Things To Do
in Santo Domingo
Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, is renowned for its rich history and vibrant culture, being the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the Americas since its founding by Bartholomew Columbus in 1498. This historic city showcases a blend of old-world charm and modern dynamism, with its UNESCO-listed colonial zone, iconic landmarks like the first cathedral of the Americas, and bustling commercial areas.
Santo Domingo is a melting pot of culinary delights, lively music, and spirited festivals, making it a captivating destination for travelers seeking to experience the heart and soul of the Dominican Republic.
- "¿Cómo tú tá?" - How are you?
- "Todo bien" - All good
- "¿Qué lo qué?" - What's up?
- "Ta bien" - It's okay
- "Búscame eso" - Get me that
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Alcázar de Colón, where you can admire colonial architecture and historical artifacts. Don't miss the chance to stroll along the picturesque streets filled with colorful buildings.
Head to the Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, the oldest cathedral in the Americas, and explore its stunning interior. Enjoy lunch at a local eatery to savor traditional Dominican cuisine.
Enjoy a leisurely walk through Parque Colón, where you can unwind and people-watch. Consider dining at a rooftop restaurant to enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Visit the imposing National Palace to learn about the country's governance and history. It's a great spot for photos with its beautifully landscaped gardens.
Explore Mercado Modelo to experience local culture and shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs. Grab a bite at a nearby café to try some authentic Dominican snacks.
Relax at the waterfront along Parque de la Independencia as the sun sets. Treat yourself to dinner at a lively restaurant with live music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history and vibrant local traditions.
- Beautiful beaches and warm climate year-round.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many Western countries.
- Increasing availability of modern amenities and infrastructure.
- A growing economy with opportunities for business and investment.
- High levels of traffic congestion in urban areas.
- Issues with crime and safety, particularly in certain neighborhoods.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Environmental concerns, including pollution in some areas.
- Healthcare services can vary in quality, especially outside major cities.
Best Activities in Santo Domingo
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic Zona Colonial area on foot, visiting landmarks such as the Alcázar de Colón and the Catedral Primada de América.
Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the scenic Malecón, a seaside boulevard offering beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea.
Embark on a hiking adventure in Parque Nacional Los Tres Ojos, a natural cave system with crystal-clear lagoons and lush vegetation.
Tours
Uncover the best of Santo Domingo with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Santo Domingo
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic oceanfront boulevard offering stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and the city skyline.
A historic district with charming streets, colorful buildings, and picturesque plazas ideal for capturing the city's colonial architecture.
A 16th-century palace with lovely gardens and panoramic views of the city and the Ozama River.
A monumental lighthouse marking the spot where Christopher Columbus's remains are supposedly interred, providing a great vantage point to capture sweeping views of the city and coastline.
Food in Santo Domingo
Santo Domingo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Mashed plantains often served with sautéed onions, Dominican salami, and fried cheese. One popular place to try Mangú is Adrian Tropical in Santo Domingo.
Must-Try!
A traditional lunch dish consisting of white rice, red beans, and meat (often chicken, pork, or beef). La Casita de Yeya is a well-regarded spot for La Bandera.
A hearty stew made with a variety of meats, tubers, and vegetables. El Conuco is known for its delicious Sancocho.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Santo Domingo better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of Santo Domingo, Mercado Modelo is a fantastic place to explore local flavors and street food. Visitors can find a variety of dishes, snacks, and fresh produce.
The scenic Malecón boardwalk is lined with food vendors offering a great selection of local street food such as empanadas, tostones (fried plantains), and freshly cut tropical fruits.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Santo Domingo, it is customary to greet people with a handshake and to use titles such as 'Señor' or 'Señora' when addressing someone, as a sign of respect.
Respecting elders is highly valued in Dominican culture. It is important to show deference and use formal language when addressing older individuals.
Family is central to Dominican culture, and it is important to show respect for family members and prioritize family responsibilities. Inviting someone into your home is considered a gesture of trust and respect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Santo Domingo with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Santo Domingo
Ensure a smooth experience
In Santo Domingo, it is customary to tip waitstaff at restaurants around 10% of the bill if a service charge isn't included. Additionally, tipping hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides is also appreciated.
Credit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments in Santo Domingo, but it's always good to have some cash on hand, especially for smaller vendors and in more local areas. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawal.
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...
The winter season in Santo Domingo is the peak tourist season, with mild temperatures and low humidity. It is a great time to visit for pleasant weather and various cultural events and festivals.
Spring in Santo Domingo brings warm temperatures and occasional rain showers. It is a good time to visit for enjoying outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.
The summer season in Santo Domingo is hot and humid, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. It is a less crowded time to visit, and ideal for those seeking discounted hotel rates.
Fall in Santo Domingo is characterized by tropical storms and occasional hurricanes. It is a less popular time to visit due to the risk of severe weather, but visitors can find great deals on accommodations.
Santo Domingo at Night
Hiking in Santo Domingo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A sprawling national park featuring lush vegetation, limestone hills, and mangroves, offering various trails for hiking and spectacular views of the coastline.
A popular hiking spot that provides beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding area and is suitable for hikers of various skill levels.
An urban park that includes walking trails along the Caribbean coast, ideal for a leisurely hike with scenic ocean views.
A unique system of open-air limestone caves and lakes with trails leading through stunning natural scenery and opportunities for exploration.
Located a bit further out, this national park is known for its diverse ecosystems, offering opportunities for hiking amidst rich wildlife and beautiful landscapes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Santo Domingo through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Santo Domingo by plane.
The primary international airport serving Santo Domingo, located approximately 15 kilometers east of the city.
An international airport located in Puerto Plata, about 220 kilometers from Santo Domingo, serving the northern region of the Dominican Republic.
An international airport located in Santiago, approximately 150 kilometers from Santo Domingo, serving the central region of the Dominican Republic.
An international airport located in Santo Domingo, mainly serving domestic flights and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant majority comprising individuals of mixed European and indigenous ancestry.
Individuals primarily of European descent, often with Spanish ancestry.
People of African descent, constituting a substantial part of the population and maintaining rich cultural traditions.
Descendants of the indigenous Taino people, whose numbers have significantly diminished but who are recognized in cultural heritage.
A growing group including North Americans, Europeans, and South Americans, often residing for business or retirement.
The Soul of Santo Domingo
Discover the essence of Santo Domingo through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is the most popular sport in Santo Domingo and the Dominican Republic as a whole. The country has produced many major league players and hosts a vibrant professional league.
Basketball has a large following in Santo Domingo, with many local leagues and teams. The sport has seen a growth in popularity, especially among the youth.
Volleyball is widely played in Santo Domingo, both recreationally and competitively. The sport gains attention during tournaments and has a strong presence in schools.
Football, known locally as soccer, is also popular among many Dominicans. The country's national team has a growing presence in international competitions.
Boxing has a rich history in the Dominican Republic, with many successful boxers emerging from the country. It is a popular sport to watch and participate in.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santo Domingo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Dominican cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants in Santo Domingo offer vegetarian and vegan adaptations of traditional dishes, and there is a growing number of dedicated vegetarian and vegan eateries in the city.
Although gluten-free options may not be as prevalent, many restaurants are accommodating to dietary restrictions and are willing to customize dishes to cater to gluten-free needs upon request.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Santo Domingo with these cultural adventures.
