Puerto Rico, an island nation in the Caribbean Antilles, is a U.S. territory. This status has made it a favored destination for North American travelers, while its tropical climate, stunning landscapes, and thriving cruise tourism attract visitors from Europe as well.
As a result, the island is bustling with tourists year-round—and naturally offers a wide array of leisure experiences to match.
Nearly every cruise ship docks at the port of San Juan, the island’s capital. Founded in 1509 around its harbor, the city was originally called Puerto Rico—“rich port”—while the island itself was named San Juan by Christopher Columbus, who arrived in 1493. A cartographic error in the early 16th century reversed the names, and the mistake endured: today, the island is Puerto Rico, and the city is San Juan.
The historic Old San Juan district is vibrant day and night, offering a wealth of entertainment—including some excellent cigar lounges. Here are three standout destinations.
Casa de Montecristo – San Juan
Premium Cigars in the Heart of Old San Juan
The renowned global cigar network Casa de Montecristo operates a large boutique and lounge in San Juan, located in the trendy heart of Old Town, on one of the city’s most famous streets lined with boutique shops and acclaimed restaurants.
The lounge features gray marble flooring, dark wood paneling across the bar and walls, large illuminated humidors, and dark leather seating. Black coffee tables and large screens broadcasting sports create a relaxed yet refined atmosphere.
The cigar selection is extensive and premium-focused, offering handcrafted cigars from leading global brands, including Cuban cigars alongside local selections.
The bar provides a wide range of spirits, with a strong emphasis on rum—Puerto Rico’s signature drink.
Cocktail enthusiasts will find this a particularly appealing destination. Award-winning mixologists craft high-quality cocktails, including house creations with names like “The Count of Montecristo” and “Cuban Old Fashioned.” Each cocktail is thoughtfully paired with recommended cigars.
Address:
201 Calle del Cristo, San Juan
Phone:
+1 (787) 705-4957
Website:
www.casademontecristopr.com
The Cigar House – San Juan
A Timeless Local Institution
Located in Old San Juan, not far from the historic fortress, The Cigar House is one of the city’s oldest cigar shops, operating under the same ownership for over 50 years.
Guests enter through a large retail space featuring massive humidors with more than 500 cigar varieties from around the world and Puerto Rico, including house blends. A dedicated section offers lighters and cigar accessories, leading into the lounge area.
Housed in a traditional building along a colorful street where each façade differs in hue, the venue exudes charm. Above the shop, a wooden balcony draped with bougainvillea overlooks the street.
At the rear, a dimly lit seating area with leather chairs and a beer-serving bar creates an intimate setting. The shop also doubles as a liquor store, offering a rich selection of spirits.
The furniture appears largely original—black tables, 1960s-style chairs, and 1980s leather sofas—adding to the authentic, nostalgic atmosphere.
A corridor lined with humidors is interspersed with liquor cabinets, leather seating, and large TV screens. The sense of tradition is palpable, with a mix of locals, regular members, and even celebrities—whose photos adorn the walls.
The owner, a friendly elder whose life revolves around cigars, is often present and happy to provide personal service. The staff are equally knowledgeable.
Address:
257 Calle Fortaleza, Old San Juan
Phone:
+1 (787) 723-5223
612 Cigar Lounge – Arecibo
A Local Escape with a Social Spirit
Located approximately 80 km west of San Juan, the town of Arecibo is best known for its once-iconic radio telescope observatory. Increased visitor traffic helped inspire the opening of venues like 612 Cigar Lounge.
Situated behind a golf course, the lounge is a popular social destination and proudly LGBTQ-friendly. It embraces the ideal combination of fine cigars, local gastronomy, and a robust bar program.
The design is simple yet welcoming: terracotta flooring, large humidors, leather armchairs, wooden seating, and soft lighting. Multiple seating areas cater to different group sizes.
The atmosphere is modest but inviting, with a slightly vintage character.
The cigar selection includes global premium brands as well as boutique cigars crafted and aged using traditional methods. There is also a strong emphasis on local products.
The venue regularly hosts cigar tastings and related events.
Even non-smokers will enjoy the experience, thanks to a rich and varied food menu, a large bar, and lively ambiance enhanced by local music in the evenings. A non-smoking area is also available.
The menu includes soups, tapas, tacos, and a wide variety of seafood and fish dishes.
Address:
Ave. José Cedeño 171, Arecibo
Phone:
+1 (939) 297-4707
