Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic-6-day-itinerary

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) and take a taxi or Uber to your hotel in the city center (~30 minutes, ~$20-30 USD)
  • Hotel: Stay at Hotel Billini or similar, a boutique hotel with colonial charm in the heart of Santo Domingo
  • Afternoon: Visit the first cathedral in the Americas, Catedral Primada de América (free admission), and explore the surrounding Colón Street, lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Pat’e Palo, a popular restaurant serving traditional Dominican cuisine with a modern twist

Day 2: History and Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Museo del Hombre Dominicano (free admission), which showcases the country’s history, art, and culture
  • Afternoon: Explore the oldest street in Santo Domingo, Calle de las Damas, lined with colonial-era buildings, shops, and restaurants
  • Evening: Watch a traditional Dominican music and dance performance at Teatro Nacional (tickets ~$10-20 USD)

Day 3: Beach Day

  • Morning: Take a taxi or bus (~30 minutes, ~$5-10 USD) to Playa Najayo, a beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters and powdery sand
  • Afternoon: Relax on the beach, enjoy seafood at one of the many restaurants, and take a scenic coastal walk
  • Evening: Return to Santo Domingo and enjoy dinner at Basilica, a modern restaurant serving gourmet cuisine

Day 4: Day Trip

  • Morning: Take a guided tour (~$80-100 USD) to Saona Island, a picturesque island with pristine beaches, coral reefs, and scenic hiking trails
  • Afternoon: Enjoy snorkeling, swimming, or simply relaxing on the beach
  • Evening: Return to Santo Domingo and enjoy dinner at La Yuca, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Dominican cuisine

Day 5: Markets and Nightlife

  • Morning: Visit the bustling Mercado Modelo, a market selling everything from fresh produce to handicrafts
  • Afternoon: Explore the trendy neighborhood of Gascue, known for its street art, boutiques, and cafes
  • Evening: Enjoy cocktails and live music at Jalao, a popular rooftop bar with stunning city views

Day 6: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions
  • Afternoon: Take a taxi or Uber to the airport (~30 minutes, ~$20-30 USD) and depart from Santo Domingo

Things to Know

  • The Dominican Republic is a Spanish-speaking country, but many locals in tourist areas speak some English.
  • The local currency is the Dominican Peso (DOP), although USD are widely accepted.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoid traveling alone or carrying large amounts of cash.

Transportation

  • Taxis: readily available, but negotiate the fare before departing
  • Uber: available in Santo Domingo
  • Bus: an affordable option for shorter trips, but be prepared for crowded conditions

Tips

  • Try to learn some basic Spanish phrases to show respect and appreciation for the local culture.
  • Be open-minded and flexible when traveling in a foreign country.
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.

Other Things of Interest

  • Baseball: The Dominican Republic is famous for producing talented baseball players. Catch a game at Estadio Quisqueya if you’re visiting during baseball season.
  • Cigar Factory Tours: Visit a cigar factory to learn about the production process and even roll your own cigar.
  • Day Trips: Consider taking day trips to nearby destinations like Boca Chica or San Cristóbal.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic!