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Experience the Best of Santo Domingo: Culture, Cu

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Santo Domingo

About Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the colonial-era architecture of the Zona Colonial, sample delicious local cuisine, and soak up the sun on beautiful Caribbean beaches. Book your trip to Santo Domingo now and discover this hidden gem in the heart of the Caribbean!

Santo Domingo, located in the Dominican Republic, is a beautiful travel destination that has something to offer for everyone. As the largest city in the country, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this vibrant and bustling metropolis.

One of the most popular attractions in Santo Domingo is the Zona Colonial, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This historic district is home to many beautiful colonial buildings, including the Alcázar de Colón, which was once the home of Christopher Columbus' son, Diego. The Zona Colonial is also a great place to try some of the local cuisine, including delicious seafood and traditional Dominican dishes.

For those interested in history and culture, Santo Domingo has many museums and cultural institutions to explore. The Museum of the Royal Houses, for example, offers a fascinating look into the country's colonial past, while the Museum of Modern Art showcases the best of contemporary Dominican art. The National Theater is another must-see attraction, offering a variety of performances throughout the year.

Of course, no trip to Santo Domingo would be complete without a visit to the beach. The city is home to many beautiful beaches, including Boca Chica and Juan Dolio. These beaches offer crystal clear waters and soft, white sand, making them the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.

For those looking for a more active vacation, Santo Domingo has many outdoor activities to offer as well. The city is home to many beautiful parks and gardens, as well as a variety of hiking and biking trails. And for those interested in water sports, there are plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, scuba diving, and more.

Overall, Santo Domingo is a travel destination that truly has something for everyone. Whether you're interested in history and culture, beautiful beaches, or outdoor adventure, this vibrant city is sure to delight and inspire.

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Popular Stays in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Business hotelsHotels with spaFamily hotels

Barcelo Santo Domingo

The modern Barceló Santo Domingo enjoys a convenient location in the old quarter of Santo Domingo, within walking distance from the nearest beach and the University area. It features a wooden-decked rooftop terrace with hot tub and fantastic panoramic views. Shopping facilities, entertainment venues, cafés and restaurants can be found in the surrounding area; the centre of Santo Domingo can be reached within a 20-minute drive.

Business hotelsHotels with charmHotels with spa

Crowne Plaza Santo Domingo

For the finest accommodations and hospitality, choose the Crowne Plaza Santo Domingo. Located 25 minutes from Las Americas Airport and on the main boulevard George Washington Avenue. This hotel, matched by our outstanding service and elegance, offers you the perfect stay. With 196 sea view rooms, the hotel offers excellent amenities from fine dining and modern meeting rooms to recreational options including a coffee shop, pool and spa. The Colonial Zone is only 5 minutes away, where you can see historical monuments while tasting the local cuisine of the oldest city in America. During your stay, you will find free amenities such as Wi-Fi in all rooms and public areas, a gym, business center and room service on a 24-hour service, as well as valet/self-parking. Our Nabu Restaurant is one of the best dining places in town with a variety of local and international dishes. Try the delicious pastries & coffee at Kaffetto’s and enjoy the best ambience at the lobby bar and its music. Don’t forget to try our Mojitos and Dominican Beer. The hotel, situated nearby main shopping centers, restaurants and the business district, is the perfect place for hosting events in any of the 15 meeting rooms that can hold up to 1, 200 people. Our friendly staff will be glad to welcome you to the beautiful city of Santo Domingo.

Business hotelsHotels with spaFamily hotels

El Embajador, A Royal Hideaway Hotel

With a stay at El Embajador, a Royal Hideaway Hotel in Santo Domingo (Bella Vista), you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Blue Mall and Malecon. This casino resort is 3. 7 mi (6 km) from Sambil Santo Domingo and 8 mi (12. 8 km) from Assembly Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses. Pamper yourself with a visit to the spa, which offers massages, body treatments, and facials. Gambling sorts can try their luck at the casino, while others may prefer a health club or an outdoor pool. Additional amenities at this resort include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and gift shops/newsstands. Make yourself at home in one of the 298 air-conditioned rooms featuring indoor private spa tubs and LED televisions. Your pillowtop bed comes with premium bedding. Cable programming and iPod docking stations are provided for your entertainment, while complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected. Conveniences include phones, as well as laptop-compatible safes and desks. Enjoy international cuisine at El Jardin del Embajador, one of the resort's 2 restaurants, or stay in and take advantage of the 24-hour room service. Relax with a refreshing drink from the poolside bar or one of the 3 bars/lounges. Buffet breakfasts are available daily for a fee. Featured amenities include a business center, limo/town car service, and express check-in.

Business hotelsHotels with spaSport hotelsFamily hotels

Coral Costa Caribe All Inclusive

Overlooking the warm ocean waters of the Caribbean, enjoy a limitless family-oriented vacation experience. There are fun-filled activities under the sun for all. Our activities program includes water sports and one of the best white sand and boundless turquoise water beaches. Savor an outburst of flavors with a signature Caribbean flavor. These are just some of the ways in which you will keep busy during your stay at Coral Costa Caribe. The warmth of our staff is best expressed by the careful attention given to every small detail. Cradle yourself in the midst of its lush vegetation covered by impeccable tropical gardens surrounded by tropical flowers and trees. Seek refuge in one of our comfortable guest rooms; the heart and soul of the destination is embodied in its decor.

Business hotelsBeach hotelsSport hotelsFamily hotelsDesign

Whala!Boca Chica

When you stay at whala! boca chica - All inclusive in Boca Chica, you'll be on the beach, within a 5-minute walk of Boca Chica Beach and La Matica Island. This all-inclusive property is 21. 2 mi (34. 1 km) from Malecon and 17. 6 mi (28. 4 km) from Assembly Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses. Be sure to enjoy recreational amenities including an outdoor pool and a fitness center. Additional amenities at this property include complimentary wireless internet access, a hair salon, and tour/ticket assistance. Make yourself at home in one of the 222 guestrooms featuring refrigerators. Satellite television is provided for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with bathtubs or showers feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as desks and ceiling fans. This property is all inclusive. Rates include meals and beverages at onsite dining establishments. Charges may be applied for dining at some restaurants, special dinners and dishes, some beverages, and other amenities. <p>Satisfy your appetite at one of the property's 3 restaurants. Relax with your favorite drink at the bar/lounge or the poolside bar. A complimentary buffet breakfast is served daily from 7:30 AM to 10:30 AM. </p>. Featured amenities include dry cleaning/laundry services, a 24-hour front desk, and multilingual staff. Distances are displayed to the nearest 0. 1 mile and kilometer. Boca Chica Beach - 0. 4 km / 0. 2 mi- La Matica Island - 0. 4 km / 0. 2 mi- Nautical Club of Santo Domingo - 1.

Business hotelsHotels with charmSustainable HotelDesign

Hodelpa Nicolas De Ovando

This elegant hotel is situated at the heart of the colonial town of Santo Domingo. The impressive architectural design is combined with colonial charm and contemporary design. This luxurious property dates back to the 16th century. It lies just a few minutes' driving distance away from El Conde shopping area. Intriguing attractions can be found just a short distance away. The establishment is conveniently situated just 30 km away from Las Americas Airport. Within walking distance to cathedrals, museum and other amusement activities in the Colonial City of Santo Domingo. Ideal for pre and post cruise guests, since it is only 5 minutes away from Sans Souci Port. Guests can enjoy an exceptional dining experience in the onsite restaurant and in surroundings. Other on-site facilities include an outdoor pool, a fitness centre and a bar/lounge. The hotel comprises elegant guest rooms, which offer classical style and modern conveniences. All the accommodations are equipped with minibar items, bathrobes and slippers, plus Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs with cable channels.

Hotels with charm

Hodelpa Caribe Colonial

This hotel is located in the heart of Santa Domingo's picturesque old quarter. The property lies within a few paces of countless sights and shopping opportunities. Surrounded by colonial buildings, culture and history, this hotel is sure to impress. It offers the ideal option for travellers who are eager to explore the customs and heritage of the city. This charming city hotel comprises elegantly-styled guest rooms and suites. Guests are invited to wine and dine in style, enjoying sumptuous, Dominican dishes, in the relaxing surroundings of the restaurant, followed by a refreshing drink in the bar. The hotel features a sun terrace with loungers, where guests can sit back and unwind.

Business hotels

W&P Santo Domingo Antiguo Bq Santo Domingo

This hotel lies in a peaceful setting, lying just a short distance away from the centre of Santo Domingo. The hotel is located close to Mirador Sur Park, lying within easy access of the main attractions that the area has to offer. Guests will find themselves just a short distance away from the business centre and the Colonial Quarter. Links to the public transport network are available nearby. This wonderful hotel welcomes guests with warm hospitality and excellent service. The guest rooms are tastefully appointed, and come well equipped with modern amenities. Guests are invited to take advantage of the many facilities and services that the hotel has to offer.

Things to do in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Type of specialized boats we use on our tours

Digital Voucher600 minutes

Private Boat Nature Tour of Saona Island

Our Saona Island private boat tour gets you off the beaten path allows you to discover the natural beauty of the island in a very different way. The largest island in Dominican waters, this beautiful nature preserve is very popular and gets visited by millions of tourists year round. While most of the visitors are only shown a very small portion of the island, our unique nature tour takes you away from the crowds to explore virgin beaches, mangrove forests, coastal lagoons, enjoy an amazing lunch at the sleepy fishing village of Mano Juan, visit a local turtle conservation center, and take a dip in a gorgeous sand bar in the middle of the ocean. Allow us to show you the greener, less touristy side of this pristine tropical paradise!

Digital Voucher720 minutes

Punta Cana ATV Buggies Adventure from Santo Domingo Tour

We always recommend bringing snickers, a handkerchief, and a change of clothes for this adventure because IT MIGHT GET MUDDY. With this experience, you will be able to experience firsthand what few can do when staying in Santo Domingo and going to our most visited part of the island, which is Punta Cana, where we can live the adventure of going through plantations, swallowed caves by water and enjoy the beautiful beach of Macao all this in a fantastic journey on a dune buggy.

Digital Voucher720 minutes

Scenic Wonders: Montaña Redonda & Playa Esmeralda

Experience the thrill of Montaña Redonda (Round Mountain), a must-see in Miches, Dominican Republic. This 1,000 ft mountain offers spectacular 360-degree panoramic views, perfect for stunning photos on swings and brooms, with an optional zipline adventure. On our way to the mountain, we’ll stop for photos at the Basílica Catedral Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia. After enjoying a delicious lunch atop Montaña Redonda, we’ll head to the breathtaking Playa Esmeralda for a fantastic beach experience. This unforgettable journey combines adventure, culture, and relaxation.

Chicho's Cave, National Park of the East

Digital Voucher420 minutes

National Park of the East Private Hiking Tour with Swimming

Our National Park of the East private nature tour gets you away from the hustle and bustle and into pristine forest with the best local nature guides around. Our 1.5 hour nature walk takes you through one of the most pristine forests in the Dominican Republic and visits several caves, one of which you can go swimming in. Our adventure begins on the outskirts of the quiet fishing town of Bayahibe, where people have lived and fished for over 1,000 years. Once in the area we set out on a light hike into the beautiful National Park of the East, a vast dry tropical forest and one of the largest parks in the country. We spend the morning exploring the trails and then swimming at a spectacular cave just off trail. Next, we enjoy a delicious Dominican style lunch prepared by a local family in the nearby sea side community of Bayahibe. After lunch we explore the beautiful village a bit and take you to some of our favorite spots in town before heading back.

Digital Voucher480 minutes

Night tour to Coco Bongo Punta Cana from Santo Domingo with Open Bar

Our tour offers the ultimate night experience from Santo Domingo to the vibrant Coco Bongo Punta Cana. What sets us apart is our private round-trip transportation, ensuring comfort and convenience with a restroom stop along the way. We include pickups from multiple locations: Boca Chica, Juan Dolio, La Romana, and Bayahibe. Coco Bongo Punta Cana is renowned for its electrifying shows, acrobatics, and live performances. Plus, you’ll have the chance to explore Downtown Punta Cana's variety of restaurants just steps away from the show. This is an unforgettable adventure you won’t want to miss!

Digital Voucher1 day

From Santo Domingo: Saona Island For Small Group Catamaran

We will pick you up at your hotel in Santo Domingo between 6:20 to set off for Bayahibe. Once there, we'll get on a boat heading to Saona Island and, halfway there, we'll make a short stop at a place called Blue Lagoon. On this sandbar in the middle of the water, you will have 40 minutes to relax. Also, not far away, we will see a sea star sanctuary in the middle of the Caribbean Sea. They come in all colors! Then we will finally arrive at Saona Island, where you will enjoy two hours and 45 minutes of free time to investigate this tropical paradise. Coral reefs and extensive beaches full of coconut trees and fine golden sand are waiting for you. At 1:00 p.m., we will meet at Palmera Turístico beach to recharge our batteries with a buffet lunch where you can eat pasta, salads, and rice. Enjoy! Afterwards, we will board a catamaran to make the way back while we have fun with the entertainers, music, an open bar of soft drinks and a very festive atmosphere.

Digital Voucher240 minutes

Historical City Tour Santo Domingo

The walking tour will take you to the many historical buildings and sites of the city. You will visit among others the famous first Cathedral of the “New World”, a fortress with beautiful views over the Ozama river, the first Palace of Justice and very interesting Museums where you learn more about dominican culture and history. Enjoy a refreshing drink and stroll through this colonial part of Santo Domingo in the footsteps of Columbus.

Digital Voucher240 minutes

Colonial Santo Domingo and hidden natural beauties City Tour

We will take you to the 15th-century Santo Domingo called Zona Colonial, where we will visit unique locations for photos and enter some of the most impressive museums. Cultural sights like Plaza de España and Calles las Damas (Ladies Street) got the name for having walked out of the ladies from the city every afternoon. Such unique places like the first cathedral of the new world and many other special places. This tour is unique because not only you will get to know Colonial Zone but also one of the lungs of the city for its beautiful underground lakes and green trees like Los Tres Ojos park.

Why People Love Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

9
990magdalenap
5
Mar 2022
Private Boat Nature Tour of Saona Island
Fantastic! What a wonderful day the four of us had on this excursion. Our tour guide Kiko was friendly, knowledgeable, organized, enthusiastic, well acquainted with where we were going, and ensured we had a great time. The snorkeling was amazing, the water clear and warm, the locations just the b...

5
562addisond
5
Aug 2021
Private Boat Nature Tour of Saona Island
Spent two days in the Dominican Republic with Manny. He’s as wonderful and professional as they come. Literally the two days I spent with him are the reason I will return to the Dominican Republic. Had such a special time with him, that on our final day I proposed (she said yes)! A day/trip I’ll ...

S
SusianeCarvalho
5
Jul 2021
Private Boat Nature Tour of Saona Island
Manny was incredible! Super patience and always has good answers to our questions. The tour is stunning and definitely worth it. Don't be scare because of the car travelling time, is an amazing opportunity to ask questions and get to know more about the entire city. Use the time to take advantage...

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Frequently Asked Questions about Santo Domingo

What are the top activities to do in Santo Domingo?

Santo Domingo is a vibrant city with plenty to see and do. Some of the top activities include visiting the Zona Colonial, exploring the Alczar de Coln, and taking a stroll along the Malecn. You can also enjoy a day trip to Boca Chica beach or explore the history and art at the Museum of Modern Art.

What are the must-visit attractions in Santo Domingo?

The Zona Colonial is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit attraction in Santo Domingo. Other top attractions include the Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor, the National Palace, and the Columbus Lighthouse. You should also check out the Botanical Gardens and the National Aquarium.

What are some family-friendly activities in Santo Domingo?

There are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy in Santo Domingo. The National Zoo is a great option, as is the National Aquarium. You can also take a trip to the beach at Boca Chica or explore the history and art at the Museum of Modern Art. Kids will love the interactive exhibits at the Children's Museum.

What are some outdoor activities in Santo Domingo?

There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in Santo Domingo. You can take a stroll along the Malecn, which is a scenic oceanfront boardwalk. You can also visit the Botanical Gardens or take a day trip to the Los Haitises National Park. For a more active adventure, try hiking to the top of Isabel de Torres.

What are some romantic activities to do in Santo Domingo?

Santo Domingo is a great destination for a romantic getaway. You can stroll hand-in-hand through the Zona Colonial or take a sunset walk along the Malecn. You can also take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city or enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the many excellent restaurants in the city.

What are some cultural activities in Santo Domingo?

Santo Domingo has a rich cultural heritage, and there are plenty of activities to explore that heritage. You can visit the Alczar de Coln, which was once the home of Christopher Columbus's son. You can also explore the many museums in the city, including the Museum of Modern Art and the Museum of the Royal Houses.

What are some budget-friendly activities in Santo Domingo?

There are plenty of budget-friendly activities to enjoy in Santo Domingo. You can take a stroll through the Zona Colonial, which is free to visit. You can also visit the many parks and gardens in the city, including the Botanical Gardens and the Mirador Sur Park. The National Aquarium is also a great option for budget-conscious travelers.

What are some luxury activities in Santo Domingo?

Santo Domingo has plenty of luxury activities for travelers looking to indulge. You can stay in a five-star hotel, such as the JW Marriott Hotel Santo Domingo or the Billini Hotel. You can also dine at some of the city's top restaurants, such as the Michelin-starred Mamey or the trendy SBG.

What are some popular day trips from Santo Domingo?

There are many great day trips you can take from Santo Domingo. You can visit the beaches of Boca Chica or take a trip to the Los Haitises National Park. You can also explore the charming town of Altos de Chavn, which is modeled after a 16th-century Mediterranean village.

What are some recommended accommodations in Santo Domingo?

Santo Domingo has many great accommodations to choose from. Some of the top options include the JW Marriott Hotel Santo Domingo, the Billini Hotel, and the Hodelpa Nicols de Ovando. You can also find plenty of budget-friendly options, such as the Hotel Conde de Pealba and the Casa Naemie.

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