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Getting Around

Public transportation.

The Dominican Republic’s public transportation system is surprisingly modern and extensive. Dominicans are constantly on the road–visiting family in the countryside, conducting business, or shuffling to school. Taxis are ubiquitous, Uber is available in three major cities–Santo Domingo, Santiago, and Puerto Plata–and there’s always a form of bus service, big or small, going to any town or city you want to explore. Aside from being the most affordable way to travel, public transportation is a great way to glimpse every day life in the DR, and is guaranteed to be a memorable experience.

Santo Domingo Subway

Metro Santo Domingo  operates two lines, mostly used by residents commuting to work. But there are a couple of stops convenient to sights. Line 1 runs north to south along Máximo Gómez Avenue, from the Villa Mella area all the way to Centro de los Héroes, where Congress, the Supreme Court of Justice, and the Department of Migration, among other government offices, are located. The Casandra Damirón stop on Line 1 lands you directly into  Plaza de la Cultura , home to key museums and the National Theater. Line 2 runs east to west on John F. Kennedy Avenue, passing by Ágora Mall at the Pedro Mir stop, and the Felix Sánchez Olympic Stadium. A roundtrip subway fare costs RD$15 for a rechargeable metro card, plus RD$40 roundtrip, or RD$80 for a day-pass. The subway operates daily from 6am-10:30pm.

Taxis are easily located in major cities and towns­, usually stationed outside major bus stations, or hotel and tourist zones. In the big cities like Santo Domingo, Santiago, and Puerto Plata, your best bet is to call one of the major 24-hour taxi service companies–ask your hotel or a local for the best ones, and to make the call for you. In Santo Domingo, for instance,  Apolo Taxi  is popular, as is Aero Taxi. When calling, ask the taxi phone operator to confirm the color of the car, and the estimated wait time. You should also ask for confirmation of the fare to your destination –rates within cities are set by the taxi association.

Uber & Cabify

The popular ridesharing app service UBER launched in the Dominican Republic in 2015, and is now operating in three major cities: Santo Domingo, Santiago, and Puerto Plata. Cabify also operates in Santo Domingo. These apps are as safe to use in the DR as in any other destination. More visitors are resorting to them because of the language barrier–no need to speak to a taxi operator on the phone. The cars are also usually in better condition, with working seatbelts and air-conditioning, in addition to reduced fares when there is no heavy traffic.

Long Distance Local Travel

Interurban coach bus service.

One of the major perks of the DR is the convenient, affordable large coach bus services connecting the major regions in the country. There are three reliable companies providing daily service to major hubs, in modern, air-conditioned buses with Wi-Fi and movies.  Metro Tours  buses connect Santo Domingo, Santiago, Puerto Plata, Sosúa, La Romana/Casa de Campo, and there are daily departures to Port-au-Prince, Haiti.  Caribe Tours  serves Santo Domingo, Santiago, Puerto Plata, Sosúa –with more frequent daily departures–Barahona, Cabrera, Jarabacoa, La Vega, Montecristi, Samaná, and other towns in the Dominican Republic, as well as Haiti.  Expreso Bávaro  is the only major bus service connecting Santo Domingo and Bávaro every day, ideal for Punta Cana travelers.

Bus fares range between RD$200-RD$500 one-way. Make sure to arrive at least one hour prior to departure to ensure seating space, and bring a solid jacket or scarf with you on board, as these buses tend to keep the air-conditioning at its lowest point.

Low-cost Minivan Bus Service or Guaguas

Smaller, privately-owned and operated minivan buses called  guaguas  travel scheduled routes daily, taking travelers within a city, or long-distance to small and large destinations around the Dominican Republic.

The long-distance  guaguas  are just as comfortable as the large coach buses, seating no more than 20-25 passengers, each with a dedicated seat and offering Wi-Fi connection. Look out for the ones labeled “ Expreso ” to your destination–they don’t stop along the road to pick up passengers, unlike the regular ones, which shortens your trip.

In-City Transportation

Minivan buses.

The inner-city  guaguas  tend to be white vans, stopping to pick up or drop off anyone along the designated route as many times as it takes, and are the slowest form of getting around. Passengers are crammed in, and space appears magically just when you think there isn’t any left. It’s also the cheapest way to travel within a city or town limits. Be sure to carry small change for the fare, as these vans don’t carry much cash–you could be stuck paying more otherwise. Each  guagua  has a driver, and a conductor who calls out for passengers along the road, handles collecting fares, and hollers out requested stops to the driver. Inform the conductor of your destination as soon as you board, and prepare to pay right away or as soon as requested.

Motorbike Taxis Or Motoconchos

Motorbike taxis are popular among locals in the big cities like Santo Domingo or Puerto Plata, and even Jarabacoa, because they are the cheapest and fastest way to get past traffic. But this is also the most dangerous way to travel, particularly in cities or areas of heavy traffic. Many motorbike taxis don’t provide helmets, though they are legally required to do so. Riding a slow bike taxi in the mountain towns of Jarabacoa and Constanza, however, is a great way to take in the spectacular scenery. The official motorbike taxis usually wear a vest of neon color, but note that it is not always the case. Ask for the  motoconcho  hub in your town, or get a referral from your guesthouse. Fares range from RD$25 to RD$75 in-city, depending on the distance.

Shared Taxis or Conchos

Also known as  carrito – conchos, carritos,  or just  conchos , these four-door sedans are shared taxis, similar to the in-city  guaguas  because they travel specific routes and stop anywhere on the route as requested by passengers. You can find them in the big cities, as well as in towns and villages. They are a slightly more comfortable method than the  guagua,  but passengers are also crammed in at the back and the front. Fares range from RD$25-50 depending on the distance–significantly cheaper than a private taxi fare, which start at RD$150.

The Dominican Republic is well served by vast, modern highways connecting its major cities and coastlines, and linking the most popular tourist destinations. In good condition, they reveal the country’s glorious scenery­, particularly along the highways from Santo Domingo to the Samaná Peninsula or Jarabacoa, and along the coast of Puerto Plata.

Familiarize yourself with these five major highways–particularly if you plan on renting a car and exploring the country’s multiple regions. Expect tolls, depending on your origin and destination–inquire at your guesthouse before launching your trip. For instance, the highway from Santo Domingo to Boca Chica bears a single tollbooth, while there are four from Santo Domingo to Bávaro.  Toll fees  vary, ranging from RD$60 to RD$100 per booth. Carry small change in Dominican pesos. Dollars are accepted, but any applicable change will be in the local currency.

Route 1: Autopista Duarte – Santo Domingo to Santiago:  The Duarte Highway is a divided four-lane highway linking the north and south of the Dominican Republic. It’s a two-hour scenic drive from the capital up to the second largest city of Santiago, also leading towards Jarabacoa and La Vega.

Route 3: Autopista Las Am é ricas:  This highway links Santo Domingo’s Las Américas International Airport with the city of Santo Domingo going west, or to the beach town of Boca Chica going east. It eventually meets with the Autopista Coral towards La Romana.

Route 3: Autopista Oscar de la Renta:  This highway, also known as  Autopista del Coral , links Santo Domingo with the Punta Cana resort area, bypassing Higüey, in less than three hours, and reaches La Romana in less than one hour.

Route 5: Carretera de Puerto Plata:  This two-lane highway runs along the North Coast in one of the most colorful, quaint drives in the country. It goes past fishing villages, beaches, distant verdant hills, and every day  campo  life.

Route 7: Santo Domingo to Samaná Highway:  Route 7 links Santo Domingo with the northeastern Samaná Peninsula. The views on Route 7 are unparalleled, with dense coconut tree-punctuated hills from a coconut oil plantation, towering over a bright blue sea. An additional option is to reach Las Terrenas via the  Boulevard Tur í stico del Atlántico or Route 133 , worth the additional US$11 in toll fees for its breathtaking, winding coastal views, and a panoramic lookout stop over the Bay of Cosón.

Car Rentals

All the major car rental companies are present in the Dominican Republic, located at international airports, as well as in-city. For the best rates, book online ahead of time on travel sites.

Renting a car is useful if you’re staying in one particular region–such as Puerto Plata, Punta Cana, Samaná, or Barahona–to better explore the long coastline. In-city rentals are also available; stick to well-known brands or ask your hotel for referrals. Pick a four-wheel drive for added safety, and make sure you have a good country roadmap on hand. Investing in a reputable travel guidebook is a solid investment as well, and learning a few key Spanish phrases.

To be eligible to rent a vehicle, you must:

• Be 25 years of age; and
• Bring a valid drivers’ license from your home country.

Go for full insurance coverage, including the  Casa del Conductor  option, which ensures you are not immediately sent to jail in case of a serious accident injuring another party. Cars are often rented with a full tank, and must be returned as such.

Domestic Flights

Getting around the DR by charter flight is a possibility to quickly reach the various regions.  The domestic airports  listed below are used for charters or for limited scheduled flights between the DR’s major tourist hubs: Santo Domingo, Samaná, Punta Cana, Puerto Plata, and Barahona. Charter flight companies include  Air Century ,  SAP Group ,  TAS Jet , and  Aerolíneas Mas .

La Isabela International Airport (JBQ )­–also known as Aeropuerto Higüero–services domestic commercial and charter flights, including daily departures to Haiti and Cuba.

Arroyo Barril International Airport (MDAB) , located in Samaná, services domestic flights coming from Punta Cana.

María Montez International Airport (BRX)  sits right outside the city of Barahona, and serves primarily domestic flights.

Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ)  services domestic charter flights, aside from international ones.

Santo Domingo

• 1.1 Climate
• 1.2 Economy
• 1.3 Government and politics
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By ferry
• 2.3 By cruise
• 3.1 By metro
• 3.2 On foot
• 3.3 By taxi
• 3.4 By rental car
• 3.6 By public car
• 3.7 By collective taxi
• 3.8 By Teleférico
• 4.1 Museums
• 5.1 Festivals
• 6.1 Colonial Zone
• 7.2 Mid-range
• 7.3 Splurge
• 9.2 Mid-Range
• 9.3 Splurge
• 9.4 In Boca Chica Area
• 10 Stay safe
• 11.1 Embassies & consulates

Santo Domingo is the capital of the Dominican Republic , the oldest European city in the Americas, and the most developed city on the island of Hispaniola. The old city is on the UNESCO World Heritage List . Elsewhere in the Dominican Republic, which is named after Santo Domingo, it's more common to just call this city "the capital" than to call it by its name.

Understand [ edit ]

Santo Domingo is the capital city of the Dominican Republic, and it prides itself in being the first European city in the New World. Founded by Christopher Columbus's brother Bartolome Colombus in 1496, it is the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the Americas and was the first seat of the Spanish colonial empire in the New World. For this reason, the city of Santo Domingo has a really rich historic and cultural heritage that makes any visit extremely worthwhile. Santo Domingo remains one of the most populous cities in the Central America-Caribbean area, and the main economic and commercial center of this region. The country suffered 31 years of a brutal dictatorship by Trujillo, during which time the city was called "Ciudad Trujillo".

The city is divided into two parts by the Ozama River. The western side is very developed economically, while the eastern part, known as "Santo Domingo Este," has lagged behind.

The most important tourist destination of the city is the Zona Colonial or Colonial Zone, on the western bank of the river and facing the Caribbean Sea. To the west of the Zona Colonial lies Gazcue, one of the city's oldest neighborhoods, filled with old Victorian houses and tree-lined streets. The city's waterfront George Washington Avenue, known as "El Malecon," borders the Caribbean Sea and attracts many tourists because of its hotels, casinos, palm-lined boulevards and monuments. Surrounding the Gazcue area you will find the Palacio Nacional (seat of the Dominican government), the National Theater, the museums in the Plaza de la Cultura, and the Palace of Fine Arts.

In the central part of western Santo Domingo lies the economic and commercial heart of the city, in an area known as the "Poligono Central" and delimited by the 27 de Febrero, John F. Kennedy, Winston Churchill and Maximo Gomez avenues. This high-income area remains rather unexplored by tourists, despite offering most of the best dining and shopping available in the city. Many of the city's most affluent neighborhoods surround the city's two main parks, the Parque Mirador Sur in the South and the Jardin Botanico in the North.

In the more populated but less developed East Santo Domingo you will find other major monuments and tourist spots, such as Columbus's Lighthouse, where the explorer's remains are buried, the open caves of the Parque Nacional Los Tres Ojos, and the National Aquarium.

This all makes of Santo Domingo a cosmopolitan, vibrant and bustling city with very distinct neighborhoods and ambiances, all worth a visit, and providing the most diverse cultural experiences.

What's nice about Santo Domingo is that it receives significantly fewer tourists than other cities in the Dominican Republic such as Punta Cana and La Romana . As a result, travelers to Santo Domingo are rewarded by being able to experience a completely true and authentic Dominican experience that is hard to come across in major tourist hubs.

Climate [ edit ]

Santo Domingo enjoys a tropical climate. Temperature averages from 23°C (73.4°F) in the morning to 31.7°C (89.1°F) by the afternoon. Generally, January and February are the coldest months, and August is the hottest month of the year. The island is prone to hurricanes especially during June 1 to November 30, but warnings beforehand prepare residents and tourists for any harm. Santo Domingo is a great city to visit during any season, because the city's ideal tropical weather runs all year long!

Economy [ edit ]

Santo Domingo is the headquarter of economic activity in Dominican Republic. The city catches the attention of many international firms. Many of these firms have their headquarters in the city due to its great location and prosperous economy. The city is also home to over 26 colleges and universities including the Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo, which is the largest and the first university of the Americas.

Power outages have been one of the downfalls of placing a major headquarter in the city, but the infrastructure is a great advantage to many of these international firms. Since Santo Domingo has privatize and integrated with the US telecommunication system, they have been fortunate to have the benefit of a contemporary telecommunication system.

Incomes in Santo Domingo can vary from extremely rich to extremely poor. Many of the prominent families live in neighborhoods surrounding Avenida John F. Kennedy ("Avenida" = "Avenue") to the north, Avenida 27 de Febrero to the south, Avenida Winston Churchill to the west and Avenida Máximo Gómez to the east. Some other areas that are always expanding and developing are Naco, Arroyo Hondo, Piantini, Paraíso, Bella Vista, Sarasota. Most of the city's less fortunate live outside the center of Santo Domingo, which can be seen by various slums that emphasizes the huge issue poverty is for the city.

Avenida Winston Churchill and 27 de Febrero Avenue are two of the commercial centers of the city. Many malls and shops are found in these two avenues, such as Acropolis Center, Scotiabank, Citibank, Banco BHD, Banco del Progreso, Banreservas, Plaza Central and Plaza Naco. However, some of the most popular malls are Acropolis Center, Bella Vista Mall, Blue Mall, Novo-Centro, Agora Mall and Galería 360 because it contains more contemporary shops and are popular within the high income families.

Government and politics [ edit ]

The national government of the Dominican Republic is located in Santo Domingo. The National Palace houses the President of Dominican Republic and the National Congress.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

Direct flights from: Atlanta, Boston, New York, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Philadelphia, Panama City, San Jose Costa Rica, San Juan Puerto Rico, Havana, Port-au-Prince, Caracas, Paris, Madrid Barajas , Frankfurt Airport , Munich Airport and Düsseldorf and surrounding Caribbean islands.

Airfare to Santo Domingo may vary widely depending on season and demand. A round trip ticket from Boston or New York ranges anywhere from US$300 to US$700, with fares from Miami or San Juan only slightly lower.

Airfare from most cities in Latin America cost between US$400 and US$1,000 and require layovers in Panamá City, Panamá (Copa Airlines) or San José, Costa Rica (Avianca).

Taxis charge anywhere US$25-40 for the drive from the airport into Santo Domingo. Or, go up to the second floor at the Arrivals (at the very end), where a minivan will accommodate up to 8 passengers for a ride for RD$70 ( pesos ) for 1/2 hour to the Zona Colonial (only). For further distances to the center (i.e. to the Caribe Tours Terminal), you will need to negotiate just like you would have with the usual un-metered taxis. To return, the cheapest option is to go to the corner of Av. Sabena Larga with Av. Las Americas (walkable in 15 minutes from Zona Colonial), where this same van may be there, or if not take the bus going to Boca Chica (RD$40, about 1 hr); ask the driver to stop before the express route to the airport, from where you can walk (about 20 minutes, some 2 km). Do not return during night time. Hardly anyone speaks English in the bus, around the terminals etc. However getting to the city center seems more viable, that van was recommended at the Tourist Desk in the airport, and some sort of authority (with a badge) was entertaining the driver while waiting for the car to be filled.

Since the DR is pretty small it is possible to fly into any of the other airports in the country and do a short (2-5 hours) overland trip from there.

By ferry [ edit ]

There is ferry service to and from Mayaguez as well as San Juan, Puerto Rico. It costs around US$200 roundtrip and the overnight journey last 12 hours. For an additional fee, you can bring your car along for the ride. The former company, Ferries del Caribe is now out of business and the new provider is called America Cruise Ferries [dead link] .

By cruise [ edit ]

Sansouci is a state-of-the-art terminal that holds up to 3800 passengers and luggage. From there you can get a taxi or a tour, and there is also an ATM, gift shops, a call center, and internet service.

By bus [ edit ]

Santo Domingo is served by Expreso Bavaro and Caribe Tours from Punta Cana and by Caribe Tours from Sosua via Puerto Plata and Santiago de los Caballeros . Taxis from the bus terminals to the historic city center cost between RD$200 and RD$400, depending on bargaining skills.

Get around [ edit ]

Santo Domingo used to be a huge city (population nearly 4 million people) that was split into 5 independent municipalities: Distrito Nacional, Santo Domingo Este, Santo Domingo Oeste, Santo Domingo Norte and Boca Chica. Fortunately, nearly all tourist attractions and shopping, dining and entertainment venues are relatively close to each other in the Distrito Nacional, making it easy for you to get around and see the sights.

Santo Domingo is not entirely a tourist-friendly city. It's often hard to move around if you don't know the city, as many streets lack proper signage and addresses are often reliant on the neighborhood's name more than an actual street address. However, don't be afraid of asking the locals for orientation, as Dominicans are well known for their helpful nature and usually helpful to tourists. It's a good idea to get a street map (there are many city maps online but it's also possible to buy one at any gift shop or book store for no more than US$5).

By metro [ edit ]

Santo Domingo has two operating metro lines: one a north-south axis under the Maximo Gomez avenue, going from Villa Mella to the Centro de los Heroes and the Malecon, passing by the National Theater and the Santo Domingo Autonomous University (UASD), the second along Avenida John F. Kennedy. A single ride is RD$20 and there are ten ride packages for RD$185 and twenty ride packages for RD$360. Payment is by smartcard which costs RD$60 and has to be charged with a minimum of RD$20 when bought bringing the total minimum price to RD$80. Five more lines are planned. The metro is easily the fastest way to get to the places it serves and if your accommodation is close to a metro station, just remember the name of that metro station for orientation and reference. However, large parts of the city are not (yet) covered. The website has a bit more information.

On foot [ edit ]

Walking along major thoroughfares in Santo Domingo can prove quite challenging. First, drivers aren't very respectful of pedestrians, so you have to take extra care when trying to cross a street. Second, some sidewalks can be damaged or under construction, forcing you onto the street.

The Malecon and Colonial Zone are the most walkable parts of the city. They offer multiple pedestrian attractions and are relatively safe areas for tourists to explore. Although it is always wise to use common sense as everywhere.

While exploring the Colonial Zone try hiring a properly licensed tour guide. These talented yet underpaid, multilingual individuals will keep you entertained for hours with unprecedented historical insight and humor. You can usually find them at the Plaza Colon in front of the Cathedral. Most are worth every penny. On the other hand, some of them are known to take their customers to businesses that throw them a kickback, so it's up to you to decide whether you really like to act upon their advice on businesses or not.

By taxi [ edit ]

Unlike most major metropolitan areas, there are very few roaming taxis in Santo Domingo. Even if you see one, it is best not to take a chance, it can be dangerous. In most cases you have to call a dispatcher to have a taxi sent to your location. This isn't a problem and most businesses will gladly call a cab for you. Relatively expensive, usually US$4-15 per average trip and possibly more if you use one of the friendly cabs waiting in front of your nice hotel lobby. Again, depending on circumstances, you may find that hiring a cab driver for the day is a good bargain.

Santo Domingo is served by Uber, which locally allows passengers to pay by credit card through the app or by cash to the driver. Uber rides around the city are considerably less expensive than regular taxis and usually involve both newer and cleaner vehicles.

• Also be sure to never get into stray cabs at night or cabs that aren't sent by a dispatcher, they are not the safest. Some cabs will put several passengers in at once, each paying a separate fare.

By rental car [ edit ]

All major US car rental firms are available at the airport, along with several local vendors offering everything from subcompacts to late model Hummers, Range Rovers and Land Cruisers. When renting from local vendors be sure to read the fine print regarding insurance coverage; you might think you're getting a great deal on a car, only to get into an accident and find out that your insurance coverage does not apply or that your deductible is as high as US$5,000.

Advice to potential renters: Gasoline costs RD$65/liter (Apr 2021) here and people drive fast and furious, breaking every imaginable rule. It might be safer and cheaper to develop a friendship with a cab driver who will gladly become your personal driver, tourguide and concierge for a day rate equal to a fraction of what it would cost you to rent, insure and gas up a rental.

Bus service in Santo Domingo is not very user-friendly and geared more towards locals getting to and from work. It is often impossible to know which bus goes where unless you ask the driver, as neither buses nor routes are clearly marked.

Bottom line: inexpensive (US$0.50-1.00 per ride) yet complicated. Avoid unless you are accompanied by a local.

By public car [ edit ]

You can identify a public car from a regular car because it will have a government seal on the windshield. Public cars usually go up and down a street. You can catch one by standing on the street and signaling if your going up the street or down. Public cars are also safe, except you will probably be riding along with at least 5 other people going the same way you are. Public cars are roughly RD$20-25.

By collective taxi [ edit ]

These collective taxis or “guaguas" as they are called by Dominicans, stick to a predetermined route (usually up and down a major avenue), picking up and dropping off passengers along the way - often cramming up to five passengers into a twenty year old Toyota Corolla. Very inexpensive, US$0.50 per trip, yet very uncomfortable. By the way, if you happen to be overweight don't be surprised if the driver charges you for two seats instead of one. Safety can sometimes be a concern, so it is best to take guaguas when traveling with locals.

They fit 7 people total, the driver, two in front passenger seat, and four in the back seat.

By Teleférico [ edit ]

Like other Latin American cities before it (most notably Medellín ) Santo Domingo has an aerial tramway linking some of the poverty stricken outer neighborhoods in the hills to the town center. You're unlikely to have a reason to go where the Teleférico goes, but you might want to take a ride for the novelty value alone. The line has four stops and connects to Metro Line 2 at Eduardo Brito. Prices are the same as for the Metro.

See [ edit ]

Despite boasting a rich cultural, architectural and artistic heritage, Santo Domingo has not been exploited for all its tourist potential. You're pretty much on your own to discover this fascinating city. Make the most of your time there.

• Malecon ( George Washington Avenue ). This waterfront boulevard is home to several huge hotel/casino complexes and dozens of small restaurants, clubs and cafes. Go there to people watch, take a romantic carriage ride or just have a few beers. Site of many festivals and concerts throughout the year. Parallel to the Malecon you will find Avenida Independencia , a tree-lined street full of shops, bed and breakfasts and affordable restaurants with a nice mix of locals and tourists. For a unique dining experience check out Adrian Tropical , a traditional Dominican restaurant literally built on the water, then visit San Gil , the ruins of a colonial fort. The Malecon Center, located on the far end of the Malecon, is a new and still under occupied high-end shopping center/hotel/condo complex with a Botero sculpture out front that reportedly cost US$1 million.  
• Plaza de la Cultura ( walk all the way down the Malecon to Avenida Maximo Gomez and take a left; walk past the McDonald's and Pizza Hut ). This amazing complex is home to the National Theater and five museums, ranging from the dilapidated and mundane, to the crisp, modern Museo de Arte Moderno (Museum of Modern Art), the largest in the Caribbean and home to exhibits by artists from Jamaica, Bahamas, Puerto Rico, and of course, the Dominican Republic. Other museums include the Museo de Historia Natural (Museum of Natural History), Museo del Hombre Dominicano (Museum of the Dominican Man) and Museo de Historia y Geografía (Museum of History and Geography). The entrance to the museums will cost RD$5-60 each (Sept 2017). If want a nice beautiful garden to read or talk this is your place also.  
• Eco-tourism . Find your way to the Parque Mirador Sur , an impressive park overlooking the coast. It is closed for cars on weekdays between 05:00 and 08:00, and on Sundays, enabling it to be filled with families playing with their children and exercising. Bike rentals are at your disposal. Also, you can visit the Botanical Garden , a vast, beautiful and lush park situated near one of Santo Domingo's most exclusive neighborhoods. There you can experience different ecosystems from a rainforest to a Japanese garden.  
• Sundial ( Reloj de Sol ) ( on Calle Las Damas ). Most impressive and beautiful sight, built in 1753. It is one of the oldest sundials in the Americas.  
• Upscale Santo Domingo . If you want to see the cosmopolitan, upscale side of Santo Domingo, head to the Piantini and Naco neighborhoods. Streets like Gustavo Mejía Ricart and major avenues like Abraham Lincoln and Winston Churchill are lined with high end boutiques, shopping plazas, expensive cafes and restaurants offering a huge variety of international cuisines and just about anything money can buy, from cigar shops to Ferrari and Bentley dealerships. The Holiday Inn Hotel has opened in this area, which is very likely to bring much more tourism into what is the actual "downtown" of Santo Domingo. Don't miss Acropolis Center , an ultra-modern shopping center/office building where you will find everything from TGI Friday's to Prada. Just opened is Blue Mall , which has the most expensive shops in the city from Louis Vuitton, Ferragamo, Cartier, Tous & L'Occitane to more casuals like Zara and Adidas. Also just opened is Novo-centro which opened in a glass tower which was going to be a bank, but turned into a 2-story shopping center featuring a Fine Arts Cinema and some high end restaurants and gelaterias. Further away you can find Bella Vista Mall and Diamond Mall , two other big shopping malls in Santo Domingo. If you're looking for more open-air plazas lined with smaller boutiques, you should check out Plaza Andalucia . For bowling, you can go to the Plaza Bolera , which has had a face-lift. If you're in this area in the early afternoon, you should check out trendy cafes, restaurants, nightclubs, and bars.  
• 18.47456 -69.89779 4 Presidencia de la República Dominicana , Av México . Head of state location for the Dominican Republic. No entry, but the structure is very grandiose and warm-feeling with its orange hue. ( updated Nov 2020 )

Museums [ edit ]

In the Colonial Zone:

• 18.477929 -69.882721 5 Alcázar de Colón ( Museo Alcázar de Colón ), Plaza España, Zona Colonial , ☏ +1 809-682-4750 . Tu-Su 09:00-17:00; closed M . Visit this stunning villa, built in 1510 and retaining period furnishings and other items owned by Governor Diego Colón, first-born son of Christopher Columbus. ( updated Dec 2015 )
• 18.478087 -69.885369 6 Naval Museum of the Atarazanas ( Museo Naval de las Atarazanas ), Calle La Atarazana, Zona Colonial , ☏ +1 809-541-5652 . Daily 09:00-17:00 . Located across the plaza from the Alcazar de Colon on Calle Atarazana, the oldest street in the Western Hemisphere.  
• 18.475924 -69.885475 7 Museum of the Casas Reales ( Museo de las Casas Reales ), Calle Las Damas, Zona Colonial , ☏ +1 809-682-4202 . Daily 09:00-17:00 . Another great museum featuring collections depicting life in 16th-century Santo Domingo. It is walking distance from the Alcazar de Colon and the Naval Museum.  
• World of Ambar Museum . An impressive collection of amber stones.  
• Museum of Dominican Rum ( Museo del Ron Dominicano ), Isabel la Catolica #261, Zona Colonial , ☏ +1 809-685-5111 . M-Sa 09:00-17:00 (bar is open during the museum hours with limited service) . This museum holds all the history of rum making in Dominican Republic. In the front of the museum you will find all the Dominican rum for sale at reasonable prices. There is also a very nice bar inside where you can enjoy a nice drink of rum or any other drink you like. In the after hours it turns into a bar (read below). Free .  
• 18.471686 -69.887736 8 Museo Memorial de la Resistencia Dominicana , Calle Arzobispo Nouel #210, Zona Colonial , ☏ +1 809-688-4440 , [email protected] . Museo Memorial de la Resistencia Dominicana (Memorial Museum of the Dominican Resistance) presents an ample presentation of 20th-century history of the country, and the ordeals endured under the Trujillo regime. RD$150 . ( updated Dec 2015 )
• 18.47774 -69.88434 9 Wax Museum Juan Pablo Duarte , Calle Isabel La Católica # 304 , ☏ +1 809-687-1436 . Tu-Su 09:00-17:00, closed M . Might be kind of cheesy, but it's almost like a living history museum of the DR's past. A collection of artifacts and writings regarding the Dominican Republic's founding father, Juan Pablo Duarte. ( updated Nov 2020 )

In Plaza de la Cultura:

• Museum of Natural History
• 18.472225 -69.908061 10 Museum of Dominican Man ( Museo del Hombre Dominicano ), Avenida Pedro Henríquez Ureña, Plaza de la Cultura, Gazcue (   1   ), ☏ +1 809-687-3622 . Tu-Su 10:00-17:00 . ( updated Dec 2015 )
• 18.471636 -69.909731 11 Modern Art Museum ( Museo de Arte Moderno ), Avenida Pedro Henríquez Ureña, Plaza de la Cultura, Gazcue (   1   ), ☏ +1 809-685-2154 , [email protected] . Tu-Su 10:00-17:00 . Adults: RD$50, students/children: RD$20, children age 5 and under: Free . ( updated Dec 2015 )
• 18.472071 -69.909094 12 National Museum of History and Geography ( Museo Nacional de Historia y Geografia ), Avenida Pedro Henríquez Ureña, Plaza de la Cultura, Gazcue (   1   ), ☏ +1 809-686-6668 . Tu-Su 09:30-17:00 . ( updated Dec 2015 )

Parks [ edit ]

There are many parks around the city of Santo Domingo. One of the most popular parks are called Los Miradores, which are located on various sections of the city. These parks are very cozy for a picnic, to bike ride, a quick jog, or a long walk to enjoy nature and relax with friends. They’re a quite huge and can be a bit unsafe if wandered during the night, because it lacks street lights. Although Santo Domingo is surrounded by beautiful parks it does lack recreational facilities accessible to the public. Some of the parks that can be found:

• 18.437864 -69.970653 1 Mirador Sur Park ( Parque Mirador Sur ), Av. Anacaona ( in the southwest section of the city ).  
• 18.480914 -69.890371 2 Enriquillo Park ( Parque Enriquillo ), Av. Duarte and Calle Ravelo, Villa Francisca .  
• 18.47338 -69.884497 3 Columbus Park ( Parque Colón ) ( in the center of the colonial zone ). This park is most popular among locals and visitors alike. It is a beautiful plaza which surrounds a monument of Columbus to which the park is named after. It is visited by people who would like to relax, families who come to enjoy the park with the kids and couples who enjoy the scenery and its wonderful restaurants. Because the park is very popular you will find plenty of vendors selling CDs of local music, hand made trinkets, rosaries and food. You will also find many tour guides hanging around ready to give anyone who wishes a guided tour of the cathedral and the colonial zone at a price. Taxis ready to take you anywhere will also be hanging around the park. A typical taxi fare within the city will rarely exceed RD$200, as of January 2012.  
• 18.471302 -69.894129 4 Independencia Park ( Parque Independencia ).  
• The Malecón . A cityfront coastal park running along the sea side of the busy street of Ave. George Washington . It is a nice and relaxing place for a walk. Along the road you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Caribbean sea, people hanging, and if you are by the Colonial Zone small kiosks selling goods and restaurants. There are many benches where you can sit and admire the view, from San Gil Fort to Plaza Juan Baron and Plaza Güibia.  
• 18.505098 -69.932645 5 Dominican Republic National Zoo ( Parque Zoológico Nacional Arq. Manuel Valverde Podestá ), Av. La Vega Real, Arroyo Hondo , ☏ +1 809-378-2149 , fax : +1 809-378-2070 , [email protected] . A cityfront coastal park running along the sea side of the busy street of Ave. George Washington . It is a nice and relaxing place for a walk. Along the road you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Caribbean sea, people hanging, and if you are by the Colonial Zone small kiosks selling goods and restaurants. There are many benches where you can sit and admire the view.  
• 18.490559 -69.958829 6 Dr. Rafael Ma. Moscoso National Botanical Garden ( Jardín Botánico Dr. Rafael Ma. Moscoso ), Av. Republica de Colombia , ☏ +1 809-385-2611 , [email protected] . Daily 09:00-18:00 . Adults: RD$70, children: RD$50 .  
• 18.46379 -69.961131 7 Parque Ambiental Núñez de Cáceres , Av. Núñez de Cáceres .  
• 18.46647 -69.91962 8 Iberoamérica Park , Calle César Nicolás Penson . 05ː00-22ː00 daily . Has some little idiosyncrasies like miniature houses and karst type scenery, but mostly just an urban greenspace. ( updated Nov 2020 )

Do [ edit ]

Santo Domingo is an excellent place to study Spanish off the beaten track and get immersed in the language.

• 18.47347 -69.88271 9 Kahkow Experience , Calle Las Damas 102 , ☏ +1-809-547-2166 . 10ː00-19ː00 daily . If you want to try making chocolate or bar soap, this is a place for that, in addition to tours of a confectionary and buying sweet stuff. ( updated Nov 2020 )
• 18.48294 -69.91113 10 AquaMundo , Av. John F. Kennedy ( inside Sambil Santo Domingo ), ☏ +1 829 547 4014 . 09ː00-19ː00 M-F, 09ː00-17ː00 Sa-Su . Another aquarium, but all within the confines of a shopping mall (more gimmicky perhaps than the other one listed). ( updated Nov 2020 )
• 18.44718 -69.61396 11 Playa Boca Chica/Playa San Andres ( 38 km east of Santo Domingo ). These beaches are in the community of Boca Chica, the city's premier beach destination and also quite a party zone. Also has a casino that used to be a famous hotel (the Hotel Hamaca) set up by Rafael Trujillo. ( updated Nov 2020 )

Festivals [ edit ]

Two of the top festivities of the year occur in Santo Domingo. The annual Merengue Festival in the summer and Carnival in the spring.

Each of these is held on the city's main seaside main road, El Malecon, but tend to spill over into hotel ballrooms, beaches, patios and parking lots. This is a great way to immerse yourself in Dominican culture, and meet new interesting people from the city.

The Merengue Festival takes place between July 26 to 31. The festival is a celebration of Dominican Republic’s main dance, merengue. They invite the top merengue bands to perform free concerts to the crowd. The festival begins with a parade, but later becomes a concert.

There are art exhibitions, food fairs, and games that occur at the same time. The main activity that is done during the festival is dancing merengue, so be prepared to be spun uncontrollable when you decide to dance with a local.

The other amazing festival is the Carnival, which takes place during the entire month of February, but reaches its peak on February 27, the Dominican Independence Day. The Carnival also takes place in El Malecon, where masks, which symbolizes spiritual spirits;elaborate costumes,and intriguing dances parade down the streets while entertaining and sometimes scaring the crowd.

Buy [ edit ]

Most transactions in the Dominican Republic can be paid in cash and credit cards. Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted in most stores and restaurants.

The official currency of the Dominican Republic is the Dominican peso . However most merchants will accept dollars or euros. If you do choose to purchase goods or services in dollars or euros, be wary of the exchange rate. The official exchange rate in the Dominican Republic is set by the Banco Central de la Republica Dominicana and is updated daily.

Foreign currency exchange services are prominently available at major ports of entry or are nearby. Some of the most prominent foreign exchange dealers are:

Agente de Cambio Caribe Express and Agente de Cambio La Nacional Caribe Express offices [dead link] and major banks which include: Banco de Reservas, Scotiabank, Banco Leon, and Banco Popular Dominicano.

• Gruen Projects -- Art Gallery , Bella Vista ( by appointment ), ☏ +1 809-707-1967 . Gruen Projects exhibits and promotes the work of Dominican artists, such as Hector Ledesma, Miguel Pineda, Leonardo Sanz, Joaquin Rosario, and Joel Gonell.  

Colonial Zone [ edit ]

The Colonial Zone offers plenty of shopping opportunities, especially if you are looking for Ambar and Larimar, the traditional stones of the DR. Don't forget to haggle, as all the shop owners adjust their prices for this purpose. You will also find a ton of Haitian art for sale everywhere at great prices. If that's your thing, great, just remember its not Dominican. The main boulevard in the Colonial Zone is El Conde, a pedestrian boulevard lined with all kinds of shops and eateries mostly aimed at the locals. Have fun shopping and people watching here.

If you are feeling adventurous, have a cab take you to the Mercado Modelo nearby. This indoor labyrinth of shops can be overwhelming for a new tourist but, don't worry, it is safe. Then again, you might feel safer asking the cab driver to escort you through the maze of shops and kiosks offering every imaginable kind of souvenir, jewelry, stone, artwork, etc.

Malls [ edit ]

If you want to experience American-style shopping there are plenty of options but here are the three most popular:

• 18.469301 -69.941325 1 Acropolis Center ( Condominio Centro Comercial Acropolis ), Av. Winston Churchill and Calle Rafael Augusto Sánchez , ☏ +1 809-955-2020 . M-Sa 10:00-20:00, Su 11:00-18:00 .  
• 18.483474 -69.941448 2 Agora Mall , Av. John F. Kennedy and Av. Abraham Lincoln ( Estación Pedro Mir   2   ), ☏ +1 809-363-2323 , [email protected] .  
• 18.453417 -69.944009 3 Bella Vista Mall , Av. Sarasota #62 Esq. Arrayanes, Bella Vista , ☏ +1 809-255-0664 .  
• 18.472725 -69.943257 4 Blue Mall , Av. Winston Churchill #93 , ☏ +1 809-955-3000 . M-Sa 10:00-21:00, Su 11:00-20:00 .  
• 18.484906 -69.938984 5 Galeria 360 , Av. John F. Kennedy and Bienvenido Garcia Gautier ( Estación Pedro Mir   2   ), ☏ +1 829-995-7360 , [email protected] .  
• 18.46432 -69.937812 6 Plaza Central , Av. 27 de Febrero and Av. Winston Churchill , ☏ +1 809-541-5929 .  
• 18.48252 -69.91195 7 Sambil Santo Domingo , Avenida John F. Kennedy , ☏ +1 809-234-5678 . 10ː00-21ː00 daily . Large mall with cinema, kid's amusement park, trampoline park, and indoor aquarium. ( updated Nov 2020 )

No haggling at the malls. This is an island where practically everything being sold is imported and taxed at 18% (ITBIS or Value Added Tax).

Eat [ edit ]

Santo Domingo offers a variety of cuisines from around the world from Chinese, Italian and Mediterranean to Brazilian. You can also find the main fast food franchises like McDonald's, Burger King, Pizza Hut, Wendy’s, and Taco Bell.

Mid-grade and high-end restaurants can be quite costly for Third World standards, a dinner with an entrée, main course, drink and dessert can range from US$15-75 per person, plus 10% mandatory tip plus 16% ITBIS tax. Be careful and ask around as price doesn't always equal quality, especially in tourist areas.

Unless the contrary is specified menu prices don’t include the 10% service charge and 16% sales tax, so real prices are 26% higher than indicated in the menu.

Budget [ edit ]

If you want to spend less than US$8 on a decent meal and drink:

• Visit a “comedor” or cafeteria.

Comedores offer a “Plato del Día” or predetermined meal of the day (usually rice, beans, salad and meat or chicken, and a soda) for US$3–8. Cafeterias and Comedores can be found everywhere around the city but specially around business areas and universities, this is where locals eat so is a great way of getting in touch with the culture. “Mimosa”, located on Padre Billini street in the Colonial Zone, offers a great variety of tasty local food during lunch hours. Another great option is Cafeteria "El Parque" which is in front of Eugenio Maria de Hostos Park attached to the "Clinica Abreu" one of the country's best and most prestigious clinic, close to the Colonial Zone and the Malecon, great place for breakfast, lunch and an early dinner.

• Best sandwiches, juice and shakes in the Caribbean

"Barra Payán", 30 de marzo street (five minutes from the Colonial Zone), is open seven days a week, 24 hours a day. A sandwich cafeteria, the place has been a traditional eatery for more than a half century. Buy a sandwich and a delicious squeezed-to-order fruit juice or milkshake for less than US$5.

• Chinese and "Pica Pollo"

At some point in history Dominicans became quite fond of fried chicken and Chinese food, combining both cuisines into fast food establishments known as "pica pollos". These are usually take-out joints run by first or second generation Chinese immigrants, serving up heaping portions of fried rice, plantain slices and tasty (and greasy) fried chicken, along with the usual variety of Chinese comfort food. Very inexpensive. Visit Santo Domingo's China Town, near the Mercado Modelo and not far from the Colonial Zone (Duarte Avenue), a very busy zone where working-class people do a lot of their shopping. If you feel adventurous enough to enter this usually chaotic but very picturesque part of the town it would an experience to remember. Keep in mind, pick-pockets love the crowded streets, watch your belongings closely.

A McDonald's combo costs around US$5, Taco Bell, Wendy's and Pizza Hut around US$6. There are also several very good local franchises like Pizzarelli where you can have pasta, pizza or a salad for no more than RD$275 (Sept 2017), and others like Pollos Victorina . Also, don't miss some good Dominican "empanadas" at De Nosotros Empanadas. You can walk into a McDonald's in Santo Domingo and order a value meal with a Presidente beer instead of a Coke. How cool is that?

Mid-range [ edit ]

• Adrian Tropical Food , Avenida 27 de Febrero , ☏ +1 809-472-1763 . A unique, quality and "affordable" dining experience. There are three restaurants in the city, the coolest one is literally built on the water in the Malecon. Best known for its "Mofongo" dish. This plate is made out of mashed plantains.  
• El Conuco Very touristy and rather affordable restaurant in Gazcue, where you can enjoy live traditional Dominican dances.
• Lincoln Road On the Abraham Lincoln avenue.
• Yokomo The Dominican sushi franchise. Enjoy the most unique and inventive Dominican-fusion sushi, such as sushi with sweet plantains.
• Falafel In the colonial zone, a good and affordable Near Eastern restaurant specializing in, as the name suggests it, falafel.
• Atras and Cinnamon in Plaza Orleans, two contiguous open-air restaurants. In this plaza you can order from any restaurant while sitting in the courtyard.
• Buen Provecho Middle range restaurant serving different types of food, a good place to get the "Dominican Flag" of meat with rice and beans.
• Red Grill A very trendy grill with several locations in the city. One is located in Plaza Orleans, another one has its own bar on top. Pricier, but not a splurge.
• Chef Pepper Also very trendy, and it just opened a new branch in Bella Vista. If you're craving a hamburger or a steak and cheese sandwich, this is a good place to go.
• L'Osteria A mid-range but very high quality Italian restaurant, facing the national theater.
• Sapore d'Italia Another mid-range, very good Italian restaurant.

American and international midrange franchises include:

• 18.469484 -69.939011 1 TGI Fridays , Av. Winston Churchill, Acropolis Center , ☏ +1 809-955-8443 . M-Th 12:00-00:00; F-Su 12:00-01:00 .  
• 18.458288 -69.935667 2 Tony Roma's , Av. Sarasota #29, Bella Vista , ☏ +1 809-535-5454 . Su-Th 11:00-00:00; F Sa 11:00-01:00 .  
• 18.469486 -69.939013 3 Outback Steak House , Av. Winston Churchill, Acropolis Center , ☏ +1 809-566-5550 . Su-Th 12:00-23:00; F Sa 12:00-00:00 .  
• 18.472726 -69.943257 4 Hard Rock Cafe , Av. Winston Churchill, Blue Mall , ☏ +1 809-686-7771 . Su-Th 12:00-00:00; F Sa 12:00-01:00 .  

Splurge [ edit ]

If you have to ask how much, you can't afford these places. The following are very tourist-friendly:

• Pat'e Palo Colonial Spanish/Mediterranean brasserie style restaurant, situated by the "Plaza de Espana" overlooking the "Alcazar de Colon" frequented by locals
• La Briciola Fancy Italian restaurant in a Colonial Garden
• Mesón de la Cava An expensive average restaurant whose chief gimmick is being located within a natural cave underground.

The following are not very touristy, mostly being frequented by locals. However, if you want to explore how the wealthier classes dine in Santo Domingo, these are the places to go:

• Pepperoni Grille Upscale, modern Italian.
• Sofia's Mediterranean cuisine.
• Any of the restaurants around Gustavo Mejia Ricart Avenue
• Mesón de Bari One of the classiest restaurants for Dominican cuisine
• Victoria by Porterhouse Steakhouse
• La Marrana Very trendy Spanish restaurant
• Jaleo a "Dominican fusion" bar/restaurants
• Don Pepe Fancy Spanish restaurant, very pricey
• Mitre Chic restaurant and wine bar
• Tabu Bambu Asian Fusion

Drink [ edit ]

Santo Domingo has an amazing variety of night life options. Most bars and clubs must close by law at midnight from Sunday to Thursday and at two in the morning on Friday and Saturday. Therefore, it is not uncommon for people to start partying at 20:00 on the weekends. Happily, the regulation is suspended on holidays and the last two weeks of December for Christmas partying. Usually the clubs located inside major hotels are exempt from this rule, although they aren't usually much fun.

The Malecon is home to several options as well, depending on what's in style at the time.

Check out Jet Set on Monday nights for live Merengue and Bachata shows from the most popular top bands.

Head over to the upscale side of Santo Domingo (Naco, Piantini) if that is your scene. There are a ton of options there, including perennial favorites such as Trio Caffe, Praia and Montecristo. Those kind of places can have a rather strict admission policy, you usually have to look white enough and rich enough to be admitted.

In this upscale area of Santo Domingo, consider:

• Dock Very trendy bar at the Acropolis Center. Open air, electronic music.
• El Barcito Very nice ambiance, mostly rock music. The owner is always present and very friendly.
• Meringue Bar , Ave. Independencia & Abraham Lincoln ( inside the hotel Hispanola ), ☏ +1 809-476-7733 . W-Sa . A nice club with House music, where some well known DJs are invited. Students love this spot because of its spacious dance floor and popularity. It may be a bit costly than the other bars/clubs, make sure to call for entrance fee ahead of time.  
• Level 2 On the second flour of the Holiday Inn Hotel. Also check out the rooftop bar and pool!
• Maruja New, trendy open air bar, close to La Marrana and Margo
• Mix Right next to the Mix Restaurant, another popular bar.
• Praia The fanciest club, in the Holiday Inn Hotel.
• Shots Mostly rock music, very young crowd. Ave. Roberto Pastoriza.
• Plaza Uris on Ave. Roberto Pastoriza

This plaza has become one of the capital’s top weekend destinations with five very popular bar/clubs with Zambra - +1 809 683-7373, Shots +1 829-886-1208, and Taboo Bamboo +1 809-227-2727 all in the same plaza. This is a favorite spot for locals and especially visitors because it reminds them of the states. Because of its proximity you can bar hop until you find the one that fits you. Music ranging from rock, hip-hop and Latin. When in the plaza the drink to try is definitely Omega shot. Make sure you have a designated driver or number to a taxi.

If you are more into the bohemian scene check out the Colonial Zone for great bars and cafes, and for a vibrant gay nightlife scene. Here are some hints:

• Bio. Modern eclectic music from regueaton to Latin rock, very young clientele. Famous for serving drinks from buckets. Calle Sanchez and Padre Billini
• Bocanegra The trendiest place in the Colonial Zone
• Cacibajagua . Great rock music, nice decor, adult crowd. Sanchez #201.  
• Casa de Teatro Enjoy live jazz and rock concerts, pretty bohemian.
• El Beduino New hookah bar on a rooftop in the Colonial Zone.
• El Sarten this is a vintage Latin bar frequented by a mature crowd of experienced dancers. Drop in if you want to see some serious merengue and salsa steps. Located on Calle Hostos #153, Zona Colonial +809-686-9621 – Open every night
• Encuentro Artesanal . The decor is definitely the best in the Colonial Zone highly selected electronic music, frequented by artists and publicists.  
• Museo del Ron . The daytime museum turns into a very cozy bar, offering a wide range of Caribbean rums to taste, as well as some of the best rum based cocktails in the city. Nice lounge music, beautiful patio.  
• Parada 77. Latin rock, Spanish songwriters some merengue and salsa, people in their mid thirties and forties.
• S Bar. Mostly rock music, can enjoy some falafels too, you would love the owner Isaac. Calle Sanchez and Padre Billini
• Segafredo. A franchise, lounge music, Italian food and good coffee.

Sleep [ edit ]

• 18.47836 -69.88442 1 Island Life Hostel , Calle Isabel La Católica 356 , ☏ +1 849-362-5800 . Hostel exists within 17th-century UNESCO-listed heritage building and has courtyard, garden, bathtub-size outdoor pool, billiard table, games, lockers, and free breakfast. Plus a bar on site to get jolly on some rum before you listen to other hostel guests creak in their bunks all night. RD$1580 . ( updated Nov 2020 )
• 18.46127 -69.90395 2 Mauad Hotel Boutique , Calle José Maria Heredia No. 6 , ☏ +1 809-231-7790 . Represents a chance to relive the experience of staying in a Spanish castle. Also has an outdoor pool and some nibbles for breakfast. RD$1580 . ( updated Nov 2020 )
• 18.46653 -69.90231 3 Jaguar Aparta Hotel , Calle Hermanos Deligne 59 , ☏ +1 809-924-2400 . Suites in an otherwise fairly basic but comfortable complex. Have a coffee on the rooftop terrace. RD$2629 . ( updated Nov 2020 )

Mid-Range [ edit ]

• 18.47371 -69.88446 4 Hotel Conde De Peñalba , ☏ +1 809-688-7121 . This one really evokes the Spanish colonial feel both inside and outside as it sits beside the cathedral and plaza. Nice wood furnishings and restaurant and charm. DOP 2808 . ( updated Nov 2020 )
• 18.4569 -69.93678 5 Hotel W&P , Sarasota #53 in Bella Vista area , ☏ +1 809-535-0800 . Excellent for the business traveller. Located in the center of the city, it offers a business center and wifi connection. Restaurant with 24-hour room service. There is a very nice pool/bar on the rooftop which offers a 360-degree view of the city. RD$3042 . ( updated Sep 2017 )
• 18.47183 -69.8858 6 El Beaterio Guest Houseo , Calle Duarte nº8 Ciudad Colonial , ☏ +1 809-687-8657 . Excellent accommodations in a former nunnery! Wrought iron beds, old world charm, and central to the colonial district. RD$3452 .  
• 18.47613 -69.93671 7 Holiday Inn Santo Domingo , Av. Abraham Lincoln 856 , ☏ +1 809-621-0000 . Very chic and sleek, looks like a piece of slate. Has a rooftop pool and paid breakfast buffet option, plus restaurant and gym. RD$4149 . ( updated Nov 2020 )
• 18.47183 -69.88663 8 Hotel Luca , Calle 19 de Marzo #164 . Stylish boutique hotel in the heart of Santo Domingo. It has an outdoor concept and combines rustic Dominican charm with modern touches. Amenities consist of an informal restaurant offering open-air dining, plus a low-key rooftop bar and terrace with sunloungers that provides stunning views of the city. There's also a rooftop hot tub. RD$4739 . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 18.4578 -69.90998 9 Catalonia Santo Domingo , ☏ +1 809-685-0000 . George Washington Avenue, #500 RD$4973 .  
• 18.46193 -69.89979 10 Renaissance Jaragua Hotel & Casino , ☏ +1 809-221-2222 . Located near El Conde (shopping district), historic colonial buildings, and restaurants. Also across the street from the malecon (which is long sidewalk and sitting area in front of ocean). RD$6143 .  
• 18.46803 -69.91192 11 Courtyard by Marriott Santo Domingo Hotel , Avenida Maximo Gomez , ☏ +1 809-685-1010 . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 13:00 . Near the business district, conveniently located to the US Embassy and the US Consulate, ideal for business travellers. Comfortable rooms equipped with free wireless internet.  
• 18.46283 -69.8979 12 Sheraton Santo Domingo Hotel , Av. George Washington 365 , ☏ +1 809-221-6666 . Big concrete complex on the malecon, with a pool and lots of palm trees. Restaurant/bar/breakfast buffet (extra charge). RD$6067 . ( updated Nov 2020 )
• 18.47508 -69.88272 13 Hodelpa Nicolás de Ovando , Calle Las Damas , ☏ +1 809-685-9955 . Here's a place to splurge if you want to feel like an integral part of the colonial zone. It gives off that vibe being as it is a restored 16th-century building right in the thick of things. Lobby bar, restaurant, breakfast (extra), outdoor pool, walking distance to Ozama Fort and such. RD$6369 . ( updated Nov 2020 )
• 18.47561 -69.92721 14 Embassy Suites by Hilton Santo Domingo , Silver Sun, Av. Tiradentes 32 , ☏ +1 809-685-0001 . Hilton brand brings out its big guns here with this glassy skyscraper punctuating the Santo Domingo cosmopolitan skyline area. It has a nice infinity pool about 1/3 of the way up, although the surroundings might make you wish you were looking at the hotel instead. Also features a free breakfast which is a plus. Has a gym too. RD$6369 . ( updated Nov 2020 )
• 18.4683 -69.9389 15 InterContinental Real Santo Domingo , Av. Winston Churchill , ☏ +1 809-683-6060 . Nice formal-looking hotel tower here, interiors and individual rooms have a state of class as well. Has gym and upscale restaurant, and you can upgrade to have access to a club lounge with a breakfast. But the best part of the hotel is probably the elongated infinity pool. RD$5492 . ( updated Nov 2020 )
• 18.47264 -69.9411 16 JW Marriott Hotel Santo Domingo , Winston Churchill Avenue No. 93 , ☏ +1 809-807-1717 . This is like the golden goose in the Santo Domingo upscale commercial district. It is attached to the Blue Mall and has an infinity pool and rooftop restaurant/bar along with other Marriott-type luxuries. One of the glassiest places in town. RD$9758 . ( updated Nov 2020 )
• Hotel Atarazana , Calle Vicente Celestino Duarte #19 ( Zona Colonial ), ☏ +1 809-688-3693 . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . Family-run boutique hotel. All rooms are equipped with color cable TV, en-suite, air conditioning or ceiling fan and wi-fi. All rooms have balconies. Breakfast is served in the hotel’s patio, surrounded by lush plants and a jacuzzi. English, Spanish, German, French and Italian spoken by staff. --Appears to be temporarily closed-- US$80-100 .  

In Boca Chica Area [ edit ]

• 18.44849 -69.61095 17 Residencial Lucía III , Calle San Rafael B1 ( 3 blocks from beach ), ☏ +1 829-561-2418 . Like a micro-apartment with a garden and kitchenette. Bring earplugs to drown out the blaring music from the club next door. ( updated Nov 2020 )
• 18.45164 -69.60564 18 Boca del Mar Residence , Calle José Francisco Peña Goméz , ☏ +1 809-814-7816 . Highrise complex with 1-3 bedroom apartments with patios and a pool. ( updated Nov 2020 )

Stay safe [ edit ]

Poverty, though not as bad as next door Haiti , is still rampant and it is best you take precautions. Do not flash obvious wealth in poorer or middle class sections of the city (lots of jewelry, expensive camera, big watches, etc.) Keep your bag away from the street when walking as it can be snatched by kids on mopeds and keep a firm grip on it. Keep your passport at your accommodation and in a safe (some maids can steal). If you are Caucasian or Asian (no matter how you are dressed), expect to have a lot of insincerely friendly people on the streets follow you and strike up conversation with you. They are only talking to you in order to get money from you. They inevitably steer the conversation towards money and are looking for handouts or, worse, 'protection money' to protect you from the more undesirable elements of society. Do not engage in a conversation with them in the first place, as they are very persistent and could even follow you until you relent. When walking on the side walk do not stand too close to the street. There are robbers on mo-peds/motorcycles that will pass by and yank your purse from you. Some men and maybe even women carry a gun on them; do not let this alarm you. You will see men in civilian clothes relaxing on their patio or on the streets playing dominoes, with a gun they could be security guards.

Walk confidently. Don't dress like a tourist. Be yourself but if yourself is flashing Gucci and Prada where ever you go, maybe you need to dress down a bit. If you get lost at any time ask a local person walking by for directions. They are always more than happy to help foreigners at everything. Do NOT follow anyone that offers to take you to your destination. They will usually expect some payment for their effort. Even worse, they could be setting you up.

Be careful when trying to get an Uber in a touristic area (such as the Zona Colonial and the Los Tres Ojos entrance). Often you will have people in uniforms, taxi drivers or even the Tourist Police coming to you and forcing you to take local run-down taxi instead. They might even follow you if you refuse. Be aware of your surroundings, do not appear like you are waiting for an Uber (e.g. by standing on the side of the street while checking your phone the whole time), and find a safe place to get an Uber (such as inside a chain restaurant or a supermarket).

Do not drink the tap water. It is not processed to be ingested by people. You can get sick. Bottled water is really cheap and sold every where. Ice is okay.

The National Police (Policía Nacional) and the Tourist Police (Policía Turística) are in charge of implementing the city safety. The national police station is at Av. Leopoldo Navarro #402, you can also contact +1 809-682-2151 for the central line, but in case of an emergency dial 911.

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Courtyard Santo Domingo

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Welcome to Courtyard Santo Domingo

Settle in for a soothing stay at our santo domingo hotel.

Nestled in the heart of the financial district, Courtyard Santo Domingo offers a refreshing getaway for business and leisure travelers in the Dominican Republic. Our Santo Domingo lodging is near Las Americas International Airport and moments from destinations such as Zona Colonial, Plaza España and the National Theatre. When you arrive, order an authentic Dominican meal at Kitchen and Bar, our on-site restaurant serving a variety of international cuisine mixed with bold Caribbean flavors. Keep up with your routine at our on-site fitness center and take a dip in our refreshing outdoor pool. If you're in town for a conference, take advantage of our 24-hour business center before heading to our event spaces. After an adventurous day in the Dominican Republic, retreat to a spacious hotel room or suite with free Wi-Fi. Your accommodation comes with a flat-panel TV, work desk and stellar views of Santo Domingo. From modern amenities to a convenient location in the capital, move forward at Courtyard Santo Domingo.

Rooms & Suites

Rates vary by date & room type

FEATURED AMENITIES ON-SITE

Hotel information.

Check-in: 3:00 pm

Check-out: 12:00 pm

Minimum Age to Check In: 18

Smoke Free Property

Pets Not Allowed

No pets allowed-service animals for disabled guests only

Complimentary On-Site Parking

Kitchen and Bar

Discover the vibrant style of Santo Domingo together with the iconic flavors of the Caribbean all under one roof. Kitchen and Bar is our all-in-one restaurant in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, featuring casual dining experiences for all travelers.

Visit our 24-hour convenience store, Crate Shop, for grab-and-go snacks, breakfast items, cold drinks, sweet treats and other personal care and travel items you may need in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

More Ways to Enjoy Your Stay

Fitness Room

Outdoor Pool

Getting here.

50A Maximo Gomez Avenue, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Bus Station:

Caribe Tours

Subway Station:

Property Details

Accepts: Credit Cards

Currency Exchange

Property has elevators

Languages spoken by staff: Spanish, English

For more information about the physical features of our accessible rooms, common areas or special services relating to a specific disability please call +1 809-685-1010

Accessible on-site parking

Service Animals are Welcome

Van Accessible on-site parking

Accessible Entrance to On-Site Pool

Entrance to On-Site Fitness Center is Accessible

Main Entrance is Accessible

Meeting Spaces are Accessible

On-Site Restaurants are Accessible

Room and Suites Access through the Interior Corridor

Adjustable Height Hand-Held Shower Wand

Bathtub Grab Rails

Bathtub Seat

Deadbolts on Guest Room and Suites Doors

Electronic Room Key

Guest Room and Suites Doors Self-Closing

Lowered Viewports in Guest Room Doors

Non-slip Grab Rails in the Bathroom

Roll-in Shower

Safety Chains and/or Latches on Guest Doors

Viewports in Guest Room and Suites Doors

Carbon Footprint: 38.48 kg per room night

Water Footprint: 1216.69 liters per room night

Guest Room Recycling

Frequently Asked Questions

The check-in time at Courtyard Santo Domingo is 3:00 pm and the check-out time is 12:00 pm.

The pet policy at Courtyard Santo Domingo is:

Pets Not Allowed (No pets allowed-service animals for disabled guests only)

The parking options at Courtyard Santo Domingo are:

The property amenities at Courtyard Santo Domingo are:

Yes, Courtyard Santo Domingo has free Wi-Fi available to hotel guests.

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COURTYARD® BY MARRIOTT® SANTO DOMINGO

50A Maximo Gomez Avenue,

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Fax: +1 809-685-1010

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INTERNATIONAL

Barcelo Santo Domingo

View prices for your travel dates

Finding an ideal charming all-inclusive resort in Santo Domingo does not have to be difficult. Welcome to Barcelo Santo Domingo, a nice option for travellers like you.

Guest rooms offer a flat screen TV, a minibar, and air conditioning, and Barcelo Santo Domingo makes getting online easy as paid internet access is available.

You can also take advantage of some of the amenities offered by the all-inclusive resort, including 24 hour front desk, a concierge, and a rooftop terrace. In addition, guests can enjoy a pool and a rooftop bar during their visit. As an added convenience, there is free parking available to guests.

Given the close proximity of popular landmarks, such as Malecón (2.4 km) and Alcazar de Colon (2.9 km), guests of Hotel Lina Santo Domingo can easily experience some of Santo Domingo's most well known attractions.

While you’re here, be sure to check out some of the wine bar, including Lulú Tasting Bar, Cava Alta, and El Catador, all of which are a short distance from Barcelo Santo Domingo Hotel.

During your visit, be sure to check out popular attractions like National Pantheon (Pantheon Nacional) (1.9 km), National Palace (1.6 km), and Parque Independencia (1.8 km), which are all within walking distance of the all-inclusive resort.

Barcelo Santo Domingo puts the best of Santo Domingo at your fingertips, making your stay both relaxing and enjoyable.

• Excellent 1,814
• Very Good 554
• Average 232
• Terrible 135
• All languages ( 2,868 )
• Spanish ( 1,857 )
• English ( 877 )
• French ( 40 )

" Ask For Edili Beltre 9th fl "

" Questions always have a solution to your restless. "

" It's easier if you know a little Spanish. The hotel staff knows some English, but not all persons do "

" AVOID this hotel "

" I checked out the salon and the spa and it was very cheap and very great service. I got a hair blowout and I was super impressed. "

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Barcelo Santo Domingo - UPDATED 2024 Prices, Reviews & Photos

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Do you want to know the best route to the amazing Cabarete from Santo Domingo?

A Guide on Public Transport from Santo Domingo to Cabarete

Traveling through the Dominican Republic offers a rich tapestry of culture, landscapes, and vibrant experiences. If you’re planning to make your way from the bustling Santo Domingo to the laid-back paradise of Cabarete, navigating the public transportation system can be an adventure in itself. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to easily make your way to the north of the island.

1. Starting Point: Santo Domingo

Your journey begins in the city center: Head to the Caribe Tours Bus Terminal, located at Av. 27 de Febrero, close to the corner of Leopoldo Navarro. You can easily reach this point finding a driver via the Uber app. You can share your pick up point, destination and pay in advance. Specially useful to use if you have heavy carry on. Caribe tours is one of the hubs for long-distance buses departing for various destinations across the country.

2. Choosing the Right Bus Company

Several bus companies operate services between Santo Domingo and Sosúa, the closest town to Cabarete. Caribe Tours, Metro Bus and Asdotrapusa are among the most reliable and reputable options. However, they have different location points and destinations. To go north, the only one recommended in this case is Caribe tours.Buses typically depart multiple times throughout the day, providing flexibility for your travel plans, but it is useful to call the company itself with the provided number on their Instagram platform or about page, to ensure yourself of schedule, specially on holiday dates. 

3. Ticket Purchase and Boarding

Upon reaching the Caribe Tours Bus Terminal , head to the ticket counter and purchase your ticket to Sosúa. IMPORTANT! There are two ways to get to Sosúa : The express bus or the regular one. The express route will take you almost directly to the north while the regular one will have several stops and a much longer journey to reach the final destination, so make sure to purchase your express bus ticket and ask the driver about route and duration before boarding..  It’s also advisable to buy your ticket in advance, especially during peak travel times. The journey usually takes around 4 to 5 hours, so plan accordingly. Budget for a ticket ranges from 500 to 600 pesos per person, an estimated equivalent of 10 USD, which should be paid in Dominican currency. 

4. Enjoy the Scenic Route

Taking the guagua is usually a steady experience when it comes to departure times and the usual stop for a snack/drink break at a “colmadito” on the way to your destination. The fun reality of this local experience is that every bus is it’s own world when it comes to the people on board: locals from all over, as tourists from different places. The guagua is also famous for playing local music, so be ready to travel to the tunes of the Dominican bachateros, some spicy merengues or salsa. BEWARE – with capital letters with the strength of the air conditioning of the bus! There may be close to 30 degree celsius outside the guagua, but during your ride you could experience a very cold capsule for your whole travel time. It is highly recommended to bring a sweater, protective cozy jacket or even a scarf or if you’re really committed to the comfort… a blanket! Aside from these variables, the best part is that the scenery does not disappoint. The route offers glimpses of local life, picturesque landscapes, and the gradual transition from cityscape to coastal beauty. Get ready for the views!

5. Arrival in Sosúa

Upon arrival in sosúa, you’re just a short distance away from cabarete. sosúa serves as a transportation hub for travelers heading to various destinations in the north coast. from the bus terminal, you can easily find taxis or local guaguas (small buses) that will take you to cabarete. depending on the timeframe, our most recommended is to get on a guagua: usually white small bus with a banner that will read puerto plata – rio san juan. you can always ask the bus if they are heading or passing by cabarete. once you get on the guagua, let the driver know your destination drop off and remind them about it when you are reaching the point: to get to the center you can ask for cabarete center and drop off at the bon ice cream shop, next to the watersport liquid blue kitesurfing and wingfoiling school. if you arrive late at night: in this case it is advised to get on a taxi car, and ask to take you to cabarete for an approximate price of 200 or 300 pesos (prices are higher at night). a cheaper though longer alternative is to get on a taxi and ask to take you to the carrito stop in sosúa. for this ride you would pay aprox 100 or 150 pesos. at the carrito station, you can get on a car with a taxi signal on the roof: these are public cars taken by all citizens that drive around at all hours of the day and night. from carrito stop in sosúa to cabarete center, you should pay around 50 to 75 pesos. note: there are taxi motos called “moto chonchos” always driving around and waiting for potential customers at bus stops, markets and other busy points in town. this is also an easy travel alternative from point to point everywhere in cabarete. however, this choice is less reliable as their prices vary according to their criteria, hours of the day and or night, and can also carry less baggage on board. , 6. final tips for a smooth journey. .

• Timing is Key: Be mindful of the bus schedules and try to plan your journey during daylight hours.
• Comfort Essentials: Pack snacks, water, and entertainment for the bus ride to ensure a comfortable trip.
• Cash is King: Have some Dominican Pesos on hand for bus tickets, taxis, and any unexpected expenses. 

Embarking on this public transport adventure from Santo Domingo to Cabarete allows you to soak in the local culture and witness the diverse landscapes of the Dominican Republic as well as the company of other locals getting from point A to point B, just like yourself. Embrace the journey, and let the anticipation of reaching Cabarete fuel your excitement for the adventures that lie ahead. Safe travels!

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