San Juan , Puerto Rico

Make Authentic Espadrilles in San Juan

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(15 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

San Juan's #1 Espadrilles Experience!

Explore the history of the traditional Espadrilles, stitch your own pair and take it home as the most amazing souvenir.

Reviewed as a once-in-a-lifetime experience by more than 10,000 guests. Awarded Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice in 2021 & 2023. A must-do in Barcelona according to BuzzFeed, The New York Times & many more.

We will meet at our workshop filled with materials, tools and products. This is where you become an insider on the history of this humble people's shoe that evolved into a major fashion trend.

Together with master artisans you will craft your own pair of Espadrilles. Handpicking out of 100k+ different combinations, you will chose the size of the base, the stitching style and the color and type of the laces, you will learn the different ways to lace them up!

At the end, you will feel like a true artisan. You'll get a wearable memory of San Juan (hardly available to visitors) and a really cool story to tell. Are you ready?

Available options

CLASSIC EDITION

Duration: 2 hours

PREMIUM EDITION

Workshop Masterclass<br/>Duration: 2 hours<br/>High heel, wedge or platform

What's included

Champagne, juice and water

Shoemaking tools

snacks and nuts

Detailed itinerary

We will first meet at the Entrance Hall of the Handmade Shop where we will learn about the humble origins of this shoe that today is considered a luxury item in the fashion world.

Then we will learn about the different traditional materials and we will choose the different colors, sizes and styles.

Once ready, we are going to sit down on the Workshop tables and we will stitch our own traditional espadrilles, and then learn the different ways to lace them up.

To finish our lovely experience we will open a bottle of champagne, dance, take pictures with our new shoes and have fun!

Each guest will leave with its own creation and with a really cool story to tell to friends, something that it is hardly available to the visitors, not even locals. A wearable memory of your visit to San Juan.

What's not included

30 USD/pax for free flow of cava and extra food

Upgrade your experience for a premium base (wedge, heel or platform)

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

9 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We will have the experience in our workshop in Viejo San Juan, at the HANDMADE THE BRAND® shop, known for artisanal and traditional products.

PARTICIPANTS WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO ENTER THE WORKSHOP MORE THAN 15 MINUTES AFTER THE START TIME

Important notes

Show your booking to the artisan at the start

About San Juan

San Juan, the capital and most populous city of Puerto Rico, is a vibrant blend of Spanish colonial history, Caribbean culture, and modern amenities. Known for its well-preserved historic sites, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife, San Juan offers a unique tropical experience with a rich cultural heritage.

Top Attractions

Old San Juan

The historic heart of San Juan, known for its colorful colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and historic sites.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, attractions have varying entry fees

El Yunque National Forest

The only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, offering lush landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Nature Full day Free entry

Condado Beach

A popular beach in the Condado neighborhood, known for its white sand, clear waters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Beach Half day Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Mofongo

A traditional Puerto Rican dish made from mashed fried plantains mixed with garlic, pork cracklings, and other ingredients.

Main Dish Can be made vegetarian

Lechón Asado

Roasted pork, a staple in Puerto Rican cuisine, often served with rice and beans.

Main Dish Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Alcapurrias

Fritters made from a mixture of green bananas, yautía (taro), and pork or crabmeat.

Snack Can be made vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in El Yunque Kayaking in Fajardo Snorkeling in Condado Beach lounging Spa treatments Scenic walks in Old San Juan Visiting museums Exploring historic sites

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season with warm, sunny weather and lower humidity. It's the best time for outdoor activities and beach visits.

24-30°C 75-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas

Currency

U.S. Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Atlantic Standard Time (AST), UTC-4

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas

San Juan is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in less touristy areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Avoid walking alone at night in less touristy areas

Getting there

By air

Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center

By bus

Terminal de Carros Públicos de San Juan

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and convenient, but schedules can be irregular. Trolleys are also available in Old San Juan.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old San Juan Condado Santurce

Day trips

El Yunque National Forest

25 km (15 miles) • Full day

A tropical rainforest offering lush landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Fajardo

65 km (40 miles) • Full day

A coastal town known for its bioluminescent bay and water sports.

Culebra

50 km (31 miles) by ferry • Overnight

A small island known for its pristine beaches and relaxed atmosphere.

Festivals

San Sebastián Street Festival • Late January Casals Festival • February Puerto Rico Heineken JazzFest • Early March

Pro tips

Visit Old San Juan early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the historic sites in peace.
Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience.
Use public transportation or walk in the city center to save on taxi fares and enjoy the local atmosphere.
Book accommodations and popular attractions in advance, especially during peak season.
Respect local customs and traditions, and be mindful of cultural differences.