What To Do in San Juan While Studying Abroad

If you’re heading to San Juan, Puerto Rico for your study abroad journey – congrats, you’re in for a great time! Envision this for a second: World-class beaches, rainbow-colored buildings, deep Caribbean history, and some of the best food you’ll ever eat. San Juan is the kind of place where you won’t run out of things to explore.

Now that we’ve set the scene for you a bit, let’s dive into some of the exciting things to do in San Juan while studying abroad!

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Top Things to Do While Studying Abroad in San Juan

Wondering what to do in San Juan as a student? From weekend beach trips to exploring buzzing neighborhoods and historic sites, the city is packed with excitement. Here are some of the best things to do in San Juan while enjoying island life and earning college credit. 

Featured Activity #1: Catch Sunset at Castillo San Felipe del Morro

This 16th-century fortress has been guarding the San Juan Bay for centuries, and now it’s your go-to for golden hour. Pack a blanket, grab snacks from a local panadería, and watch the sky do its thing over the ocean. 

Featured Activity #2: Explore Calle Loíza

Looking for the soul of the city? Calle Loíza is a colorful, mural-filled street packed with coffee shops, indie boutiques, and local eats. It’s also where you’ll find some of the best nightlife – if you're into dancing, this is your place.

Featured Activity #3: Take a Salsa Class

You will hear salsa music in San Juan, might as well learn how to move with it! Many spots offer beginner-friendly dance classes, and it’s one of the most fun ways to connect with local culture (and your new study abroad group). 

Featured Activity #4: Kayak in the Bioluminescent Bay

About an hour from San Juan is one of Puerto Rico’s most magical natural wonders: Laguna Grande, a bioluminescent bay where the water literally glows at night. It’s a surreal, bucket-list experience you’ll talk about until the end of time. 

Featured Activity #5: Try Every Flavor at Señor Paleta

San Juan gets hot. Cool off with a popsicle from Señor Paleta, a beloved local shop serving up yummy flavors like Nutella-stuffed strawberry or pineapple-mint. You’ll probably end up going more than once. (No judgment!) 

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San Juan Attractions to Visit

Whether you're exploring centuries-old forts or snapping photos in art-filled neighborhoods, you'll find no shortage of iconic attractions in San Juan.

Featured Attraction #1: Old San Juan

Cobblestone streets. Bright blue buildings. Centuries of history around every corner. Old San Juan feels like stepping into a postcard. Explore forts, museums, and cozy cafés tucked into pastel-colored alleys. 

Featured Attraction #2: La Placita de Santurce

By day, it’s a produce market. By night, it turns into one of the liveliest party spots in San Juan. La Placita is where locals and visitors come together for music, dancing, and late-night eats.

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Featured Attraction #3: Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico

Get inspired by Puerto Rican creativity at this stunning art museum. The exhibits range from traditional to contemporary, and the sculpture garden out back is a perfect quiet escape from the city buzz.

Featured Attraction #4: El Yunque National Forest

Okay, it’s not technically in San Juan – but it’s close enough for a weekend adventure. Hike through stunning rainforest trails, chase waterfalls, and breathe in some seriously fresh air. Your camera roll will thank you.

Featured Attraction #5: Piñones Boardwalk

A local favorite just outside the city, Piñones is all about beachy boardwalk vibes, ocean views, and kioskos serving up some of the best fried snacks you’ve ever had. (We’re looking at you, alcapurrias.)

See Everything San Juan Has To Offer With CIEE

From beach days to food crawls to salsa nights, San Juan’s got it all, and we’ll help you experience every bit of it. Let’s go to San Juan!

STUDY ABROAD IN SAN JUAN