Ponce

Planning a trip to Ponce means setting off for Puerto Rico's second-largest city, often referred to as the "Pearl of the South" for its magnificent colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage. This region consistently attracts travellers with its authentic atmosphere and abundance of interesting places.

Getting to Ponce is not difficult: the city enjoys good transport accessibility. You can fly here by plane or take an exciting journey by car or bus from other corners of the island, enjoying picturesque views along the way.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the "Pearl of the South" is by air. The city is served by Mercedita Airport (PSE), located just a few minutes' drive from the historic centre of Ponce. This compact aviation hub receives regular flights and provides a convenient connection to the outside world without the need for long journeys across the island.

If there are no direct tickets, many travellers choose to fly via Puerto Rico's capital. The international airport located in San Juan is approximately a one-and-a-half-hour drive from the destination. Alternatively, neighbouring Mayagüez or Aguadilla can be considered as arrival points, allowing for flexible logistics depending on flight schedules.

Rail travel enthusiasts will have to adjust their plans: it is impossible to reach Ponce by train, as there is no railway station in the city. Puerto Rico's railway network, which once covered the island, is no longer functional for intercity passenger transport, having given way to modern highways.

Even in the capital, San Juan, rail transport is represented only by an urban metro line that does not extend beyond the metropolitan area. The nearest major cities, including Mayagüez and Aguadilla, also lack active railway connections, so tourists are recommended to use a rental car or bus to travel to the southern coast.

Bus transport on the island has its own specific character, and often, instead of the usual large coaches, tourists are transported by comfortable shared taxis known as "públicos" or private shuttles. The most popular route leads from the capital, San Juan: covering 120 kilometres along a scenic highway crossing the mountain range usually takes between one and a half to two hours.

It is also convenient to reach the southern coast from the western part of Puerto Rico. The trip from Mayagüez takes just over an hour for a distance of about 80 kilometres, while travellers from Aguadilla should expect a journey of approximately two hours to cover the 110 kilometres to Ponce.

Travelling by car is the most convenient way to explore Puerto Rico at your own pace. Having a vehicle not only saves time but also opens access to remote beaches and mountain villages that are difficult to reach by public transport.

The drive from San Juan to Ponce is a real pleasure for drivers. The main route runs along the toll expressway PR-52 (Luis A. Ferré Expressway). This highway is in excellent condition and crosses a picturesque mountain range, allowing you to comfortably cover the distance between the northern and southern coasts in about an hour and a half.

When travelling from the western side of the island, from Mayagüez or Aguadilla, traffic usually moves along highway PR-2. Unlike the mountain roads, this is a flatter route, but traffic lights and dense urban traffic are more common here, which may slightly increase travel time.

Using a taxi for intercity transfers is possible but can significantly impact your budget. The cost of a trip from the capital to the south often varies from 130 to 160 US dollars. For this reason, many travellers book a car in advance and pick it up immediately at the airport.

A trip to Ponce will give you unforgettable impressions from exploring the colonial history and culture of Puerto Rico. To ensure your journey is as comfortable and smooth as possible, we have prepared a list of useful recommendations that will help you feel confident in the "Pearl of the South".

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is tropical and hot, often even warmer than in the capital. Opt for loose, lightweight clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. Be sure to bring a hat, sunglasses, and high-factor sun protection cream. For walking on the cobblestones of the historic centre, comfortable flat shoes are most suitable.
2. Transport. The historic core of the city is compact, and it is most pleasant to explore on foot. However, public transport is not widely developed, so it is better to rent a car for trips to the coast or Serrallés Castle. Taxi and ridesharing services (such as Uber) are available, but waiting times may be longer than usual.
3. Finances. The official currency is the US Dollar. Bank cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shopping centres. Nevertheless, it is highly recommended to carry cash in small denominations: you will need it for paying for street food, souvenirs at kiosks, or tips for parking attendants.
4. Health and Safety. Tourist areas of the city are calm and safe, but basic rules should be observed: do not leave belongings unattended and avoid deserted streets after dark. Tap water undergoes purification, but for drinking, it is better for tourists to buy bottled water. Also, do not forget insect repellent, especially if you plan evening walks near the water.
5. Communication. The main language is Spanish. Although staff in tourist places usually speak English, you may not be understood in small shops or at the market. Learning a few basic phrases in Spanish ("please", "thank you", "where is...") is helpful — locals greatly appreciate such gestures of courtesy.
6. Local Etiquette. Puerto Ricans are open and friendly people. It is customary to greet others when entering a small room, lift, or shop ("Buenos días" or "Buenas tardes"). Also, take into account the relaxed pace of life ("island time"): service in restaurants may be leisurely, so treat this with understanding.
7. What to Avoid. Do not leave valuables, bags, or electronics on car seats, even if you are stepping away for a couple of minutes — put everything in the boot. Also, try not to plan active walking tours during the peak heat (from 12:00 to 15:00), when the sun is most aggressive.
8. Extra Tip. When walking around the centre, pay attention to the painted lion statues — this is the symbol of the city. And definitely visit the famous old fire station museum (Parque de Bombas) on the main square: it is not only the most recognisable landmark but also an excellent meeting point.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on the beauty of the architecture and the unique atmosphere of the city. May your introduction to the island's southern coast be bright and carefree!