San Cristobal
About San Cristobal
San Cristobal is one of the two famous forts in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Built by the Spanish in 1873, its purpose was to protect the area of San Juan, which is now known as Old San Juan. The fort was built on a hill that provides great views of Old San Juan and the coast.
For visitors interested in the unexplained, I recommend learning about the mystery of the “Devil’s Guerite.” Guerites are lookout boxes that are typically found in the corner of forts. Legend has it that soldiers have disappeared from one particular guerite while on watch. This guerite is located in one of the oldest parts of the fort, and although it is not accessible to the public can be seen from a distance.
Access to San Cristobal costs $5, and the ticket can also be used for entry to El Morro. I recommend visiting both forts on the same day and walking through Old San Juan to get from fort to fort.
San Cristobal - Table of Contents
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My Visit to San Cristobal
I chose to visit El Morro first and then walk through Old San Juan to get to San Cristobal. When I arrived, I was pleased to learn that my admission ticket from El Morro also gained entry to San Cristobal. I didn’t feel like there was as much to see at San Cristobal. Other than some great views of downtown San Juan (New San Juan) and Old San Juan, there was little to look at.
San Cristobal didn’t have rooms as El Morro did, and I did not feel the historical significance that I did in El Morro. My disappointment might have been because much of the fort was closed to tourists. Still, it is definitely worth checking out if you have time for both forts. You will not be disappointed by the views from San Cristobal.
San Cristobal Tours and Packages
If you are interested in a tour of the fort, I found one package that included San Cristobal. The tour package to the right also includes El Morro and the Ruin of Caparra. I did not take this tour but wanted to link it for visitors that prefer to be guided by an expert. Please note, that as an affiliate of Viator, I will receive a small commission if you purchase using one of my links. This commission is at no additional cost to you.
Prices are accurate as of May 2023.
 Old San Juan 5-Hours Walking Tour (with Fort) in Puerto Rico - $85.00 Unlike other short walking tours, this experience also includes a guided tour inside the San Cristobal Fort (entrance fee included, transportation from your hotel, lunch break and shopping time). |
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