Top attractions in Santo Domingo
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Top 10 things to do in Santo Domingo
As well as being a major metropolis, Santo Domingo is the capital and cultural heart of the Dominican Republic. The city is a wonderful mix of history and modernity, and is an incredible place to tour and visit. Here are some top tips for when you visit.
1. Los Tres Ojos
This natural wonder and cave complex is perfect for a day tour. You can enter the beautiful structures by foot or by boat (the latter is a little bit more exciting!)
2. Alcázar de Colón
The oldest colonial residence in the Americas and one of the best art galleries in the region. The gallery exhibits some the Caribbean's most important collection of art works.
3. Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor
A fascinating building architecturally and the oldest cathedral in the Americas, situated right next to Colombus Park, it's well worth a stop here.
4. Calle las Damas
A beautiful part of the city - here you can see a sundial dating back to 1753 and visit the Institute for Hispanic Culture.
5. National Palace
An exquisite building built on beautiful park grounds, and the offices of the Presidency and Vice Presidency of the state; it is an important cultural point of interest.
6. National Botanical Garden
This should definitely be high on your list to visit as it is considered by some to be the best garden of its kind in the world. Tours are advised as the park is so vast!
7. National Theater
Whether it's for international or local performances, you won't be disappointed by the quality of the acts here.
8. Museum of Natural History
An amazing place with really world class exhibits. One of the highlights is definitely the planetarium show, and a tour will make your trip even more enjoyable.
9. Fortaleza Ozama
At the entrance to Santo Domingo, overlooking the Ozama River, you'll find this beautiful 16th-Century castle.
10. Museo de las Casas Reales
One of the important cultural monuments built during the colonial era - if you want to learn more about the region's history, this is definitely a sight to visit.
Planning Your Visit
When to Visit?
The city is ideal to visit all year long, as there is always a warm tropical climate. However, in the summer months it can get very hot indeed, and is sometimes prone to hurricanes, so if you don't like it too hot, a visit in the winter months might be more up your alley!
How long to visit?
Two or three days is a perfect amount of time to see all the tourist spots and still have enough time to relax and enjoy the city. Most people combine a trip to Santo Domingo with a visit to the nearby Punta Cana.
Good to know
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- Language
- Spanish
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- Currency
- DOP ($ or RD$)
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- Time Zone
- UTC (-04:00)
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- Country Code
- +1
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- Best time to visit
- If you don't like intense heat and possible hurricanes, try to visit in the winter, when the temperatures are still warm and tropical.
Top Attractions in Santo Domingo
Things to Do in Santo Domingo
Cities in Dominican Republic
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What people are saying about Santo Domingo
My guide was great. They picked me up on time and he knew his history. Lots of walking and love the musuem head phones. It was great
Amazing, perfect way to explore Santo Domingo. Miguel was a excellent tour guide.
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