San Juan Driving Food & Culture Tour; Best Local Cuisine & Sights

Puerto Rico , United States

San Juan Driving Food & Culture Tour; Best Local Cuisine & Sights

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About this experience

Start your 4-hour adventure at Distrito T-Mobile and experience the best of San Juan’s food and culture. This tour is accessible to all, including those with mobility restrictions.

Highlights:

-Calle Cerra: Explore vibrant street art and murals.

- La Placita de Santurce: Dive into authentic street food and local culture.

-Piñones: Taste Afro-Puerto Rican dishes in a coastal community.

What to Expect:

- Traditional Dishes: Enjoy mallorcas, mofongo, alcapurrias, and more, made with fresh local ingredients.

- Local Beverages: Sip mojitos and a fresh coconut with rum.

- Cultural Insights: Learn about Puerto Rican history and traditions from expert guides.

Details:

Duration: 4 hours

Departure: Monday, Friday & Saturday at 10 AM

Meeting Point: Distrito T-Mobile

Group Size: Min 10 / Max 24

Transportation: Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle

Accessibility: Designed for all, including those with mobility restrictions.

Available options

San Juan Driving Food Tour

Multi-Stop Food Tour<br/>Van

What's included

Professional guide

Drinks including 3 alcoholic beverage

Transport by air-conditioned bus

Food tastings

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Discover Puerto Rico's Fritter Capital and taste iconic dishes!

Making our way back to the Metro area, you will be picked up and taken for a drive around through the legendary street of Calle Cerra, known for once housing some of salsa's most important record labels. Today, Calle Cerra is known for its beautiful street art and is the perfect spot for a photo op in front of the famous and colorful murals and a refreshing cocktail in one of its trendy spots.

This area is a vibrant hub for food and culture known for its lively atmosphere. It offers a diverse food scene that reflects the rich culinary traditions of Puerto Rico along with contemporary twists. You will get to sample some delicious local food and wrap up this experience by visiting the famous Farmers Market (La Placita de Santurce) for a first-hand glimpse of the local produce our beautiful Island has to offer.

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Gratuities

Parking Fees

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Food Allergies, Dietary Restrictions, and/or, Dietary Preferences: Please understand that the tasting menus developed with our partners are pre-fixed and thus, all changes must be provided well in advance. Please ensure to advise of any allergies, dietary restrictions, and, or, dietary preferences at least 48hours in advance of your experience. We are only able to make substitutions with prior notice. Some examples include: dairy free, gluten free, vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, no alcohol, no pork, no beef, shellfish allergy, nut allergy etc.)

It is recommended that you wear comfortable clothing and shoes.

Our tours run rain or shine!

Meeting point

Important notes

- Please confirm any food allergies with the supplier at least 48 hours prior to the day of travel.
- Can accommodate most food allergies. Please notify Spoon PRIOR to your travel date so they can arrange this.
- Tour runs rain or shine!
- Puerto Rico can be quite hot, so please dress accordingly and wear comfortable shoes.
- Tour begins promptly. Please be ready at departure location at least 10 minutes prior to departure.

About Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a vibrant Caribbean island offering a unique blend of Spanish, African, and American cultures. Known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and rich history, it's a destination that caters to both adventure seekers and those looking to relax.

Top Attractions

Old San Juan

A vibrant historic district with colorful Spanish colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and historic forts. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for history and culture lovers.

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

El Yunque National Forest

The only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, offering lush greenery, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It's a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Nature Full day Free entry

Bioluminescent Bays

Puerto Rico is home to three bioluminescent bays, where the water glows with millions of tiny plankton. It's a magical experience that should not be missed.

Nature Evening tour Moderate to Expensive (tour prices vary)

Culebra and Flamenco Beach

Flamenco Beach on Culebra Island is consistently ranked among the world's best beaches, with its crystal-clear waters, white sand, and stunning views.

Beach Full day Free entry, ferry and flights have fees

Ponce Historic District

Ponce is known as the 'Pearl of the South' and offers a rich history, beautiful architecture, and cultural attractions. The historic district is a great place to explore.

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

Must-Try Local Dishes

Mofongo

A traditional dish made from mashed plantains mixed with garlic, olive oil, and pork cracklings, often served with meat or seafood.

Main Dish Contains pork, can be made vegetarian

Lechón

Slow-roasted pork, often cooked over an open fire and seasoned with a variety of spices. It's a staple at celebrations and gatherings.

Main Dish Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Alcapurrias

Fried fritters made from a mixture of grated green bananas, yautía (taro root), and seasoned with garlic, onions, and chicharrón (pork cracklings).

Appetizer/Snack Contains pork, can be made vegetarian

Tostones

Twice-fried green plantains, often served as a side dish with meals. They have a crispy exterior and a soft, starchy interior.

Side Dish Vegan, gluten-free

Popular Activities

Hiking in El Yunque National Forest Snorkeling and diving in Culebra and Vieques Kayaking in bioluminescent bays Zip-lining and canopy tours Beachcombing on Flamenco Beach Sunbathing and swimming in Isla Verde Spa and wellness treatments Yoga and meditation retreats

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season with pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach trips. The island is bustling with tourists during this period.

24-29°C 75-84°F

Practical Information

Language

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

Currency

US 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 and situations

Puerto Rico is generally safe for travelers, with a low crime rate in tourist areas and a welcoming and friendly local population. However, it's important to exercise caution in certain areas and situations, especially at night and in isolated locations.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
• Be cautious when using ATMs and credit cards

Getting there

By air

Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport • 3 km from San Juan
Rafael Hernández Airport • 7 km from Aguadilla

By bus

San Juan, Ponce, Mayagüez

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and convenient for traveling between cities, but schedules can be infrequent and routes may not cover all areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old San Juan Condado Santurce Isla Verde La Placita de Santurce

Day trips

Vieques Island

1.5-hour ferry from Ceiba or 25-minute flight from San Juan • Full day to overnight

Vieques is a beautiful island known for its bioluminescent bay, pristine beaches, and wild horses. It's a great place to relax, explore, and enjoy nature.

Culebra Island

1.5-hour ferry from Ceiba or 30-minute flight from San Juan • Full day to overnight

Culebra is a small, laid-back island known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and laid-back vibe. It's a great place to relax, snorkel, and enjoy the natural beauty.

El Yunque National Forest

45 minutes from San Juan • Full day

The only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, offering lush greenery, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It's a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Festivals

Festival de las Mascaras • February Ponce Carnival • February Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián • January

Pro tips

Visit during the shoulder season (May-November) for fewer crowds and lower prices, but be prepared for higher temperatures and humidity
Rent a car to explore the island's diverse attractions and regions at your own pace
Try local dishes and ask for recommendations from locals and restaurant staff
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to show respect for the local culture and language
Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season and holidays