Things To Do
in Santo Domingo
Santo Domingo is a picturesque town located in eastern Cuba, known for its colorful colonial architecture and vibrant cultural scene. The town is surrounded by lush green hills and breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. Visitors can explore historic churches, museums, and local markets, experiencing the rich history and traditions of the region.
Santo Domingo offers a tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation and immersion in the local way of life.
- "¿Qué bolá?" - What's up?
- "Asere" - Friend
- "¡Dímelo!" - Tell me!
- "Una vuelta" - A tour or a spin
- "No hay problema" - No problem
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.25 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Alcázar de Colón. You can explore its beautiful architecture and fascinating history.
Head to the Zona Colonial and stroll along Calle Las Damas, the oldest street in the New World. Enjoy lunch at a local café and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
As the sun sets, visit the Malecon for a relaxing seaside walk. Grab dinner at a beachfront restaurant and enjoy the ocean view.
Visit the Museo de las Casas Reales to learn about the colonial history of Santo Domingo. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts.
Explore the art galleries in the Colonial Zone, showcasing both local and international artists. Stop for lunch at a nearby eatery serving traditional cuisine.
Catch a live music performance at one of the local venues. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife with some dancing and mingling with locals.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, including colonial architecture.
- Vibrant music and arts scene, with various festivals and events.
- Beautiful natural landscapes and beach access.
- Warm climate year-round, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many Western countries.
- Limited access to healthcare and medical facilities.
- Infrastructure challenges, including unreliable transportation.
- Political instability and government restrictions on freedoms.
- Economic challenges, including scarcity of goods.
- High levels of unemployment and underemployment.
Best Activities in Santo Domingo
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the diverse flora and fauna of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which features stunning landscapes and unique ecosystems.
Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life of this beautiful beach located on Cayo Largo del Sur.
Discover a paradise for bird enthusiasts with the park's rich birdlife and various habitats, including swamps, marshes, and forests.
Tours
Uncover the best of Santo Domingo with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Santo Domingo
Visit one of these nice places.
Built in the 16th century, this historical site offers stunning views of the city and the coastline.
The oceanfront promenade provides beautiful views of the sea and the colorful buildings of the city.
This UNESCO World Heritage site has charming streets and picturesque squares, perfect for photography.
The former residence of Diego Colon, the son of Christopher Columbus, offers a glimpse of colonial architecture and lovely gardens.
Food in Santo Domingo
Santo Domingo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Cuban dish made with shredded beef simmered in a tomato-based sauce with onions, peppers, and spices, typically served with rice and black beans. Best enjoyed at La Cocina de Esteban.
Must-Try!
A traditional Cuban rice and bean dish cooked together with a variety of seasonings. For an authentic taste, head to El Conuco de la Capitana.
Roast pork seasoned with citrus and garlic, offering a crispy skin and tender meat. Don't miss out on trying this at El Cochinito or La Terraza de Cojimar.
Fried plantains served as a popular side dish or snack. You can savor delicious tostones at La Barrica or El Palenque.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Santo Domingo better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of local produce, spices, and artisan crafts. Try the savory empanadas and tropical fruit smoothies from the street food vendors surrounding the market.
Take a stroll along the Malecón and indulge in the vibrant street food scene. From crispy chicharrones to sweet churros, this waterfront promenade has an array of treats to satisfy your cravings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Santo Domingo, Cuba, it's important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others during conversations or interactions.
When meeting someone for the first time or in a formal setting, it's customary to use formal greetings and show respect by addressing others with titles and last names.
It's important to show respect for local customs and traditions in Santo Domingo, Cuba, including participating in cultural activities and being mindful of local etiquette.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Santo Domingo with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Santo Domingo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Santo Domingo, Cuba, but it is appreciated for good service. A tip of 10% is generally acceptable in restaurants, and a small amount for other services such as taxi rides or hotel staff.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Santo Domingo, Cuba. Credit cards are not widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments, so it's important to carry enough cash for expenses. ATMs are available in the city for withdrawing money.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Santo Domingo.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Santo Domingo, Cuba, with cool and dry weather, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city.
Another good time to visit Santo Domingo, Cuba, with pleasant temperatures and colorful vegetation. Expect occasional showers.
Warm and humid weather in Santo Domingo, Cuba, with a higher chance of rain. Great for beach activities and water sports.
Can be wet and stormy in Santo Domingo, Cuba, due to the hurricane season. However, it's less crowded, and you may find good travel deals.
Santo Domingo at Night
Hiking in Santo Domingo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area in the Sierra del Rosario mountains offering beautiful views and a variety of trails suitable for different skill levels.
Located in the Escambray Mountains, this national park features multiple hiking paths with waterfalls, lush vegetation, and diverse wildlife.
The highest mountain range in Cuba, offering challenging hikes with breathtaking views, historical significance, and the famous Pico Turquino.
Famed for its unique mogotes (hills), this area provides a variety of hiking options amidst spectacular landscapes and tobacco farms.
A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve featuring intricate hiking trails through rich biodiversity, including rare and endemic species.
Aiports
How to reach Santo Domingo by plane.
The main international airport serving Havana, Cuba, located about 15 km southeast of the city center.
An international airport located in Varadero, Cuba, approximately 140 km east of Santo Domingo.
An international airport located in Cayo Coco, Cuba, approximately 500 km northeast of Santo Domingo.
The international airport serving Santiago de Cuba, located about 6 km from the city center.
The main airport serving the Santo Domingo area, located approximately 25 km east of the city center.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Santo Domingo, representing approximately 60% of the population.
People of mixed race, primarily including those of European and African descent, making up about 30% of the population.
The African heritage population, which accounts for roughly 10% of the demographic.
Includes small populations of indigenous and other ethnic backgrounds, constituting less than 1%.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is the most popular sport in Santo Domingo and across Cuba. It has a rich history in the country and is deeply ingrained in the local culture, with many children dreaming of becoming professional players.
Boxing is another prominent sport in Santo Domingo, with a strong tradition of producing world-class boxers. The sport receives significant attention and support at both amateur and professional levels.
Soccer is growing in popularity in Santo Domingo. While not as dominant as baseball or boxing, it has a passionate following, especially among the youth.
Volleyball is widely played in schools and local communities. Both men's and women's teams compete nationally, with the sport enjoying a solid fan base.
Basketball has been gaining popularity in recent years, particularly among the younger population. Local leagues and schools often have basketball teams that compete regularly.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santo Domingo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Cuban cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, many restaurants in Santo Domingo now offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, such as plantain-based stews, yuca fritters, and vegetable-filled empanadas. Look for the 'vegetariano' or 'vegano' labels on menus or inquire with the friendly staff for recommendations.
For those with gluten sensitivities, Santo Domingo's dining scene has embraced the demand for gluten-free options. Enjoy dishes like grilled fish with tropical salsa, avocado salads, and bean-based soups, which are naturally free from gluten-containing ingredients. However, it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly to the restaurant staff for a safe dining experience.