If you’re craving a destination packed with old-world charm, coastal beauty, and stories that stretch across centuries, a visit to Saint Augustine is just what you need. As the oldest city in the U.S., this charming Florida town has been enchanting visitors since 1565. With its cobblestone streets, Spanish colonial architecture, and breezy waterfronts, Saint Augustine offers a one-of-a-kind blend of history, mystery, and fun.
But it’s not all about the past. Saint Augustine is a city that lives and breathes its history while serving up vibrant culture, art, ghost stories, and tasty eats. Whether planning a weekend getaway or passing through on a Florida road trip, a Saint Augustine tour is necessary for travelers who love rich stories and scenic strolls.
In this blog, we’ll share the best experiences in Saint Augustine—from can’t-miss landmarks to hidden gems—and show you how to explore them at your own pace.
Best Tours to Take in Saint Augustine
Saint Augustine is built for exploring. Compact, walkable, and with surprises around every corner, this city has no shortage of incredible tours. Here’s a rundown of some top options—and why a self-guided adventure may be your best bet.
1. Explore On Your Terms: Self-Guided Walking Tour
With so much to see, a Saint Augustine walking tour is a fantastic way to take it all in. Instead of sticking to a rigid group schedule, why not explore at your own pace with a self-guided audio tour from Action Tour Guide? Using GPS, your phone becomes your storyteller, narrating each stop as you walk—from the Old City Gates to the historic Plaza de la Constitución. You’ll learn about pirate raids, Spanish settlements, and surprising landmarks—without the pressure of a crowd.
2. History You Can Feel
Saint Augustine is a history lover’s paradise, and a history tour will dive into everything- from the Spanish colonists to Henry Flagler’s Gilded Age legacy. Discover how the city was founded decades before Jamestown, explore centuries-old churches, and walk past spots that played key roles in the Civil Rights Movement. With a self-guided tour, you can pause and absorb these stories at your own pace.
3. Ghostly Legends and Haunted Streets
As the sun sets and the lanterns flicker to life, the atmosphere in Saint Augustine shifts. This is when the Saint Augustine ghost tour comes to life, guiding you through eerie alleys, historic cemeteries, and haunted buildings. While many group tours are available, Action Tour Guide’s ghostly tales are included right in the walking tour, letting you discover the city’s spooky side whenever the mood strikes.
4. All the Highlights, None of the Rush
Action Tour Guide’s self-guided app tour is ideal for travelers who want flexibility. Explore iconic landmarks like the Tolomato Cemetery, Flagler College, and the Governor’s House, and stop wherever you want for snacks, photos, or shopping on St. George Street. You’re not tied to a group, and there’s no need to check a schedule. It’s your tour, your pace.
Must-Visit Landmarks in Saint Augustine
Saint Augustine is packed with historic treasures and with curiosity, you’ll uncover even more than what’s listed in the guidebooks. Here are the steps you absolutely shouldn’t miss (and yes, they’re all part of the self-guided tour).
Castillo de San Marcos: This towering fortress overlooking the bay is the crown jewel of the city. A Castillo de San Marcos tour reveals how the Spanish built this coquina-stone stronghold in the late 1600s to protect their new colony. With panoramic views and centuries of history etched into its walls, it’s an unmissable stop. Be sure to check out the drawbridge and cannons!
Old City Gates: Once the main entrance to the walled city, these gates are steeped in history and ghost stories. Today, they welcome visitors to the historic district, and walking through them feels like stepping back in time. The Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse sits nearby and adds even more old-world charm.
Plaza de la Constitución: This lively Plaza is the heart of the historic district and one of the oldest public spaces in the country. It’s surrounded by key landmarks like the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Augustine, Government House, and the Slave Market, all of which hold important places in American and Floridian history.
Flagler College: Originally the Ponce de León Hotel, this stunning building was the brainchild of industrialist Henry Flagler. With its domes, courtyards, and intricate stained glass by Louis Comfort Tiffany, it’s one of the most photographed spots in town. Don’t forget to stop and admire the mosaic tilework at the entrance.
Tolomato Cemetery: This quiet, walled cemetery holds centuries of stories. As the final resting place of prominent citizens from the city’s early days- including Civil War soldiers and formerly enslaved people- it offers a reflective, solemn stop. It’s also one of the city’s most active paranormal locations, so keep an ear out!
St. George Street: Bustling, colorful, and full of surprises, St. George Street is the ultimate hub for shopping, dining, and people-watching. Along the way, you’ll find historic homes, colonial relics, and delightful side alleys that lead to hidden courtyards and sweet-smelling bakeries.
Best Time to Visit & Travel Tips
The best time to visit Saint Augustine is in the spring or fall. From March to May and September to November, the weather is pleasant, the humidity is lower, and the city feels alive without overcrowding. Winter is mild and festive, especially during the Nights of Lights celebration, while summer brings the heat (and larger crowds).
Travel Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Start early to beat the heat and enjoy quieter streets.
- Download your self-guided tour in advance so you can explore offline.
- Wear comfy shoes—cobblestones are charming but unforgiving!
- Bring a water bottle and sunscreen, especially in summer.
- Check for local events like art festivals or reenactments for extra flair during your trip.
Bonus tip: Many museums and attractions offer discounts when purchased online or in combo passes—so a little planning ahead can save you time and money.
Conclusion
Saint Augustine isn’t just the oldest city in the country—it’s one of the most fascinating. With cobbled lanes that echo with colonial footsteps, forts that withstood cannon fire, and legends that still linger after dark, this town has stories around every corner.
A Saint Augustine tour through Action Tour Guide lets you experience those stories your way—on your schedule. From historic plazas to haunted cemeteries, from the mighty Castillo to the lively hum of St. George Street, this walkable city reveals its soul as you explore.
With so many things to do in Saint Augustine, there’s never a dull moment. Whether you’re here for the architecture, the ghost stories, or just a chance to stroll and soak in the ambiance, you’ll leave with memories (and photos) that last long after the trip ends.
So, if you’re ready to explore Saint Augustine at your own pace, download the Action Tour Guide app and step into the stories that built America’s oldest city.
Frequently Asked Questions
