Santo Domingo Dominican Republic 7 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of the Colonial Zone

Morning

  • Arrive at Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) and take a taxi or Uber to your accommodation in the Colonial Zone (approximately 30-40 minutes, $20-30 USD)
  • Check-in to a hotel like Hotel Billini or Casa Naemie, both located in the heart of the Colonial Zone

Afternoon

  • Visit the First Cathedral in America (Primera Catedral de América) and explore its beautiful architecture
  • Walk along the cobblestone streets of the Colonial Zone, taking in the historic atmosphere and admiring the colonial-era buildings
  • Stop by the Plaza España, a vibrant square surrounded by cafes, shops, and street performers

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Pat’e Palo, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Dominican cuisine with a twist
  • Take a stroll along the Malecón, a seaside promenade offering stunning views of the Ozama River and the Caribbean Sea

Day 2: History and Culture

Morning

  • Visit the Museum of the Royal Houses (Museo de las Casas Reales), which showcases the history of the Dominican Republic
  • Explore the Alcázar de Colón, a museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Christopher Columbus

Afternoon

  • Head to the National Pantheon (Panteón Nacional), a stunning neoclassical building housing the remains of national heroes
  • Visit the Federico García Lorca Cultural Center (Centro Cultural Federico García Lorca), which hosts various art exhibitions and performances

Evening

  • Dine at Basilica, a contemporary restaurant offering innovative dishes in a beautiful setting
  • Enjoy the vibrant nightlife of the Colonial Zone, with its many bars, clubs, and live music venues

Day 3: Beach Day and Water Sports

Morning

  • Take a taxi or bus to Playa Guibia, a popular beach with crystal-clear waters and powdery sand (approximately 30-40 minutes, $10-20 USD)
  • Relax on the beach, swim, or try water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, or snorkeling

Afternoon

  • Head to Cabarete Beach, known for its picturesque views and lively atmosphere
  • Enjoy lunch at one of the many beachside restaurants, serving fresh seafood and local specialties

Evening

  • Return to your accommodation in the Colonial Zone and enjoy a relaxing evening
  • Consider taking a sunset sailing tour or a boat trip to see dolphins (optional)

Day 4: Santo Domingo’s Modern Side

Morning

  • Visit the Malecón Center, a modern shopping mall with international brands, restaurants, and cinemas
  • Explore the Piantini Gallery, a contemporary art space showcasing local and international artists

Afternoon

  • Head to the Santo Domingo Botanical Garden (Jardín Botánico Nacional), a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city
  • Visit the Museum of Modern Art (Museo de Arte Moderno), featuring an impressive collection of contemporary art

Evening

  • Dine at Yuca, a trendy restaurant serving modern Dominican cuisine with a focus on local ingredients
  • Enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife, with its many bars, clubs, and live music venues

Day 5: Day Trip to Boca Chica

Morning

  • Take a taxi or bus to Boca Chica, a picturesque coastal town approximately 30 kilometers east of Santo Domingo (approximately 45-60 minutes, $20-40 USD)
  • Visit the stunning Saona Island (Isla Saona), known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters

Afternoon

  • Enjoy lunch at one of the many seafood restaurants in Boca Chica
  • Relax on the beach, swim, or try water sports like snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding

Evening

  • Return to your accommodation in Santo Domingo and enjoy a relaxing evening

Day 6: Local Markets and Shopping

Morning

  • Visit the Mercado Modelo, a bustling marketplace offering fresh produce, local crafts, and souvenirs
  • Explore the Flea Market (Mercadillo), a vibrant outdoor market selling everything from clothing to electronics

Afternoon

  • Head to the Galeries 360, a modern shopping mall with international brands and restaurants
  • Visit the Calle El Conde, a pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at La Yuca, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Dominican cuisine
  • Take a stroll along the Malecón, enjoying the city’s vibrant atmosphere

Day 7: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market
  • Check-out of your accommodation and take a taxi or Uber to Las Américas International Airport (approximately 30-40 minutes, $20-30 USD)

Things to Know

  • The official currency is the Dominican Peso (DOP), but US dollars are widely accepted.
  • Spanish is the official language, but many locals speak some English.
  • Santo Domingo can be hot and humid, so pack light, breathable clothing and sun protection.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings, especially at night, and take necessary precautions to stay safe.

Transportation

  • Taxis: readily available and relatively affordable (approximately $5-10 USD per ride)
  • Uber: widely available and often cheaper than taxis
  • Bus: an affordable option for longer trips, but can be crowded and unreliable
  • Rental cars: available at the airport or in the city, but driving in Santo Domingo can be challenging

Tips

  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to show respect and appreciation for the local culture.
  • Be prepared for power outages, which are common in the Dominican Republic.
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak hours (7-9 am and 4-6 pm) to minimize traffic congestion.
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.

Accommodation

  • Hotel Billini: a colonial-style hotel with comfortable rooms and a great location
  • Casa Naemie: a cozy boutique hotel with a warm atmosphere and excellent service
  • Airbnb: a range of apartments and houses available for rent, often more affordable than hotels

Eating Out

  • Pat’e Palo: serving traditional Dominican cuisine with a twist
  • Basilica: offering innovative dishes in a beautiful setting
  • Yuca: a trendy restaurant serving modern Dominican cuisine with a focus on local ingredients
  • La Yuca: a cozy restaurant serving traditional Dominican cuisine