time in the city!
If you are planning on staying in Puerto Rico for a while, check out this post about the Pros and Cons of Living in Puerto Rico.
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