One of the oldest cities in the Caribbean, Santo Domingo serves as the lively capital of the Dominican Republic. It centres around a UNESCO World Heritage-listed colonial core, with a great selection of museums and public parks where you can soak up the coastal views.
Things to do in Santo Domingo
Spend a day exploring the Zona Colonial, home to the New World’s first cathedral, the Spanish-built Fortaleza Ozama and the stunning 16th-century villa of Alcázar de Colón. Wander along the historic commercial strip of Calle del Conde to the Puerta de la Independencia where the Dominican Republic proclaimed its independence from Haiti.
The nearby neighbourhood of Gazcue, one of Santo Domingo’s oldest, is where grand Victorian homes line the shady streets. Admire the architecture of the Palacio Nacional and explore the works within the Palace of Fine Arts, then take in the sea breezes along the palm-lined boulevard of El Malecon.
For a dose of local culture, head to the Plaza de la Cultura, home to the Museum of Dominican Man and Museum of Natural History. It’s also here that you’ll find the outstanding Museum of Modern Art, with works by some of the Caribbean’s most acclaimed artists.
If you want to escape the bustle of downtown Santo Domingo, make your way to Parque Mirador Sur, which boasts an impressive setting overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The beautiful Jardin Botanico is another green oasis not to miss, showcasing plants from across the Caribbean and beyond.
Getting around Santo Domingo
Las Americas International Airport is around 30 minutes’ drive from Santo Domingo and there are ferries that connect the city to San Juan in Puerto Rico. Public buses travel throughout Santo Domingo, while El Malecon and the Colonial Zone are both pedestrian-friendly.