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Travel Guide to Santo Domingo

Discover the timeless charm and vibrant life of Santo Domingo, the oldest European settlement in the Americas, where history meets modern Caribbean culture.

Santo Domingo: The Heartbeat of the Caribbean

Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, is a city brimming with history, culture, and vibrant life. As the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the Americas, it offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern dynamism. Wander through the Zona Colonial, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where cobblestone streets are lined with well-preserved Spanish colonial buildings, including the first cathedral of the New World. History enthusiasts will find a treasure trove of museums, fortresses, and plazas that tell the story of the city's rich past. Beyond its historical allure, Santo Domingo pulses with contemporary energy. The Malecón, a bustling seaside boulevard, is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. Here, you can enjoy stunning ocean views, savor delicious Dominican cuisine, and experience the city's lively nightlife. The city's vibrant arts scene is showcased in its galleries, theaters, and public art installations, making it a cultural hub in the Caribbean. For those seeking a more laid-back experience, the city's lush parks and gardens provide a refreshing escape. The National Botanical Garden and Los Tres Ojos, a series of limestone caves and lakes, offer natural beauty and tranquility. With its warm climate, friendly people, and diverse attractions, Santo Domingo is a destination that promises to captivate and inspire every traveler.

Local tips in Santo Domingo

  • Visit the Zona Colonial early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful stroll through its historic streets.
  • Try the local dish 'La Bandera'—a traditional meal consisting of rice, beans, and meat, often served with fried plantains.
  • Take a sunset walk along the Malecón for breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.
  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases; locals appreciate the effort and it will enhance your experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as many of the city’s attractions involve walking on cobblestone streets.
  • Stay hydrated and use sunscreen; the tropical climate can be intense, especially during the midday hours.
  • Visit local markets like Mercado Modelo for unique souvenirs and a taste of local life.
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Neighbourhoods in Santo Domingo

What to visit in Santo Domingo

Zona Colonial

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Piantini

16 Best Things to Do in Santo Domingo ...

Gazcue

Parque Mirador del Sur | Santo Domingo ...

Mirador Sur

Things to do in Malecon, Santo Domingo ...

Malecon

Popular Attractions in Santo Domingo

  • Plaza de la Hispanidad or Spain

    Discover the cultural heart of Santo Domingo at Plaza de la Hispanidad, a vibrant park full of history, art, and local charm.

  • The Three Eyes National Park

    Explore the stunning lagoons and lush landscapes of The Three Eyes National Park, a captivating natural wonder near Santo Domingo.

  • Columbus Park

    Discover the historic charm and cultural richness of Columbus Park in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial, a serene escape amidst colonial architecture.

  • Faro a Colón, Santo Domingo Este

    Discover the historic Faro a Colón in Santo Domingo Este, a lighthouse museum celebrating Christopher Columbus with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.

  • Independence Park

    Explore the lush landscapes and rich history of Independence Park, a tranquil oasis in the heart of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

  • Catedral Primada de América de Santo Domingo

    Discover the rich history and breathtaking architecture of Catedral Primada de América, the oldest cathedral in the Americas, in Santo Domingo.

  • Fortaleza Ozama

    Explore the rich history of the Americas at Fortaleza Ozama, the oldest fort in the region, nestled in the heart of Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone.

  • Museum of the Royal Houses

    Explore the Museum of the Royal Houses in Santo Domingo and uncover the vibrant history of the Dominican Republic’s colonial past.

  • Malecón de la Av. España

    Discover the stunning Malecón de la Av. España, a vibrant state park with breathtaking views of the Caribbean, local culture, and unforgettable sunsets.

  • Alcázar de Colón

    Explore the Alcázar de Colón, a historic museum in Santo Domingo showcasing the rich colonial heritage of the Dominican Republic.

  • Santo Domingo Malecon

    Discover the vibrant Santo Domingo Malecon, a scenic promenade that embodies the spirit of the Dominican Republic with stunning sea views and cultural experiences.

  • Parque Iberoamérica

    Explore Parque Iberoamérica in Santo Domingo – a vibrant park with lush gardens, cultural monuments, and a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

  • Plaza Juan Barón

    Explore the tranquil beauty of Plaza Juan Barón in Santo Domingo, a vibrant park perfect for relaxation and cultural engagement.

  • Teatro Nacional Eduardo Brito

    Discover the vibrant world of performing arts at Teatro Nacional Eduardo Brito, the premier theater in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

  • Dominican Republic National Aquarium

    Discover the vibrant marine life of the Caribbean at the Dominican Republic National Aquarium, a top attraction in Santo Domingo.

  • Museo de Arte Moderno

    Discover the vibrant contemporary art scene at Museo de Arte Moderno, Santo Domingo's premier modern art museum showcasing local and international talent.

  • Parque Eugenio María de Hostos

    Explore the lush landscapes and family-friendly atmosphere of Parque Eugenio María de Hostos, a green gem in the heart of Santo Domingo.

  • Duarte Park

    Experience the charm and tranquility of Duarte Park, a lush urban oasis in the historic Zona Colonial of Santo Domingo.

  • Plaza Güibia

    Discover the beauty and vibrancy of Plaza Güibia, a must-visit waterfront attraction in Santo Domingo, where culture meets relaxation.

  • Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación

    Explore the architectural beauty and rich history of Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación, a stunning Catholic cathedral in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial.

  • Mirador del Oeste Park

    Explore the lush landscapes and scenic views at Mirador del Oeste Park, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Santo Domingo.

  • Plaza María de Toledo

    Explore the historical Plaza María de Toledo in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial, a vibrant hub of culture and heritage.

  • The Three Eyes

    Explore the serene beauty of The Three Eyes, a stunning lake system in Santo Domingo Este, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

  • Pantheon of the Fatherland

    Explore the Pantheon of the Fatherland in Santo Domingo, a neoclassical tribute to the Dominican Republic's heroes and a must-visit historical gem.

  • Anthropological Reserve of Cuevas del Pomier

    Explore the breathtaking caves and rich history of the Anthropological Reserve of Cuevas del Pomier in the Dominican Republic.

  • Palace of Fine Arts Freddy Beras-Goico

    Experience the vibrant cultural scene at the Palace of Fine Arts Freddy Beras-Goico, Santo Domingo's premier performing arts theater. Discover unforgettable performances!

  • Kahkow Experience

    Explore the Kahkow Experience in Santo Domingo for an interactive journey into the world of chocolate, perfect for families and food lovers alike.

  • Plaza De La Cultura

    Discover the vibrant heart of Dominican culture at Plaza De La Cultura, featuring museums, gardens, and artistic events that celebrate the nation's heritage.

  • Casa de Teatro

    Discover the vibrant arts scene of Santo Domingo at Casa de Teatro, a cultural center celebrating Dominican heritage through performances and exhibitions.

  • Trampoline Children's Museum

    Discover the Trampoline Children's Museum in Santo Domingo, where fun meets learning in a vibrant, interactive environment for kids of all ages.

  • Church of Our Lady of Mercies

    Discover the serene charm of the Church of Our Lady of Mercies in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial, a blend of spirituality and cultural heritage.

  • Mercado Modelo

    Experience the heart of Santo Domingo at Mercado Modelo, where local crafts, delicious food, and vibrant culture come together.

  • Museum of the Dominican Man

    Discover the Dominican Republic's rich cultural heritage at the Museum of the Dominican Man in Santo Domingo, a must-visit destination for every traveler.

  • The Colonial Gate 4D Cinema

    Immerse yourself in the ultimate cinematic experience at The Colonial Gate 4D Cinema in Santo Domingo, where movies come to life through stunning 4D technology.

  • Ingenio Boca de Nigua

    Explore Ingenio Boca de Nigua, a historical site and museum that unveils the Dominican Republic's rich sugar production heritage amidst stunning landscapes.

  • Museum of Rum

    Explore the rich heritage of rum production at the Museum of Rum in Santo Domingo, where history, culture, and flavor converge.

  • Teleferico Santo Domingo Charles de Gaulle

    Discover stunning views of Santo Domingo from the Teleferico Santo Domingo Charles de Gaulle, an exhilarating cable car ride above the city.

  • Puerta del Conde

    Discover the historic Puerta del Conde, a cultural gem in Santo Domingo that embodies the rich heritage of the Dominican Republic.

  • Hospital Saint Nicholas of Bari

    Explore Hospital Saint Nicholas of Bari, a historic landmark in Santo Domingo, reflecting the rich medical heritage of the Dominican Republic.

  • Spain Cultural Center of Santo Domingo.

    Explore art, culture, and history at the Spain Cultural Center of Santo Domingo, a vibrant hub of creativity in the heart of Zona Colonial.

  • Colonial Zone Dominican Republic

    Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning architecture and lively atmosphere.

  • Dominican Convent

    Explore the Dominican Convent, a historical gem in Santo Domingo, where colonial architecture meets spiritual serenity.

  • AquaMundo • Sambil

    Explore AquaMundo Sambil in Santo Domingo, a breathtaking aquarium showcasing the wonders of marine life amidst an immersive experience.

  • Zona Colonial Santo Domingo

    Explore the historic Zona Colonial in Santo Domingo, where colonial architecture meets rich cultural heritage in a vibrant atmosphere.

  • Monument to Friar Antonio of Montesino

    Explore the Monument to Friar Antonio of Montesino in Santo Domingo - a historical landmark that celebrates advocacy for indigenous rights and vibrant culture.

  • Santo Domingo Obelisk

    Discover the Santo Domingo Obelisk, a historical landmark offering stunning ocean views and cultural significance in the heart of the Dominican Republic.

  • Altar de la Patria

    Explore Altar de la Patria, a historic monument in Santo Domingo celebrating the heroes of Dominican independence amidst serene gardens and rich history.

  • Parque Mirador del Norte

    Discover the lush beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Parque Mirador del Norte, a serene urban park in Santo Domingo, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

  • Santo Domingo Dominican Republic Temple

    Visit the Santo Domingo Dominican Republic Temple for a serene experience in the heart of the city, blending architecture, spirituality, and tranquility.

  • Museo De Las Atarazanas Reales

    Discover the rich maritime history of the Dominican Republic at Museo De Las Atarazanas Reales, a captivating museum in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial.

  • Malecón Santo Domingo

    Explore the iconic Malecón in Santo Domingo, a stunning seaside promenade that blends culture, cuisine, and breathtaking views of the Caribbean.

  • Parque Cervantes

    Experience the serene beauty and local culture at Parque Cervantes, a lush city park in the heart of Santo Domingo, ideal for relaxation and exploration.

  • Zona Bici Bike Rental

    Experience Santo Domingo's historic charm on two wheels at Zona Bici Bike Rental – your ultimate eco-friendly adventure awaits!

  • Casa de Tostado

    Discover the captivating history of the Dominican Republic at Casa de Tostado in the enchanting Zona Colonial of Santo Domingo.

  • Catedral Castrense de Santa Bárbara

    Explore the architectural beauty and spiritual heritage of Catedral Castrense de Santa Bárbara in the heart of Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial.

  • Quinta Dominica

    Immerse yourself in the artistic and cultural wonders at Quinta Dominica in the heart of Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial.

  • Reloj de Sol aka Sundial

    Discover the Reloj de Sol in Santo Domingo: a stunning blend of art, history, and natural beauty at this iconic sundial in the heart of the Zona Colonial.

  • Plaza Pellerano Castro (Parque Rosado)

    Experience vibrant culture and serene relaxation at Plaza Pellerano Castro in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial.

  • Fuerte San Gil

    Discover the historic charm of Fuerte San Gil, a stunning fortress in Santo Domingo that showcases the rich heritage of the Dominican Republic.

  • Cathedral Museum

    Explore the Cathedral Museum in Santo Domingo: A rich tapestry of Dominican religious art and history in the heart of the Colonial Zone.

  • Nacional Botanical Garden

    Explore the vibrant flora and serene landscapes of the Nacional Botanical Garden, a hidden gem in Santo Domingo perfect for nature lovers.

  • Fray Bartolomé de las Casas Park

    Discover tranquility and cultural richness at Fray Bartolomé de las Casas Park in the heart of Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial.

  • Santuario Arquidiocesano Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia

    Explore the stunning Santuario Arquidiocesano Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia, a serene Catholic church in Santo Domingo's historic Colonial Zone.

  • Puerta de la Misericordia

    Explore the architectural beauty and rich history of Puerta de la Misericordia in the heart of Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone.

  • San Francisco Ruins Monument

    Explore the San Francisco Ruins Monument in Santo Domingo, a historical landmark that tells the story of the island's rich colonial past and architectural heritage.

  • Chapel of Our Lady of Remedies

    Discover the historical and architectural beauty of the Chapel of Our Lady of Remedies in Santo Domingo's vibrant Zona Colonial.

  • Malecón Santo Domingo Este

    Experience the vibrant culture and stunning views at the Malecón Santo Domingo Este, a must-visit coastal promenade for every traveler.

  • Chu Chu Colonial

    Explore the vibrant history and stunning architecture of Chu Chu Colonial in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial.

  • Iglesia Parroquial San Carlos Borromeo

    Explore the stunning architecture and serene ambiance of Iglesia Parroquial San Carlos Borromeo, a key cultural and spiritual site in Santo Domingo.

  • San Francisco Monastery

    Discover the historic San Francisco Monastery in Santo Domingo, a stunning landmark showcasing centuries of architectural and cultural heritage.

  • Museo del Larimar

    Explore the unique beauty of larimar at Museo del Larimar, a cultural gem in the heart of Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial.

  • Ceiba de Colón

    Explore the Ceiba de Colón, a historic symbol of Santo Domingo, where nature meets rich colonial history in a serene setting.

  • Museo de Historia y Geografia

    Explore the Museo de Historia y Geografia, a cultural gem in Santo Domingo that narrates the rich history and geography of the Dominican Republic.

  • Santo Domingo Port

    Experience the vibrant life at Santo Domingo Port, where culture, history, and stunning views come together in the heart of the Dominican Republic.

  • Cueva de Santa Ana

    Discover the stunning natural beauty and rich history of Cueva de Santa Ana, a must-visit attraction in Santo Domingo offering unique geological formations.

  • San José Park

    Discover tranquility at San José Park, a beautiful green space in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.

  • Museo Fernando Peña Defilló

    Explore the vibrant culture of the Dominican Republic at Museo Fernando Peña Defilló in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial.

  • Ciudad Colonial

    Discover the rich heritage and vibrant culture of Ciudad Colonial, Santo Domingo's historic heart, perfect for exploration and bird watching.

  • Puente Francisco del Rosario Sánchez

    Discover the stunning architecture and breathtaking views at Puente Francisco del Rosario Sánchez, a must-visit bridge in Santo Domingo Este.

  • La Casa de Los Jesuítas

    Discover La Casa de Los Jesuítas, a historical gem in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial, where architecture meets the rich Jesuit heritage.

  • Recepcionista

    Discover the historical charm of Recepcionista in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial, where vibrant culture meets rich heritage.

  • Arzobispado de Santo Domingo

    Discover the Arzobispado de Santo Domingo, a historic Catholic church in the heart of Zona Colonial, showcasing stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.

  • San Gabriel Arcángel Parish

    Discover the spiritual beauty of San Gabriel Arcángel Parish, a historic Catholic church in Santo Domingo, blending culture and serenity in one breathtaking location.

  • Iglesia Parroquial Santo Cura de Ars

    Experience the spiritual tranquility and architectural beauty of Iglesia Parroquial Santo Cura de Ars in Santo Domingo, a cultural gem waiting to be explored.

  • Fuerte Santa Bárbara

    Discover the historic Fuerte Santa Bárbara, a majestic fortress in Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone, rich in history and stunning views.

  • República Dominicana - Santo Domingod

    Explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, where colonial charm meets modern energy.

  • Plaza Manolo Tavárez Justo

    Discover the vibrant atmosphere and cultural richness of Plaza Manolo Tavárez Justo in Santo Domingo, a must-see tourist attraction.

  • Escalera de Montesinos

    Explore the Escalera de Montesinos, a historical landmark in Santo Domingo that reveals the rich culture and heritage of the Dominican Republic.

  • independencia Park

    Discover the beauty and tranquility of Independencia Park, an urban oasis in Santo Domingo, rich in culture and perfect for relaxation.

  • Chinatown

    Explore the lively streets of Chinatown in Santo Domingo, where culture and cuisine unite in a vibrant celebration of heritage.

  • Botanical Garden

    Explore the lush landscapes of Santo Domingo's Botanical Garden - a tranquil oasis filled with exotic plants and serene pathways perfect for relaxation.

  • Sala Maximo Avilés Blonda

    Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and elegance of Sala Maximo Avilés Blonda, Santo Domingo's premier performing arts theater.

  • Frey Nicolás de Ovando Monument

    Explore the Frey Nicolás de Ovando Monument, a historic tribute in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial, rich in culture and colonial architecture.

  • Santa Bárbara Park

    Explore the serene beauty of Santa Bárbara Park in Santo Domingo, where nature meets local culture in a vibrant urban oasis.

  • Sala Ravelo

    Experience the vibrant arts scene of Santo Domingo at Sala Ravelo, a premier theater showcasing Dominican and international performances.

  • El Pomier

    Explore El Pomier, a historical landmark in San Cristóbal, revealing the ancient artistry of the Taíno people through captivating petroglyphs.

  • Plaza España cuidad colonial

    Experience the vibrant culture and rich history of Plaza España, the heart of Santo Domingo's colonial zone.

  • Ornamental Fountain Monument

    Discover the Ornamental Fountain Monument in Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone - A stunning historical landmark that embodies the city's rich cultural heritage.

  • Mercado las flores

    Discover the beauty and flavors of Santo Domingo at Mercado Las Flores, a vibrant market showcasing local flowers, crafts, and culinary delights.

  • La Avenida España I Park

    Experience the tranquility of La Avenida España I Park, a lush retreat in Santo Domingo Este, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and community culture.

Popular Experiences in Santo Domingo

When is the best time to go to Santo Domingo?

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Popular Hotels in Santo Domingo

Local Phrases

    • HelloHola
      [oh-lah]
    • GoodbyeAdiós
      [ah-dee-ohs]
    • Yes
      [see]
    • NoNo
      [noh]
    • Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
      [por fah-vor/deh nah-dah]
    • Thank youGracias
      [grah-see-ahs]
    • Excuse me/SorryDisculpe/Perdón
      [dees-kool-peh/pehr-dohn]
    • How are you?¿Cómo estás?
      [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
    • Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
      [bee-ehn. ee too]
    • Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
      [ah-blahs een-glehs]
    • I don't understandNo entiendo
      [noh ehn-tyehn-doh]
    • I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
      [meh goo-stah-ree-ah vehr ehl meh-noo, por fah-vor]
    • I don't eat meatNo como carne
      [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
    • Cheers!¡Salud!
      [sah-lood]
    • I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
      [meh goo-stah-ree-ah pah-gahr, por fah-vor]
    • Help!¡Ayuda!
      [ah-yoo-dah]
    • Go away!¡Vete!
      [veh-teh]
    • Call the Police!¡Llama a la Policía!
      [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
    • Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
      [yah-mah ah oon meh-dee-koh]
    • I'm lostEstoy perdido
      [eh-stoy pehr-dee-doh]
    • I'm illEstoy enfermo
      [eh-stoy ehn-fehr-moh]
    • I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
      [meh goo-stah-ree-ah kohm-prahr]
    • I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
      [soh-loh eh-stoy mee-rahn-doh]
    • How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
      [kwan-toh kweh-stah]
    • That's too expensiveEso es demasiado caro
      [eh-soh es deh-mah-see-ah-doh kah-roh]
    • Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?
      [pweh-deh bah-hahr ehl pree-syoh]
    • What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
      [keh oh-rah es]
    • It's one o'clockEs la una
      [ehs lah oo-nah]
    • Half past (10)Media (10)
      [meh-dee-ah (diez)]
    • MorningMañana
      [mah-nyah-nah]
    • AfternoonTarde
      [tahr-deh]
    • EveningNoche
      [noh-cheh]
    • YesterdayAyer
      [ah-yehr]
    • TodayHoy
      [oy]
    • TomorrowMañana
      [mah-nyah-nah]
    • 1Uno
      [oo-noh]
    • 2Dos
      [dohs]
    • 3Tres
      [trehs]
    • 4Cuatro
      [kwah-troh]
    • 5Cinco
      [seen-koh]
    • 6Seis
      [seys]
    • 7Siete
      [syeh-teh]
    • 8Ocho
      [oh-choh]
    • 9Nueve
      [nweh-veh]
    • 10Diez
      [dyehs]
    • Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
      [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
    • What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
      [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
    • Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puede mostrarme (en el mapa)?
      [pweh-deh mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
    • When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
      [kwan-doh ehs ehl prohk-see-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
    • A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ...)
      [oon boh-leh-toh (ah)]

History of Santo Domingo

  • Santo Domingo was founded in 1496 by Bartholomew Columbus, the brother of Christopher Columbus. It is the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the Americas and served as the capital of the Spanish colonial empire in the New World.

  • The Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the first cathedral, hospital, customs house, and university in the Americas. This area, also known as 'Ciudad Colonial,' is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, including the Catedral Primada de América and Alcázar de Colón.

  • In 1586, the city was attacked by English privateer Sir Francis Drake, who captured and held the city for ransom. This event, known as the Battle of Santo Domingo, marked a significant moment in the city's colonial history and showcased the strategic importance of Santo Domingo.

  • In the mid-17th century, Santo Domingo underwent significant reconstruction. The city's fortifications were strengthened to protect against future attacks, and new buildings were constructed, reflecting the Baroque architectural style that was popular in Europe at the time.

  • The Dominican Republic gained independence from Haiti in 1844, and Santo Domingo became the capital of the newly independent nation. The city experienced significant changes during the dictatorship of Rafael Trujillo (1930-1961), who renamed the city Ciudad Trujillo and initiated numerous infrastructure projects.

  • Today, Santo Domingo is a bustling metropolis that blends historical charm with modern amenities. The city is an economic and cultural hub, featuring diverse neighborhoods, vibrant nightlife, and a rich cultural scene that reflects its storied past and dynamic present.

Santo Domingo Essentials

  • Santo Domingo is accessible via Las Américas International Airport (SDQ), located approximately 30 minutes from the city center. Numerous airlines offer direct and connecting flights from major cities around the world. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle service, or rent a car to get to your accommodation in Santo Domingo.
  • In Santo Domingo, transportation options include taxis, public buses (guaguas), and the Metro. Taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street or booked via apps like Uber. Public buses are an affordable way to get around, though they can be crowded and less reliable. The Santo Domingo Metro is a convenient and modern option for traveling within the city. Car rentals are also available for those who prefer to drive.
  • The official currency of the Dominican Republic is the Dominican Peso (DOP). Major credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are widely available throughout the city, and many offer the option to withdraw cash in pesos or US dollars. Currency exchange services are also available at the airport and in various locations around Santo Domingo.
  • Santo Domingo is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to remain vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less crowded areas. Be cautious in neighborhoods like Cristo Rey and Capotillo, which have higher crime rates. Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded places. Stick to well-lit and populated areas to minimize risks.
  • In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Santo Domingo has several hospitals and clinics, including the Centro Médico Dominicano and Hospital General de la Plaza de la Salud, which offer emergency services. It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are also available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.
  • Fashion: Do dress comfortably but modestly. Avoid overly revealing clothing, especially when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Dress appropriately when visiting churches and other religious sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat for elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public buses or the Metro. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a friendly nod. A kiss on the cheek is common among close acquaintances. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
  • To experience Santo Domingo like a local, visit the Mercado Modelo for local crafts and produce. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Malecón, a waterfront promenade offering beautiful views and local eateries. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss exploring the Colonial Zone, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with historic buildings, museums, and vibrant street life. For a unique experience, take a ride on the Teleférico, a cable car offering panoramic views of the city.