San Juan Travel Guide

Explore the best of San Juan with our travel guide. Discover culturally important attractions, natural wonders, local food and drinks, places to stay, and more.


Introduction to San Juan

San Juan is a city located in Metro Manila, in the central part of the Philippines. It is a bustling city, with a population of over 120,000 people. San Juan has a rich history and culture, with numerous landmarks and attractions that attract visitors from around the world.

List of Places to Visit in San Juan

San Juan offers a range of attractions, from culturally significant landmarks to natural wonders. Here are some of the must-see tourist spots in San Juan:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Pinaglabanan Shrine - a historic site that commemorates the Battle of San Juan del Monte in 1896, which marked the start of the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonialism
  2. San Juan City Museum - a museum that showcases the rich history and culture of San Juan, with exhibits on local heroes, artists, and notable personalities
  3. Sambahayan - a restored 1920s house that showcases traditional Filipino culture and lifestyle
  4. Santuario del Santo Cristo - a church built in 1602 that houses a revered image of the crucified Christ

Natural Attractions of San Juan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Mount Carmel Parish - a 17th-century church located on top of a hill, offering panoramic views of the city
  2. Greenhills Shopping Center - a popular shopping destination that features a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options
  3. Wack Wack Golf and Country Club - a world-class golf course with lush greenery and beautiful landscapes
  4. Pinaglabanan Hill - a hill that offers scenic views and a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or picnic

Hiking/Biking Routes of San Juan

San Juan is a great place for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the popular routes are:

  1. San Juan River Trail - a 5 km river trail that runs from Greenhills to Makati
  2. Pinaglabanan Shrine to Mount Carmel - a 4 km hike that takes you to one of the city’s most iconic landmarks
  3. Bike lanes around Greenhills Shopping Center - a 2 km bike-friendly route that takes you through San Juan’s bustling commercial district

Best Things to Do in San Juan: Activities and Tours

San Juan offers a variety of activities and tours that cater to different interests. Here are some of the best things to do in San Juan:

  1. Food tour - sample local delicacies and street food from San Juan’s numerous food stalls and restaurants
  2. Nightlife tour - explore San Juan’s vibrant nightlife scene, with bars, clubs, and live music venues
  3. Cultural tour - discover the city’s rich history and culture through visits to its landmarks and museums
  4. Nature tour - explore San Juan’s natural attractions, such as Mount Carmel Parish and Pinaglabanan Hill

Week-Long Itinerary for San Juan

For a complete San Juan experience, here’s a week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit Pinaglabanan Shrine and San Juan City Museum
2 Explore Greenhills Shopping Center and Wack Wack Golf and Country Club
3 Hike to Mount Carmel Parish
4 Join a food tour and sample local delicacies
5 Nightlife tour in San Juan
6 Spend the day at Pinaglabanan Hill
7 Cultural tour and nature tour

Food and Drink Scene of San Juan

San Juan has a vibrant food and drink scene, with a variety of local dishes, drinks, and delicacies to try. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Adobo - a classic Filipino dish that consists of meat marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic
  2. Lechon - a whole roasted pig that is a staple in Filipino cuisine
  3. Pancit - a stir-fried noodle dish that is a staple at every Filipino celebration
  4. Sinigang - a sour soup made with tamarind, vegetables, and meat or fish

Local Beverages

  1. San Juan Brew - a local brewery that produces craft beers with unique flavors
  2. Halo-halo - a refreshing dessert drink made with shaved ice, milk, and a variety of sweet toppings
  3. Sago’t Gulaman - a refreshing drink made with brown sugar, crushed ice, and tapioca pearls
  4. Buko juice - a refreshing drink made with fresh coconut water

Where to Stay in San Juan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some of the best places to stay in San Juan, depending on your budget and preferences:

  1. Richmonde Hotel - a luxurious hotel with modern amenities and great views of the city
  2. ZEN Rooms San Juan City - a budget-friendly hotel that offers comfortable rooms at affordable rates
  3. Madison 101 Hotel + Tower - a stylish hotel that offers spacious suites with modern interiors
  4. The Contemporary Hotel - a boutique hotel that offers stylish rooms with unique designs

What to Buy in San Juan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home, here are some of the best options:

  1. Dry fish - a popular Filipino snack that is unique to the country
  2. Handwoven fabrics - colorful textiles that showcase the indigenous craftsmanship of local weavers
  3. Barako coffee - a strong and flavorful coffee that is grown in the nearby Batangas province
  4. San Juan-made craft beer - support the local brewery and bring home a bottle of San Juan Brew

Local Culture and Customs of San Juan

San Juan has a rich culture and customs that reflect the city’s history and heritage. Here are some of the things you should know:

  1. Catholicism is the dominant religion in San Juan, with many churches and religious sites open to the public
  2. Filipinos are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness, so expect to be greeted with a smile and welcoming gestures
  3. Respect for elders and authority is highly valued in Filipino culture
  4. Filipinos celebrate a number of festivals throughout the year, so check the calendar to catch one during your visit

Best Time to Visit San Juan

The best time to visit San Juan is between November and April, when the weather is dry and temperatures are cooler. The rainy season runs from May to October, so it’s best to avoid this time if you want to enjoy outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of San Juan

Here are some of the things to do and avoid in San Juan:

Do:

  1. Explore the city’s landmarks and cultural attractions to learn more about its history and heritage
  2. Try the local delicacies and beverages to experience the city’s food and drink culture
  3. Be respectful of the locals and their customs, especially at religious sites and festivals
  4. Wear sunscreen and appropriate clothing for outdoor activities under the sun

Don’t:

  1. Engage in illegal activities or drugs
  2. Litter or pollute the city’s environment
  3. Disrespect the locals or their customs
  4. Leave your belongings unattended in public places

Safety and Health

San Juan is a relatively safe city, but like any other urban area, it pays to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. Here are some safety and health tips for your visit:

Safety in San Juan

  1. Be cautious when wandering in unfamiliar areas, especially at night
  2. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash while out in public
  3. Be wary of pickpockets and scammers
  4. Secure your belongings in your hotel room or accommodation when not in use

Health in San Juan

  1. Bring insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes, especially if you’re planning on hiking or exploring natural attractions
  2. Drink bottled water instead of tap water to avoid stomach upset
  3. Wear sunscreen and protect yourself from the sun to avoid sunburn and heat stroke
  4. Bring enough medication and first aid supplies for your trip

Getting to San Juan: Transportation Options and Logistics

San Juan is easily accessible via different modes of transportation. Here are some options:

Airports Near San Juan

  1. Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport - located 14 km away from San Juan, it is the primary airport serving the city
  2. Clark International Airport - located 86 km away from San Juan, it is a secondary airport with international and domestic flights

Bus Stations Near San Juan

  1. Cubao Bus Station - located 5 km away from San Juan, it is the busiest bus terminal in Metro Manila, with buses traveling to different parts of the country
  2. Trinoma Bus Station - located 9 km away from San Juan, it is another popular bus terminal that serves different destinations in Luzon

Other Options

  1. Taxi - taxis are widely available in Metro Manila, although it is advisable to use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Uber to avoid overcharging
  2. Jeepney - a popular mode of public transportation in the Philippines, jeepneys ply different routes in San Juan and Metro Manila

How to Get Around in San Juan

San Juan is a small city, and it is easy to get around by foot or public transportation. Here are some options:

  1. Jeepney - the cheapest and most convenient mode of transportation within San Juan and Metro Manila
  2. Tricycle - a motorized tricycle that can accommodate up to three passengers, often used for short trips within the city
  3. Taxi - taxis are widely available in San Juan, but use ride-hailing apps to avoid scams and overcharging

Where to Go Next from San Juan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

San Juan is a great jump-off point for exploring nearby destinations and attractions. Here are some options:

  1. Manila - the capital city of the Philippines, located 10 km south of San Juan
  2. Quezon City - another bustling city in Metro Manila, located 12 km northeast of San Juan
  3. Batangas - a province known for its beaches and scenic landscapes, located 100 km south of San Juan

Conclusion

San Juan is a vibrant city that offers a range of attractions and experiences for every kind of traveler. From its culturally significant landmarks to its natural wonders, food and drink culture, places to stay, and nearby destinations, San Juan has something for everyone. So pack your bags and head to San Juan for an unforgettable vacation.