Things To Do
in Santo Domingo
Santo Domingo, Cuba is a small coastal town that marries a relaxed island pace with a lively street life. Colorful colonial buildings line narrow lanes where classic cars glide by and locals share stories over cafecitos. The town sits close to beaches, mangroves, and protected marshlands, making day trips into nature easy.
Its rhythm is fueled by music, markets, and warm hospitality that invites you to slow down and linger.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down in Santo Domingo and settle into your charming guesthouse. Savor a steaming cup of Cuban coffee while meeting your local host. Take a leisurely stroll to absorb the colorful colonial architecture.
Join a guided walking tour through the town’s plaza and historic church. Explore a small museum showcasing local art and artifacts. Pause for a refreshing fruit smoothie at a shaded café.
Watch the sun dip below the tiled rooftops from a rooftop terrace. Enjoy a hearty dinner of ropa vieja and congrí at a family-run paladar. End the night with live salsa beats drifting through the streets.
Begin at the 18th–century church, admiring its Baroque altar and bell tower. Wander cobblestone lanes lined with pastel facades and wrought-iron balconies. Chat with artisans selling hand-painted ceramics.
Visit the local archives to learn about Santo Domingo’s founding and colonial past. Sample street-vendor arepas and fresh coconut water by the town square. Explore nearby plazas where time seems to stand still.
Dine in a restored colonial mansion turned restaurant, feasting on fresh seafood ceviche. Sip a mojito under a canopy of fairy lights. Join an informal poetry reading in the courtyard.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $1-2 |
| 🥪Lunch at local cafe | $5-9 |
| 🥘Dinner at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🧃Bottle of water or soft drink | $0.5-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and friendly locals
- Compact town with easy access to beaches and nature
- Affordable street food and lodging options
- Vibrant music and cultural scenes
- Internet access can be limited and slower
- English may be less commonly spoken in smaller towns
- Transportation between more distant sights can be time-consuming
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está?" - Where is it?
- "Hable más despacio, por favor." - Please speak more slowly.
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Santo Domingo
Visit one of these nice places.
Sunset shots along the seawall with silhouettes of fishing boats and palm trees.
Colorful colonial façades, arches, and shutters ideal for architectural photography.
Historic square framed by a church, fountains, and lively street life.
Boats, nets, and a working harbor atmosphere at dawn or dusk.
Food in Santo Domingo
Santo Domingo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rice cooked with black beans for a simple, comforting base.
Must-Try!
Shredded beef simmered with peppers and onions, usually served with rice and plantains.
Roast pork with mojo, a festive favorite at family gatherings.
Twice-fried plantain slices, crispy and perfect as a side or snack.
Boiled cassava with garlicky citrus sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market stalls offer fresh fruit, seafood, vegetables, and local spices; perfect for sampling produce and bargaining with vendors.
Mobile vendors serve empanadas, pastelitos, yuca frita, and fried plantains; great for a quick, flavorful bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and say Buenas días or Buenas tardes; a handshake is common in formal encounters.
Ask for permission before photographing people, especially children or private homes.
Dress modestly in towns; avoid loud behavior in sacred or residential areas; keep conversations polite and positive about local matters.
Small tips go a long way; engage in light conversation about daily life and music.
Safety
Tipping in Santo Domingo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip 1–5 CUC (or equivalent CUP) for casual service; 5–10% in restaurants if service is good; small tips for casa owners and guides are appreciated.
Cash is widely used; local Cuban pesos are common, and some tourist spots accept USD/EUR or cards at larger establishments; ATMs can be limited in smaller towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
June–August are hot and humid with frequent showers in the late afternoon; stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning.
September–November sees variable rain and warm temperatures; it’s a shoulder season with fewer crowds and lush landscapes after rains.
December–February brings milder days and cooler nights; comfortable walking weather, but evenings can be breezy near the coast.
March–May is warm with occasional showers; great for outdoor exploring and birdwatching as wildlife is active.
Santo Domingo at Night
Hiking in Santo Domingo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails, overlook points, and coffee plantations within a scenic mountain reserve.
Wetlands with boardwalks, marsh habitats, and birdwatching opportunities nearby.
Airports
How to reach Santo Domingo by plane.
Havana’s main international gateway; driving distance to Santo Domingo varies by route but is typically a few hours by road.
Main gateway for resort areas in Matanzas; often convenient for travelers combining beach time with a visit to Santo Domingo.
Central Cuba gateway near Santa Clara; farther but useful for regional travel by car or bus.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
People living in Santo Domingo, often with strong family and community ties.
Young adults and working-class residents contributing to daily life and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Cuba; local leagues and street games are common.
Widely played and watched, with local teams and informal matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santo Domingo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Cuba, vegetarian options exist in most restaurants; ask for beans and rice, plantains, yuca, salads, and vegetable stews; speak up about avoiding meat if needed.