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.

Walking Up the Ramp to Enter San Cristobal - San Juan, Puerto Rico
Walking Up the Ramp to Enter San Cristobal
The Top Level of the San Cristobal Fort - San Juan, Puerto Rico
The Top Level of San Cristobal

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.

Looking Down From the Top Level of the San Cristobal Fort
Looking Down From the Top Level of San Cristobal
The Entrance to the San Cristobal Fort
The Entrance to San Cristobal
Looking Towards El Morro from San Cristobal - San Juan, Puerto Rico
Looking Towards El Morro
Looking Towards New San Juan from the San Cristobal Fort
Looking Towards San Juan
Looking Towards the Puerto Rico Capitol Building from the San Cristobal Fort
Looking Towards the Capitol Building

San Cristobal Tours and Packages

A tour of San Cristobal is not necessary as the fort is easy to explore on its own. For those who prefer to be led around by a local,  I have linked a few tours below. Please note that I am an affiliate of Viator. If you purchase a tour using one of my links, I will receive a small commission. This commission is at no additional cost to you.

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