Santo Domingo
Tours

Our most recommended things to do in Santo Domingo

Saona Island: Catamaran tour to a Dream Beach, all inclusive

Saona Island: Catamaran tour to a Dream Beach, all inclusive

The activity will start in Bayahibe, a charming fishing village and port, the starting point of all the tours to Saona Island. This is where the transfer buses will arrive, and all the participants will gather and get ready to embark on the sailing catamaran using a shuttle boat. Here, on the beach, you'll meet your guide, who will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of this wonderful experience. He'll also give you instructions for boarding, and off you go! Once everyone's on board, the magic begins as the sails rise to navigate towards the island of Saona and its heavenly beaches. The catamaran will first follow the coastline, offering a breathtaking view of the delightful landscapes of Cotubanama National Park, a preserved natural area of outstanding beauty. As you sail through the Caribbean waters, you can enjoy local rum and listen to typical music such as Merengue or Bachata, all while admiring the breathtaking colors of the water and sky. Take advantage of these relaxing moments to recharge your batteries! After about 1 hour and 45 minutes of relaxation aboard the catamaran, you'll finally arrive at Saona Island. Shuttle buses will pick you up and drop you off on a magnificent beach lined with white sand and coconut palms. If you were wondering whether paradise really exists, you'll find out here! The guide will show you the location of the bar (with open-access drinks), the toilets, the buffet, as well as the deckchairs and hammocks you can use as you please. Then it's time to make the most of the two and a half hours you'll have at your disposal on this wonderful island. It's up to you to decide whether you want to start with a swim in the turquoise waters of Saona Island, a photo shoot, or a relaxing moment at the bar with a cool beer. The choice is yours! After your meal, you can swim again or take a well-deserved nap. After these magical moments on this dream island, it's time to board a motorboat for the natural swimming pool. Here, a sandbar allows you to enjoy the shallow, translucent waters. You'll be invited to step off the boat via a small ladder to take a dip while admiring the giant starfish. As tradition requires, a Dominican rum will be offered, accompanied by local music, to round off the day in style. Then it's time to re-board the boat and return to the port of Bayahibe, where your transport will be waiting to take you back to your hotel. You can be sure that you'll return to your hotel with incredible memories of this unforgettable experience.

Punta Cana: Santo Domingo Day Trip with Tickets and Lunch

Punta Cana: Santo Domingo Day Trip with Tickets and Lunch

Santo Domingo is a magical city, full of history, culture and amazing landscapes. Explore the oldest Capital of the “New” World, Santo Domingo, the first city founded in America. This sightseeing tour shows you a city full of history and culture. A great activity for the whole family. - We will pick you up at your Hotel to start an incredible trip to Santo Domingo, during the trip you will see incredible details about the Culture of the Dominican Republic. - Upon arrival in Santo Domingo you will visit the incredible cenotes of Los Tres Ojos National Park, especially natural and magical. - You will visit the most important monuments of the City: The 1st Cathedral of America, the Alcázar de Colón and the National Pantheon, El Faro a Colón. - We will take a walk through the Colonial Zone, a romantic street, the first in America, “The Ladies”. Enjoying an ancient but picturesque panoramic view. It operates every day. Its approximate duration is 10 hours.

Saona Island: Full-Day Boat Tour with Buffet Lunch & Drinks

Saona Island: Full-Day Boat Tour with Buffet Lunch & Drinks

Climb aboard and feel the breeze as you cross the Caribbean Sea by speedboat on this full-day island excursion. Travel to the beautiful island of Saona and go for a swim in a natural pool and sandbank in the middle of the sea. Start your tour at the Cotubanamá National Park. Head to Palmilla, a natural swimming pool, and enjoy drinks as you frolic in the turquoise waters. Interact with starfish and other marine life.  Afterward, head to the island beach club for three hours of free time: laze on the beach, go swimming, or play beach volleyball. Enjoy a buffet lunch before continuing with a catamaran cruise on the calm waters.

Punta Cana: Private Transfer to or from Punta Cana Airport

Punta Cana: Private Transfer to or from Punta Cana Airport

Enjoy an excellent and elegant transportation service, from which you can choose between our private service and our vip service. Our transport covers routes throughout the Dominican territory, Santo Domingo, La Romana, Cap Cana, Punta Cana, Cabeza de Toro, Bávaro, Uvero Alto, you decide where you should go and we offer you the service you need. Our representative will pick you up at the place established by you, which will be duly identified with the company logo and with your name written on a sign. We will take you to your destination, while you enjoy your tour and the beautiful view of the Caribbean. You can also choose from a wide variety of drinks which you can optionally include in the service at an additional cost. It operates every day, 24 hours a day.

Punta Cana: All Inclusive Santo Domingo Full-Day City Tour

Punta Cana: All Inclusive Santo Domingo Full-Day City Tour

Uncover the highlights and hidden gems of Santo Domingo on a guided city tour from Bavaro or Punta Cana. Explore the wealth of colonial architecture that has led to the area being recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. After a pickup from your hotel, embark on a journey to the New World’s oldest city in America, Santo Domingo. Learn how the city was settled in the years following Christopher Columbus’ arrival in the Caribbean on his first voyage. Your first stop is The Three Eyes National Park, a nature reserve and open-air limestone cave system with a series of crystal clear lakes known as the “eyes.” Venture into a subway cave once used by the Taino Indians for their rituals. Hit the vibrant streets of Santo Domingo, mixing walking tours and bus rides to fully immerse yourself in the Dominican capital's history. From the Alcazar de Colon to the National Pantheon, and even the First Cathedral of America, dive deep into the rich heritage of this colonial city. After visiting various landmarks, take a well-deserved break at a local restaurant to indulge in a typical lunch with drinks. With your energy replenished, continue your exploration to get a glimpse of the modern area, passing by the National Palace, the seat of power in the Dominican Republic. As your tour of Santo Domingo draws to an end, return to your hotel with a newfound appreciation of its history and heritage.

Santo Domingo: Los Tres Ojos, Boca Chica & More

Santo Domingo: Los Tres Ojos, Boca Chica & More

Discover the best of Santo Domingo in this full-day tour that combines history, natural beauty, and beach relaxation. Your adventure begins at 8:00 AM in Zona Colonial, where you can meet at either La Puerta del Conde or Parque Colon (exact addresses provided after booking). Pickup is also available for guests staying in hotels within Zona Colonial. The first stop is at the Columbus Lighthouse (Faro a Colón), an impressive monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to take photos of the striking building before continuing to your next destination. The highlight of the tour is a guided visit to Los Tres Ojos, a series of caves with stunning lakes and a hidden cenote. You’ll spend about 1.5 hours exploring the three lakes, then take a scenic boat ride (included) to the fourth lake, a large cenote. While swimming is not allowed here, the breathtaking natural scenery makes it a must-see. Next, head to a lesser-known, secluded beach for some local flavor and an hour of relaxation. For the adventurous, there's a small cliff you can jump from into the clear waters. Finally, the tour takes you to Boca Chica, Santo Domingo’s most famous beach. Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch of fried fish right on the beach, with two hours to swim, relax, or rent additional beach activities. Boca Chica’s conditions can vary with the weather, but it remains a popular and picturesque stop. After drying off and changing, you’ll head back to Zona Colonial, arriving around 3:30 PM (depending on traffic).

Santo Domingo: Chocolate Tour + Optional Workshops

Santo Domingo: Chocolate Tour + Optional Workshops

Start your experience at the Holographic theater where different ghosts from the world of chocolate come to life and tell the whole story of chocolate from the beginning of the time. Find out how cocoa reached Hispaniola and traveled to the rest of the world. Next, continue to the Cocoa Plantation where you will be able to sample some cocoa fruit and feel as if you are in a real forest. Head over to the Fermentation Room where the guide will show you all the processes of fermentation and dried and its importance in creating quality chocolate. After that, be directed to the Sensory Room and be challenged to use your 5 senses for each of the ingredients that make up awesome chocolate. If you guess right, you will have the chance to taste different chocolate percentages of KahKow Organic Chocolate. Finish the tour in the glass box on the Spanish Patio where the tour guide will explain how all the machines in the factory work to produce the final product. Upgrade your experience by adding on an optional workshop to the end of your tour. In the Soap Workshop, learn how to make your own soap with a cacao butter formula made by the workers at La Esmeralda. Add a special touch with your preferred aroma. Alternatively, choose the Chocolate Workshop and create your own chocolate bar.

From Santo Domingo: Saona Island Day Trip w/ Lunch & Drinks

From Santo Domingo: Saona Island Day Trip w/ Lunch & Drinks

Saona Island is paradise on earth surrounded by white sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters and countless palm trees. This environment invites you to relax. Isla Saona is an experience of a lifetime! - We will pick you up in our transport to go from your place to Bayahibe. - We will board the Speedboat and begin your journey to Saona Island in the Caribbean Sea. - Halfway through the navigation you will have a 45-minute stop at the beautiful Natural Pool (Blue Lagoon) or sandbanks where you will be at the foot of the sea and the water only has a maximum depth of 1 meter. You can also enjoy the Starfish Sanctuary. - You will advance your trip until you reach Saona Island, where you will enjoy approximately 2 hours 45 minutes of free time to enjoy the island. - Lunch will be at 1:00 pm buffet style with various types of side dishes and meats. - At approximately 2:40 pm, you will board a beautiful catamaran to return to Bayahibe. On the catamaran, you will enjoy the party and dance with our animation for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. - At the end, our transport will be waiting for you to take you back to your hotel. Isla Saona takes place every day. Its approximate duration is 12 hours.

From Bavaro: Santo Domingo Colonial City Tour

From Bavaro: Santo Domingo Colonial City Tour

Take a trip back in time, where you will enjoy an interesting historical recount. Visit the most emblematic museums of the Dominican capital, with architectural designs dating from the time of the discovery of America. Travel in the comfort of an air-conditioned bus while a professional guide shares their knowledge about the history of European colonization in America. After your hotel pickup, head to 3 Eyes National Park, a complex of underground caves and lagoons initially inhabited by the Taino Indians. Next, set out to visit the Colonial Zone, the first permanent European settlement in America. Founded in 1502 by the Spanish colonizers, it has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.  Visit the first Cathedral of America, the Alcázar de Colón or the Palacio Virreinal de Don Diego. Get to know La Calle Las Damas, the first street on the island.  Enjoy panoramic visits to the National Palace and the Columbus Lighthouse, a monument built in memory of Christopher Columbus and where his remains rest.

Santo Domingo: Discover America's First City

Santo Domingo: Discover America's First City

Excellent choice for a historical and cultural tour! Join me on this journey through the Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo, where every step reveals a page from the past. Parque Colon : We start in the vibrant Colon Park, heart of the Colonial City. Here, history comes alive before your eyes. The imposing Catedral Primada de América, the historic City Hall and the emblematic Calle El Conde surround us. Observe the statue of Christopher Columbus, while I tell you about its importance and the talent of Ernesto Gilbert, its creator. Catedral Primada de América : Our next destination is the majestic Cathedral, dedicated to Santa María de la Encarnación. This architectural work is a treasure of art and faith, and I will show you its most significant corners, explaining its history and its relevance in Dominican spirituality. National Pantheon : We continue to the National Pantheon, a sanctuary of national memory. Here rest the remains of outstanding Dominican personalities. I will tell you about its architecture and the heroes it honors, as well as the symbolic space dedicated to the unknown soldier. Museo de las Casas Reales : Our tour then takes us to the Museo de las Casas Reales. This historic building, once a center of power in colonial times, now houses treasures that tell the story of Spanish rule in the New World. We will explore its rooms, each with its own history. Alcazar de Colon : We end at the Alcazar de Colon, an architectural jewel that evokes the life of the Columbus family and the colonial era. I will tell you about its construction, inspired by a Spanish castle, and the stories that its walls have witnessed over the centuries. Every step of this tour is designed to immerse you in the rich history and culture of Santo Domingo, so get ready for an unforgettable experience in the Colonial Zone!

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Our most recommended things to do in Santo Domingo

Saona Island: Catamaran tour to a Dream Beach, all inclusive

Saona Island: Catamaran tour to a Dream Beach, all inclusive

The activity will start in Bayahibe, a charming fishing village and port, the starting point of all the tours to Saona Island. This is where the transfer buses will arrive, and all the participants will gather and get ready to embark on the sailing catamaran using a shuttle boat. Here, on the beach, you'll meet your guide, who will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of this wonderful experience. He'll also give you instructions for boarding, and off you go! Once everyone's on board, the magic begins as the sails rise to navigate towards the island of Saona and its heavenly beaches. The catamaran will first follow the coastline, offering a breathtaking view of the delightful landscapes of Cotubanama National Park, a preserved natural area of outstanding beauty. As you sail through the Caribbean waters, you can enjoy local rum and listen to typical music such as Merengue or Bachata, all while admiring the breathtaking colors of the water and sky. Take advantage of these relaxing moments to recharge your batteries! After about 1 hour and 45 minutes of relaxation aboard the catamaran, you'll finally arrive at Saona Island. Shuttle buses will pick you up and drop you off on a magnificent beach lined with white sand and coconut palms. If you were wondering whether paradise really exists, you'll find out here! The guide will show you the location of the bar (with open-access drinks), the toilets, the buffet, as well as the deckchairs and hammocks you can use as you please. Then it's time to make the most of the two and a half hours you'll have at your disposal on this wonderful island. It's up to you to decide whether you want to start with a swim in the turquoise waters of Saona Island, a photo shoot, or a relaxing moment at the bar with a cool beer. The choice is yours! After your meal, you can swim again or take a well-deserved nap. After these magical moments on this dream island, it's time to board a motorboat for the natural swimming pool. Here, a sandbar allows you to enjoy the shallow, translucent waters. You'll be invited to step off the boat via a small ladder to take a dip while admiring the giant starfish. As tradition requires, a Dominican rum will be offered, accompanied by local music, to round off the day in style. Then it's time to re-board the boat and return to the port of Bayahibe, where your transport will be waiting to take you back to your hotel. You can be sure that you'll return to your hotel with incredible memories of this unforgettable experience.

Punta Cana: Santo Domingo Day Trip with Tickets and Lunch

Punta Cana: Santo Domingo Day Trip with Tickets and Lunch

Santo Domingo is a magical city, full of history, culture and amazing landscapes. Explore the oldest Capital of the “New” World, Santo Domingo, the first city founded in America. This sightseeing tour shows you a city full of history and culture. A great activity for the whole family. - We will pick you up at your Hotel to start an incredible trip to Santo Domingo, during the trip you will see incredible details about the Culture of the Dominican Republic. - Upon arrival in Santo Domingo you will visit the incredible cenotes of Los Tres Ojos National Park, especially natural and magical. - You will visit the most important monuments of the City: The 1st Cathedral of America, the Alcázar de Colón and the National Pantheon, El Faro a Colón. - We will take a walk through the Colonial Zone, a romantic street, the first in America, “The Ladies”. Enjoying an ancient but picturesque panoramic view. It operates every day. Its approximate duration is 10 hours.

Saona Island: Full-Day Boat Tour with Buffet Lunch & Drinks

Saona Island: Full-Day Boat Tour with Buffet Lunch & Drinks

Climb aboard and feel the breeze as you cross the Caribbean Sea by speedboat on this full-day island excursion. Travel to the beautiful island of Saona and go for a swim in a natural pool and sandbank in the middle of the sea. Start your tour at the Cotubanamá National Park. Head to Palmilla, a natural swimming pool, and enjoy drinks as you frolic in the turquoise waters. Interact with starfish and other marine life.  Afterward, head to the island beach club for three hours of free time: laze on the beach, go swimming, or play beach volleyball. Enjoy a buffet lunch before continuing with a catamaran cruise on the calm waters.

Punta Cana: Private Transfer to or from Punta Cana Airport

Punta Cana: Private Transfer to or from Punta Cana Airport

Enjoy an excellent and elegant transportation service, from which you can choose between our private service and our vip service. Our transport covers routes throughout the Dominican territory, Santo Domingo, La Romana, Cap Cana, Punta Cana, Cabeza de Toro, Bávaro, Uvero Alto, you decide where you should go and we offer you the service you need. Our representative will pick you up at the place established by you, which will be duly identified with the company logo and with your name written on a sign. We will take you to your destination, while you enjoy your tour and the beautiful view of the Caribbean. You can also choose from a wide variety of drinks which you can optionally include in the service at an additional cost. It operates every day, 24 hours a day.

Punta Cana: All Inclusive Santo Domingo Full-Day City Tour

Punta Cana: All Inclusive Santo Domingo Full-Day City Tour

Uncover the highlights and hidden gems of Santo Domingo on a guided city tour from Bavaro or Punta Cana. Explore the wealth of colonial architecture that has led to the area being recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. After a pickup from your hotel, embark on a journey to the New World’s oldest city in America, Santo Domingo. Learn how the city was settled in the years following Christopher Columbus’ arrival in the Caribbean on his first voyage. Your first stop is The Three Eyes National Park, a nature reserve and open-air limestone cave system with a series of crystal clear lakes known as the “eyes.” Venture into a subway cave once used by the Taino Indians for their rituals. Hit the vibrant streets of Santo Domingo, mixing walking tours and bus rides to fully immerse yourself in the Dominican capital's history. From the Alcazar de Colon to the National Pantheon, and even the First Cathedral of America, dive deep into the rich heritage of this colonial city. After visiting various landmarks, take a well-deserved break at a local restaurant to indulge in a typical lunch with drinks. With your energy replenished, continue your exploration to get a glimpse of the modern area, passing by the National Palace, the seat of power in the Dominican Republic. As your tour of Santo Domingo draws to an end, return to your hotel with a newfound appreciation of its history and heritage.

Santo Domingo: Los Tres Ojos, Boca Chica & More

Santo Domingo: Los Tres Ojos, Boca Chica & More

Discover the best of Santo Domingo in this full-day tour that combines history, natural beauty, and beach relaxation. Your adventure begins at 8:00 AM in Zona Colonial, where you can meet at either La Puerta del Conde or Parque Colon (exact addresses provided after booking). Pickup is also available for guests staying in hotels within Zona Colonial. The first stop is at the Columbus Lighthouse (Faro a Colón), an impressive monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to take photos of the striking building before continuing to your next destination. The highlight of the tour is a guided visit to Los Tres Ojos, a series of caves with stunning lakes and a hidden cenote. You’ll spend about 1.5 hours exploring the three lakes, then take a scenic boat ride (included) to the fourth lake, a large cenote. While swimming is not allowed here, the breathtaking natural scenery makes it a must-see. Next, head to a lesser-known, secluded beach for some local flavor and an hour of relaxation. For the adventurous, there's a small cliff you can jump from into the clear waters. Finally, the tour takes you to Boca Chica, Santo Domingo’s most famous beach. Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch of fried fish right on the beach, with two hours to swim, relax, or rent additional beach activities. Boca Chica’s conditions can vary with the weather, but it remains a popular and picturesque stop. After drying off and changing, you’ll head back to Zona Colonial, arriving around 3:30 PM (depending on traffic).

Santo Domingo: Chocolate Tour + Optional Workshops

Santo Domingo: Chocolate Tour + Optional Workshops

Start your experience at the Holographic theater where different ghosts from the world of chocolate come to life and tell the whole story of chocolate from the beginning of the time. Find out how cocoa reached Hispaniola and traveled to the rest of the world. Next, continue to the Cocoa Plantation where you will be able to sample some cocoa fruit and feel as if you are in a real forest. Head over to the Fermentation Room where the guide will show you all the processes of fermentation and dried and its importance in creating quality chocolate. After that, be directed to the Sensory Room and be challenged to use your 5 senses for each of the ingredients that make up awesome chocolate. If you guess right, you will have the chance to taste different chocolate percentages of KahKow Organic Chocolate. Finish the tour in the glass box on the Spanish Patio where the tour guide will explain how all the machines in the factory work to produce the final product. Upgrade your experience by adding on an optional workshop to the end of your tour. In the Soap Workshop, learn how to make your own soap with a cacao butter formula made by the workers at La Esmeralda. Add a special touch with your preferred aroma. Alternatively, choose the Chocolate Workshop and create your own chocolate bar.

From Santo Domingo: Saona Island Day Trip w/ Lunch & Drinks

From Santo Domingo: Saona Island Day Trip w/ Lunch & Drinks

Saona Island is paradise on earth surrounded by white sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters and countless palm trees. This environment invites you to relax. Isla Saona is an experience of a lifetime! - We will pick you up in our transport to go from your place to Bayahibe. - We will board the Speedboat and begin your journey to Saona Island in the Caribbean Sea. - Halfway through the navigation you will have a 45-minute stop at the beautiful Natural Pool (Blue Lagoon) or sandbanks where you will be at the foot of the sea and the water only has a maximum depth of 1 meter. You can also enjoy the Starfish Sanctuary. - You will advance your trip until you reach Saona Island, where you will enjoy approximately 2 hours 45 minutes of free time to enjoy the island. - Lunch will be at 1:00 pm buffet style with various types of side dishes and meats. - At approximately 2:40 pm, you will board a beautiful catamaran to return to Bayahibe. On the catamaran, you will enjoy the party and dance with our animation for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. - At the end, our transport will be waiting for you to take you back to your hotel. Isla Saona takes place every day. Its approximate duration is 12 hours.

From Bavaro: Santo Domingo Colonial City Tour

From Bavaro: Santo Domingo Colonial City Tour

Take a trip back in time, where you will enjoy an interesting historical recount. Visit the most emblematic museums of the Dominican capital, with architectural designs dating from the time of the discovery of America. Travel in the comfort of an air-conditioned bus while a professional guide shares their knowledge about the history of European colonization in America. After your hotel pickup, head to 3 Eyes National Park, a complex of underground caves and lagoons initially inhabited by the Taino Indians. Next, set out to visit the Colonial Zone, the first permanent European settlement in America. Founded in 1502 by the Spanish colonizers, it has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.  Visit the first Cathedral of America, the Alcázar de Colón or the Palacio Virreinal de Don Diego. Get to know La Calle Las Damas, the first street on the island.  Enjoy panoramic visits to the National Palace and the Columbus Lighthouse, a monument built in memory of Christopher Columbus and where his remains rest.

Santo Domingo: Discover America's First City

Santo Domingo: Discover America's First City

Excellent choice for a historical and cultural tour! Join me on this journey through the Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo, where every step reveals a page from the past. Parque Colon : We start in the vibrant Colon Park, heart of the Colonial City. Here, history comes alive before your eyes. The imposing Catedral Primada de América, the historic City Hall and the emblematic Calle El Conde surround us. Observe the statue of Christopher Columbus, while I tell you about its importance and the talent of Ernesto Gilbert, its creator. Catedral Primada de América : Our next destination is the majestic Cathedral, dedicated to Santa María de la Encarnación. This architectural work is a treasure of art and faith, and I will show you its most significant corners, explaining its history and its relevance in Dominican spirituality. National Pantheon : We continue to the National Pantheon, a sanctuary of national memory. Here rest the remains of outstanding Dominican personalities. I will tell you about its architecture and the heroes it honors, as well as the symbolic space dedicated to the unknown soldier. Museo de las Casas Reales : Our tour then takes us to the Museo de las Casas Reales. This historic building, once a center of power in colonial times, now houses treasures that tell the story of Spanish rule in the New World. We will explore its rooms, each with its own history. Alcazar de Colon : We end at the Alcazar de Colon, an architectural jewel that evokes the life of the Columbus family and the colonial era. I will tell you about its construction, inspired by a Spanish castle, and the stories that its walls have witnessed over the centuries. Every step of this tour is designed to immerse you in the rich history and culture of Santo Domingo, so get ready for an unforgettable experience in the Colonial Zone!

Frequently asked questions about Santo Domingo

What top attractions are a must-see in Santo Domingo?

The must-see attractions in Santo Domingo are:

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What are the best day trips and excursions from Santo Domingo?

The best day trips and excursions from Santo Domingo are:

See all day trips and excursions from Santo Domingo on GetYourGuide

Insider tips: Planning a trip to Santo Domingo

The capital of the Dominican Republic is often overlooked when organizing a dreamy trip to this paradise island, but according to travel blogger Check Out Sam there is plenty to experience here too! After living here for several months, he knows the in- and outs of the city and shares his best tips with you all.

What should I do on my first trip to Santo Domingo?

Head out to the Zona Colonial and explore the beautiful squares, colorful streets and rich history of Santo Domingo. Parque Colón is -in my opinion- one of the cosiest places in the old town. Plaza España is bigger and much more touristy, but oozes holiday vibes. From the latter you also get some superb views over the rest of Santo Domingo.

What are some hidden gems to see in Santo Domingo?

Want to explore Santo Domingo from above? Hop on El Teleferico! This cable car takes you along a very cheap sightseeing tour above some of the many neighborhoods of the capital city. If you want to see nature, but don't want to venture out too far away from the city, I suggest you head to Los Tres Ojos National Park. Climb down the limestone caves and see the three underground lakes of Santo Domingo.

How much time should I spend in Santo Domingo?

You can see the highlights of Santo Domingo in two days and in that time you also have enough time to relax and unwind at some of the cozy restaurants or bars. Most sights and activities take place in the Zona Colonial. If you want to organize day trips to Punta Cana, Samana or elsewhere, keep in mind that you will at least lose one full day.

What food is Santo Domingo known for? 

I'm a sucker for mangú (plantain mash) and tostones (fried plantains), but there are many more Dominican specialties where you can feast on. Make sure to try some of the spicy chicken recipes. I have no idea how they do it, but they always are tasty!

What is the best way to get around Santo Domingo?

If you only stay in the historical center, you can easily walk everywhere. If you also want to discover other parts of the city, make use of Uber. It's cheap, reliable and safe.

What are the best months to visit Santo Domingo?

Try to come outside the summer, because that also means hurricane season. Around April and May there are also less tourists, so if you want to avoid the crowds this is the time to come. During winter, there will be more visitors escaping the cold in their home countries.

What are the best neighborhoods for food? 

In the Zona Colonial you will find restaurants that cater to every taste. They are often a bit more high end (but still dirt cheap!) and thus offer clean and original seating areas, but also delicious food. Also worth mentioning: the cocktails in the historical city center are great pretty much everywhere you go!!

What are the best neighborhoods for shopping?

The best shopping possibilities are outside the Zona Colonial (unless you want to buy souvenirs). Around the Piattini neighborhood there are a lot of malls where you can find boutique stores, famous brands, but also crafts, electronic shops, etc. Make sure to visit Agora Mall: the biggest shopping mall in the Caribbean.

What neighborhood should I stay in when I visit Santo Domingo?

Zona Colonial. You'll be closest to most sights, wake up in a true Caribbean setting every morning and be in a very safe area.

What is the best family-friendly thing to do in Santo Domingo?

Go to Parque Colón and jump into the Chu Chu Colonial. This little train takes you along the most famous sights in the historical city center and gives you fun facts along the way.

What is the best thing to do in Santo Domingo for solo travelers?

Plan a few day trips (or longer!) to other regions of the Dominican Republic. It's the best way to meet other solo travelers and also a great way to explore the beauty of the Dominican Republic. I recommend going to Samana (Los Haitises, whale watching, El Limon Waterfall, ...) or beautiful Puerto Plata.

What is the best thing to do in Santo Domingo for couples?

Enjoy one of the many rooftop bars in the Zona Colonial while waiting for a famous Caribbean sunset. It really can't get more romantic!

What are the best areas for outdoor activities around Santo Domingo?

Near Santo Domingo, Los Tres Ojos National Park is the only area where you'll find some unspoiled nature. If you don't mind doing a day trip (but preferably longer), head to the Samana Peninsula for stunning hikes and spectacular wildlife. To the west (bordering Haïti), you can find the most unspoiled nature of the island.

What are the best beaches around Santo Domingo?

You are in the Dominican Republic, baby. Most beaches here are stunning! But, admittedly, the prettiest ones are not so close to Santo Domingo. If you don't mind taking the Uber or bus a little further: head to Boca Chica or Juan Dolio. Both beaches have pearly white sand and see-through water. Just what you want to see during a holiday in the Caribbean!

Top Attractions in Santo Domingo

Experiences in Santo Domingo

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What people are saying about Santo Domingo

Overall rating

4
(290 reviews)

I mean you'll read a lot about the loud music on the boat and the multiple means of transportation but: Firstly they need to get many people from multiple locations and meanwhile you are in constant contact with the tour operator, you switch bus once and stop once at gas station (here maybe pay attention since a pack of Pringles is 9 dollars). Once you get to bayahíbe you get into a speed boat to the natural swimming pool (actually a rare geme) and then to saona. There you have food and drinks, yes there are people selling you stuff (I don't know why people complain is called tourism) but a simple no gracias and you are fine. The way back is not on an actual catamaran but the fun is guaranteed, and yes the music is loud but you are in the Caribbean not on Easter Island. All in all totally recommend it.

Our tour was amazing,we learned loads of things about the area . Our guide tour was very fun and informative. This tour it’s a must if you find yourself in Santo Domingo!

It was a great Tour, I can only recommend it!!! It was well organised and safe. Thank you so much to the boys for a truly lovely day.

Awesome!! Great places near Santo Domingo and a great guide and vibes

Fantastic! The guide was very knowledgeable and very helpful!