Explore the Rich History of Colonial Zone, Santo Domingo
Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of the Colonial Zone in Santo Domingo, the oldest European settlement in the Americas.
The Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo is a captivating blend of history, culture, and vibrant life. As the oldest European settlement in the Americas, this UNESCO World Heritage Site invites tourists to wander through its cobblestone streets, marvel at its colonial architecture, and experience the rich heritage of the Dominican Republic.
A brief summary to Colonial Zone Dominican Republic
- Santo Domingo, Zona Colonial, DO
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
- Don't miss trying traditional Dominican dishes at local restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the cobblestone streets can be uneven and challenging.
- Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the historical significance of various landmarks.
- Take your time to explore the side streets and hidden gems for a more personal glimpse into local life.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in the heart of Zona Colonial, simply walk towards Calle El Conde, one of the main pedestrian streets. Head towards the east until you reach the intersection with Calle Arzobispo Meriño. From there, turn right and continue walking straight until you reach the famous Parque Colón. The Colonial Zone is adjacent to this park, and you will see signs of historic buildings and cultural attractions.
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Bicycle Rental
You can rent a bicycle from one of the local shops in Zona Colonial. Once you have your bike, head towards Calle El Conde. Pedal east until you reach Parque Colón. The Colonial Zone is right next to this park. Make sure to wear a helmet and follow local traffic rules while cycling.
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Local Tour
Consider joining a guided walking tour of the Colonial Zone. Many local companies offer tours that start at various points in Zona Colonial. You can join a group at Parque Colón or the main square. The cost typically ranges from $15 to $30 per person, which may include a knowledgeable guide who will take you through the historic sites.
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Public Transportation (Carro Público)
If you prefer a quicker option, you can take a 'carro público' (shared taxi). Look for one marked with its destination. They usually operate along major streets. Get off at the nearest stop to the Colonial Zone, which is near Parque Colón. The fare is usually around 30-50 Dominican Pesos ($0.50-$1.00).
Discover more about Colonial Zone Dominican Republic
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cuesta de la Calle Hostos
0.1 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.
Casa de La Moneda de Santo Domingo
0.2 km
Discover the rich numismatic heritage of the Dominican Republic at Casa de La Moneda, a historical museum in Santo Domingo's 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.
Santo Domingo
0.3 km
Discover the historical treasures and vibrant culture of Santo Domingo, the oldest city in the New World, rich in history and colonial charm.
Estátua de Cristóbal Colón
0.3 km
Discover the Estátua de Cristóbal Colón in Santo Domingo – a monumental tribute to exploration and the rich history of the Dominican Republic.
Dirección de Patrimonio Monumental Santo Domingo
0.3 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage of the Dominican Republic at the Dirección de Patrimonio Monumental in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial.
Pat'e Palo European Brasserie
0.4 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.
Fuerte de San Lázaro
0.4 km
Explore Fuerte de San Lázaro, a historic monument in Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone, revealing the rich heritage of the Dominican Republic.
Ruinas de La Caridad
0.4 km
Explore the enchanting Ruinas de La Caridad, a historical gem in Santo Domingo, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Dominican Republic.
Callejón de los Curas - Entrada
0.4 km
Explore Callejón de los Curas, a historic alley in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial, rich in culture, stunning architecture, and local charm.
Trampoline Children's Museum
0.4 km
Experience creativity and learning at the Trampoline Children's Museum in Santo Domingo, where fun meets education in a historic setting.
Plaza de la Hispanidad or Spain
0.4 km
Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of the Dominican Republic at Plaza de la Hispanidad, a must-visit park in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial.
Las Escalinatas del Conde
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant beauty and rich history at Las Escalinatas del Conde, a must-visit scenic spot in Santo Domingo's enchanting Zona Colonial.
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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ciudad Colonial
0.0 km
Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Ciudad Colonial, the first European settlement in the Americas, in the heart of Santo Domingo.
Santuario Arquidiocesano Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia
0.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and spiritual significance of Santuario Arquidiocesano Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial.
Hospital Saint Nicholas of Bari
0.1 km
Explore the rich history and architectural beauty of Hospital Saint Nicholas of Bari in Santo Domingo's charming Zona Colonial.
Recepcionista
0.2 km
Explore Recepcionista, a historical landmark in Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone, where rich history meets vibrant local culture.
San Francisco Monastery
0.2 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.
Zona Bici Bike Rental
0.2 km
Explore Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial on two wheels with Zona Bici Bike Rental, your go-to for unforgettable biking adventures.
San Francisco Ruins Monument
0.2 km
Discover the rich history of the Dominican Republic at the San Francisco Ruins Monument, an iconic landmark in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial.
Church of Our Lady of Mercies
0.2 km
Discover the architectural beauty and serene ambiance of the Church of Our Lady of Mercies, a must-visit tourist attraction in Santo Domingo.
Colonial Tour and Travel
0.2 km
Discover Santo Domingo’s vibrant history and culture with expert-guided tours from Colonial Tour and Travel, your gateway to the Zona Colonial.
Palacio Consistorial de Santo Domingo
0.2 km
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of the Palacio Consistorial in Santo Domingo's charming Zona Colonial.
Columbus Park
0.3 km
Experience the historical elegance and vibrant atmosphere of Columbus Park in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial, a true gem of Dominican heritage.
Amber World Museum
0.3 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.
Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación
0.3 km
Explore the historic Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación, a stunning cathedral in the heart of Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone, reflecting rich Dominican heritage.
Catedral Primada de América de Santo Domingo
0.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and profound history of Catedral Primada de América, the oldest cathedral in the Americas, located in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial.
Catedral Primera de las Américas de Santo Domingo
0.3 km
Explore the Catedral Primera de las Américas, the first cathedral in the Americas, a stunning blend of architecture and history in Santo Domingo.
Essential places to dine
Mesón de Bari
0.1 km
Discover authentic Dominican cuisine at Mesón de Bari in Santo Domingo's vibrant Zona Colonial.
Maison Kreyol
0.1 km
Experience authentic Haitian cuisine at Maison Kreyol in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial – where vibrant flavors meet cultural heritage.
NacanDR
0.3 km
Experience exquisite seafood and steak at NacanDR in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial—where culinary artistry meets local charm.
Jalao
0.3 km
Discover Jalao: A vibrant Dominican restaurant in Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone offering authentic cuisine and lively ambiance.
SugarCane, La Casa Del Ron - The Rum Experience - Rooftop Cocktail & Tapas
0.3 km
Discover SugarCane: A Rooftop Oasis in Santo Domingo Celebrating Rum Culture with Exquisite Tapas and Stunning Views.
El Buho Eatery
0.3 km
Discover diverse culinary delights at El Buho Eatery in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial - a perfect blend of local and international flavors.
Fenix Bar. Italian Food & Fun
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors combined with lively entertainment at Fenix Bar in Santo Domingo's charming Colonial Zone.
Maraca
0.4 km
Discover Maraca: A premier dining destination in Santo Domingo blending traditional Dominican flavors with modern culinary artistry.
MORROFINO BAR DE TAPAS
0.4 km
Discover the culinary delights at Morrofino Bar de Tapas in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial - A true taste of Caribbean culture.
Buche Perico
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Dominican cuisine at Buche Perico in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial.
SegaZona
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at SegaZona in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial; where every dish tells a story.
Time Creative Vegetarian Kitchen
0.4 km
Discover vibrant vegetarian cuisine at Time Creative Vegetarian Kitchen in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial - where fresh meets flavorful.
Lulú Tasting Bar
0.4 km
Discover exquisite dining at Lulú Tasting Bar in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial – where Dominican flavors meet international cuisine.
Don Nestor Parrillada Zona Colonial
0.4 km
Discover authentic Dominican flavors at Don Nestor Parrillada in Zona Colonial, where delicious grilled meats meet vibrant Caribbean culture.
Valiente Restaurante
0.5 km
Discover Valiente Restaurante in Santo Domingo for an exquisite blend of New Orleans, Dominican, and Mediterranean flavors in a charming setting.
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.
Paseo Artesanal
0.2 km
Explore local art and crafts at Paseo Artesanal, a vibrant shopping experience in Santo Domingo’s Colonial Zone.
Gift Shop Mercado Artesanal
0.2 km
Discover unique handcrafted treasures at the Mercado Artesanal in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial, showcasing the best of Dominican artistry and culture.
La Leyenda del Cigarro Cigar Shop and Factory
0.2 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.
Gift Shop Morena
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant culture of the Dominican Republic at Gift Shop Morena, your go-to destination for unique souvenirs and local artisan crafts.
Gift Shop Tio Juan
0.3 km
Explore Gift Shop Tio Juan in Santo Domingo for authentic Dominican crafts and unique souvenirs that celebrate the island's vibrant culture.
La Placita Mercadito Colonial
0.3 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
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Santo Domingo with unique souvenirs and handcrafted treasures at Gift Shop El Mamey La Placita.
El Mercado Colonial
0.3 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
0.3 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
0.4 km
Explore unique fashion and artisanal crafts at Jenny Polanco Boutique in the historic Zona Colonial of Santo Domingo.
D Lugo Gift Shop
0.4 km
Explore D Lugo Gift Shop in Santo Domingo for unique Dominican souvenirs showcasing local art and culture in the heart of Zona Colonial.
Freddy Gift Shop
0.5 km
Explore the charm of Dominican craftsmanship at Freddy Gift Shop, where unique souvenirs and local treasures await every traveler.
Artesanía Massiel
0.5 km
Explore the vibrant culture of the Dominican Republic with unique gifts and handmade treasures at Artesanía Massiel in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial.
China town
0.5 km
Explore the vibrant Chinatown in Santo Domingo, a shopping paradise filled with authentic Chinese cuisine, culture and unique shopping experiences.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Veo Veo / Local Colonial
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant heart of Santo Domingo at Veo Veo / Local Colonial, where art, cocktails, and live music create unforgettable experiences.
Bio Bar
0.1 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and creative cocktails at Bio Bar in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial.
Onno's Zona Colonial Bar & Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Dominican, Mexican, and Spanish cuisine at Onno's Zona Colonial, a lively bar and restaurant in Santo Domingo.
Sabina Bar Zona Colonial
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Sabina Bar Zona Colonial, where delicious drinks and live music create unforgettable experiences in Santo Domingo.
Caciba Bar
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Caciba Bar in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial, where great drinks and live music create unforgettable memories.
Bar 75 Zona
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Bar 75 Zona in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial, where signature cocktails and live music await.
Lorens Bar & Lounge
0.3 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
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Santo Domingo at Merengue Club, a lively bar where music and dance bring the Dominican culture to life.
Parada 77
0.3 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.
Esedeku Bar & Terraza
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Santo Domingo at Esedeku Bar & Terraza, where exceptional drinks meet a lively atmosphere.
Proud Mary Art Bar
0.4 km
Discover the lively Proud Mary Art Bar in Santo Domingo, where art meets rock music in an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Rox Bar
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Rox Bar, a top cocktail destination in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial, perfect for dance and drinks.
La Resistencia
0.6 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
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and tropical atmosphere at Oasis Bar & Lounge in Santo Domingo's historic Zona Colonial.
Vida Loca Bar
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Santo Domingo at Vida Loca Bar, where cocktails, music, and fun await in the historic Zona Colonial.
