12 Sassy Facts about San Juan

First published 21st October 2019 Robin James

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Like to know more about the capital cities of the world and increase your chances of being crowned the next quiz champion? Take a look at these fun facts about San Juan!

1. Where is San Juan?

San Juan is the capital city of Puerto Rico.

2. Learn the phonetics!

Wondering how to say the name of this wonderful city? It’s pronounced San hwahn.

3. It’s truly huge!

The total land area of San Juan is 876 square miles (2,269 square kilometers)…that’s larger than Greater London. It also makes it Puerto Rico’s largest city.

Flag of Puerto Rico

4. However, it’s actually pretty sparse.

San Juan’s population was 335,468 in 2019 – that’s around 1/27th of the population of Greater London and gives it a population density of around 410 residents per square mile.

5. Not too far for a dip!

San Juan is located just 26 ft above sea level.

6. What are the people here called?

Residents of San Juan are known as Sanjuaneros.

7. It’s pretty warm out here!

Sanjuaneros enjoy a tropical monsoon climate with rain throughout much of the year, an average annual temperature of 80°F, a record high of 98°C and a record low of 60°F!

8. How to find San Juan with a compass!

Looking to fly yourself to San Juan? You’ll need the coordinates of 18.4500° N, 66.0667° W.

9. There’s some brilliant history here.

Make sure you visit Old San Juan if you’re in San Juan; as the name suggests, it’s the old part of the city and also happens to be the oldest settlement in Puerto Rico and a UNESCO World Heritage Site! It’s full of beautifully colorful homes, some of which date back to 1521!

Atlantic Beach, San Juan, Puerto Rico

10. What do people speak in San Juan?

The official languages of San Juan are Spanish and English.

11. Time to change the change!

United States Dollar is the official currency here.

12. It’s a big tourist resort.

Puerto Rico welcomed 3,200,000 tourists into the country in 2013, many of whom visited San Juan for its stunning beaches, rich history and sophisticated-yet-lively, nightlife.

FAQs about San Juan

Is San Juan safe for tourists?

Yes, most of the time - however, you may be advised to keep to the main tourist areas for optimum safety.

Can you drink the water in San Juan?

Yes, on the whole! The water in Puerto Rico is generally safe to drink, though it can be a little harder in the rural reaches.

Is it expensive to visit San Juan?

That all depends on what you do while you’re there - generally, $150 per day will likely see you through!

Do you know any fun facts about San Juan? Share them in the comments below!

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2 Comments

Becky says:
18th October 2020 at 00:14

The cobblestone (Adoquines) streets of Old San Juan are blue stone cast from furnace slag which were brought over on Spanish ships as ballasts. The characteristic blue color comes from age and moisture.

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Rachel Frampton says:
24th February 2021 at 06:27

My sister and I would like to visit Puerto Rico where can do snorkeling, and visit the lovely city of San Juan. Well. It’s great to learn that this city is larger than London. Thank you for sharing here as well that San Juan is one of the oldest cities, and that is why it’s rich in culture.

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