7 Day Puerto Rico Itinerary: Must-sees on the island! [2024]

Planning a trip to Puerto Rico? No need to get stressed or overwhelmed. I've got you covered! I have a one-week Puerto Rico itinerary. The itinerary is split into daily stops and things to do, so if you stay for less than seven days, you can choose which days in the itinerary you want to follow.

Dubbed as the "Heart and Soul of the Caribbean," Puerto Rico is situated in the northeastern Caribbean Sea, making it an ideal tropical getaway. Even better, if you are a US citizen, you can travel here without a passport! If you can't wait to explore this exquisite paradise, let's dive right in.

7-Day Puerto Rico Itinerary

Here is the best seven-day Puerto Rico itinerary. You can mix and match days or choose a couple of days to make a 3, 4, 5, or 6-day Puerto Rico itinerary. 

Day 1 - Explore Old San Juan

Welcome to Puerto Rico! Today, you are staying in San Juan where you likely flew into. Spend today exploring Old San Juan, the historic neighborhood.

You can explore on your own or find a guided tour to join. Be sure to see its two Castillos, San Felipe del Morro and San Cristobal. 

Then, stay in the neighborhood and enjoy some of the delicious food and restaurants. 

Day 2 - Food Tour & See the Rest of San Juan

Day 2! Are you ready? San Juan has a lot more to offer than just Old San Juan.

If you loved the food on day 1, today is a great day to take a food tour! Many companies offer them, or you can go around to some of the country's best restaurants and make your own tour.

Or, if you want to see more of the city, check out the oceanfront neighborhood of Condado, Calle Loiza for shopping and nightlife, or Miramar for more food.

Day 3 - Time to Relax on the Beach 

Today, take some time to enjoy the beaches, one of PR's highlights. You don't have to go far to find good beaches.

Some of the best beaches in San Juan include Atlantic Beach, Isla Verde Beach, Hobie Beach, and Condado Beach.

Don't forget your sunscreen!

Day 4 - Experience the magical bioluminescent bay in Vieques

Halfway through your week already?! Don't fret. There are still a lot of fun places to explore in Puerto Rico.

Today, you're going to the island of Vieques, or Isla de Vieques, off the east coast of Puerto Rico. Vieques is famous for Mosquito Bay which is the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world. You can't miss its bio-bay night tours, where you paddle through the glowing waters on a transparent kayak.

The island is a literal paradise, with many beaches, beach coves, and lush, undeveloped land. Vieques is also home to Vieques National Wildlife Refuge, the largest natural wildlife refuge in the Caribbean.

To get to Vieques, you can take a ferry from the mainland. But, if you want to have a full day to spend on the island and not wait in line for a ferry, get to the dock early!

Day 5 - Go on an adventure in El Yunque National Forest

Today, visit the El Yunque National Forest, one of the most biologically diverse national forests in the US system. 

If you want to go on an adventure, this tropical rainforest has several hiking trails where you can enjoy the lush foliage and encounter rivers, streams, and waterfalls. Some animals you can spot include parrots, frogs, hawks, bats, snakes, geckos, and lizards.

You can visit the national forest with a tour or guided group or explore on your own. Just be prepared in case of an emergency, and try not to go alone if you don't feel ready to trek the forest on your own.

Day 6 - Day Trip to Gilligan's Island

Today, head out to Gilligan's Island off the southwest coast of Puerto Rico. The best way to get to the island is on a boat, like a kayak.

Once you reach the small mangrove island, you have a couple of activities to choose from. You can go enjoy its sandy beaches and swim, or have a picnic with family or friends. The gentle and crystal clear waters of the island make it ideal for snorkeling. Gilligan's Island is also a great spot for bird-watching.

Day 7 - Discover the charming city of Ponce

Your final day in Puerto Rico is gonna be fun!

Ponce has some great beaches, and no matter which one you choose, you will have a relaxing day.

Or, you can visit the Old Town where you can see and learn about a lot of the town's history. Here you will find the cathedral, the Plaza de las Delicias, and the Parque de Bombas.

Ponce is also home to the Serralles Castle, a home built in 1930 overlooking downtown Ponce. You can tour the home and the land to learn about its history.

And, of course, Ponce has great food. If you are a huge foodie, you should spend some time indulging as there are different options here than in San Juan.

More Time in Puerto Rico

One week in Puerto Rico is a great amount of time to get a good feel for the country. But, if you have more time, never fear, as there is plenty to do in Puerto Rico!

If you are looking for a ten-day itinerary, you can add an extra day to San Juan and Ponce. Then, add another beach day or a day trip if you want to stay moving.

For even more time, like two weeks in Puerto Rico, slow down your travel. I recommend leaving some days free for spontaneous activities or tours.

If you are staying in a Puerto Rico hostel, they might have activities you want to participate in. You might make some friends at your hostel or on a tour and want to hang out and explore the island with them.

Top Things to do in Puerto Rico

Other than all the fun activities listed in the itinerary above, there are many top things to do in Puerto Rico.

Puerto Rico has some amazing nightlife, too. Check out Puerto Rico's must-visit nightlife spots, from beach bars to small local spots to the hottest clubs.

For even more things to do in Puerto Rico, check out our article on the activities you can't miss!

Have Fun in Puerto Rico!

No matter how long you decide to spend in Puerto Rico, you will have an amazing time! You just have to plan the trip, which is easy with Pilot.