As a country located in the Greater Antilles archipelago in and the most visited place of the Caribbean, Dominican Republic offers warm, sunny weather and gorgeous beaches practically all year round to its residents and visitors. Besides its beautiful coastal scenes, you can also explore historical attractions and there are even shooting locations for the film buffs out there. In fact, the sheer beauty of the surrounding area can make it difficult for travelers to choose which places there are worth visiting and spending a night or two. If you find yourself facing this happy problem, don’t worry, because we’re here to help you out in making your choices. Check out this list for the best places to visit in the Dominican Republic.
Tip from Content Creator
This was my first trip to a Caribbean island! Here are my recommendations for the must-visit places and activities to enjoy in the beautiful Dominican Republic:
1) Island day trip (Saona or Catalina)
2) Santo Domingo city tour with a stop at Los Tres Ojos caves and then a visit to historic places in Zona Colonial
3) Safari Tour, a day trip to the coffee and cocoa plantations, horse riding, driving through the mountains, and a visit to villages, markets, and a cigar factory
All trips departed from Punta Cana.
1. Puerto Plata (from USD 75.0)
Puerto Plata, also known as La Novia del Atlantico, is one of the major trading ports of the Dominican Republic, but it also features a number of attractions that travelers will want to check out. One such place is Damajaqua Cascades, which features 27 different waterfalls. Of course, no trip to the Dominican Republic is complete without a visit to the beach. Cabarete Beach is a great place to go to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf, and you can even try fun activities such as windsurfing and skimboarding here.
Puerto Plata City Tour and Cable Car Ride
Duration: 6.0 hour
2. La Romana (from USD 45.0)
La Romana is one of the most popular tourist drawers of the Dominican Republic because it features its own airport and is one of the places in the Caribbean where cruise ships stop. Altos de Chavón, an artists’ village established in the 15th century, is worth a visit, as is Cueva de las Maravillas, which features cave paintings of the Taino tribe, the indigenous peoples of the Greater Antilles. The resort village of Casa de Campo also features a variety of activities for tourists.
La Romana City Tour with Casa de Campo, Altos de Chavon
Duration: 4 hours
3. Santo Domingo (from USD 45.0)
Santo Domingo is the capital of the Dominican Republic and one of its oldest cities - in fact, it is considered as the oldest European city in the Americas. Its rich history makes this a great destination of choice for history buffs. Walk along Zona Colonial, or the Colonial City, where you can see the Cathedral of Santo Domingo. Another one you may want to visit is Alcazar de Colon, which was built in 1510 by the son of Christopher Columbus. While you’re in the area, be sure to visit Los Tres Ojos National Park, where you can explore a beautiful lake and three caves.
Santo Domingo Colonial Walking Tour
Duration: 4 hours
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4. Barahona
Barahona, dubbed as “the Caribbean’s Bride”, has a little something for everyone who wants to enjoy the best of what the Dominican Republic has to offer, offering fantastic beach scenes, rich history and culture, and fascinating flora and fauna. Its most easily distinguishable feature, however, is its impressive cliffs that mark the coasts in the province. In fact, it is these eye-catching attractions that make it stand out from the other places in the Dominican Republic. Among the activities that travelers can enjoy here are swimming, windsurfing, sailing, hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
5. Samana
Samana may not be the top destination that comes to mind for travelers, but that’s part of its appeal. Located about a three-hour drive from Santo Domingo, Samana is the best place to go to for those who want to enjoy a holiday away from the crowds and close to nature. Besides its picturesque beaches, you can also go island hopping here. You may also want to hike or go horseback riding to get to a waterfall. For adventure-seekers, a visit here will also mean getting the opportunity to swim with humpback whales.
6. Punta Cana
With its sugar-sand beaches and its long beach strip, it’s not hard to see why Punta Cana is one of the most visited places in the Dominican Republic. While giving visitors the opportunity to have fun enjoying the sun, sand, and surf is the biggest draw of this area, there are plenty of other activities that you can do here as well, including but not limited to sailing, snorkeling, horseback riding, spelunking, taking the cultural route to learn more about the place’s history, and even exploring a jungle. Fancy visiting a quirky museum? Head over to ChocoMuseo, which, as the name suggests, features all things chocolate.
7. Santiago De Los Caballeros
Santiago De Los Caballeros, located in the province of Santiago, is considered as the second most important city of the Dominican Republic in terms of economic importance but this area is not just a destination for businessmen. It also features a number of attractions worth checking out, including the Monument to the Heroes of the Restoration, which serves as a landmark to commemorate the independence of the Dominican Republic from Haiti. If you love the outdoors, consider exploring the hiking trails of Monumento Natural Pico Diego de Ocampo, where you will be rewarded with views of the Cibao Valley.
8. Higuey
Salvaleón de Higüey, or simply Higuey, is the capital of the La Altagracia Province. The city was founded towards the end of the 15th century and features a lot of historical and cultural attractions. At the top of the list is the picturesque Virgen de Altagracia Basílica, which houses a painting with the same name. While in the area, be sure to visit Rafael del Yuma Castle, which is just a short distance away from the city.
9. San Pedro de Macoris
San Pedro de Macoris is the name of both a province and a city in the southern portion of the Dominican Republic. The Catedral San Pedro Apostol, an eye-catching church, is worth a visit. If you’re a foodie, be sure to try pastelones (de Platano) en hojas, a banana snack. The Guavaberry drink, which is available at Christmas, is also worth trying if you’re in the area for the holidays. If you’re a fan of baseball, you’ll be pleased to know that players such as Jorge Bell and Samy Sosa are from here.
10. La Vega
Concepción de la Vega, or simply La Vega, was one of if not the first colonial settlement in the Dominican Republic, originally established as the site for a fort that guarded the route to the gold deposits of the Cibao Valley. Unfortunately, many of its buildings were devastated by an earthquake that hit it in 1562. Today, many of the ruins of the old city can still be seen. It is known for its numerous festivals such as La Vega’s Carnival, which sees a lot of visitors on a yearly basis.
11. San Cristobal
San Cristobal is the name of both the city and the province, located on the coastal side by the Caribbean Sea. It was established in the 1500s when gold was discovered in the area so expect to find beautiful beaches in the area. If you’re a fan of history, you can see several of the properties owned by the dictator Rafael Trujillo in the city. Trivia: the Constitution of the Dominican Republic was signed in San Cristobal in 1844.
12. Bonao
Bonao is the capital of Monseñor Nouel province. Because of its strategic location - being surrounded by mountains and forests - it features a number of ecotourism activities that nature lovers and adrenaline seekers would appreciate. If you’re in the Dominican Republic in February, drop by the city to get your taste of the Dominican Republic. If you have the time, visit the Jima Waterfalls National Monument, which is connected to the Jima River. You may also want to drop by Casa Museo Tiburcio, which was developed by the artist Bonao Cristhian Tiburcio and which highlights the beauty of art and architecture.
13. San Juan de la Maguana
San Juan de la Maguana, or simply San Juan, is one of the first cities established in the Dominican Republic. Founded in 1503, its name is a combination of San Juan de Bautista and Maguana, which is what the Taino called the valley. Travelers on a pilgrimage should not miss out on visiting Catedral de San Juan de la Maguana. If you enjoy being surrounded by greenery, you can spend a day exploring the national parks in the area, José Armando Bermúdez and José del Carmen Ramírez parks. There’s also la Zurza, a hot spring in the area of Las Matas de Farfán.
14. Bani
Bani, which means “abundant water” in Taino, is not just the capital of the Peravia Province, it’s regarded by many as the capital of the southern portion of the Dominican Republic (or “la capital del sur”). The town square closely resembles Spanish town layouts, complete with a park located at the center of the town. If you want to catch some sun, head over to Playa Los Almendros. If you want to know more of the town’s history, do check out the museums in the area, such as Máximo González Museum and César González Celado Museum and Historical Archive.
15. Dajabon
Dajabon is the name of both the province and the city located by the Dominican Republic-Haiti border. Because of its unique location, you will be able to visit historic places in the area, including the Monument to the Dominican War of Restoration and Border Museum. If you prefer being surrounded by nature, there are also sites here that may interest you, such as Sabana Clara Ecological Camp, El Salto Spa, Chacuey’s Wildlife Shelter, and Nalga de Maco National Park. The area actually features two different terrains - mountains and flatlands - so you can see different views depending on which part you are visiting.
16. Cotui
Founded in part because of the gold deposits in the area, Cotui is one of the oldest cities in the Dominican Republic. Nature lovers will appreciate the beauty of the area which includes the prehistoric Guácaras Táino caves and clear rivers. It is also where Presa de Hatillo, the largest artificial lake in the Caribbean, may be located. The Immaculate Conception Church, one of the oldest buildings in the city, is also worth a visit. If you want to dig deeper into the Dominican Republic’s history, head over to Sierra Prieta and look for the petroglyphs there.
17. Neyba
Neyba, also spelled Neiba, is the capital city of the Baoruco province. Its most popular attraction is Las Marías, otherwise known as Marías Spa, a natural spa that gives visitors the opportunity to cool down while enjoying the natural green scenery. If you get hungry or thirsty while on your trip to the spa, there’s an on-site bar where you can have a meal. If you want to join the town’s festivities, schedule your visit so you can attend activities such as the Patronal Feasts and the Grape Fair.
18. El Seibo
El Seibo, also spelled as Seybo, was established in 1502 by Juan de Esquivel, a conquistador. The most famous structure in the province is arguably the Santísima Cruz Basilica, built in 1556, which is valued not just for its antiquity but also for the valuable relics it houses. If you love the great outdoors, you have plenty of options to choose from in terms of activities in the mountains and the rivers. If you have the time, you can even drop by the nearby Lagunas Redonda y Limón Scientific Reserve, where you can see a variety of flora and fauna endemic to the area.
19. San Ignacio de Sabaneta
San Ignacio de Sabaneta, also known simply as Sabaneta, is located on the northwestern side of the Dominican Republic and is the capital of Santiago Rodríguez, named after one of the founders of the province. This is a good place to set up base if you want to visit activities and attractions such as Ruinas de San Ignacio, Mini-Jesuit Missions of the Guaranis, and Parque Provincial Teyu Cuare.
20. Moca
The capital of Espaillat province, Moca is dubbed as the village of heroes (“La Villa Heroica”) because of the number of individuals who came from the city to bring democracy to the Dominican Republic. It is also where the Constitution of Moca, which was intended to give the citizens more rights and freedoms, came to be in 1958. The biggest attraction of Moca is Iglesia de Corazón de Jesús, or Sacred Heart of Jesus Cathedral, a soaring cathedral which comes with pane glass windows that originally came from Italy. There are also beaches in the neighboring city of Gaspar Hernandez that you can visit if you wish to have some fun under the sun.
21. San Francisco de Macoris
Located in the eastern part of the Dominican Republic, San Francisco de Macoris is the capital of the Duarte province. It is considered as one of the most important cities in the country in terms of politics and economy, as well as one of the most prosperous. The most popular attraction in the area is Palace City Hall, which serves as the home of the local government of the town. While there, you may also wish to visit the Santa Ana Cathedral, Montecito de Getsemani, the Los Mártires park, and the Duarte park.
22. Hato Mayor del Rey
Hato Mayor del Rey is the capital of the Hato Mayor Province, which is situated in the eastern part of the country. This is a good destination for nature lovers, as visiting here will also gives them the opportunity to explore Los Haitises National Park, which features different varieties of volcanic rocks and calcareous sandstone; San Antonio de Guerra to La Romana, which has trails and boulders that were formed from the movements of glaciers; and Refugio de la Vida Silvestre Manglar de la Jina, or Jina Mangle Wildlife Refuge, which is the home of numerous flora and fauna. If you’re lucky, you may even spot humpback whales during your visit here.
23. Nagua
Posted by Goldwinger Karl Heinz on Monday, 2 January 2017
Located on the northeastern portion of the Dominican Republic, Nagua serves as the capital of the María Trinidad Sánchez province. While it may not be the biggest city in the country, it possesses more than enough beauty to make up for its size. It sees a lot of visitors yearly because of its fine, white sand beaches, with the Diamond Beach being its most popular attraction. If you want to have a little taste of history of Nagua, drop by Cabo Francés Viejo Natural Monument while you’re in the area.
24. Constanza
The Dominican Republic is generally a tropical country, being located in the Caribbean region. For those who are not used to the sunny weather, you can cool off by heading to Constanza, the coolest area in the country. While it does not feature beaches like the other parts of the Dominican Republic, it does have its own share of attractions, such as the Aguas Blancas Waterfalls. If you want to commune with nature, be sure to check out Valle Nuevo, Armando Bermúdez National Park, and José del Carmen Ramírez National Park to enjoy views of the beautiful greenery. Among the activities that visitors can enjoy in the area are hiking, horseback riding, and rafting.
25. Las Matas de Farfan
Que nuestras calles se llenen de verdor, ánimos, queremos que Las Matas de Farfan se llene de ello @lasmatas_tequieroverde
Posted by Las Matas Te quiero Verde on Sunday, 7 August 2016
Located in the San Juan Province, Las Matas de Farfán is not your typical tourist attraction, which makes this a good option if you’re a fan of going down the road less traveled. One attraction you may want to check out during your visit here is the Catanamatías caves. If you’re in the area in December, you can celebrate with the local townsfolk, as December 13 is the day where they hold a feast in honor of Saint Lucia.
26. Jimani
According to some, the frontier town of Jumani was named after a chief of the tribe that once ruled the surrounding area. The town is relatively new compared to the neighboring places and features a unique mix of cultures of the Dominican Republic and Haiti. The two countries do trading in this area. You can also try out the cuisine of both nations offered in the restaurants in town.
27. Cabral
Located in the Barahona Province, Cabral tends to be visited only as a transit point by visitors on their way to Polo or Duverge, where they can check out the beaches, rivers, lakes, mountains, and parks. The small town, however, also has its own share of attractions. Time your visit here towards the end of Easter, when a festival is held, with attendees showing up in bat-like costumes and carrying whips, ostensibly to chase away demons.
28. Elías Piña
hacia elias piña!
Posted by Aaron RF on Saturday, 14 May 2016
Elías Piña, previously called San Rafael and then Estrelleta, is a province located in the western part of the Dominican Republic, bordered by Haiti. The two countries are separated by the Artibonite River and do some trading in the province. If you love the outdoors, do check out what the Cordillera Central mountains have to offer.
29. Mao
La fortaleza más hermosa . MAO (Dominican republic )
Posted by Dominicano de corazon on Monday, 20 June 2016
Santa Cruz de Mao, or simply Mao, is located in the Valverde Province of the Dominican Republic. It takes its name from a Taino word that means “land between rivers”, which is appropriate considering that it is situated in Valle del Yaque, which features a river with the same name as the valley. While tourism is not as developed in the area compared to the other parts of the country, travelers can nonetheless enjoy views of the beautiful desert-like surroundings. Ámina National Park is worth a visit. For those who want to enjoy a bit of rest and relaxation, they can try out one of the treatments offered at Ámina Spa.
30. Salcedo
Salcedo is the capital of the Hermanas Mirabal Province. It made a mark in history for being the birthplace of the Mirabal sisters, heroines of the Dominican Republic who helped ensure the country’s democracy. In fact, the biggest attraction in town is the museum and monument that commemorates the lives of these women. Those who want to learn more about the town’s - and the country’s - history should not miss out on visiting this landmark.
Choose the Dominican Republic as your holiday destination
Whichever area you choose to visit and stay in, you can’t go wrong with spending a holiday in the Dominican Republic. After all, there is a reason why it remains the most visited country in the Caribbean. Book your flight today and see for yourself why it remains a favorite destination of holidaymakers.
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