It has several floors and 3 main spaces for different types of performances/events such as theatre, ballet, opera, live music, and famous award shows. This epic tour starts early in the morning, leaving from Santo Domingo. The Microteatro space is in a beautiful colonial building and as such has an open-air courtyard where you can eat and drink. The interactions are personal (that is, with direct interaction between staff and clients) and hands-on. As you see, a trike tour in Santo Domingo* is a fun way to get to know most places to visit in the Colonial Zone. Its important to note that many museums in Latin America still focus on the perspective of the European colonizer. How to get there:All of the places mentioned are located right in the Colonial Zone, so they are walkable from your accommodation in the same area*.Cost:Entrance to all those places mentioned is for free, except for some live music events or cultural performances.Why it is one of the best things-to-do in Santo Domingo:Dominicans love to drink, mingle and dance, so it is the perfect way to experience this part of the Dominican life. There are 2 or 3 blocks, including Calle General Cabral, where you can find some interesting street art. It has projecting beams of light that form the shape of a cross. E-Ticket Dominican Republic (2023 Update) how to fill out the immigration form for your Punta Cana holiday? At that time, the nightlife was dominated by people who for some reason or the other preferred rock music. While many people know about the plenty of art shops or inviting handicraft stores as they are located at the main pedestrian areas, street art in Santo Domingo is one of that things-to-do which often gets overlooked. Its a fascinating encounter of two very different cultures coming together. Along the way, visit the oldest sites in the Americas. Onno's Zona Colonial 92 Bars & Clubs Open now By 55jannellec The music and DJ were on point. This Cathedral, known as one of the oldest still in existence in the Americas, boasts impressive architecture and an atmosphere that makes it feel like you've stepped back in time to the days of Spanish rule. Ive been reading all of your posts about Dominican Republic while planning a visit next week. But many people (including local Dominicans) love shopping here! These museums include. Some history of Calle Hostos Punta Cana Day-TripsPunta Cana ExcursionsPunta Cana Family ActivitiesPunta Cana Family ResortsPunta Cana Free ActivitiesPunta Cana HikingPunta Cana ItineraryPunta Cana MapsPunta Cana NightlifePunta Cana Public TransportPunta Cana SnorkelingPunta Cana Things-to-DoPunta Cana WaterfallsPunta Cana Weather
It was later used as a tobacco warehouse, a theatre thereafter, until the building was restored in 1956 by dictator Rafael Trujillo for its current usage as a national mausoleum. Completed in 1514, Columbus Palace was the home of Christopher Columbus son, Diego. I have to admit that the Pomier Caves are on my to-do-list for a long long time and I havent managed it so far to realize it, even many friends have been there and say it is an amazing thing-to-do, especially when looking for a quick (half-) day-trip from Santo Domingo. In July 1956, it was converted into the National Pantheon of the Republic. The National Zoological Park of the Dominican Republic suffices an educational need in the country. There is a tour called El Sendero del Cacao which takes you to the cocoa plantations* around San Francisco de Macors, which is kind of the capital when it comes to cacao cultivation in the Dominican Republic. While it is question-worthy why a pretty poor country has to build a 70 million US-Dollar mausoleum for a man who conquered your own country and killed your native people, the building is still impressive (and ugly) to see as it is a 700200 feet colossus made out of concrete. Santo Domingo is the capital of the Dominican Republic, the most visited country in the Caribbean, and the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the Americas. The national park is a perfect change of scenery for an hour or two, especially when spending the whole day in the hustle and bustle of Santo Domingo. Dont get too drunk and leave your valuables at home so that you dont become a target. This is probably the most popular day-trip from Santo Domingo, especially when people are missing the beach in the city. But Santo Domingo, once the capital of the Hispanic Americas, is one of the most fascinating and exciting cities to visit! I will design your tailor-made itinerary, tell you how to save money on your trip and send you the best insider tips and recommendations. It should be one of top things to do if you are visiting Santo Domingo. The park provides a tranquil respite from the hustle and bustle of the busy city. And I want to see the Lanimar gem! The Columbus Lighthouse is a spectacular 10-story monument dedicated to the explorer. You can practice your merengue and bachata dance skills anywhere in the country, whether on the beach or at your resort's nightclub, in local bars and at concerts. If possible, take your tour outside of the rush hours. However, if you prefer a guided tour or youre not based in Santo Domingo, consider these private day trip tours: If you can only do one thing while in Santo Domingo, then let it be this. Theyre located in a charming old building right across the street from Fortaleza Ozama. This article is about the best things-to-do in Santo Domingo. And when you're done exploring the city, stop by their shop for a cup of the city's best coffee and a selection of local craft beers. You'll find them on street corners all around the country, with some estimates suggesting that there is one colmado for every 188 inhabitants. My Beginners Guide to Living in Santo Domingo, favorite waterfalls in the Dominican Republic, this tour which includes another waterfall, Best Places In the Dominican Republic to Visit Beyond Punta Cana, 10 Reasons to Visit Monte Cristi in the Dominican Republic, Hiking Pico Duarte in the Dominican Alps: Conquering the Tallest Mountain in the Caribbean, How to Get to Bahia de las Aguilas from Santo Domingo via Public Transportation, I Caught the Dreaded Amoeba Parasite in DR: What Happened & How I Treated It, A Guide to Moving to & Living in Santo Domingo, Visiting the Three Eyes National Park (Los Tres Ojos) in Santo Domingo, Prejudices Against the Dominican Accent & Anti-Dominican Sentiment, Dominican Republic Road Trip to the Dominican Southwest (2018), 15 Cool Things to do in Cabarete, Dominican Republic, Jarabacoa Travel Guide: 21 Fun Things to Do + Best Restaurants & Accommodation. How to get there:Choco Museo is located right in the pedestrian zone Calle El Conde, KahKow Experience in the oldest street of the Americas, Calle Las Damas. Microteatro: 15-Minute Plays on Dominican Life, 7. This popular market attracts both locals and tourists who flood to the market pumping life into the market space. However, in the historic center, the Zona Colonial, you can easily walk around in the evening and even at night as long as the streets are well-lit and located in the main area where everything is happening. The Botanical Garden is for sure not a top thing-to-do in Santo Domingo and therefore not a must-see if you are just in the city for a day or two. Location: Calle Isabel La Catlica 206, Santo Domingo 10212, Dominican Republic Open: Daily from 2 pm to 11 pm Phone: +1 809-906-9706 Map 3 Coolmado Las Mercedes A unique bar and grocery store If not, simply take a cab or an Uber to reach La Zona Colonial, as the Dominicans call it. However, it is a free thing to do in Santo Domingo, so that is a plus if you are traveling on a budget. An easy stop between your Zona Colonial travels. These are the amazing and most thrilling things to do in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Other items of interest in this building range from antique furniture with historical value, treasures found from under the ocean, Taino artifacts, and more. It also showcases baseball bats and balls donated by Dominican MLB players during historic moments. Stay in a former colonial home turned boutique hotel, stroll the pedestrian Calle El Conde, and dine at plazas. There is one special nightlife thing-to-do in Santo Domingo you shouldnt miss: Bony. Located in la Plaza de la Cultura in the Gazcue neighborhood, it is just a few steps from other major spots such as the National Theatre, the National Library, the Modern Art Museum, the Natural History Museum, and much more. 2-3 USD, but you can see it for free from outside if you are not interested in the exhibition.Why it is one of the best things-to-do in Santo Domingo:It is a unique place to visit in Santo Domingo with an interesting (and question-worthy) part of history. Click here to join the Dominican Republic Travel Community. Salto de Socoa (Day Trip from Santo Domingo). Start planning your trip today! How to get there:Just walk within the Zona Colonial until the Calle Coln and the Ceiba de Coln. Oops, this activity is currently unavailable. If you dont have a rental car, which is not necessarily recommendable in Santo Domingo, it is easiest to arrive by taxi or Uber.Cost:Prices depend on the group size and the tour you choose, so make sure to ask in advance.Why it is one of the best things-to-do in Santo Domingo:A unique cave system close to Santo Domingo with many possibilities for adventure and adrenaline.Further Information:You can call +1 809 629-3536 for details. Step into Dominican history at the palace of Diego Coln, Check out the best beaches near Santo Domingo Beaches like, Once a year, Santo Domingo hosts the DRs biggest Pride, Come discover one of the most colorful and joyous festivals, Explore treasure, maps, weapons and other artefacts from the Spanish, Get more travel inspiration, tips and exclusive offers sent straight to your inbox, I would like to get Visit Dominican Republic newsletters in my inbox. Crime is existing, primarily in the city and especially petty theft and robberies, but tourists are hardly targeted. It has a beautiful outdoor space and rooms with art and books. Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiring travel guides and articles from around the world! This is a vital means of everyday local transportation that helps Dominicans and our environment. Its not easy in our country to get work while disabled, but Toque Angeical has created a space for this. You can listen to all types of music, from merengue to traditional son and more. Make sure to arrange your visit in advance as there are no official opening hours. It is the perfect place for locals and tourists to enjoy shopping, but if you are looking for something more into sightseeing, Alcazar de Colon Palace, now a museum showcasing magnificent medieval and Renaissance art, is the best place to visit. This is a cute place to make your own chocolate bars or chocolate soap. It gives you a good introduction to the importance of rum for the Dominican Republic, but it is more of a typical museum. It is free and sits above a Larimar store, so feel free to stroll through and go upstairs to enter the museum. This museum primarily honors those who have fought against oppression, such as the notorious dictatorship of Rafael Trujillo. With a list of these amazing places to visit and things to do, your stay in Santo Domingo should be an experience to relive. But also if you just have a few hours in Santo Domingo, dont miss the Colonial Zone you will love it. 6. https://www.colonialzone-dr.com/calle-hostos/. Travel back to 500 years ago as you ride a colonial train while enriching yourself. Once you had an amazing day in the Colonial Zone, its time to think about dinner. Awarded as a UNESCO world heritage it awaits you with its ancient cobblestone streets, centuries-old buildings and creative art scene. Amber is tree resin gemstones from ~20 million years ago! Only Dominican Republic Travel/Culture Guides, uniquely made larimar/amber jewelry like this one, Best Accommodation HOTELS in Santo Domingo, Transportation: How to Get Around Santo Domingo, 43 Unmissable Things to Do in Santo Domingo Dominican Republics Capital. Your email address will not be published. Microteatro is located on the corner of Calle Jos Reyes and Calle Salom Urea. There is no beach in Santo Domingo but the Malecon lets you at least breeze the ocean. The best areas to explore are around Villa Altagracia or Bonao, but I would highly recommend you to go with a local guide or a local hiking group. LGBTQ+ friendly experience, vegetarian acommodating! As a rule of thumb, you always can be open and talk with the locals, but if someone gets to the point too quickly or want you to come to a place you are unfamiliar with, better decline or go with another trusted person to avoid any inconveniences. Hey, I am Chris, a born and raised German, travel-addictive and Caribbean Soul. Hear the stories of the elusive characters buried in Casa del Tapao, marvel at the Colonial churches, as you enjoy a lovely sightseeing tour. Within the first 10 minutes of hiking, youll see the first emerald green pool. How to get there:For a day-trip from Santo Domingo, the best thing-to-do is to book a guided excursion so that you dont have to deal with any organizational stuff..Cost:Prices for day-trips vary, depending on where you go and whats included.Why it is one of the best things-to-do in Santo Domingo:If you dont have another chance to get to know the country, a day-trip is a decent way to learn more about the Dominican Republic. Why not go on a sweet experience with El Sendero del Cacao and explore Santo Domingo . It's an untouched route in deep nature, my favorite in DR and you try the authentic Dominican cuisine. This one is located on the hill of Calle Hostos. The exterior of the building shows elements from the Renaissance period while its interior has facets of a Gothic design. Check out Ciudad Colonial (Colonial City) (from USD 45.0), 29. Ok, cacao and chocolate are not yours? These caverns were inhabited by different types of people at different timelines in history. Address: Carretera a Palamara, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Looking for things to do in Dominican Republic? Let's explore the best things to do in the Dominican Republic: 1. It is the perfect spot for guests to enjoy their meals or a drink while basking in the sun. This monumental square is home to Nicolas de Ovandos statue, the founder of the city and can be found just near the river banks. The three lagoons can be explored walking (with or without a guide), but you cant swim in them. The Colonial Zone doesnt disappoint you, because there are even two places to visit when it comes to rum. Punta Cana is my home-base here in the country and Id love to tell you more about how to experience Punta Cana off-the-beaten-track and give you all the advice you want to know for your vacation in Punta Cana. In this case, you definitely should take a day-trip from Santo Domingo. Copyright 2023 Visit Dominican Republic. John F. Kennedy, Santo Domingo 10129, Dominican Republic, One of the beautiful wooden homes in the Colonial Zone. Here you'll find some of the largest and most pristine beaches in the Caribbean as well as the highest concentration of all-inclusive resorts. Talk to your guide about it. At first glance, you might think of it as just a local convenience store. It exposes you to its 500-years-old history, thanks to the audio guides available in seven different languages. Make a stop at each relevant attraction as you cover almost the entire city on a Trikke. It also brings a fair share of challenges, for example maintaining sanitary standards, as they receive hundreds of visitors a day. In terms of a hotel you can check out the following options, which have their very own colonial atmosphere: If a hotel is nothing for you and you prefer a more individual accommodation, you can also check out this list of the best Airbnbs in Santo Domingo, where you can find plenty of colonial accommodation in the Colonial Zone as well. Interactions are personal ( that is, with direct interaction between staff and clients ) and hands-on,! Showcases baseball bats and balls donated by Dominican MLB players during historic.. This case, you might think of it as just a local store! Republic: 1 probably the most popular day-trip from Santo Domingo you miss! Travel guides and articles from around the world travel Community but many people ( including Dominicans... Other preferred rock music possible, take your tour outside of the most popular day-trip Santo. 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