Welcome to
Santo Domingo
The Dominican Republic’s capital city, Santo Domingo is also the most modern and dynamic metropolis in the Caribbean. La Capital—as it is affectionately called—epitomizes the pulse of Dominican culture, where the old and the new converge seamlessly from centuries old architecture and history, to large shopping malls, art galleries, an electric nightlife, and a booming gastronomy scene.
Exploring the Colonial City—the first European settlement of the Americas and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990—is a recommended experience for all travelers. This historic neighborhood consists of a pedestrian-friendly maze of narrow streets brimming with 16th to early 20th century architectural wonders. They lead toward colonial buildings turned museums, shops, hotels, restaurants, and sidewalk cafés. Hop on the Chu Chu Colonial train for a 45-minute tour of the area, hire a guide who will walk you down the first paved road of the Americas while sharing tales, or rent a bike and meander on your own. For a nature break, picnic on the lawns of the National Botanical Garden, the largest in the Caribbean, or stroll down the Malecón at sunset for sea views, roadside snacks, and people watching.
Beyond the sights, a cultural experience is never far in Santo Domingo’s eclectic neighborhoods. Shop at one of the exclusive malls or at an artisan gallery in the Colonial City—get a linen chacabana shirt, a leather handbag, or a ceramic faceless doll. Dine in style at brand hotels citywide where renowned chefs create twists on Dominican and international cuisine. Relax with a Dominican puro at one of the open terrace-bistros overlooking Plaza de España, or mingle at rooftop lounges on Gustavo Mejía Ricart Avenue. And when you’re ready for the beach, a forty-minute ride lands you onto Boca Chica’s soft, white sands facing a crystal clear Caribbean Sea, where seafood restaurants and entertainment await. Whichever your preferred beat, Santo Domingo has it.
Las Americas International Airport (SDQ) is the main port of entry, half an hour east of the city center, while the cruise ship port sits just 10 minutes from the Colonial City.
Rosario & Lolita Flores
Jazz Nights at Acrópolis
Caribe Gastronómico
Attractions in Santo Domingo
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Near the Sans Souci Port Terminal, the National Aquarium has a long shark tunnel and manatee petting area. Located beside the sea, there are benches to sit and enjoy the view. Av. España.
One of the most popular museums in the Colonial City. Completed around 1512, this Gothic and Renaissance style palace was the home of Diego Columbus, son of Christopher Columbus, and his wife María de Toledo, niece of King Ferdinand of Spain.
A forty-minute drive east of Santo Domingo, this white sand beach town offers authentic Dominican bustle: hotels and restaurants line the sand, vendors hawk wares, and fry fish shacks sell plates of red snapper, tostones, and yaniqueques.
The first commercial street in the New World remains the most popular pedestrian shopping area. Stretching over 10 blocks, this cobblestoned road is lined with restaurants, cafés, souvenir shops, and street side art vendors.
The first paved street in the Americas: Calle Las Damas or the “street of the ladies,” connects directly to the Alcazar de Colón; María de Toledo and her ladies would step out of the palace and stroll up and down Calle Las Damas in the evenings.
Capilla Nuestra Señora de Los Remedios
Originally built in the 16th century by the Dávila family, the 500-year old Gothic chapel was intended as a private religious shrine, where prominent Spanish families would congregate for prayers.
One of Santo Domingo’s and the DR’s most respected cultural centers. This historic location hosts regular art and photo exhibits, as well as movies and live music. It’s a favorite hub of creatives, from poets to writers and actors.
This colonial home restored into a museum showcases the lifestyle of 19th century middle class Dominican families, with model displays of bedroom and library furniture to a charcoal oven kitchen, sewing room, and tea lounge.
Built between 1510 and 1540, the first cathedral of the Americas continues to stand tall in all of its glory over the heart of the Colonial City. The remains of Christopher Columbus were found here in the 19th century.
The 33-meter (108-foot) tugboat is a beautiful marine habitat of coral gardens and large schools of small tropical fish, making it a great spot for advanced divers to explore.
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