• Explore the center of Puerto Rico's most visited attraction, Old San Juan, the most historic colonial city (established in 1521) under the jurisdiction of the United States. It's still partially encircled by old fortifications built by the Spanish government. Wander cobblestone streets and view Spanish architecture and colonial structures that are now museums and government buildings, such as La Fortaleza, the Governor of Puerto Rico's residence since the 16th century.

• Stroll to the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, built in 1521, the second-most historic Roman Catholic cathedral in the Americas, right down the street from Hotel El Convento on Calle del Cristo. View the statues, stained glass windows, and relics. This is the final resting place of Juan Ponce de León, Spanish explorer and founder of the first European settlement here.

• Walk to 16th-century Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a World Heritage Site, and 17th-century Castillo San Cristóbal. These forts were necessary to protect San Juan, a rich target of pirates and foreign powers thanks to shiploads of gold and silver on their way from the New World to Europe.