Exploring the Enchanting Ciudad Colonial
Discover the charm of Ciudad Colonial in Santo Domingo, where history, culture, and vibrant life converge in a stunning colonial setting.
Ciudad Colonial, nestled in the heart of Santo Domingo, is a vibrant historical district that transports you back to the era of Spanish colonialism. With its cobblestone streets, majestic architecture, and rich history, this UNESCO World Heritage site is perfect for tourists looking to immerse themselves in culture. Visitors can explore centuries-old churches, vibrant plazas, and the stunning waterfront, all while enjoying the local cuisine and unique shops. The blend of history and modern life creates an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
A brief summary to Ciudad Colonial
- C. Arzobispo Meriño # 406, Santo Domingo, Zona Colonial, DO
- +1809-771-6635
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Don't forget to try local street food, especially the empanadas and tostones.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on cobblestone streets.
- Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the rich history of the area.
- Bring a camera; there are plenty of picturesque spots perfect for photos.
Getting There
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Metro
If you are starting from the central areas of Santo Domingo, head to the closest metro station, which could be 'Juan Pablo Duarte' or 'Maximo Gomez'. Take Line 1 (the green line) towards 'Aguacate'. You will get off at the 'Francisco Alberto Caamaño Deño' station. From there, it is about a 15-minute walk to Ciudad Colonial. Exit the station and walk northeast towards Avenida George Washington. Turn left and continue until you reach the entrance to Ciudad Colonial.
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Bus
Catch a bus from any local bus stop heading towards 'Zona Colonial'. Buses are frequent and inexpensive. Ask the driver to let you off at 'Zona Colonial'. Once you get off, look for signs pointing towards Ciudad Colonial, or simply ask a local for directions. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the bus stop.
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Walking
If you are already near the Malecon or the Parque Independencia, you can walk directly to Ciudad Colonial. From Parque Independencia, head towards Calle Arzobispo Meriño. Follow this street until you reach the main area of Ciudad Colonial, where you will find historical sites and local shops.
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Bike Rental
If you prefer cycling, there are bike rental stations throughout Santo Domingo. Rent a bike and head towards the Zona Colonial area. Follow Avenida George Washington, then turn onto Calle Arzobispo Meriño, which will lead you directly into Ciudad Colonial. This route should take around 20-30 minutes depending on your cycling speed.
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Taxi or Ride-sharing
You can easily hail a taxi or use a ride-sharing app like Uber from your location in Santo Domingo. Simply input 'Ciudad Colonial' or 'C. Arzobispo Meriño #406' as your destination. The driver will take you directly there, and it should take around 10-15 minutes depending on traffic.
Discover more about Ciudad Colonial
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Casa de La Moneda de Santo Domingo
0.1 km
Discover the rich numismatic heritage of the Dominican Republic at Casa de La Moneda, a historical museum in Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone.
Pat'e Palo European Brasserie
0.1 km
Experience the exquisite fusion of modern French cuisine and European flavors at Pat'e Palo European Brasserie in the heart of Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial.
Cuesta de la Calle Hostos
0.2 km
Discover the historic charm and vibrant culture of Cuesta de la Calle Hostos in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial, a must-visit destination for every tourist.
Puerta de Las Reales Atarazanas
0.3 km
Experience the historical significance of Puerta de Las Reales Atarazanas in Santo Domingo, a must-see landmark in the heart of the Colonial Zone.
Sirena
0.3 km
Discover a vibrant shopping paradise at Sirena in Santo Domingo, where local flavors and global goods meet in a lively atmosphere.
Puerta de Don Diego (Puerta de la Mar)
0.3 km
Explore the historic Puerta de Don Diego in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial, a gateway to the past and a must-visit tourist attraction.
Fuerte del Ángulo
0.4 km
Explore Fuerte del Ángulo, a majestic fortress in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial, rich in history and offering breathtaking views of the city.
Estátua de Cristóbal Colón
0.4 km
Discover the Estátua de Cristóbal Colón in Santo Domingo – a monumental tribute to exploration and the rich history of the Dominican Republic.
C. Las Damas
0.5 km
Explore C. Las Damas, the historic street in Santo Domingo, where colonial charm meets vibrant culture and rich history.
Hernan Cortes House
0.5 km
Explore the Hernan Cortes House, a historical landmark in Santo Domingo that unveils the captivating story of the conquistador and colonial times.
Puerta Carlos III (1787)
0.5 km
Explore the historical significance of Puerta Carlos III in Santo Domingo, a captivating gateway that reflects the rich colonial heritage of the Dominican Republic.
Zona Colonial Santo Domingo
0.5 km
Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Zona Colonial Santo Domingo, where colonial architecture meets lively local traditions.
Unmissable attractions to see
Amber World Museum
0.1 km
Explore the captivating world of amber at the Amber World Museum in Santo Domingo, where history, science, and art come together in stunning displays.
San Francisco Ruins Monument
0.1 km
Discover the rich history of the Dominican Republic at the San Francisco Ruins Monument, an iconic landmark in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial.
Wax Museum Juan Pablo Duarte
0.1 km
Visit the Wax Museum Juan Pablo Duarte in Santo Domingo to explore the life of a national hero and immerse yourself in Dominican history.
Museum of Rum
0.1 km
Experience the rich history of rum-making at the Museum of Rum in Santo Domingo, where culture and flavor blend in perfect harmony.
San Francisco Monastery
0.1 km
Explore the San Francisco Monastery, a historic gem in Santo Domingo that showcases stunning architecture and serene gardens in the heart of Zona Colonial.
Frey Nicolás de Ovando Monument
0.2 km
Explore the Frey Nicolás de Ovando Monument, a captivating historical landmark in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial, celebrating the rich colonial history of the Dominican Republic.
Plaza de la Hispanidad or Spain
0.2 km
Discover the charm of Plaza de la Hispanidad, a cultural oasis in Santo Domingo's historic Colonial Zone, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Santuario Arquidiocesano Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia
0.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and spiritual significance of Santuario Arquidiocesano Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial.
Museum of the Royal Houses
0.2 km
Discover the rich history of the Dominican Republic at the Museum of the Royal Houses, a captivating cultural experience in Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone.
Museo De Las Atarazanas Reales
0.2 km
Discover the maritime history of the Dominican Republic at Museo De Las Atarazanas Reales in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial.
Hospital Saint Nicholas of Bari
0.2 km
Explore the rich history and architectural beauty of Hospital Saint Nicholas of Bari in Santo Domingo's charming Zona Colonial.
Alcázar de Colón
0.2 km
Explore the Alcázar de Colón, a historic museum in Santo Domingo showcasing the opulence of Spanish colonial life through art and architecture.
Fortress of Columbus
0.2 km
Explore the Fortress of Columbus in Santo Domingo, a historic museum that showcases the legacy of the age of exploration and colonial architecture.
castillo colonial
0.2 km
Discover the rich history of the Dominican Republic at Castillo Colonial, a captivating museum in the historic Zona Colonial of Santo Domingo.
Catedral Castrense de Santa Bárbara
0.3 km
Explore the stunning Catedral Castrense de Santa Bárbara in Santo Domingo, a remarkable Catholic church with rich history and beautiful architecture.
Essential places to dine
MORROFINO BAR DE TAPAS
0.1 km
Discover the culinary delights at Morrofino Bar de Tapas in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial - A true taste of Caribbean culture.
Don Nestor Parrillada Zona Colonial
0.1 km
Discover authentic Dominican flavors at Don Nestor Parrillada in Zona Colonial, where delicious grilled meats meet vibrant Caribbean culture.
Valiente Restaurante
0.2 km
Discover Valiente Restaurante in Santo Domingo for an exquisite blend of New Orleans, Dominican, and Mediterranean flavors in a charming setting.
NacanDR
0.2 km
Experience exquisite seafood and steak at NacanDR in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial—where culinary artistry meets local charm.
Mesón de Bari
0.3 km
Discover authentic Dominican cuisine at Mesón de Bari in Santo Domingo's vibrant Zona Colonial.
Jalao
0.4 km
Discover Jalao: A vibrant Dominican restaurant in Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone offering authentic cuisine and lively ambiance.
Buche Perico
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Dominican cuisine at Buche Perico in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial.
Fenix Bar. Italian Food & Fun
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors combined with lively entertainment at Fenix Bar in Santo Domingo's charming Colonial Zone.
SegaZona
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at SegaZona in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial; where every dish tells a story.
Maison Kreyol
0.4 km
Experience authentic Haitian cuisine at Maison Kreyol in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial – where vibrant flavors meet cultural heritage.
SugarCane, La Casa Del Ron - The Rum Experience - Rooftop Cocktail & Tapas
0.5 km
Discover SugarCane: A Rooftop Oasis in Santo Domingo Celebrating Rum Culture with Exquisite Tapas and Stunning Views.
Lulú Tasting Bar
0.5 km
Discover exquisite dining at Lulú Tasting Bar in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial – where Dominican flavors meet international cuisine.
El Buho Eatery
0.5 km
Discover diverse culinary delights at El Buho Eatery in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial - a perfect blend of local and international flavors.
Time Creative Vegetarian Kitchen
0.5 km
Discover vibrant vegetarian cuisine at Time Creative Vegetarian Kitchen in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial - where fresh meets flavorful.
Maraca
0.6 km
Discover Maraca: A premier dining destination in Santo Domingo blending traditional Dominican flavors with modern culinary artistry.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
La Alpargatería
0.2 km
Experience the charm of traditional Dominican espadrilles at La Alpargatería, the iconic footwear store in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial.
La Placita Mercadito Colonial
0.4 km
Explore La Placita Mercadito Colonial, a vibrant gift shop in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial, offering unique Dominican crafts and souvenirs.
Gift Shop El Mamey La Placita
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Santo Domingo with unique souvenirs and handcrafted treasures at Gift Shop El Mamey La Placita.
Gift Shop Morena
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant culture of the Dominican Republic at Gift Shop Morena, your go-to destination for unique souvenirs and local artisan crafts.
La Leyenda del Cigarro Cigar Shop and Factory
0.4 km
Discover the art of cigar making at La Leyenda del Cigarro, a premier cigar shop and factory in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial.
China town
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant Chinatown in Santo Domingo, a shopping paradise filled with authentic Chinese cuisine, culture and unique shopping experiences.
Paseo Artesanal
0.4 km
Explore local art and crafts at Paseo Artesanal, a vibrant shopping experience in Santo Domingo’s Colonial Zone.
Gift Shop Tio Juan
0.4 km
Explore Gift Shop Tio Juan in Santo Domingo for authentic Dominican crafts and unique souvenirs that celebrate the island's vibrant culture.
Gift Shop Mercado Artesanal
0.5 km
Discover unique handcrafted treasures at the Mercado Artesanal in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial, showcasing the best of Dominican artistry and culture.
El Mercado Colonial
0.5 km
Explore El Mercado Colonial in Santo Domingo for authentic Dominican souvenirs and a taste of local culture, perfect for every traveler.
From My Country Gift Shop
0.5 km
Discover authentic Dominican crafts and culinary delights at From My Country Gift Shop in the heart of Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial.
Jenny Polanco Zona Colonial Boutique
0.6 km
Explore unique fashion and artisanal crafts at Jenny Polanco Boutique in the historic Zona Colonial of Santo Domingo.
D Lugo Gift Shop
0.6 km
Explore D Lugo Gift Shop in Santo Domingo for unique Dominican souvenirs showcasing local art and culture in the heart of Zona Colonial.
Enriquillo Park
0.6 km
Explore tranquility and culture at Enriquillo Park, a lush oasis in the heart of Santo Domingo, perfect for relaxation and recreation.
Freddy Gift Shop
0.7 km
Explore the charm of Dominican craftsmanship at Freddy Gift Shop, where unique souvenirs and local treasures await every traveler.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar 75 Zona
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Bar 75 Zona in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial, where signature cocktails and live music await.
Parada 77
0.1 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Parada 77, a must-visit bar in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial, perfect for sipping cocktails and socializing.
Sabina Bar Zona Colonial
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Sabina Bar Zona Colonial, where delicious drinks and live music create unforgettable experiences in Santo Domingo.
Rox Bar
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Rox Bar, a top cocktail destination in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial, perfect for dance and drinks.
Bio Bar
0.2 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and creative cocktails at Bio Bar in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial.
Veo Veo / Local Colonial
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant heart of Santo Domingo at Veo Veo / Local Colonial, where art, cocktails, and live music create unforgettable experiences.
Onno's Zona Colonial Bar & Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Dominican, Mexican, and Spanish cuisine at Onno's Zona Colonial, a lively bar and restaurant in Santo Domingo.
Lorens Bar & Lounge
0.5 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Lorens Bar & Lounge in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial, where vibrant cocktails and local music create unforgettable nights.
Merengue Club
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Santo Domingo at Merengue Club, a lively bar where music and dance bring the Dominican culture to life.
Caciba Bar
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Caciba Bar in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial, where great drinks and live music create unforgettable memories.
Esedeku Bar & Terraza
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Santo Domingo at Esedeku Bar & Terraza, where exceptional drinks meet a lively atmosphere.
Proud Mary Art Bar
0.7 km
Discover the lively Proud Mary Art Bar in Santo Domingo, where art meets rock music in an unforgettable nightlife experience.
La Resistencia
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant tastes of Dominican cuisine at La Resistencia, a lively tapas bar in Santo Domingo Este, perfect for socializing and savoring local flavors.
Oasis Bar & Lounge
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and tropical atmosphere at Oasis Bar & Lounge in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial.
Vida Loca Bar
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Santo Domingo at Vida Loca Bar, where cocktails, music, and fun await in the historic Zona Colonial.
