Experts' Choice Award Castillo San Felipe del Morro
What the experts agree on
El Morro crowns Old San Juan with 500 years of history and dramatic Atlantic views. This imposing six-level fortress is a fascinating labyrinth of dungeons, cannons, and barracks—expect crowds at this iconic Caribbean landmark.
“The breathtaking setting makes it the city's most popular attraction, so things can get crowded.”
– Concierge
Fodor's "Rising 140 feet above the sea, the massive six-level fortress was built to protect the port and has a commanding view of the harbor. It is a labyrinth of cannon batteries, ramps, barracks, turrets" Full review
Travel + Leisure "More commonly known as El Morro, this stone garrison is the second-oldest freestanding fort in the Americas." Full review
Afar Magazine "Work began on el Morro in 1539 and now, protected as a National Historic Site, travelers have the opportunity to walk through 500 years of its fascinating history." Full review
U.S. News & World Report2.0
"Go-to tourist attraction, both for its extensive history and its outstanding vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. Walk though the fortress' depths, which include a maze of tunnels, barracks and prison cells." Full review
Frommer's "This fort stands on a rocky promontory...with some of the most dramatic views in the Caribbean, you’ll find El Morro an intriguing labyrinth of dungeons, barracks, vaults, lookouts, and ramps." Full review
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Make sure to walk out on the northernmost point, a narrow wedge overlooking the waves crashing into the rocky coast.
Travel + Leisure "Stroll down cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old mansions before arriving at Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a Spanish fortress crowning the western tip of the historic neighborhood and offering spectacular ocean views"
Condé Nast Traveler "What makes this place such an icon?Castillo San Felipe del Morro is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Puerto Rico—the iconic lookout is even on the island's license plate. The..." Full review
CNN "Guarding the entrance to San Juan Bay, this 16th-century Spanish citadel is one of the most impressive structures in the Caribbean. Protected by a moat (with a drawbridge), stone..."
"History buffs — or anyone who loves a good castle — can enjoy this giant stone fortress perched overlooking the deep blue sea. It dates back to the 1500s, when Spanish settlers arrived to..."
New York Times "Castillo San Felipe del Morro, one of the largest fortifications built by Spain in the Caribbean, has six levels of barracks, dungeons and storerooms. Kite-flying on the fort's lawn is..."
