Old San Juan Starter Pack: What TikTok Didn’t Tell You

TikTok had me thinking Old San Juan was all pastel houses, fit checks, and maybe a spontaneous reggaetón flash mob. Reality? It's better. Also: hotter, sweatier, and a little more uphill cardio than expected.

If you’re planning to hit Old San Juan (and you should), here’s the starter pack nobody warned me about:

1. Wear Real Shoes.

Yes, those strappy sandals are cute for your photo dump, but trust me — the cobblestones will body you.I saw at least three girlies limping down Calle Fortaleza like wounded soldiers. Go for sneakers or regret it 20 minutes in.

Best streets to wander:

• Calle San Sebastián (historic + colorful)

• Calle del Cristo (for cute lil' artisan shops)

• Paseo de la Princesa (for sunset walks)

2. Bring a Reusable Water Bottle.

It’s giving “sweat lodge" by noon. And while there are cute little kiosks selling bottled water for $5, your broke student self can avoid it with just one Hydro Flask.

Pro Tip:There’s a Walgreens right at the entrance of Old San Juan (literally steps from the San Cristóbal fort) if you forget.

3. Plan Your Fort Game.

The two big forts — Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal — are genuinely awesome and only $10 for a ticket that covers both.BUT: there’s not a lot of shade and no snack stands inside. Pack light and snack up before entering or risk becoming historical-site roadkill.

Best time to go: Morning (before you melt).Vibe:El Morro = grassy fields + kite-flying energy.San Cristóbal = badass tunnels and old cannons = elite IG photo ops.

4. Skip the Tourist Traps.

You’ll see a LOT of places selling frozen piña coladas in neon souvenir cups the size of your head. Resist the temptation. They taste like sadness and corn syrup.

Better moves:

• Get a real cocktail at La Factoria — ranked one of the world’s best bars (the speakeasy entrance is a flex)

• Or grab a Medalla Light (local beer) from a corner store and post up in the plaza like a true pro.

5. Don’t Rush It.

Old San Juan isn’t just a checklist. It’s a vibe.

• Sit on a random bench.

• Pet a stray cat.

• Watch an old man paint watercolor postcards.

• Let your phone die.

It’s giving main character energy — but only if you slow down enough to actually live it.

Final Takeaway:Old San Juan is prettier than Pinterest but also messier, hotter, and more chaotic (in the best way). Dress comfy, hydrate like it’s a sport, and get ready to fall in love.

See you in the streets,

Jainika Bardia, NYU SPS Class of 2024 Fall

La Factoria