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Tourist guide: what to do and see in Dominican Republic
A Caribbean paradise
Go toDominican Republic Turism. Sharing the island of Hispaniola with Haiti, what is today the Dominican Republic was the site of the first European settlements in the Americas as of the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1492. Once you arrive, you’ll want to start off your day with a hearty breakfast – we suggest mangú (mashed plantains) with eggs – because unless you’re here solely for the beaches (and that would be a shame), you have a lot on the menu, and you’ll need your energy. A little merengue here, bachata there, lots of golfing choices over there, for starters. Other cool options include checking out the Caribbean’s highest mountain, Pico Duarte, and largest lake, Lago Enriquillo; some superb snorkeling, diving, and other water sports; colonial and Victorian architecture and history; cigar factories; some of the hemisphere’s best baseball games; and much much more.
- Sights
- Shopping
- Leisure
- Dining
- Open air
- Museum
- Sights
- Shopping
- Leisure
- Dining
- Open air
- Museum
Museum of Modern Art
An eye-opening collection of the best the country - and the larger Caribbean - have to offer.
Modern art has become a key part of Dominican culture, and this is its temple.
In the Plaza de la Cultura alongside the Museum of Dominican Man, the Museo de Arte Moderno presents a dynamic, diverse menu of painting, art sculpture, photography, and more, reflecting the rich panoply of Dominican and Caribbean artistic achievement in the past half-century, both in its permanent collection and its creative programme of temporary exhibitions.
Las Terrenas and El Portillo Beaches (Samaná)
A fishing village with its share of tourism, but also the tranquillity of a tucked-away paradise.
On the north coast, a slice of the old-time Caribbean.
Another paradisiacal corner of the north shore's Samaná province, Las Terrenas is on the island's Atlantic coast but its vibe is quintessential Caribbean, with kilometres of white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and coconut palms. Yes, tourism has reached this sleepy fishing village, yet it still has that barefoot, laid-back tropical feel you've come for. Right alongside are the El Portillo beaches, with a similar feel.
Bayahibe and Parque Nacional del Este
A must for nature-lovers and those interested in Hispaniola's pre-Columbian heritage.
Nature and prehistory on the southeast coast.
An enormous nature reserve on the DR's southeast coast, the Parque Nacional del Este combines wild beauty and important archaeological sites; amid its "dry forest" landscape you can visit the Cueva del Puente, a gigantic cavern that includes fascinating prehistoric Taíno pictographs. Don't miss the coast itself, of course, and afterward explore the Padre Nuestro trail to visit various caves with examples of prehistoric art.
Cabarete Kiteboarding/Windsurfing
Cabarete's particular local conditions make the windsurfing and kiteboarding here some of the best in the Americas, even the world.
A north-shore beach town that has become a world mecca for water sports, especially wind-propelled.
A short drive east of Puerto Plata, the beach town of Cabarete has become one of the hemisphere's premiere adventure-sport destinations for lovers of action on land and especially sea. And the orientation and other peculiarities of its 4-kilometre (2½-mile) strand have above all turned it into a magnet for adrenaline-seeking lovers of wind-propelled water board sports - there's a good reason why it's the site of the World Kitesurfing Championship every July. The best hours for catching the winds and the waves are as of noon, and the scene isn't for the experienced only - in addition to windsurfing, kiteboarding, and surfing rental shops, there are plenty of schools and courses available for newbies and intermediates. Down on the south coast, meanwhile, the top spot for board sports is around the city of La Romana.
Bayahibe Diving
Offshore islands of Saona, Catalina, and Catalinita offer some of the Caribbean's coolest diving.
On the southeast coast, one of the DR's top dive destinations.
The entire Dominican coast - north, south, and east - is a paradise for water sports, with scuba diving high on the list. In the north, Sosúa stands out, while on the south coast, divers should make a beeline for Bayahibe, off of which the small islands of Saona, Catalina, and Catalinita offer some of the Caribbean's most amazing submarine reefs and fauna. Some of the more spectacular examples of the latter are rays and sharks (especially blacktip and hammerhead). The speedboat trip out to the islands just adds to the adventure!
Punta Cana Nightlife.
From quiet beach bars to megaclubs (including several in caves), the Punta Cana night is young.
Sure-fire fun after dark.
As the DR's top resort destination, Punta Cana has developed a bustling, varied nocturnal scene to complement its daytime delights - besides its variety of dining options, you have a choice of nightspots from quiet pubs and beach shacks to some of the coolest discos in the hemisphere. The dance clubs include several underground, set up in local caves. Another hot recently opened megaclub, if that's your scene, is Coco Bongo.
Rudy's Rancho (Samaná)
In the idyllic village of Las Galeras, a beachside destination for horseback riding and more.
Exploring a tropical paradise on horseback
The barefoot Samaná Peninsula beach town of Las Galeras is home to one of the DR north shore's top soft-adventure outfitters. Rudy's Ranch specialises in local excursions on horseback - including beach outings such swimming, snorkeling and all manner of water sports. Highly rated for friendliness, competence, and customer service.
Carnaval
Carnaval in the DR is exuberant, with each locality providing its own festive twist (the coolest? In Santo Domingo and La Vega).
Dominicans pull out all the stops for their version of the pre-Lenten festivities.
With origins in the 17th century and increased popularity as of the 18th, pre-Lenten Carnaval is, as in many other Latin and Caribbean countries, the biggest blowout of the year on the Dominican holiday calendar (dates vary depending on the year and the town, but most of them overlap a good part of February, others also in March). The celebrations mix African and European traditions, in the form of masks, adaptations of tribal dances, and parades, with the idea of partying and letting loose before the rigors of Lent and the celebration of Easter. The festivities are biggest, of course, in Santo Domingo, especially along the malecón, and the other that's considered the best takes place in La Vega, in the interior south of Santigo de los Caballeros.
Merengue Music & Dance
The DR's national dance/music has caught on worldwide - but there's nothing like experiencing it on its home turf.
A catchy route to the Dominican soul.
It's not known exactly how merengue originated - some evidence points to a relationship with mereng from next-door Haiti. Regardless, it has deep roots in Dominican culture as a vehicle for the country people to express their discontent at the rampant social injustice against them, stretching back to the 19th century (and some aver as far back as the 17th). And after becoming promoted to the status of national music/dance form during the Trujillo regime in the mid-20th century, merengue has truly come into its own - not only ubiquitous throughout the DR but well beyond, becoming hugely popular throughout Latin America and winning adherents in North America, Europe, and beyond.
Santo Domingo Malls
Are you a mall rat? Santo Domingo does them with a twist - especially Sambil and Ágora Mall.
Where Santo Domingans love to shop.
Shopping is one of the favourite pastimes of many locals, and so there are a number of modern malls that cater to them. One of the biggest and most popular in the city is Sambil at the far east end of Avenida Kennedy, with all the top international brands plus other attractions and amusements (top of the list being Aquamundo, a very cool aquarium that opened in 2013 with bells and whistles like a "shark tunnel"). Then farther west, before getting to the National Botanical Garden, comes the Ágora Mall, which markets itself as eco-friendly and is worth a visit just for a look inside, adorned with palm trees. Here, too, you'll find top brands and Dominican products, which are also featured on Saturdays in an open air market.
Modelo Market
A wonderful spot not just to browse and buy, but learn the stories behind the products.
Santo Domingo's most popular artisanal market.
Patronised by locals as well as visitors, the city's most popular crafts market (though not necessarily its cheapest), the Mercado Modelo is on Avenida Mella, just steps from the Parque de la Independencia. Vendors are friendly and helpful, and happy to explain their various wares to you.
Puerto Plata
A marvelous mix of beaches, activities, history, and culture.
Capital of the north shore.
With nearly 100 kilometres (67 miles) of lovely beaches, the province of Puerto Plata (which means "Silver Port") is perhaps the DR's best mix of laid-back, active, and historic. The local resorts, outfitters, and attractions offer hundreds of activities in beach towns like Sosúa and Cabarete, and the city of Puerto Plata itself is second only to Santo Domingo in its architecture and history, from imposing San Felipe Fortress to its quaint Victorian downtown, especially in the area of Avenida Luperón and Parque Central. West of the capital, you can also visit La Isabela, site of one of the very first Spanish settlements in the hemisphere. It may be a cliché, but the phrase "something for everyone" definitely applies to Puerto Plata.
Dominican Crafts
Dominican artisans create a wealth of colourful products that make brilliant souvenirs.
This country's rich artisanal tradition.
Beyond merely being a souvenir, many of the tanías (crafts) you'll find for sale in the DR have something special about them - and in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial as well as downtown Puerto Plata and resort areas, you'll have ample opportunity to scope out a wide variety of wares in all manner of shops, markets, and street stands. The tough part will be all the choices. But they all share the fact that they are a strong part of Dominican folk tradition.
Calle El Conde
Shopping, getting around the Zona Colonial, and sheer people-watching are all reasons to visit this pedestrian thoroughfare.
The Zona Colonial's main drag
The pedestrian-only main thoroughfare of Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial runs from the Ozama River to the Parque de la Independencia and is a-bustle day and night, lined with all manner of interesting shops and frequented by street artists. A must to experience the life of the city, and you'll probably find yourself returning to it repeatedly for one reason or another.
Limé Dolls
Faceless dolls that represent the Dominican search for identity.
A classic example of Dominican crafts.
One of the most distinctive local crafts you can buy, Limé dolls come in many sizes and colours (as well as materials besides the traditional clay), but share one thing in common: they don’t have faces. Traditionally they symbolised the search for identity in Dominican culture, marked as it is by so many different cultures over the centuries. They’re available in myriad markets and craft shops. Just have a care – they can make you want to start collecting them!
Colonial Market
A Zona Colonial must for those in the market for some memorable mementos.
A high-quality one-stop shop for souvenirs.
Souvenir-hunters should put the Colonial Market, on Calle Isabel la Católica in the Zona Colonial, on their list of musts, as it's a one-stop-shop with all the most typical products the DR has to offer, from rum and cigars to crafts and jewelry. Colourful and traditional in style, it's not the only market of its type but it is the most popular due to its location and atmosphere. Don't forget to check out the colourful Taíno-style paintings. And keep in mind, too, that some degree of bargaining is expected.
Amber and Larimar
Very different from each other, amber and larimar are gems inextricably linked to the Dominican Republic.
The most Dominican of baubles.
Fans of precious and semiprecious stones will not want to leave the DR without checking out a couple of types that are quintessentially Dominican. First and foremost is amber, a fossilised tree resin of which this country is one of the very few sources in the world, and second behind Europe’s Baltic region. There are a pair of amber museums – one in downtown Puerto Plata and one in Santo Domingo’s Zona Colonial – where in addition to learning about the history and geology of amber you can buy it; there are also shops in several cities as well as outlets at resorts (you’ll need also to be on the lookout for less reputable vendors, which have been known to traffic in fakes). Then there’s larimar, a striking blue gemstone found only in this country (primarily Barahona province in the southwest), named after the daughter of one of its original discoverers, in just 1974. It’s sold in many of the same venues as amber, and there’s also a larimar museum and associated shop in Santo Domingo’s Zona Colonial.
Dominican Drinks
Dominicans like their libations, both alcoholic and not. "Mama Jane", anyone?
Experiencing Dominican culture one sip at a time.
Another great way of getting to know Dominican culture is in liquid form. Apart from myriad non-alcoholic libations such as tropical fruit juices and shakes, Dominicans like their cerveza (beer), with Presidente being one of the most ubiquitous brands you’ll see. There’s also an herbal concoction called mamajuana ("Mama Jane"), made from rum, red wine, honey, herbs, and – we kid you not – tree bark, considered good for the digestion and sundry ailments. But speaking of rum, this is of course what occupies the place of honour, with brands like Brugal, Barceló, and Bermúdez enjoying an international reputation. A bottle of it bought in situ makes a perfect gift for any drinker in your life (and of course yourself!).
Dominican Cigars
Tobacco is a key element of the Dominican culture and economy, and its cigars some of the world's best.
Smoke 'em if you get 'em
Perhaps more than any place in Latin America other than Cuba, cigars are a vital part of local culture, and tobacco-growing here goes back to even before the arrival of the Spaniards. The current growing and manufacturing industry, located in and around Santiago de los Caballeros (and a bit in/around La Romana), owes much to Cuban émigrés, and in fact many local smokes are considered as good or in some cases even better than those from Cuba these days. You can visit factories like La Aurora in Santiago and Tabacalera de García in La Romana, and of course find shops stocked with dozens of local brands all over the country, as well as outlets at almost every resort. Even if you’re not an aficionado yourself, learning about Dominican cigar culture and history is a superb way of coming to understand the DR a little bit better.
MWVA Art Centre
A marvelous local spot off the tourist track for art, performance, and eating.
A multi-use centre in Jarabacoa where culture meets cuisine.
A charming spot in the town of Jarabacoa started by a local artist/artisan cooperative, it combines a gallery/shop, eatery, and performance venue – and besides being a fetching spot in and of itself, the appeal is that it's operated by Dominicans for Dominicans. Everything about it is authentic and deeply local – not just the food, but the arts and crafts, which are created for locals and not tourists. There are weekly cultural events, including open-mic nights – and in addition to being a great spot for coffee and sweets, it offers a way to rub shoulders with locals and watch them let their hair down in a creative environment.
Square One Café
Rub shoulders with locals and sample a tasty menu and delicious Dominican coffee.
A charming meeting point in Santiago de los Caballeros.
Among the most popular meeting points in Santiago de los Caballeros, the DR’s second largest city, this restaurant and café is located in one of the most charming areas of the city on Avenida Estrella Sadhala next to the Shell station. It serves up a mix of Dominican and international goodies to an animated local clientele. Luscious dessert with the fine local Dominican coffee is a speciality.
Aroma de la Montaña Restaurant
On a hilltop in the Dominican countryside, tasty food plus inspiring views.
It takes some getting to, but completely worth it.
Like a little enclave of paradise, this eatery in the luxury development of Jamaca de Dios, in the heart of the DR’s central Jarabacoa province a bit south of Santiago de los Caballeros, takes some doing to get to; you need to drive out into the country, then up the “Montaña” of the name. But once you’re there, it’s quite a heady mix - of a superb menu of organic, international cuisine and an eye-popping view, with the added bonus of a second floor that actually revolves (the first of its kind in the Caribbean), so you can take it all in at leisure as you enjoy your repast. This is most definitely a one-of-a-kind experience worth the trip.
Dominican Rum and Beer
Rum is one of the country's signature drinks, and beer is a ubiquitous favourite.
Top brands of Dominicans' top tipples.
Both rum and beer have a long history in this thirsty tropical country. The Dominican Republic’s most popular and typical beer brands are Presidente (recognisable by its characteristic green colour), Bohemia, and Soberana. Even more associated with the big sugarcane-producing DR is rum – some of the world’s finest are distilled here, with brands such as Brugal, Barceló, Bermúdez, and Matusalem aged in American white oak with an emphasis on smoothness. Interesting, in the Dominican Republic it's customary to offers toasts to departed relatives.
Pat'e Palo Restaurant
A fusion update for traditional dishes amid historic Zona Colonial ambience.
The country's first tavern has reinvented itself splendidly.
Right in the heart of old Santo Domingo, right across from the Alcázar de Colón, this historic spot was originally the island’s first tavern, so it has witnessed the long march of Dominican history and seen many of its well known personages pass through here. Today, Pat’e Palo’s ancient stone walls and maritime décor are the perfect backdrop for the nouvelle-creole creations of one of the DR’s top chefs, Venezuela-born Saverio Stassi, bringing a modern touch and international fusion influences to traditional dishes. You have the option of dining outside on the plaza (it’s a great place to watch the sun set) or in interior spaces that feel intensely historic. Reservations recommended.
Sancocho Stew in Downtown Santo Domingo
A delicious mix of the Dominican kitchen's most typical ingredients.
A classic Dominican stew and where best to sample it.
A chunky soup that has its variations throughout Latin America but is considered another one of the Dominican Republic’s national dishes, and is especially popular for holidays and festivals, sancocho is kind of a “kitchen-sink” dish involving many of the country’s most typical ingredients, including plantains, cassava, yams, cilantro, and potato, as well as meats such as pork, beef, goat, and sausage. In Santo Domingo, the place to go for it is El Cantábrico at Avenida Independencia 54 in the Zona Colonial (which by the way also boasts a great wine list).
Habichuelas Guisadas, the National Dish
The best place in the country for this quintessential Dominican dish.
So Dominican they call it 'the national flag'.
Dominicans consider this red-pinto-bean stew, made with onions, spices, and sometimes meat, and served with white rice, so typical that it is widely referred to as la bandera nacional (the national flag). A particularly good place for habichuelas guisadas is the town of Jamao al Norte, on the north coast east of Puerto Plata, with a number of eateries that do this dish especially well. One of them is Rancho La Cumbre, on the road between Jamao and the nearby town of Moca, which has long specialised in this and other traditional dishes. Wherever you sample it, however, it’s a tasty way in to the world of Dominican cookery.
Habichuelas con Dulce - A Sweet Red-Bean Dessert
A bean concoction that's sweet, really? It works amazingly well.
Beans, beans, the magical fruit…
We’re not used to thinking of beans as sweet, but this dish usually most popular around Easter is just that – and very much so. It’s a thick, creamy souplike treat based on red beans, to which are added ingredients including coconut milk, condensed milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, raisins, and chunks of sweet potato. Dominicans are especially fond of it because of its pleasant associations with childhood, family gatherings, and happy occasions. Some say it originated with the first French settlers on the western side of Hispaniola, in what is today the DR’s neighbour Haiti. Whatever its origins, hachichuelas con dulce are deep-rooted in Dominican culture and cuisine.
Mangú, the Dominican plantain dish par excellence.
Made from green plantains, it's a must-try on the menu at least once.
A breakfast comfort-food classic.
This comfort-food dish of boiled/mashed green plantains mixed with sundry ingredients (varying depending on the region) such as salami, eggs, cheese, avocado, and vinegar-soaked onions, is popular especially for breakfast. The curious name “mangú” has been said to derive from “man, good!” – exclamations heard from U.S. soldiers during the first occupation of the country in the early 20th century. But much more likely is that it’s of African origin, thanks to the slaves brought over generations before that. Certainly “man, good!” describes it to a tee, and this should be on the menu of all visitors to the DR at least once.
Cave of Marvels
A mix of geology and neolithic cave art makes this cave's name completely à propos.
One of the Caribbean's most spectacular natural museums.
Located on the south coast between La Romana and San Pedro de Macorís, this museum of subterranean nature truly merits the name Cueva de las Maravillas, both because of its spectacular chambers, stalactites, and exotic rock formations, and its dramatic examples of pre-Columbian cave art created by the Taíno people. Even though the section open to visitors is a relatively small one, it’s more than enough to blow away even the most jaded visitor. The combination of the cave’s natural beauty and the truly exceptional ancient painting on its walls make this a striking experience unike any other in the Caribbean (and, some might say, the hemisphere).
San Felipe Fortress Museum
Its history, atmosphere, and impressive views make this a must-visit in Puerto Plata.
Puerto Plata's defender has been through hell and high water.
A superb spot to appreciate both colonial history and impressive views out over the sea, since its construction in the 16th century the San Felipe Fortress has been a true survivor, its doughty walls having withstood attacks, fires, and miscellaneous mayhem over the centuries. It helped defend Puerto Plata against pirates and corsairs (and later, in the 1860s, against the Spanish army trying to reconquer the country in the Dominican Restoration War). Today this national patrimony features a museum exhibiting sundry artifacts relating to various aspects of Dominican history and culture. Just as compelling, though, are the views, which you can best appreciate by climbing the tower – guaranteed to provide a spectacular photo op.
Jewish Museum of Sosúa
In a north-coast beach town, the story of a one-of-a-kind Jewish community.
Testament to a remarkable episode in Dominican history.
In the north-coast resort town of Sosúa, a short drive east of Puerto Plata, is a small museum attached to a synagogue, which documents and commemorates an unusual and still little known footnote in this country’s history. In any unlikely development in the late 1930s, the dictatorship of Rafael Trujillo became the only world government willing to accept significant numbers of Jewish refugees from Nazi Germany (albeit not necessarily for altruistic reasons), and it was in this then banana plantation town that they settled (the actual number turned out to be less than a thousand, and today only several dozen families remain). It’s a moving, inspiring story of exile and safe haven that will lend another dimension to your Dominican beach and adventure holiday.
Museum of Dominican Man
To truly understand Dominican culture and society, a visit here is highly recommended.
An institution that studies what it means to be Dominican.
This four-floor museum on Plaza de la Cultura documents the birth and evolution of Dominican culture and civilisation through a series of rooms whose displays explore the different historical stages of this country and its people, from the Quisqueya of earliest pre-Columbian times through the period of colonisation. Tribal artifacts include items great and small – from tools to recreational items. As long as you’re here, you may also want to nip into the nearby Museum of Modern Art. Taken together, these two offer very different but equally compelling windows into Dominican culture.
Amber Museum of Santo Domingo
The importance of amber covers two areas: that of jewelry and that of science. Here you will know why.
Prehistoric luxury exists.
This is where prehistory and luxury meet. This curious union comes to life in the form of one of the most curious museums in the city. You can make a stop when passing through the commercial streets of the Colonial City to visit it. Once inside, it is impossible not to be fascinated by its beauty. And it is that Dominican Amber is both a study of prehistory and a select piece of jewelry. The importance of these minerals is thus double. For science, these are vital fossil remains in the study of life on the continent. For the jewelry lover, they are rare and unique pieces in the world. Without a doubt, all this makes up a different cultural visit.
Casa de Tostado
Right near the centre of the Zona Colonial, an architectural treasure and a fascinating collection.
One of SD's most historic buildings, housing a museum of upper-class life.
For an immersion in Dominican life and culture, this old house-museum in Santo Domingo’s Zona Colonial steps from the cathedral, Montesinos Beach, and Independence Park is just the ticket. Built in the 16th century, the Casa de Tostado has seen centuries of Dominican history, and countless generations of the wealthy and powerful of their eras; today it’s open to the public as a museum of upper-class life in the 19th century, telling stories of a bygone era through its furnishings, décor, and its very architecture. It’s worth a visit just to experience the houses itself, with its interior courtyard and its famous double window, unique in the Americas.
Altos de Chavón Regional Archaeological Museum
In La Romana's unique cultural complex Altos de Chavón, a fascinating look at a lost civilisation.
A worthy display of Hispaniola's pre-Columbian civilisation.
Part of the elaborate mock 16th-century-Mediterranean-style village outside the south-coast city of La Romana, this outwardly modest-looking museum of archaeology (located behind the Church of San Estanislao) provides an exceptional and fairly comprehensive overview of Dominican history, with special attention to life before the arrival of the Spaniards through its collection of more than 3,000 artifacts reflecting a variety of cultures, religions, and lifestyles.
Royal Houses Museum
A one-of-a-kind museum, key to the history of this country.
A museum of colonial history in a onetime government administration building.
This museum, in a building more than 500 years old at the corner of Calle de las Damas and Calle de las Mercedes, distills the essence of the colonial Old Town in which it’s located. Back in the day, the Museo de las Casas Reales was a guest lodging for important personages as well as a place where official government events were held. Now it’s the only museum of its type in the Americas, documenting colonial history from the conquest itself to the economy, family life, and struggles against piracy.
Convent of the Dominicans
Esteemed by locals for the Dominican religious order's efforts to improve Spanish treatment of the islands' peoples.
Key bastion of a key religious order.
One of the most active Catholic religious orders in the colony established by Spain in the 15th century, the Dominicans opened missions all over the island to advance their work of evangelisation, and as it happens, they were also the first colonial organisation to denounce abuse and mistreatment of the pre-Columbian peoples at the hands of some Spaniards – one reason why many Dominicans to this day have a certain fondness for the order and for this monastery, which when it was constructed was on the outskirts of town. Also of note inside is a pair of sculptures commemorating two seminal figures: educator and poet Salomé Ureña and Eugenio María de Hostós, one of those responsible for Santo Domingo’s first educational institution.
Monument to the Heroes of the Restoration (Santiago de los Caballeros)
All those who fought for the country's sovereignty are present here, thanks to a tribute monument worthy of a photo.
70 meters high! What a great tribute!
Located in the heart of the city of Santiago de los Caballeros, this majestic monument was another of the key works of the 20th century dictator Rafael Leónidas Trujillo Molina, who built different buildings throughout the island to extol and magnify the pride homeland of the Dominican people, in this way he also built the Palace of Fine Arts of Santo Domingo. This monument was completed in 1953 and, although at first it was called the Trujillo Peace Monument, after the death of the dictator, it was renamed the Monument to the Heroes of the Restoration, honoring those who fought to maintain national sovereignty. during the 19th century. This impressive monument is neither more nor less than 70 meters high and is decorated with endless motifs from the pre-Columbian cultures that populated the island. It is another of the fundamental points to know the history of the Dominican Republic.
Altar of the Homeland
Learn about Dominican independence at one of the country's most hallowed civic memorials.
A solemn monument to the DR's top three independence heroes.
Juan Pablo Duarte, Francisco del Rosario Sánchez and Matías Ramón Mella are considered the three fathers of the country, venerated by Dominicans because of their key role in winning independence from Spain. Their remains are interred here in this majestic edifice, the Altar de la Patria, on Plaza de la Independencia, where national independence was proclaimed on 22 February 1844. Its three enormous marble structures symbolize the Holy Trinity and “La Trinitaria”, the latter both a name for these three distinguished patriots and a pro-independence secret society they formed. Within you may visit their tombs and displays of artifacts relating to this period in history.
Ruins of San Francisco Monastery
A tumultuous history for one of the Americas' oldest buildings.
A landmark Franciscan monastery, witness to much history.
Begun in 1508 and completed 50 years later, this Franciscan monastery is attributed to one of the early colonial era’s foremost and most prolific architects, Nicolás de Ovando, whose work is found throughout the old town as well as elsewhere in the DR. But history has not been not kind, beginning in 1586 when privateer Francis Drake attacked, sacked, and damaged it. What Drake didn’t destroy was mostly taken by a 1673 earthquake, reducing it practically to rubble. As the final indignity, during the historic Battle of Palo Hincado, cannon fire from invading French forces brought the roof down. Nonetheless, this glorious ruin is worth a visit while you’re in the old town for its atmosphere and its importance to the country’s history.
Columbus Lighthouse
Historical displays and a nighttime light extravaganza add to the impact of this monumental structure honouring Christopher Columbus.
A giant that impresses both by day and by night.
This now iconic landmark was conceived as early as the beginning of the 20th century, but it wasn’t until 1992 that it finally became a reality, inaugurated for the 500th anniversary of Hispaniola's discovery by the Christopher Columbus expedition. Besides honouring Columbus (including, it is claimed, the explorer's mortal remains), this gigantic structure also comemmorates fraternity among nations and offers various historical displays. After visiting it by day, this place also merits a return visit at night when its illumination creates a jawdropping effect.
National Pantheon of Heroes
The Baroque/neoclassical final resting place for key figures who fought for the DR's independence.
Homage to the fathers of Dominican independence.
In the Santo Domingo neighbourbood (better known as the Old Town or Zona Colonial), this is one of the remaining few edifices not dating from the 16th century, the first century of Spanish colonisation, but rather from the 18th – and thus its fancier neoclassical and Baroque architecture. Built as a church for the Jesuit order, more recently it honours and houses the remains of those who fought for the Dominican Republic or have had particular importance to national history, such as independence fighter and former president Gregorio Luperón, and important independence figures José Núñez de Cáceres and General Antonio Duvergé. The Baroque can be seen particularly in the naves which run the length of the interior, and they are decorated with a grandiose mural depicting the ‘Final Judgment and Ascension into Heaven’ - a touch which helps impart even more of an epic feel to the premises.
Palace of Fine Arts
The king of Santo Domingo's performance venues, especially for classical music.
Music to your ears.
Inaugurated in 1956 during the dictatorship of Rafael Trujillo, this majestic 13,000-square-metre (140,000-square-foot) spread includes the National Theatre, the National School of Visual Arts, and many other cultural organisations. While one of the Dominican Republic’s premier academic centres of the arts, for visitors it’s a fabulous venue for spectacular concerts, especially classical.
Ozama Fortress
A must-visit to learn about Santo Domingo's history, and nab some impressive views
Named after Santo Domingo's river, its doughty defensive fortress.
In the 15th and 16th centuries, in addition to colonisation by Spain, there was quite a bit of activity around this island and the Caribbean in general on the part of its European rivals France and England, as well as no small issue with pirates (arggh, no, it’s wasn’t just a Johnny Depp movie). That’s why the colonial administration got busy building various and sundry defensive fortifications, of which this is perhaps the foremost example. A visit here yields not just a trip back in time but also some pretty sweet views over Santo Domingo and the Caribbean Sea from its 18-metre (59-foot) walls.
Cathedral of Santa Maria
One of the Zona Colonial's key landmarks, its architect inspired by Seville's cathedral.
The first cathedral in the Americas
Located in the heart of the Dominican Republic, one of Santo Domingo’s most important symbols may be called the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Incarnation, but it’s more widely known as La Catedral Primada - America’s first cathedral. This majestic structure was built during the 16th century, the key initial period of Spanish colonisation in which most of the city’s key landmarks were constructed, its architect Alonso González, taking inspiration from the famous cathedral of Seville; the structure, however, does not greatly resemble others of the same era in the Zona Colonial - possibly due to interior and exterior damage from when the city was invaded by Francis Drake, as well as various restorations over the course of centuries.
Diego Colón's Viceroy Palace
Ground zero of Santo Domingo's colonial quarter - the palace of the Spanish crown's viceroys, beginning with Christopher Columbus' son.
Where the Dominican colony was first ruled.
This fortified palace is the key icon of the centuries-long Spanish colonial period which shaped this country. Built in 1510 as both a palace and a fortress for the colony’s governors, it was criticized for having too many windows for its size, but it nonetheless became the residence of Christopher Columbus’ son Diego, and ended up being the epicentre of Spanish governance for six decades. From here, too, were launched the expeditions that conquered for Spain Cuba, Peru, Mexico, Guatemala, Colombia, and Florida. So they were pretty busy here once upon a time. Francis Drake also attacked in 1586. Today it’s an interesting museum that features period furnishings.
Old La Vega
Destroyed by a long-ago earthquake, remnants of the origins of Latin America.
The ruins of one of the first Spanish settlements.
A couple of hours from both Santo Domingo and Puerto Plata is La Vega, the city that grew up around one of the first Spanish forts, Fuerte de la Concepción, built by Christopher Columbus' forces in 1494 to defend against the Taíno who lived in the area. The original Spanish settlement was destroyed in a 1562 earthquake, and you can visit the ruins of the fortress, cathedral, and several houses. It provides a fascinating peek back into the origins of Latin America.
Altos de Chavón
Outside the south coast city of La Romana, one of the Caribbean's most unusual attractions is well worth a day trip.
An extraordinary cultural/shopping/dining complex built to look like an old European village.
Heading farther east along the coast, right outside the city of La Romana perched above the Chavón River, is one of the Caribbean's more unusual attractions. Conceived in the 1970s by the head of the Paramount Pictures studio and now part of the reknowned Casa de Campo resort, this pastiche of a mediaeval southern European town is full of shops and restaurants, and also boasts an archaeology museum and an outdoor amphitheatre where performances are regularly held (sometimes by international stars, such as Elton John and Andrea Bocelli). The overlook provides an impressive view out over the river and exuberant vegetation - a landscape so evocative it has been used repeatedly as a movie location (for Apocalypse Now, Rambo, and Jurassic Park, for example).
Boca Chica
To check out a fun beach resort for locals and not tourists, it's just a few kilometres outside Santo Domingo
One of the DR's original beach areas, just east of Santo Domingo, favoured by locals.
To see where Dominicans go to play in the water, head out of Santo Domingo less than 40 kilometres (24 miles) to this modest beach city, which began its life as a resort way back in the 1950s and is crowded with local families especially on weekends and holidays. Calle Duarte is lined with restaurants, pubs, and discos, so there's plenty to do both day and night, into the wee hours.
Parque Colón
Santo Domingo's outdoor living room for centuries, it's ace for people-watching and pigeon-feeding.
In Colombus Park, the rhythm is gonna get you.
With the statue of Christopher Columbus at its centre pointing north, "Columbus Park" has been the heart and "living room" of Santo Domingo's old town for more than 500 years, and though it looks modest today, the onetime Plaza Mayor has plenty of history behind it - not to mention an animated parade of locals both passing through and hanging out. We'd highly recommend you hang out a bit, too - perhaps feed the pigeons, watch the buskers, have a drink in one of the cafés surrounding it, and just generally get a feel for the life of the city. From here you can also check out the Cabildo (colonial city hall), cathedral, and Ozama Fortress.
Santo Domingo City Walls
Once a protection against constant pirate attacks, the old city walls are an atmospheric remnant.
A key part of the colonial old quarter.
When visiting Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial, you'll definitely want to include a stop at the remnants of the 17th-century city walls, which in the early days of the colony were instrumental in warding off pirates and corsairs and at whose gate, the Puerta del Conde, the national flag was raised for the first time. It's not hard to imagine, looking at these doughty walls, how it all must have looked centuries ago. It's also worth gaining a perspective from outside the walls - a good spot for doing so is Puerto Sans Souci, the ship and cruise port on the other side of the Ozama River. From there you can stroll toward Punta Torrecillas, the beach and lighthouse near the mouth of the river, for further inspiring views of the Zona Colonial.
Valle Nuevo National Park
Drive up into the interior highlands for spectacular nature, views - and an odd little monument.
An inland nature reserve with a quirky something extra: a pyramid.
Up in the hills some 150 kilometres (93 miles) inland from Santo Domingo, Valle Nuevo National Park is the site of the Caribbean's highest alpine forest. But apart from its natural beauty, it possesses a curious feature: an odd little pyramid, built in 1957 under dictator Rafael Trujillo. Supposedly marking the geographical centre of Hispaniola, it turned out the "split pyramid" design was meant to symbolise the separation of the two nearby towns. Regardless, the ecotourism and views up here are marvelous (though in winter, you'll need to bring a coat, as temperatures can get quite chilly).
Santo Domingo's Malecón waterfront boulevard
The capital's waterfront avenue is popular with both locals and visitors, and for good reason!
One of the city's iconic boulevards, with sweet Caribbean views.
Starting in the Zona Colonial, Santo Domingo's oceanfront promenade, the malecón (aka Avenida George Washington), offers 10 kilometres (6 miles) worth of ravishing views out over the blue Caribbean, and restaurants at which to sit and contemplate them. Part of it runs along a remaining section of the ancient city wall to San José Fort. It's especially popular at night as well as on Sundays, when traffic is banned and locals take over and enjoy it on foot. Ditto for special occasions such as New Year's Eve and summer's Festival del Merengue.
Las Terrenas and the Salto del Limón
A slice of the barefoot Caribbean, plus a spectacular waterfall
An unforgettable experience in tropical Samaná Peninsula.
Less well known than other Dominican beach zones, the town of Las Terrenas and surrounding area of the Samaná Peninsula is also more lightly touristed than other towns - closer to the pristine Caribbean of yore with its spectacular beaches, forests, and amazing landscapes. One particularly cool local must is the Salto al Limón, a jungle waterfall reachable in a bit less than an hour on foot or - the most popular approach - on horseback. When you finally arrive, the vegetation opens up to reveal a spectacular 50-metre (164-foot) cascade with a natural pool to splash around in at the bottom.
Punta Cana
Along a paradisiacal stretch of palm-fringed beaches, a world-class choice of activities - or do nothing at all.
One of the Caribbean's premier resort zones.
One of the Caribbean's premier resort meccas, along 50 kilometres (30 miles) of gorgeous, coconut-palm-lined white-sand beach, it offers a wide range of properties in all price ranges. In addition to just lounging on the beach, almost any water sport you can think of is available, as are myriad excursions both near and farther (to Santo Domingo, the north coast, and more). One of the top local attractions is Manatí Park, a family-friendly animal park which also showcases Taíno culture and stars swimming with dolphins. There are plenty of restaurants, nightlife, and shopping in the area, too (one interesting option is to hop a water taxi to one of the local seafood spots).
Salto de Gran Jimenoa Waterfall
Check out one of nature's local wonders and shoot the rapids below.
A jawdropping waterfall in the interior.
An oasis in the deep jungle region of Jarabacoa (and after driving to the vicinity, you'll need to hike another 20 minutes or so) is one of the DR's most impressive sights: the spectacular Salto de Gran Jimenoa waterfall, 40 metres (131 feet) high. And beyond just gawking at this force of nature, adventurous types (and if you've made it this far, that's you) can shoot the Jimenoa River rapids.
Costanza and the Interior.
For a change of pace from the beaches, take a trip back to the rural Dominican past.
A taste of traditional rural life in the mountain highlands.
Though most visitors flock to the Dominican Republic for its shores, the heartland is a fascinating change of pace, as well. Costanza, in the jungle around the centre of the island at 1,220 metres (4,000 feet) above sea level is a good example of a farming/ranching town where the rhythms of rural Dominican life continue as they have for generation, mixing European, African, and even precolumbian traditions. Don't miss the local celery soup or giant strawberries, very typical of the area.
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