You can see a little bit of everything here. The monument is found on Paseo Presidente Billini, opposite the Hotel Llave del Mar. How to get there:Just walk from your accommodation in the Colonial Zone* to the ruins of San Francisco.Cost:Bony is for free.Why it is one of the best things-to-do in Santo Domingo:Bony is an absolutely unique thing-to-do in Santo Domingo and if you havent experienced it, you wont understand the fascination of it. Indulge your sweet tooth at this exciting spot, where you can create your own delicious chocolate treats and learn about the history and art of chocolate-making. Full-Day Guided Tour in Santo Domingo 19 Bus Tours from $85.00 per adult Full-day at Catalina Island from Santo Domingo with optional snorkeling included 2 Ports of Call Tours from $239.00 per adult (price varies by group size) Saona Island Full-Day All-Inclusive Tour from Santo Domingo 3 Adventure Tours from $97.00 per adult Im renting a car in Punta Cana and plan to drive to Santo Domingo one day during the trip. The ingredients you require will be readily available at the home you will cook in. Originally a Jesuit church dating back to 1714, this building was used to hold masses between 1746 and 1767. Founded a few years ago, this spot offers a brief and fun concept, with plays that are written and performed by Dominican actors and writers. Address: Calle Isabel La Catlica # 304, Santo Domingo 10212, Dominican Republic, Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 5pm (closed on Mon). The most crystalline river in the Dominican Republic. The ear of the true rock enthusiast, who was not satisfied with what played at the countrys radio stations. Take this guided tour which includes the two hour transportation from Santo Domingo. Why not go on a sweet experience with El Sendero del Cacao and explore Santo Domingo . When in Santo Domingo, explore the Colonial Zone, an UNESCO World Heritage site. Visiting Niagara Falls: Which Side to Choose? Eat, drink, and watch 4 different 15-minute plays in between. It exposes you to its 500-years-old history, thanks to the audio guides available in seven different languages. Bring your camera, some water, and a hat, and prepare to be enchanted by the beauty of this incredible garden. How to get there:You can either take a taxi, an Uber or public transport. Getting there 27. Furthermore, there are plenty of bars, restaurants and little food stalls along the Malecn (at least in some parts, especially around the Plaza Juan Barn close to the Zona Colonial and in Santo Domingo Este), so it is a perfect opportunity to grab a local bite and do some people watching an interesting thing-to-do in Santo Domingo, especially during the weekends. The rest of the hike (4 hours round trip) consists of gorgeous natural pools enveloped by tall limestone cliffs and mountains. There are 2 or 3 blocks, including Calle General Cabral, where you can find some interesting street art. With all those offerings, you can easily spend days in the historic city center of Santo Domingo, which is why I even would rate it the top thing-to-do in the entire Dominican Republic when it comes to culture. Tres Ojos National Park, also known as The 3 Eyes National Park, is located only 5 mi (8.05 km) from Santo Domingo, in a beautiful natural setting. A visit to this museum is a great way to educate yourself on the history around you, to better contextualize your experience throughout the country, and to support a good cause. However, I must note that at times I found the informational section problematic with a lot of praise to the Spanish colonizers. This epic tour starts early in the morning, leaving from Santo Domingo. Thats why a list of the best things-to-do in Santo Domingo definitely can help you to get your vacation organized. You could tell that the family has a true passion for geology and Dominican heritage. 18 USD for the tour.Why it is one of the best things-to-do in Santo Domingo:The Dominican rum has a leading reputation in the world, so it is worth having a closer look.Further information: Sugar Cane Experience*. The plays are only performed in Spanish, so it is best to have at least some familiarity with the language to fully enjoy the show. Santo Domingo is one of the oldest cities in the Caribbean and is the capital city of Dominican Republic. They have a production area in each boutique, open for you to see. It showcases thePea Defill familys private collection of Dominican art. Unsubscribe in one click. National Park East, also known as Cotubanama National Park, is just two hours from Santo Domingo. However, if you're having trouble finding a colmado, just listen for the sound of blasting salsa, merengue, or bachata music. Its $180 for two people. Don't miss the serene Japanese Garden, where you can take in the breathtaking view and capture the perfect photo for your Instagram feed. 42 places sorted by traveler favorites Clear all filters 1. This one is located on the hill of Calle Hostos. Once the home of Spanish colonialists, who built the walled city as a model for the rest of the Americas, its an area brimming with museums, churches, shopping, theatre, restaurants, and parks. Help Center . Sabina, Zona Colonial PUB 91 Bars & Clubs By 251alaind It's one best bar in Santo Domingo, Great music which you can choose,and wonderful cocktail a warm and friendly welcome. Dominican Republic Hotels Dominican Republic Guest House Dominican Republic Holiday Homes Dominican Republic Holiday Packages Dominican Republic Flights Dominican Republic Restaurants Dominican Republic Attractions Dominican Republic Travel Forum Dominican Republic Photos Dominican Republic Map Dominican Republic Visitors Guide All Dominican . Is it difficult for you to decide what and where to book? Watch out for this fearsome pirate as he storms the city. Whether you want to explore the historic Colonial Zone on a bike tour, indulge in delicious chocolate treats, or experience the citys evolving arts and theater scene, weve got you covered with this list of unique and fun things to do in Santo Domingo. See Gothic Ruins and Birds at Hospital San Nicols. La Zona Colonial is the historic colonial center of the city. 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. 11. This was a Santo Domingo highlight experience for those looking for a bit of everything in one place. Learn to cook Dominican dishes (from USD 43.0), Dr. Rafael Ma. Both tourist attractions can be best reached by taxi or Uber.Cost:The entrance fee to Faro a Coln is approx. Experience the care that provides well-being to the body and your spirit, because once achieved, beauty and balance will radiate throughout your being. 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. However, dont present an opportunity. Thats particularly because it feels like another world walking along the several hiking paths and exploring the different species compared to all this chaos and traffic jam in the city. It is part of the culture. Use safety equipment to safeguard yourself from accidents, and hire a guide to open up to the city like a localite. Both are walkable from every accommodation within the Colonial Zone*. Here is a selection of some of the most unique dining experiences you can find in the Colonial Zone: This is just a selection of some recommendable places to visit in Santo Domingo for dinner, there are plenty of further options in the Colonial Zone. So imagine my delight when I found dozens of beautiful cafes from which to work and eat in Santo Domingo. Spend some time at Columbus Lighthouse (from USD 70.0), 28. BUT, check this out if youre a big art lover who wants to peruse of all types of art in the Dominican Republic. Start your visit by making your own chocolate, choosing from a variety of shapes, flavors, and toppings to create your own unique confection. Bayahibe Travel Guide Explore one of the oldest cities - Santo Domingo (from USD 95.0), 3. Did you know that the Dominican Republic is the No. Starting from 1767, the temple and its annexes were used in the following chronological order: warehouse, housing for the San Fernando seminar, public office and a theatre for the independence fighters in 1860. If you love to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs and hidden gems to take home, the Colonial Zone awaits you with plenty of unique stores as well. Bring water shoes with grip like these ones. Youll need to take public transportation or an uber to get there, which will take around 30 minutes (depending on traffic). Both beach towns also offer some comfortable beach clubs to relax and chill out. You can enjoy delicious tapas and other foods along with your drinks, making it the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a romantic evening with a loved one. But Dominican amber is even more special. Ok, cacao and chocolate are not yours? Near the Boca Chica hotels, the display features memorabilia from World Baseball Classic won by the Dominican Republic in 2013. It has new owners which have shifted it from a cultural space to it feeling like more of a nightlife spot called Ximena. You have successfully joined our subscriber list. Its so prettyyyy. The establishment is not only a mausoleum but also a museum exhibiting items such as a Cuban boat and Colombian jewellery. Why it is one of the best things-to-do in Santo Domingo:Those historical sights with importance for the entire country should not be missed.Further information:10 reasons why you should visit the Zona Colonial of Santo Domingo. Among the many things to do in Santo Domingo, a must see attraction is the Cathedral of Santo Domingo. This magnificent natural process happened thousands of years ago. Youll learn about the islands history, from the Tainos to the Spanish invasion to our African heritage. This is an absolutely off-the-beaten-track thing-to-do in Santo Domingo, but hiking is an exciting option when you are craving some activity and adventure. This Afro Heritage Tour delves deep into the history and legacy of our African ancestors in Santo Domingo. Hey, I am Chris, a born and raised German, travel-addictive and Caribbean Soul. Immerse yourself in a 4D cinema as you witness the reenactment of the Battle of Santo Domingo. What is it: Housing a bar, caf, art gallery and bookshop, the hard-to-find Mamey Librera Caf is a welcome moment of calm from the bustling streets of Santo Domingo. Do you have any recommendations on parking in the capital? NOTE: It is mostly closed for renovation. There is a theatre with an outdoor courtyard and an art gallery by the entrance. Go on a Trikke ride along the streets of Santo Domingo (from USD 46.0). If you enjoy an active lifestyle, this is the place to be on a weekend morning where you can join other Dominican exercise enthusiasts running, skating, biking, and more. For a wonderful time with your friends, this is the best spot in town. 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:Count with 15-20 USD and up for a good dinner with starter and drink.Why it is one of the best things-to-do in Santo Domingo:There is some world-class dining in Santo Domingos Zona Colonial, so make sure to try out some of these restaurants. Entertainment and Nightlife, Free, Neighborhood/Area, Casinos TYPE 2 hours to Half Day TIME TO SPEND This picturesque part of Santo Domingo is where the new overshadows the old: Nowhere in sight. Like This Post? 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. KahKow is a delightful and fun experience for chocolate lovers, offering the chance to treat yourself to something sweet. As the largest of its kind in the Caribbean, the Santo Domingo Botanical Garden has over 60,000 botanically classified species, representing eight different ecosystems from across the country. It should be one of top things to do if you are visiting Santo Domingo. 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 Dominican Republic Tourism Dominican Republic Hotels Dominican Republic Bed and Breakfast This quaint park is situated just under the Bella Vista neighborhood on the luxurious Anacaona street. They are open in the evenings and tickets for a show cost around DOP $300 pesos. To find KahKow, head to Calle Las Damas in Zona Colonial. The Juan Bosch Plaza is in a beautiful but rarely visited area of the malecon. If you love music and dancing, then head to Grupo Bonys FREE events. Santo Domingo is full of local artists who sell their handmade crafts. 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. 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