"Capture the Colors of Old San Juan: Handmade Jewelry In the heart of El Viejo San Juan, the Plaza Colón (Columbus Plaza) is so much more than a place honoring an important piece of San Juan's history. Sure, snapping an Instagram photo in front of the bronze statue of Christopher Columbus, credited for the first discovery of the island, is definitely a "must-do." Find a local and in your best Spanish accent say "Perdón, podría tomar una foto por favor?" Or play it safe and ask another tourist in English (they're not hard to find!). Either way, stay and hang out. Explore the local artists' tents (like this one, with rings and bracelets made from brightly colored ceramic beads and recycled aluminum, customized to fit). Pick out unique, inexpensive gifts for loved ones and, of course, something to remember the trip! And don't ignore the ringing bell of the sorbet vendors selling "coco frio" for $1. Try a scoop of papaya y piña to help cool off in the heat of the Puerto Rican sun. By Samantha Cawthon"
It was such a beautiful spot. You can see the castle, walls and roosters just walking around not even scared of the people. It has excellent spots here for cabs, lyft and uber meets. The restaurants are all around so you won't be hungry or thirsty.
THE EXPLORER
Google
Walked around the Plaza after visiting the fort nearby. Houses are very colorful all around and the is a statue of Christopher Columbus in the middle of the Plaza. Several drinking and eating places inside and out. Easy walking distance to the cruise docks.
Allison
Google
Popular meeting spot for tours such as walking tours or a pickup spot for Ubers/van tours. It is located in front of Castillo San Cristobal. There is an "I love SJ photo" OP here! Centrally located with restaurant and bars nearby. Good for people and Pigeon watching. Beautiful architecture.
Kristopher Chandler
Google
This place was an area that I was consistently at during my visit. It’s like a one stop shop, everything is right there…clothing stores, liquor stores, bars, restaurants, etc. I absolutely love Plaza Colón!
Lisa m
Google
Busy area. Early in the morning they have individuals selling items. There are little shops and restaurants nearby. It is in walking distance of San Cristolbal Castle. If you are using Uber this is an easy spot to be dropped off and than walking around to places you would like to go.
Axel Font
Google
Great spot for a meeting place or simply to check out around, also an easy landmark/point for UBER drivers to pick-up/drop-off. Lots of little roads and walking paths stem out of this main area with Many Great restaurants, bars, and
Beautiful architecture too. Meet up, walk, shop, eat, and ENJOY!!
Quatricia Johnson
Google
It's in the middle of Old San Juan, PR it was late but we still got a chance to see it. If you're here take a tour of the castle! We didn't get a chance but I got a few pictures!
Mary Galli
Google
Very clean, nice people working in the stores. Everyone was extremely helpful. There was a line at the SJ sign, but there, too, everyone was helping others take their photos.
Marqus R.
Yelp
Plaza Colon is where a lot of activity takes place. There are all kinds of little merchant tents selling everything from custom made belts to children's toys and food. It's close to the cruise ship terminal and one of the first places the cruise ship tourists hit. It's also a hub for taxi, tourist vans, Uber pickups and the like. The place is also full of pigeons so if you feel something wet hit you on the head and it's not raining, you might have a good idea what has happened to you. LOL!
Another good feature of the area is that the perimeter of the area is surrounded by upscale shops and good restaurants.
The statue with a regal looking likeness of Columbus atop and sea monsters at the base is of course the centerpiece of the Plaza. It was built in recognition of the discovery of Puerto Rico by Columbus during his second voyage.
Andres A.
Yelp
Plaza Colón is a beautiful square where people meet, talk, rest or do whatever recreational activities they may chose. Around the square they have many shops and restaurants for one to visit. On other occasions it becomes a market place where artisans shop their goods. It is a great place to catch a rest after traveling through the many cobblestone roads in Old San Juan. It is well maintained and now during the holidays they have a Christmas display for all to enjoy.
Kim M.
Yelp
Plaza Colon is the pickup/drop off spot for taxi's, Uber, And Lyft as you enter the Old San Juan area. Although my most recent trip was over 30 days ago, my fond memories are fresh as if they were yesterday.
Any mode of transportation you take will direct you to start your Old San Juan walk/ ride excursion here. The plaza is a full circle surrounded by small shops and local restaurants. There are a number of small street vendors offering anything from ice cream, water, to jewelry. There is no shortage of authentic food choices as well. It's hard to get lost since it's physically a full circle with streets offsetting each direction, like a ray of sunshine.
The plaza is full of pigeons so be mindful as you walk, but don't let that stop your enjoyment of this beautiful spot.
The colorful surrounding business add depth and charm to the plaza. There is plenty to see from end to end.
Make sure the Plaza Colon is a stop you make when you have plenty of time to enjoy the sun and scenery.