San Juan Airport: A Traveler's First Impression

what is san juan airport like

San Juan Airport, officially known as Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, is the largest and busiest airport in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. Located in Isla Verde, San Juan Airport is just 5 kilometres from downtown San Juan, making it a convenient gateway to the island. With hundreds of direct and non-stop flights arriving and departing daily from around the world, San Juan Airport offers easy access to Puerto Rico and its surrounding islands. The airport features a range of facilities and services, including currency exchange, storage lockers, and various dining options.

Characteristics Values
Name Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport
Other Names San Juan Airport, Isla Verde International Airport
Location Isla Verde, Carolina, Puerto Rico
Distance from Downtown San Juan 3 miles or 5 kilometres
IATA Code SJU
ICAO Code TJSJ
Number of Terminals 1 main terminal building with 4 concourses and a separate terminal with 1 concourse
Airlines JetBlue Airways, Air Sunshine, Silver Airways, Tradewind Aviation, Wiggings Airways, Cape Air, Air Antilles, Frontier, Air Flamenco, Lufthansa, Condor, Air France, KLM, Martinair, British Airways, British Caledonian, Virgin Atlantic, Norwegian Air Shuttle, Air Europa, Air Caraïbes, PAWA Dominicana, ACES Colombia, BWIA West Indies Airways, LIAT, ALM Antillean Airlines, Air Jamaica, Viasa, Aeropostal, Mexicana de Aviación, Jet 24, Volaris, Surinam Airways, LACSA, Aerolíneas Argentinas, Dominicana De Aviación, Wardair, Allegiant Air, ATA Airlines, Northwest Airlines, Continental Airlines, National Airlines (N8), AirTran Airways, Ladeco, Aeronaves de Puerto Rico, Coral Air, Aero Virgin Islands, US Airways, M&N Aviation, Airways
Top Destinations Orlando, New York, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Atlanta, Newark, Philadelphia, Tampa, Baltimore, Boston, Madrid, Bogotá, Panamá City
Passenger Volume 13.2 million passengers (2024)
Recognition Winner of "Medium Airport of the Year" at the CAPA Global Aviation Awards for Excellence
Facilities Currency exchange, storage facility, self-service kiosks, TSA checkpoints, CLEAR identity validation system

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Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport

The airport is served by over 20 commercial airlines, with hundreds of direct and non-stop flights arriving and departing daily from around the world. There are non-stop flights to numerous destinations in the United States, as well as flights to Latin America, Europe, and the Caribbean. The top destinations from San Juan Airport are U.S. cities, including Orlando, New York, and Fort Lauderdale.

San Juan Airport has one main terminal building with four concourses and a separate terminal with one concourse, all of which are connected. The airport has a variety of facilities, including a currency exchange, a storage facility for cruise passengers, and a Banco Popular de Puerto Rico branch. All departure gates are located on the second level, and passengers must pass through Customs and Agriculture inspections and scan their luggage before checking in.

The airport serves as the Caribbean hub for several airlines, including Cape Air, Air Sunshine, and Silver Airways, and is a Focus City for JetBlue, the largest carrier in San Juan. In 2024, San Juan Airport was named "Medium Airport of the Year" at the prestigious CAPA Global Aviation Awards for Excellence.

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Currency exchange

San Juan Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU) is located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, a US territory. As such, the official currency used at the airport is the US dollar (USD).

There are several options for currency exchange at the airport. Banco Popular in San Juan offers currency exchange services at the airport, specifically at the Terminal B check-in counter and on the second level of Terminal D. However, it should be noted that this branch only offers currency exchange between dollars and euros.

There are also numerous ATMs inside the airport where travellers can withdraw local currency. These include Banco Santander ATMs, located on the second level of Terminal A and the Terminal B check-in counter, as well as First Bank ATMs, located on the second level of Terminals A and B. Scotiabank ATMs also provide currency exchange services at the airport.

If you are looking for a bank, Banco Popular has a branch inside the airport at Terminal D, offering currency exchange services. Additionally, Banco Popular has other branches throughout San Juan, including one near SJU at Parada 22, 701 Avenue Ponce de León, Edificio Centro de Seguros, Santurce PR 00907, Puerto Rico.

It is worth noting that currency exchange rates at the airport may vary, and you may find better rates outside the airport or by using other methods. For example, exchanging currency at a major bank branch in the city or using online currency exchange services can often provide more favourable rates. Additionally, travel money cards from providers like Wise and Revolut can offer better exchange rates and lower overall costs compared to switching currency at the airport or physical exchange stores.

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Storage facilities

San Juan Airport, officially San Juan Luis Munoz Marin International Airport, does not have storage lockers available at the airport. However, there are several alternative storage options nearby.

Cooperativa de Servicios de Equipaje

Located at Terminal D, Level 2, Cooperativa de Servicios de Equipaje offers a cloakroom service for luggage storage. It costs $8 per bag per day or $20 for three bags per day.

Bounce

Bounce offers luggage storage at various locations across San Juan, including some near the airport, from $4.10 per day. They also offer storage for other items such as backpacks and gym bags.

BagsAway

BagsAway provides luggage storage services at multiple locations across San Juan, with rates starting at $1 per hour or per day.

Vertoe

Vertoe offers luggage storage services at numerous locations across San Juan, with rates starting at $5.95 per day. All items stored with Vertoe are insured for up to $5000, and they offer free cancellation.

Hotels and Restaurants

Some hotels and restaurants in San Juan, such as the San Juan Marriot Stellaris and Barrachina, may offer luggage storage services for their customers. It is recommended to tip the staff when using these services.

When considering luggage storage options, it is important to compare prices, locations, and insurance coverage to determine the best option for your specific needs.

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Old San Juan

San Juan Airport, officially known as Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU), is located in Isla Verde, in the Carolina district, just 5 kilometres southeast of downtown San Juan, Puerto Rico. It is the largest and busiest airport in the Caribbean, serving as the main gateway to the Eastern Caribbean and handling around 90% of Puerto Rico's passenger volume. With hundreds of direct and non-stop flights arriving and departing daily from around the world, the airport offers convenient travel options for visitors.

Now, let's focus on Old San Juan, a historic neighbourhood in San Juan, Puerto Rico, just a short distance from the airport. Known as the "walled city", Old San Juan is steeped in over 500 years of history and boasts a rich cultural heritage. Here are some key aspects of this charming part of the city:

  • Historic Sites: Old San Juan is renowned for its well-preserved defensive forts, including Fort San Felipe del Morro, Fort San Cristóbal, and La Fortaleza. These forts bear witness to the city's long military history and offer fascinating glimpses into the past.
  • Cultural Attractions: The neighbourhood is home to cultural landmarks such as the Plaza de Armas, a vibrant square often hosting cultural events, and the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, an impressive example of colonial-era architecture.
  • Shopping: Old San Juan offers a diverse shopping experience, ranging from traditional souvenir shops to luxury brands and local artisans' boutiques. It caters to those seeking unique mementos or interested in supporting local craftsmanship.
  • Culinary Experiences: While information on specific dishes or restaurants in Old San Juan is not readily available, it is known for its culinary delights. Visitors can explore various dining options, ranging from local cuisine to international fare, satisfying a variety of tastes and preferences.
  • Beach Access: Old San Juan provides easy access to beautiful beaches, allowing visitors to enjoy the Caribbean sun and sea. Balmy waters and sandy shores offer a relaxing break from exploring the city's historical sites.

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Transportation

San Juan Airport, officially known as Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU), is located in Isla Verde, in the Carolina district, just 5 kilometres southeast of downtown San Juan, Puerto Rico. It is the largest, busiest, and most accessible airport in the Caribbean, serving as the main gateway to San Juan and the Eastern Caribbean.

Air

San Juan Airport is served by over 20 commercial airlines, offering hundreds of direct and non-stop flights daily to destinations around the world. These include major cities in the United States, such as Miami, New York, and Atlanta, as well as international destinations like Madrid, Spain, and Bogotá, Colombia.

Land

The airport is easily accessible from the San Juan district of Hato Rey via the Teodoro Moscoso Bridge. Old San Juan can be reached via the Baldorioty de Castro Expressway (PR-26).

Taxi

A taxi ride from the airport to downtown San Juan typically takes around 20 minutes.

Car Rental

Passengers can also opt to rent a car at the airport, providing easy access to nearby areas.

Bus

Although not directly mentioned, San Juan's extensive bus network likely provides transportation to and from the airport.

Train

While there is no specific mention of a train system serving the airport, San Juan's urban train system, known as the Tren Urbano, may offer an additional transportation option for travellers.

Frequently asked questions

San Juan Airport, also known as Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, is the busiest airport in the Caribbean by passenger traffic. In 2024, the airport handled 13.2 million passengers, which was around 90% of Puerto Rico's total passenger volume.

San Juan Airport has a currency exchange, a storage facility, and a Banco Popular de Puerto Rico branch. There is also a consolidated security area for Terminals B, C and D, and a variety of fast-food restaurants.

San Juan Airport is located 5 kilometres from downtown San Juan, which is approximately a 20-minute taxi ride away.

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