It looks like getting around San Juan is easy.

Old San Juan is a historic hub that can be reached on foot. Puerto Rico's capital is a large metropolitan area that can be difficult to navigate for first-time visitors.

There are a lot of things to know about getting around in San Juan.

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Hail a taxi in the tourist zones 

The tourist areas of San Juan have taxis available. The baggage claim area at the Luis Muoz Marn International Airport has an attendant that offers rides to guests. First come, first served, there is a kiosk and a line to board a taxi.

You will be quoted an exact rate based on your location. Taxis are available at the cruise port and major hotels. If you need it, you can ask a concierge to call you.

There are several private taxi companies in Puerto Rico. It's a good idea to confirm the fee with your driver before you go. Taxis are not allowed to enter the El Yunque National Forest for pickup or drop-off, so you would need to find alternative transportation.

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Trolley transporting tourists from Castillo San Felipe del Morro in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
Old San Juan's trolley is free and doesn't require any advanced planning © Getty Images

Hop aboard the free trolley in Old San Juan 

The trolley in Old San Juan is free of charge and can be used by the general public.

You can start at Terminal Covadonga and end at Teatro Tapia. Every hour on the hour, the trolley runs from 7 am to 5 pm on weekdays and from 9 am to 1 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. There are two versions of the trolley: an open-air one and an air-conditioned one.

It's free and doesn't require advanced planning, so it's a good service. You can walk to the next stop in less time than it would take to wait for another trolley.

There are a lot of free things to do in San Juan.

Save money with public transportation 

Puerto Rico has a long way to go when it comes to public transportation, but it is an inexpensive way to get around.

The airport and Plaza Las Americas are both accessible by buses. The MetroBus is run by the Autoridad Metropolitana de Autobuses, also known as theAMA. You pay when you board. Rates start at 75 cents per ride, $5 for a day pass and$15 for a week-long pass.

The train from Bayamn to Sagrado Corazn has 16 stations, but it doesn't go through tourist areas. There are transit passes available at the stations.

Take a scenic break on the Cataño ferry 

The ferry crosses the bay from Old San Juan to Catao. You can board at Pier 2 in Old San Juan for 50 cents.

You can purchase your tickets online. You can see Old San Juan from the water on a budget. It is open from 6am to 7pm on weekdays and from 8am to 7pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

The perfect weekend is in San Juan.

Call a rideshare service 

If you aren't renting a car, ride shares are the cheapest and most convenient option. In San Juan, there is an option to use the ride-sharing service. There is a designated area at the airport where you can pick up your rideshare. There are signs to look for. Around the San Juan metro area, this is an option.

If you're traveling beyond the city limits, you may be able to get a ride there, but you may not be able to find a ride back. If you can't find a ride in other parts of the island, you can call for one with plenty of time to get there.

In El Yunque, ride shares are not permitted. If you want to get to the rain forest, you should go with a guide or rent a car.

You can explore more of Puerto Rico on one of the best day trips from San Juan.

Take a bike ride along the water 

The weather in Old San Juan is usually nice. There is a car-free greenway that spans from the Condado Lagoon to Old San Juan. You can either rent a bike or sign up for a tour with Bike Rent Puerto Rico.

Cars travel past the Capitol Building (El Capitolio) in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
To to have freedom of movement and the ability to travel on your own schedule, rent a car © Getty Images

Rent a car for a pre-planned itinerary 

Renting a car will give you freedom of movement and allow you to travel on your own schedule, so it is a good idea.

There is a transport shuttle and a car rental company that is five minutes from the airport. The airport has a car-rental center with brands like Avis and Budget.

During the high season, prices go up. If you know you're going to Puerto Rico, you should make your car rental reservation right away.

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Accessible travel in San Juan 

The majority of hotels in San Juan are wheelchair accessible. A beach wheelchair that can be used on the sand can be found at some places.

There is a boarding ramp for powered mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs that can accommodate up to 600 lbs. To confirm availability, email it.

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San Juan transportation FAQs and things to consider 

Is San Juan pedestrian-friendly? 

Old San Juan is a great place to walk. The historic district is made up of 7- square-blocks and features cobblestone streets and Spanish architecture. The oldest city in the US is more than 500 years old.

Is there parking in San Juan? 

There are a number of parking garage in Old San Juan. Multipiso Doa Fela is one of the most popular ones. The parking garage is close to El Morro. Cash or credit cards can be used to pay for these. On-site parking lots can be found in other popular areas. Finding a spot is a matter of luck and timing.