Unique Places to Stay in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Overview

A beautiful city with a lengthy history, San Juan, Puerto Rico, was founded in 1521, making it the oldest city under United States jurisdiction. Whether you're on a tight budget or want to treat yourself to more luxurious accommodations, there are plenty of hotels from which to stroll San Juan's cobblestone streets, explore its 16th and 17th century fortresses, or try a "manjito" (mango-flavored mojito) at any of its myriad restaurants and cafes.
Budget: Hotel Milano

Located in the southeast corner of Old San Juan at 307 Fortaleza Street, the Hotel Milano offers 30 rooms in a restored 19th century hotel. The rooms are basic, the staff friendly and the price is right. But what makes this hotel special is the view from the Panorama Terrace Bar and Latin Grill above the hotel, the only rooftop restaurant in Old San Juan, according to the "New York Times." You'll love the stunning view of the city over your morning cup of coffee or an evening cocktail, before or after exploring the second-oldest European-founded city in the Americas (Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic beats out San Juan by 23 years for the oldest). The Wi-Fi is excellent. Hotel Milano 307 Fortaleza St. Old San Juan, PR 00901

Mid-Range: The Gallery Inn

Admittedly at the higher end of mid-range, this eclectic, active art studio-turned-boutique inn offers 22 rooms in a 23,000 square-foot, 300-year-old building. The layout is lush with tropical vegetation and you're likely to hear owner-artist Jan D'Escopo's cockatoo, Campe, (who happens to have his own e-mail address on the hotel's Web site in case you'd like to keep in touch) on the grounds. Each room displays fine art (sculptures, silk screens, paintings) by D'Escopo and concerts are open to guests with a reservation. The Gallery Inn 204-206 Norzagaray St. Old San Juan, PR 00901
Luxury Stay: Hotel El Convento

If money isn't an issue, you'll not find a better way to immerse yourself in the culture and history of Old San Juan than by staying at Hotel El Convento. Formerly a Carmelite convent, this 350-year-old architectural gem, most recently restored in 1997, boasts a colonial charm mixed with modern amenities unmatched in Old San Juan. Bask laziliy in the fourth-floor pool, enjoying views of both the Atlantic Ocean and San Juan Bay, or sample the Sunrise Banana Nut Pancakes at Patio del Nispero, one of four different restaurants within the hotel's walls. Hotel El Convento 100 Cristo St. Old San Juan, PR 00901