I am so excited to be sharing this post with you today. One of my pledges to all of you for 2020 is to bring you more new content and think outside the box for my posts. Today is the first excursion that I have created on my own. Excursions cost money and I want to offer you complimentary options. Today I’m bring you a taste of San Juan. This is a list of the 5 Best Local Bars!
How to get there from the visiting cruise port:
You can walk this mapped out excursion and that is one of the benefits. However, if it is a hot day, your party isn’t that mobile or you honestly don’t want to walk uphill, you can take a taxi from the cruise pier area. For two people it cost $12 to take a trip up to the first bar on this list. All of these San Juan local bars will be very close once you get there.
La Taberna Lupulo: This first option is heaven for the beer lover. This bar has 50 beers on tap and over 150 bottles. They have great local options for you to sample and try. There are not a lot of tourists and the prices are moderate.
La Factoría: This has to be my favorite stop on this bar trail. The best part is it is practically across the street from La Taberna. This bar has many beer options but craft cocktails are what this place is known for. I had a lovely lavender mule cocktail that is probably one of the best cocktails I have ever had. The fun fact about this bar is it is actually connected to six other bars by two interior doors and hidden hallways! One of the bars is La Cubanita and it is an old world speakeasy!
Rare Candy Creations Ice Cream Shop & Bar: If you have a sweet tooth, take a stroll across the street from La Factoría to this little place. There is not any seating, it is a walk up venue that is maybe 10-12 feet wide. The menu has a variety of ice cream and beverage options. They have wine and beer floats as well as ice cream cordials. We dabbled with the Godly Drink which is their Brunella ice cream and Dissarono. This location does not take credit card.
El Batey: This bar experience is by far different than anything else on this list. This is your hole in the wall bar. The cocktails are cheap and it may look a bit dingy. However, this bar has such a laid back atmosphere and is equipped with a pool table as well. Don’t forget to leave your business card on the bar chandeliers. This location does not take credit cards.
Princesa Gastrobar: This stop is very close to the cruise port. I personally think it is best to end here on this trip. I have always been a fan of this bar. They specialize in rums and making amazing craft cocktails. They have two bars. One is inside the restaurant and the other is an exterior bar in their garden. I personally think their pina colada is the best.
Excursion Guide
I’ve created this excursion guide that you can click on and save to your phone. This list contains some quick facts, addresses, phone numbers and a map off all the locations!
Final Notes
I recommend starting this at La Taberna because it is at the top of the hill. You can easily add in a trip to Castillo San Felipe del Morro in prior to starting this as it is a quick walk from there to La Taberna. It is always good to have some cash on hand as some places do not accept credit cards. Most importantly, don’t forget to tip your local bartender. San Juan local bars are top notch and any of the bars on this list will not disappoint. There is something for everyone.
You can also add in some great photostops with this itinerary. Check out my previous posts:
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