Santo Domingo Dominican Republic 2 Day Itinerary

July 19, 2024

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic: A 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

9:00 AM - Breakfast: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Botanical, a charming café located in the heart of the colonial zone. Try their signature dish, “Mangú con los tres golpes” (mashed green plantains with garlic, onion, and bacon).
10:00 AM - Colonial Zone: Explore the first city of the New World, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk through the cobblestone streets and visit iconic landmarks like Cathedral of America (the oldest cathedral in the Americas), Alcázar de Colón (Christopher Columbus’s son’s palace), and Plaza España.

1:00 PM - Lunch: Head to Pat’e Palo European Lounge, a popular spot for lunch. Try their famous “Chivo” sandwich, a delicious combination of goat meat, cheese, and vegetables.
2:30 PM - Malecón: Take a stroll along the picturesque waterfront promenade, offering breathtaking views of the Ozama River and the Caribbean Sea.

6:00 PM - Dinner: Enjoy a traditional Dominican dinner at El Mesón de la Cava, a cozy restaurant located in a 16th-century colonial house. Be sure to try their “Sancocho” (a hearty stew made with meat, vegetables, and root vegetables).
8:00 PM - Nightlife: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Santo Domingo at Guácara Taina, a popular bar featuring live music and dancing.

9:00 AM - Breakfast: Start your day with a visit to Mercado Modelo, a bustling marketplace offering a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and local products. Try some fresh coconut water or tropical fruit smoothies.
10:30 AM - National Botanical Garden: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a visit to this beautiful botanical garden, featuring over 100 species of plants and trees.

1:00 PM - Lunch: Head to Bilí, a trendy restaurant serving creative, farm-to-table dishes using locally sourced ingredients.
2:30 PM - Museum of Modern Art: Visit this contemporary art museum, featuring an impressive collection of works by Dominican artists.

6:00 PM - Farewell Dinner: Enjoy your final dinner in Santo Domingo at Jalao, a modern restaurant offering innovative dishes inspired by traditional Dominican cuisine.
8:00 PM - Return to Your Accommodation: End your day with a relaxing evening at your hotel or hostel.

Hotel Billini: A charming boutique hotel located in the heart of the colonial zone, offering comfortable rooms and a beautiful courtyard.
Hostal Nicolás de Ovando: A budget-friendly hostel with dorms and private rooms, featuring a rooftop pool and stunning views of the city.

Santo Domingo is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
The official currency is the Dominican Peso (DOP), although USD is widely accepted.
Spanish is the official language, but many locals speak some English, especially in tourist areas.

Taxis: Taxis are widely available, but agree on a price before you start your journey.
Uber: Uber is also available in Santo Domingo.
Walking: The colonial zone is easily walkable, and walking is a great way to explore the city’s historic sites.

Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular tourist attractions.
Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.
Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches or historical sites.

Take a Day Trip: Consider taking a day trip to nearby Boca Chica, a picturesque beach town with crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery.
Go Hiking: Explore the beautiful countryside surrounding Santo Domingo with a guided hike in the Del Este National Park.

Enjoy your time in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic!