One of the oldest cities in the Caribbean, Santo Domingo is the capital city of the Dominican Republic. The city is home to the historic cobblestoned Zonal Colonial which has buildings dating back to the 1500s. Plaza de Espana is lined with amazing cafes. It is the perfect place for locals and tourists to enjoy shopping, but if you are looking for something more into sightseeing, Alcazar de Colon Palace, now a museum showcasing magnificent medieval and Renaissance art, is the best place to visit. Santo Domingo boasts amazing beaches and breathtaking vacation rentals and amazing hotels, attracting tourists from around the globe to come and have a taste of the Caribbean beach and the tranquillity it offers. There are Airbnbs with a pool as well that offer both comfort and style. Plan your trip and continue reading about the top things to do in Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic.
1. Watch at show at Microteatro Santo Domingo
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Watching a show at Microteatro Santo Domingo in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, is a unique and captivating activity that immerses you in the world of micro-theater. This innovative theater concept delivers short, 15-minute plays in small, intimate settings, creating an intimate and immersive experience for the audience.
Microteatro Santo Domingo showcases diverse theatrical productions, from comedy and drama to thrillers and romance. The compact theaters allow for a close connection with the actors, enhancing the emotional impact of each performance. The dynamic and ever-changing repertoire ensures that each visit offers something fresh and exciting.
Microteatro Santo Domingo
Address: C. José Reyes 149, Santo Domingo 10211, Dominican Republic
Website: Microteatro Santo Domingo
2. Visit Quinta Dominica
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Presentación del libro “Historias de una Colección Arqueológica” de la fundación Nicole Et Pierre Domino. El acto...
Posted by Quinta Dominica on Tuesday, May 23, 2023
Visiting Quinta Dominica is one of the must-try activities in Santo Domingo that offers a glimpse into the city’s historical and cultural heritage. Quinta Dominica is a beautifully preserved colonial mansion dating back to the 16th century and serves as a living museum of Dominican history.
As you explore the elegant rooms and courtyards, you’ll be transported back in time, experiencing the grandeur and charm of the colonial era. The mansion’s architecture, period furnishings, and well-preserved artifacts provide a fascinating insight into the lifestyle of the Dominican elite during that era. Quinta Dominica also hosts cultural events, exhibitions, and educational programs, further enriching the visitor’s experience. The lush gardens surrounding the mansion offer a serene oasis in the heart of the bustling city.
Visit Quinta Dominica
Address: Capilla de la Tercera Orden Dominica, C. Padre Billini 202, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic
Website: Visit Quinta Dominica
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9:30am - 6pm; (closed on Sun)
3. Explore one of the oldest cities - Santo Domingo (from USD 95.0)
Venture on a 10-hour journey exploring Santo Domingo, one of the oldest cities in the US. With the help of your guide, your mission will be to catch a glimpse of some of the most famous attractions in the area including Las Damas Street, fifth-century colonial monuments and the famous Diego Columbus Alcazar, the first-ever cathedral in the new world. Stop at the National Presidential Palace and enjoy the stunning views of the town centre. Before heading out for lunch to one of the traditional Dominican restaurants, make sure you shop for souvenirs at a local market.
Historical Santo Domingo Day Trip from Punta Cana
Duration: 11 hours
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4. Visit the Wax Museum Juan Pablo Duarte
This wax museum houses life-sized figures. The models pose behind glass boxes. They exhibit the life trajectory of Juan Pablo Duarte from his birth onwards. It highlights his fight for freedom from Haiti. The second level of the building was their home with antique furniture, marvellous paintings, and wax models of the members of the Duarte family. The courtyard walls display plaques of Duarte quotes. It also showcases a coat of arms.
Wax Museum Juan Pablo Duarte
Address: Calle Isabel La Católica # 304, Santo Domingo 10212, Dominican Republic
Website: Museum Juan Pablo Duarte
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
5. See the highlights of 500-year-old Colonial Zone (from USD 499.0)
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992, Santo Domingo is a city with many “firsts” in the New World - the first cathedral, paved road, university, hospital, stone home, and tavern, just to mention a few. Completed in 1514, Columbus Palace was the home of Christopher Columbus’ son, Diego. Walk through the historic Plaza de España as you find your way to the first paved street of Calle Las Damas. Catedral de Santa Maria La Menor is the ultimate destination as it is one of the most important sites in the Dominican Republic; the first cathedral of the New World.
Santo Domingo Colonial Zone Private Tour
Duration: 6 to 8 hours
6. Pay a visit to Mercado Modelo
If you are into shopping or you just need to shop for your house, the Mercado Modelo is the main centre of wholesale trade of fruits, vegetables and farm products coming all the way from Uruguay. This popular market attracts both locals and tourists who flood to the market pumping life into the market space. Grab your shopping bag and write down the grocery list.
Mercado Modelo
Address: Av. Mella, Santo Domingo 10211, Dominican Republic
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 6pm; Sun: 7am - 1pm (closed on Sat)
7. Learn to cook Dominican dishes (from USD 58.0)
Learning to cook speciality dishes at a Dominican home and dining with a charming localite is certainly one of the fun things to do in Santo Domingo. If you pay attention you get to learn the tricks, recipes, and techniques Dominicans use to prepare some of the best authentic local dishes. You also get a peek into the lifestyle and culture of the people here and cherish a hands-on culinary experience. The ingredients you require will be readily available at the home you will cook in.
Cook Traditional Dominican Cuisine with a Charming Grandmother in Santo Domingo
Duration: 3 hours
8. Swing by Dr. Rafael Ma. Moscoso National Botanical Garden
Founded in 1976 and named after the accomplished Dominican botanist, Dr. Rafael M. Moscoso National Botanical Garden sits on a large piece of land covering 400 acres (160 hectares). The park is the right place to check out birds and vegetation native to the island. This botanical garden features collections of ferns, palms, and over 300 types of orchids. The park is also a popular destination for bird watchers, as a wide variety make home in the Dominican Republic. Species such as the Hispaniolan woodpecker, Limpkin, and the West Indian Whistling-duck can be seen here among the lush and verdant vegetation. A traditional Japanese garden can also be found on the premises.
Dr. Rafael Ma. Moscoso National Botanical Garden
Address: Av República de Colombia, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Website: Dr. Rafael Ma. Moscoso National Botanical Garden
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
9. Learn about the lakes at The 3 Eyes National Park
Located about 10 minutes by car from the popular Colonial Zone the 3 Eyes National Park is a nature reserve and open-air limestone cave system with a series of crystal-clear lakes known as the “eyes”. The park provides a tranquil respite from the hustle and bustle of the busy city. The caves offer deeper insights into the pre-colonial and ancestral origins of the Dominican Republic. As you enter the park and find your way down its many steps, you get to explore an expansive cave system not forgetting the three different freshwater lakes that resemble three “eyes”.
The 3 Eyes National Park
Address: Calle Marginal Las Americas Este, Santo Domingo Este 11604, Dominican Republic
Website: The 3 Eyes National Park
10. Admire the architecture of National Pantheon of the Dominican Republic
Take a moment and admire the neoclassical-Renaissance style architecture at National Pantheon of the Dominican Republic. Originally a Jesuit church dating back to 1714, this building was used to hold masses between 1746 and 1767. It was later used as a tobacco warehouse, a theatre thereafter, until the building was restored in 1956 by dictator Rafael Trujillo for its current usage as a national mausoleum. Today, it is the place where the country’s most famous persons are honoured. It is said that the church was completed in 1755, but according to documents the church was in use since 1746. Starting from 1767, the temple and its annexes were used in the following chronological order: warehouse, housing for the San Fernando seminar, public office and a theatre for the independence fighters in 1860. In July 1956, it was converted into the National Pantheon of the Republic.
National Pantheon of the Dominican Republic
Address: Calle Las Damas, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic
Website: National Pantheon of the Dominican Republic
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
11. Marvel at the artwork in Alcazar de Colon
One of the best places to visit in San Domingo, the Dominican Republic, Alcazar de Colon or better known as Columbus Alcazar is part of the Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo World Heritage site and the oldest Viceregal residence in America. This gothic Renaissance palace was built between 1510 and 1514 and is home to Museo de Diego Colon, an exquisite exhibition of the Caribbean’s most precious collection of European late medieval and renaissance works of art.
Alcazar de Colon
Address: Plaza de España, Calle La Atarazana 2, Santo Domingo 10212, Dominican Republic
Website: Alcazar de Colon
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 4pm (closed on Mon)
12. Have a look inside Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor
Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor was established in the 1500s. Its historic significance makes a most-visited tourist attraction in the country. The building itself is a mixture of different architectural styles. The exterior of the building shows elements from the Renaissance period while its interior has facets of a Gothic design. Tours of the cathedral are conducted regularly with access to the interior, exterior and extended grounds.
Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor
Address: Callejón de los Curas, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
13. Delve into the history at Museum of the Royal Houses
The Royal Houses, built in 1511, were initially administrative offices. They used by the governors of the Indies. Rafael Trujillo, the dictator, assumed office at the Royal Houses. The premises also house an antique collection of weapons. Other items of interest in this building range from antique furniture with historical value, treasures found from under the ocean, Taino artifacts, and more.
Museum of the Royal Houses
Address: Calle Las Damas Ubicado en el centro de la Fortaleza Ozama, Santo Domingo 10212, Dominican Republic
Website: Museum of the Royal Houses
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 4pm (closed on Mon)
14. Catch a live baseball match at Estadio Quisqueya
Estadio Quisqueya is home ground for the blues and the reds, Tigres del Licey and Leones del Escogido, respectively. Located centrally on Av. Tiradentes, this stadium can be easily accessed from major city hotels and guest houses. The baseball championship of 2013 was won by the reds. The last time the blues won a championship was in 2009. Near the Boca Chica hotels, the display features memorabilia from World Baseball Classic won by the Dominican Republic in 2013. It also showcases baseball bats and balls donated by Dominican MLB players during historic moments.
Estadio Quisqueya
Address: Ens. La Fé, Av. Tiradentes, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
15. Stop by the cafes at Plaza de la Hispanidad
Surrounded by cafes, restaurants and bars, the square called Plaza de la Hispanidad is located right the front Alcazar de Colon, also known as the Columbus Fortress. This monumental square is home to Nicolas de Ovando’s statue, the founder of the city and can be found just near the river banks. Once the sun sets, this is when the beauty and life of Dominican Republic comes out blossoming into an amazing paradise in America.
Plaza de la Hispanidad
Address: Calle La Atarazana 2, Santo Domingo 10212, Dominican Republic
Website: Plaza de la Hispanidad
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
16. Ride the Chu Chu Colonial sightseeing trolley
This is basically a train that offers 45-minute tours through Ciudad Colonial. It exposes you to its 500-years-old history, thanks to the audio guides available in seven different languages. Hear the stories of the elusive characters buried in Casa del Tapao, marvel at the Colonial churches, as you enjoy a lovely sightseeing tour. The tours start in El Conde Street. Travel back to 500 years ago as you ride a colonial train while enriching yourself.
Chu Chu Colonial
Address: Calle Isabel La Católica, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 5pm; Sun: 10am - 6pm
17. Check out the architectural sculptures at Parque Colón
Other than the Catedral Primada de America, Parque Colon, the city’s historical park is home to several statues including a large statue of admiral Columbus. The serenity and tranquillity of this historic park attracts locals, tourists, even hawkers creating an illusion of a small village within a city. The corner of Arzobispo Merino and Calle El Conde offers the perfect spot to catch a glimpse of the picturesque Zona Colonial.
Parque Colón
Address: Calle Isabel La Católica, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic
Website: Parque Colón
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
18. Pop in at ChocoMuseo
ChocoMuseo was designed to share knowledge about cacao. The interactions are personal (that is, with direct interaction between staff and clients) and hands-on. They have a production area in each boutique, open for you to see. It’s fun to watch their production methods and everyday operations. It also brings a fair share of challenges, for example maintaining sanitary standards, as they receive hundreds of visitors a day.
ChocoMuseo
Address: Calle Arzobispo Meriño 254, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic
Website: ChocoMuseo
19. Browse through the branded stores at Agora Mall
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Ágora Mall on Wednesday, January 13, 2021
Come and marvel at one of the most beautiful malls in Santo Domingo that will truly take your breath away. The Agora Mall boasts an outdoor area with breathtaking views from the fourth floor of the mall. It is the perfect spot for guests to enjoy their meals or a drink while basking in the sun. Shop at one of the fashion stores, antiquities shops, or simply grab some food or drink to re-energize. There are a number of amazing fast-food eateries, cafes, restaurants, and ice cream parlours that you can choose from.
Agora Mall
Address: Av. John F. Kennedy, Santo Domingo 10129, Dominican Republic
Website: Agora Mall
Opening hours: 9am - 9pm (daily)
20. Capture the colourful wooden houses in a frame
One of the beautiful wooden homes in the Colonial Zone. This one is located on the hill of Calle Hostos. Some history of Calle Hostos https://www.colonialzone-dr.com/calle-hostos/
Posted by Colonial Zone, Dominican Republic on Thursday, 4 July 2019
Santo Domingo’s most historic neighbourhood is also its most romantic, lively, and cultural. Once the home of Spanish colonialists, who built the walled city as a model for the rest of the Americas, it’s an area brimming with museums, churches, shopping, theatre, restaurants, and parks. Stay in a former colonial home turned boutique hotel, stroll the pedestrian Calle El Conde, and dine at plazas. Along the way, visit the oldest sites in the Americas.
Zona Colonial
Address: Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
21. Meet the animals at Parque Zoológico Nacional
The National Zoological Park of the Dominican Republic suffices an educational need in the country. The idea of a modern zoo was an initiative taken in April 1972. It was implemented by architects Eugenio Pérez Montás and Manuel Valverde Podestá in September in the same year.
Parque Zoológico Nacional
Address: Avenida de la Vega Real, Arroyo Hondo Distrito Nacional, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Website: Parque Zoológico Nacional
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
22. Dine at El Mesón de la Cava
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
The Mesón de la Cava opened its doors for the first time in 1967, since then it has been one of the most distinguished restaurants applauded by both the locals and tourists who visit from all over the world. This unique restaurant is located in a natural limestone cave, created by the action of the waves when millions of years ago the coast hugged this cliff. These caverns were inhabited by different types of people at different timelines in history.
El Mesón de la Cava
Address: Av. Mirador Sur 1, Santo Domingo 00000, Dominican Republic
Website: El Mesón de la Cava
Opening hours: 12pm - 12am (daily)
23. Try some unique drinks at Caciba Bar
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
For the year 2006 there were few places in the Dominican Republic where you could listen to rock music. The market was dominated by native rhythms such as merengue and bachata or others such as salsa and bolero and the rising wave of reggaeton, violent mambo, dembow, perreo and a few more variants, all located within the genre of urban music. At that time, the nightlife was dominated by people who for some reason or the other preferred rock music. This means that there were helpless ear craving for more. The ear of the true rock enthusiast, who was not satisfied with what played at the country’s radio stations. These listeners depended on travel to please his ears. Thinking about this large group of people, eager to have a bar where they can go and enjoy true rock music, Caciba Bar was born.
Caciba Bar
Address: Calle Mercedes 319, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic
Website: Caciba Bar
Opening hours: Sun, Tue, Wed: 8am - 1am; Thu: 8am - 4am; Fri - Sat: 8am - 3am
24. Dance to the DJ's beats at Mamma Club
If you consider yourself a dancer or you have two left feet and you are so eager to shake what your mama gave you then you have to visit Mama Club and have a taste of Santo Domingo’s nightlife. From the amazing drinks and tasty cocktails, Mama Club knows how to keep you coming back for more. Its rustic interior decor and perfect lighting sets the perfect mood for a party night.
Mamma Club
Address: Avenida Gustavo Mejía Ricart 75, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Website: Mamma Club
25. Tee off at Cayacoa Golf Club
For a wonderful time with your friends, this is the best spot in town. Make the most of your early mornings as you play a fantastic round of golf in the Dominican Republic. The club offers you ample amenities for a great experience. Alternatively, you could turn up for the various tournaments held at this club. Cayacoa Golf Club is one-of-a-kind in town for members and visitors to have a good time in Santo Domingo.
Cayacoa Golf Club
Address: Carretera a Palamara, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Website: Cayacoa Golf Club
Opening hours: 9am - 10pm (daily)
26. Knock down some pins at Sebelen Bowling Center
If you have never paid bowling before then its time you stop imagining it and visit Sebelen Bowling Center and try knocking down some pins. From the ecstatic crowd to the amazing ambience, the facility sets the perfect gaming mood. The customer service is impeccable and the food will always have you licking your lips in satisfaction. If you lack the proper equipment for bowling, no worries, at a fee you will get your right size.
Sebelen Entertainment Center
Address: Av. Abraham Lincoln, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Website: Sebelen Entertainment Center
27. Relax and rejuvenate at Virginia Spa
Virginia Spa is the first Spa in the Dominican Republic, a magical oasis of peace and serenity with the benefits of an ancient art and tradition. Massages, essential oils, masks, treatment with seaweed, aromatherapy, hydromassages among others, are the services guests enjoy. Experience the care that provides well-being to the body and your spirit, because once achieved, beauty and balance will radiate throughout your being.
Virginia Spa
Address: Plaza Nuevo Sol, Calle Dr Jacinto Ignacio Mañón 41, Santo Domingo 10126, Dominican Republic
Website: Virginia Spa
28. Go on a Trikke ride along the streets of Santo Domingo (from USD 46.0)
Ride a Trikke, which is a three-wheeled electric scooter. At first, watch a wonderful 4D movie that showcases the history of the city. Once you gain enough knowhow, zip around the city with a guide. Make a stop at each relevant attraction as you cover almost the entire city on a Trikke. Use safety equipment to safeguard yourself from accidents, and hire a guide to open up to the city like a localite.
Santo Domingo Trikke City Tour
Duration: 90 to 120 minutes
29. Spend some time at Columbus Lighthouse (from USD 70.0)
Are you new in Santo Domingo? Then you have to spend at least half of your day at Columbus Lighthouse where lay Christopher Columbus’ remains. The Columbus Lighthouse is a spectacular 10-story monument dedicated to the explorer. The monument is constructed in a lighthouse style. It has projecting beams of light that form the shape of a cross. These lights are so powerful that they are visible even from Puerto Rico. The establishment is not only a mausoleum but also a museum exhibiting items such as a Cuban boat and Colombian jewellery.
Columbus Lighthouse and Three Eyes National Park Tour
Duration: 3 hours
30. Check out Ciudad Colonial (Colonial City) (from USD 45.0)
When in Santo Domingo, explore the Colonial Zone, an UNESCO World Heritage site. The zone is a tourist spot today and a major attraction from people around the world. This area consists of different places that were constructed by Spanish people in the colonial times. There are over 300 attractions in the area that include historical characters, cultural monuments, homes of eminent personalities from the colonial time and important streets such as Las Damas street.
Santo Domingo Colonial Walking Tour
Duration: 4 hours
31. Experience the siege of Santo Domingo (from USD 5.0)
Immerse yourself in a 4D cinema as you witness the reenactment of the Battle of Santo Domingo. Enjoy the physical and virtual world of 1586 city invasion of Santo Domingo lead by Sir Francis Drake. Watch out for this fearsome pirate as he storms the city. The movie is translated into nine languages for guests to enjoy. This 4D experience provides visitors and tourists with a sneak preview of the Colonial City of Santo Domingo. You get to expand your knowledge of the city’s history, culture and values through world-class technology. Much to your delight, you get to participate in a fully interactive and multi-sensory experience, one that includes a 3D movie with outstanding features such as motion seats, wind, mist, fog, heat and even bubbles, giving you a real-life experience.
The Battle of Santo Domingo 4D Movie Experience
Duration: 10 to 20 minutes
32. Make an exclusive stop at Tres Ojos National Park (from USD 101.0)
Tres Ojos National Park, also known as The 3 Eyes National Park, is located only 5 mi (8.05 km) from Santo Domingo, in a beautiful natural setting. The park gets its name from the three eye-shaped underground lakes inside caverns. The shape was formed due to a rare natural phenomenon whereby the rivers raised until the formation of the three lakes. This magnificent natural process happened thousands of years ago. With the crystalline waters of the three lakes comes a rich fauna where you can find bats, ferns and fish. Historical evidence left behind shows that the caves were used for several different purposes among magical religious activities.
Santo Domingo City Tour from Punta Cana
Through the streets of Santo Domingo
From amazing national reserves and outstanding heritage sites to famous places in the Dominican Republic, the capital has it all. Have a taste of the city’s culture, tradition, and its amazing cuisines, all after an amazing tour of the city. With a list of these amazing places to visit and things to do, your stay in Santo Domingo should be an experience to relive. Start planning your trip today!
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