Things To Do
in Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic sits on the eastern portion of Hispaniola, offering lush mountains, pristine beaches, and vibrant cities. Its history blends Taino roots, Spanish colonial influence, and Afro-Caribbean culture into a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Expect turquoise Caribbean waters, reggae rhythms in the streets, and a cuisine that blends rice, beans, seafood, and tropical fruits.
From colonial architecture in Santo Domingo to palm-fringed shores in Punta Cana, the DR is a dynamic blend of old-world charm and tropical adventure.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Punta Cana International Airport and transfer to your all-inclusive resort. Take some time to settle into your room and enjoy welcome drinks on the beach. Bask in the sun while soaking up the tropical atmosphere.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the resort's beachfront restaurants. Afterward, explore the resort’s amenities, perhaps enjoying a swim in one of the many pools. Spend the late afternoon strolling along the pristine Bavaro Beach, taking in the azure waters.
Dinner at the resort’s themed restaurant is a great way to start your vacation. Participate in some evening entertainment, from local music performances to cultural shows. End your night with a moonlit walk along the beach.
Travel to Santo Domingo, the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the Americas. Visit the Colonial Zone and marvel at historical structures like the Alcázar de Colón. Enjoy a traditional Dominican breakfast at a local café.
Continue your exploration at the impressive Catedral Primada de América. Afterward, grab lunch at a local eatery and savor some mofongo, a local delicacy. Check out the Museo de las Casas Reales, which tells the story of the island’s colonial past.
Dine at a renowned restaurant in Santo Domingo, enjoying local flavors. Stroll along the Malecón, where you can take in the vibrant nightlife and beautiful views of the Caribbean. Perhaps stop for a drink at a lively bar to unwind.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚌Public transit day pass | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee or soft drink | $2-4 |
| 🛀Spa treatment | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming people and vibrant culture
- Delicious, affordable street food and seafood
- Diverse landscapes from colonial cities to tropical beaches
- Hurricane season risk and variable infrastructure in rural areas
- Tourist crowds in peak seasons can drive up prices
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¡Salud!" - Cheers
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Dominican Republic
Visit one of these nice places.
Cobblestone streets, pastel colonial buildings, and landmarks like Alcázar de Colón create a perfect backdrop for architectural and street photography.
Iconic silhouette at the mouth of the Ozama River with sunset views and dramatic lighting at night.
Oceanfront promenade ideal for sunsets, sky reflections on the water, and wide-angle coastal shots.
Food in Dominican Republic
Dominican Republic Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The emblematic Dominican plate of white rice, red beans, and your choice of meat or vegetables; a staple found in homes and restaurants alike.
Must-Try!
Mashed plantains served with onions, typically paired with eggs, cheese, and salami for a hearty breakfast or dinner.
Hearty stew made with yuca, plantains, corn, and root vegetables, often featuring beef or chicken.
Deep-fried whole fish or fillets, commonly found at seaside eateries with a squeeze of lime and a side of tostones.
Mashed plantains with garlic, pork cracklings, and broth, sometimes filled with shrimp or chicken.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market where you can buy produce, spices, snacks, and prepared street foods; great for an immersive local experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake or light kiss on the cheek in many social settings; use formal titles (Señor/Señora) with elders or new acquaintances.
Dominicans are warm and expressive. Engage with friendly conversation, avoid overly private questions early on, and be mindful of loud talking in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Dominican Republic
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 10-15% tip is customary if service is not included. For taxis, rounding up the fare is common. Street vendors generally do not expect tips.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas; carry some cash in Dominican pesos for small purchases. ATMs are common in urban centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
June to August brings heat and humidity with frequent afternoon showers; expect sunny mornings and lush landscapes, plus peak beach season.
September to November continues warm days with a higher chance of tropical rain; coastal scenery remains stunning and less crowded than peak winter.
December to February offers cooler, drier days in most areas; pleasant for city sightseeing and outdoor activities, especially in the north.
March to May features warm temperatures with refreshing breezes and manageable humidity; ideal for outdoor exploration and beaches.
Dominican Republic at Night
Hiking in Dominican Republic
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Caribbean's highest peak; rugged terrain and multi-day trek through montane forests and scenic valleys.
Mangrove forests, sea caves, and kayaking adventures along remote shorelines and limestone formations.
Airports
How to reach Dominican Republic by plane.
Near Santo Domingo; primary international gateway with rental cars, taxis, and onward connections.
Main gateway to the eastern resorts; modern facilities and extensive flight options.
Smaller airport serving Samaná region; more limited flights, often connecting through Santiago or Santo Domingo.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Ethnically diverse, predominantly Spanish-speaking; strong regional identities across the country.
One of the largest immigrant groups in the DR, contributing to the country's cultural and economic diversity.
Retirees, digital nomads, and tourists increasingly choose resorts or urban areas like Santo Domingo for extended stays.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
National pastime; local leagues and weekend games offer windows into authentic Dominican sports culture.
Widely played in schools and communities; pickup games common in urban neighborhoods.
Cabarete and nearby beaches host world-class conditions for water sports enthusiasts.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Dominican cuisine offers plant-based staples (rice, beans, plantains, yuca, vegetables). Ask for veggie versions of local dishes or request meat-free sauces; many restaurants can accommodate with sides like tostones, yuca, or salads.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dominican Republic.