Santo Domingo

For my first journey to the Dominican Republic, I visited Santo Domingo, a city rich in history, culture, food, and charm.

In this Santo Domingo blog, I'll give my recommendations for things to do in Santo Domingo for a great trip.

Where to stay in Santo Domingo

If you want to spend a few days in Santo Domingo, I recommend staying at the hotel I stayed at, Hodelpa Nicolas de Ovando. It is a fantastic hotel located in the city's Colonial Zone, making it convenient to see everything on foot. The hotel features spacious rooms, a pool, a bar, and excellent breakfast and dining options. The edifice is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site since it had housed Nicolas de Ovando, the previous governor of the Indies. It retained the allure of the opulent colonial homes.

ZONA COLONIAL DE SANTO DOMINGO, A UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE
Santo Domingo is noted for its colonial zone, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. There are a few well-preserved streets where history has been formed. In 1496, Bartholomew Columbus discovered the city, which later became the capital of the Indies. From there, the Spanish began colonizing the New World. Santo Domingo was the first to establish a university, cathedral, castle, monastery, hospital, and fortification.

Some of these can still be seen around the city. Some of it, or at least its remnants, may still be found today! Checking them out is definitely something to do in Santo Domingo.

Carlos, our guide, stated Santo Domingo was the first city, and we kept laughing about it, but it is fascinating when you consider the history!

Aside from these landmarks, the greatest way to view the city is to walk about and admire the colorful streets and architecture! Also, enjoy dinner in Plaza de Espana, where Diego Columbus' mansion is located.

Malecon in Santo Domingo

The Malecon, also known as George Washington Avenue, is a well-known seaside avenue. There are numerous luxurious hotels, casinos, and restaurants, but it is also an excellent spot to walk about and people watch. If you have a chance to be in Santo Domingo during Carnaval, it will be held on the same boulevard.

Art Galleries in Santo Domingo

As a capital, Santo Domingo boasts a wealth of cultural offerings. Dominicana Moda, the fashion show we attended in Santo Domingo, is one example of a theme. The city also has various art galleries. If you enjoy art, you will not want to miss the Museo de Arte Moderno (Modern Art Museum), which houses works by Dominican and foreign artists.

There are also other galleries to visit. Some of the greatest include Museo Bellapart, a private museum, and Arte San Remon.

Restaurant Recommendations in Santo Domingo

Santo Domingo offers fantastic eateries, which we had the opportunity to sample while there. Here's a short list:

Mimosa for really traditional Creole food, which includes rice, beans, tostones, and grilled meat or fresh fish.

Address: Calle Arzobispo Nouel, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic.

Jalao is a fantastic place to go over the weekend. It's a really large restaurant with live music and people dancing in between tables. So cool!

Calle del Conde, Ciudad Colonial, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic.

Adrian Tropical: For lunch with a view of the ocean!

Avenue George Washington, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

MERCADO MODELO: ARTISANAL MARKET

If you want to buy souvenirs, visit Mercado Modela. There will be numerous merchants, and you will be able to purchase many types of handcraft.

BEACHES OF SANTO DOMINGO

Santo Domingo is on the sea, although there are no beaches in the city. The nearest beach is Boca Chica. It may not be the most gorgeous beach in the Dominican Republic, but it is still worthwhile to visit for a few hours to meet the people and maybe eat lunch at one of the numerous beach eateries. Our meal at Neptuno's Restaurant was wonderful!

A Visit to Santo Domingo's Tres Ojos National Park

Los Tres Ojos National Park, one of the Dominican Republic's most recognized sites, is only 15 minutes from Santo Domingo, therefore it would be a pity to miss the excursion.

Los Tres Ojos (also known as the three eyes) are three cenotes (natural lakes) formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock, exposing groundwater beneath.

Nightlife in Santo Domingo

Finally, if you're in the Dominican Republic, consider going out and dancing the famed merengue. There are several bars and clubs in the city. Carlos, our guide, recommended Route 77, El Sarten, Casa de Teatro at Ciudad Colonial, Bonyé (every Sunday from 6pm to 10pm beside the remains of the St Francis Monastery), and Jet Set for Merengue on Mondays, which has live bands!

I hope you have a fantastic vacation to Santo Domingo!