Top Things to Do in Santo Domingo

About the City

Santo Domingo, the vibrant heart of the Dominican Republic, is an enchanting blend of old-world charm and modern buzz. This city, steeped in history, is home to the first cathedral of the Americas, Catedral Primada de America, which casts an awe-inspiring silhouette against the Caribbean sky. Wander through the cobblestoned streets of the Zona Colonial, where historical treasures cozy up to hip bars and restaurants, offering a taste of the city's rich past with a side of contemporary cool. But it's not just history buffs who'll find their slice of heaven here. Santo Domingo bursts with life—merengue and bachata rhythms fill the air while street art splashes color across urban landscapes. Gastronomy adventurers will delight in the local flavors, diving fork-first into sancocho stews, plátanos, and fresh seafood. And don't forget about the Malecón, a seaside promenade perfect for sun-soaked strolls or lively nightlife once the sun dips below the horizon. Of course, Santo Domingo has its quirks too. Traffic can be a headache, with bustling avenues turning into automotive mazes. The warm climate is generally inviting but can tip into sweltering territory in the summer months. Yet, even these small gripes can't dull the shine of this city with indefatigable spirit and welcoming smiles. It's a place where history, culture, and the joy of life dance together in the Caribbean sun.

Things to Do in Santo Domingo

Gobble up Habichuelas con Dulce

Food & Drink

Dive into the sweet world of Habichuelas con Dulce, a luscious dessert soup! This Dominican specialty combines sweet creamed beans with coconut milk, sweet potatoes, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It's l...

Paddleboard in Paradise

Outdoors

Grab your board and paddle out into the glassy waters. You'll be doing the stand-up shuffle before you know it. Keep your balance, or you'll be doing the splashy swim (just as fun, honestly).

Hunt for Hidden Street Art

The Unexpected

Santo Domingo is a canvas with secrets stashed on every street. Glide around town with eagle eyes open for the most jaw-dropping, head-tilting street art this side of the Caribbean. From cool murals t...

Cruise the Caves by Canoe

The Unexpected

Forget the paddling at Punta Cana; we've got some serious spelunking to do. Hop into a canoe and navigate through ancient cave systems where the stalactites and stalagmites are practically high-fiving...

Spice It Up with Salsa!

The Unexpected

Let's turn up the heat, but leave the sweat-inducing habaneros out of it! We're talking about salsa dancing—a full-body workout that'll keep you moving to the rhythm of the night. Step into a local da...

Patrol with the Pelicans

The Unexpected

Hang out with the local sky dudes, our feathered friends, the pelicans! Watch them dive-bombing for fish along the waterfront, striking a pose for all to see. They're the kings of catch-and-release (m...

Rock the Casbah... I Mean, the Climbing!

Outdoors

Strap on that harness, chalk up those hands, and clamber up rock walls like a pro—or a very determined newbie. Stunning heights, and you're gonna feel like a rockstar.

Bike the Malecon

Outdoors

Jump on a two-wheeler and pedal your way down the iconic Malecon. Feel the sea breeze in your hair, high-five the palm trees, and keep an eye out for the sweet food carts (snack time!).

Sail the Day Away

Outdoors

Hoist the sails and catch the breeze! Whether you're an old salt or a landlubber, sailing in Santo Domingo's breezy bays is a must. Don't worry, the wind's got your back.

Bask in Botanical Bliss

Outdoors

Unleash your inner green thumb and surround yourself with the blooming marvels at the National Botanical Garden! Wander through a variety of themed gardens, sniff out the prettiest flowers, and maybe ...

Nibble on Arepa Dulce

Food & Drink

Treat your taste buds to Arepa Dulce, a dense, sweet cake made with corn flour and spiced with cloves and cinnamon. Think of it as the lovechild of cornbread and cake, topped off with a coconut kiss. ...

Immerse in Culture at the Columbus Lighthouse

Sights

Get lit with history at the Faro a Colón, where some say the remains of Christopher Columbus himself are kept. This monster of a monument is shaped like a cross and lights up the sky with powerful bea...

Conquer the Count's Castle at Alcázar de Colón

Sights

Get your noble on and wander around Alcázar de Colón, the grand ol' home of Diego Columbus, Christopher's son. This place is royalty-ready, but hey, you can totally pretend to be the count or countess...

Marvel at the Modern Art at the Museum of Modern Art

Sights

Time to get your culture on at the Museum of Modern Art! It's not some dusty ol' gallery; it's a vibrant hub of contemporary masterpieces that'll make you go 'huh' or 'wow' or even 'what the heck?!'. ...

Embrace the Heartbeat of Rhythmic Merengue

Sights

Shake a leg and wiggle those hips to the infectious rhythm of merengue! Experience the joyous beats that define DR celebrations and feel the music course through your veins. Tip: If your feet aren't m...

Soak Up the Sun at Boca Chica

Sights

Fancy a beach day just like the locals? Hit up Boca Chica, the go-to spot for soaking up some sun and taking a dip in that Caribbean blueness. It's like Mother Nature dialed the water's clarity and wa...

Sip on Morir Soñando

Food & Drink

Quench your thirst with the dreamy delight known as Morir Soñando! It's like liquid sunshine, blending fresh-squeezed orange juice with milk, sugar, and a touch of vanilla. This creamy citrus concocti...

Relish in Chinola Sorbet

Food & Drink

Cool down with a chinola (passion fruit) sorbet. This frozen zinger is tangy, sweet, and oh-so-refreshing. Each scoop is a burst of tropical bliss that'll make your inner child jump for joy – with eno...

Indulge in Pescado con Coco

Food & Drink

Let the coastal vibes roll with a plate of Pescado con Coco. This fish dish soaked in a dreamy coconut sauce is the romance novel of meals – exotic, tantalizing, and a little bit spicy. One bite and y...

Channel Your Inner Picasso

The Unexpected

Unearth your artsy side and get your hands dirty with a painting class. Whether you’re all about the brush strokes or just in it for the fun, you’ll have a piece that screams 'I made this!'