Complete Guide to Santo Domingo: What to See and Do in the Dominican Capital

The capital of the Dominican Republic is home to numerous monuments and interesting spots that will allow you to soak up the country’s traditions and culture. It is one of the island’s main attractions, even for those who didn’t plan on stepping off the paradisiacal Caribbean beaches.

Its bustling streets and colonial architecture continue to reflect the splendour of one of the gems of Central America. This mandatory stop can be done with a day trip to Santo Domingo. An easily accessible activity from the main beaches in Punta Cana, such as the exclusive Playa Bávaro.

The capital has numerous attractions both within the city and in the surrounding area. We’re going to take you on a tour of the main points of interest in Santo Domingo, after which you can decide if you’re interested in hiring a tourist guide service in Santo Domingo to learn more about its history and culture. You can also assess whether or not it’s worth spending more than one day in the city to explore its nightlife and some of the highly attractive nature spots in the surrounding area.

What to see in the Santo Domingo area

Let’s see which interesting sites you should visit during a trip to the Dominican capital.

Alcázar de Colón

This masterful building was built in a Mudéjar style with coral stones from the area. Inside, it houses the Alcázar de Colón Museum, where you can learn about the environment and family life of Christopher Columbus, since up to three generations once lived here.

Apart from the visit, it is also spectacularly located inside the Plaza de España park with views of the Ozama River.

Santo Domingo Cathedral

Also known as the Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, it was consecrated in 1504 and is located just a few steps from Colón Park. It was formerly located within the fortified wall, which today no longer remains. As an important tourist attraction, it is one of the symbols of the city and of America, being the oldest cathedral in America and the only one in a Gothic style.

El Baluarte del Conde

This fort was part of a larger system of historic and defence buildings and spaces in the country. The most notable include the Puerta de la Misericordia, Independence Park, the Fuerte de la Concepción, the Altar de la Patria and the Puerta del Conde.

Ozama Fortress

On the banks of the Ozama River, this enclave was built in stone between 1502 and 1508 to protect the city. It is a World Heritage Site and today offers incredible views of the river, the Colonial Area and the entire city of Santo Domingo.

Modelo Market

Visiting the Modelo Market is the best way to immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of Dominican life. It is also the perfect place to find crafts and the best souvenirs and other typical products from Punta Cana, such as mamajuana or tobacco. Don’t forget that bargaining is common in this country when making purchases in the market.

Area around Santo Domingo

If you decide to spend more than one day in the island’s capital, you should know that there are unique places around Santo Domingo, such as the Pomier caves or “The Three Eyes”.

The Pomier caves are located 45 minutes from the city and are the largest in the Caribbean. A former refuge for the indigenous inhabitants, they have recently been restored and are worth visiting.

On the other hand, Los Tres Ojos (The Three Eyes) is located in the Mirador del Este park.

It consists of large freshwater lakes within a cave in which up to four different caves are connected. A good recommendation is to take a boat trips on the lakes found inside Los Tres Ojos.

What to do at night in Santo Domingo

There is no better way to finish off a day in Santo Domingo than by going for a walk on its Malecón promenade. Stroll along its 14 kilometres at sunset before trying a Dominican coffee, national beers or any of the traditional dishes from the Dominican Republic at a stimulating and exquisite dinner in the middle of George Washington Avenue. On this avenue, you will find many bars, restaurants and entertainment options for all ages.

In the official calendar issued by the Ministry of Tourism, you can see which activities and festivals in the Dominican Republic coincide with your visit. The best way to immerse yourself in the local life, traditions and customs of the Dominican people.

These are the main points of interest in Santo Domingo that you can explore during a one or two-day visit to the island’s capital. With these recommendations, you will enjoy an unforgettable trip to Santo Domingo, an outing that goes perfectly with the luxury experiences offered by the beachfront resorts in Punta Cana.