Step into Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial, the oldest European settlement in the Americas. Cobblestone streets lead to remarkably preserved 16th-century Spanish colonial architecture and UNESCO World Heritage sites. The First Cathedral of America and Alcázar de Colón palace showcase the area's rich historical significance. This walkable district buzzes with cultural energy around Plaza España. Traditional merengue music drifts from atmospheric bars housed in colonial courtyards. Restaurants serve authentic Dominican cuisine while artisan shops along El Conde street offer amber jewelry and local crafts.
Gascue offers a perfect blend of colonial charm and upscale living in Santo Domingo. Elegant early 20th-century mansions with wrought-iron balconies line tree-canopied streets. This historic district houses important cultural institutions and embassies in beautifully preserved buildings. The neighborhood balances diplomatic elegance with authentic Dominican life. Visitors can explore museums like the Museum of Modern Art or stroll to Guibia Beach. Upscale restaurants serve traditional Dominican cuisine and international dishes. The peaceful, walkable streets provide a welcome retreat from the city's busier districts.
Piantini stands as Santo Domingo's upscale haven where luxury shopping malls and sleek corporate towers create an impressive skyline. Affluent locals browse designer stores at Blue Mall and Acropolis Center while business travelers attend meetings in nearby financial headquarters. Wide, tree-lined boulevards connect the neighborhood's high-end restaurants and international hotels. The sophisticated atmosphere extends to evening hours when rooftop lounges offer craft cocktails with city views. Travelers appreciate the central location with easy access to Santo Domingo's cultural attractions. Modern amenities and multilingual staff cater to discerning guests throughout this polished Dominican neighborhood.
Bella Vista stands as Santo Domingo's premier upscale district, where sleek glass towers house luxury condominiums and corporate offices. Blue Mall anchors the neighborhood with international brands and fine dining options. Tree-lined Avenida Winston Churchill showcases high-end boutiques and restaurants that cater to affluent visitors. This sophisticated area offers excellent walkability with wide, clean sidewalks connecting major attractions. Modern architecture dominates the landscape with manicured boulevards and pocket parks providing touches of green. Visitors appreciate the neighborhood's refined atmosphere, international dining scene, and convenient access to other Santo Domingo districts.
Ciudad Universitaria centers around the oldest university in the Americas, creating an authentic academic atmosphere filled with student life. The neighborhood buzzes with affordable eateries and cultural activities that showcase Dominican traditions. Campus pathways lead through colonial-era buildings and modern facilities where students gather. Three metro stations make exploring Santo Domingo easy from this budget-friendly area. Nearby Guibia Beach offers a refreshing break from academic pursuits. The Convention Center and sports venues provide entertainment options beyond the university grounds.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Santo Domingo
Boca Chica Beach
7.6/10 (2,998 reviews)
Boca Chica Beach enchants with shallow turquoise waters and fine white sand just 30km from Santo Domingo. Savor fresh seafood at beachside restaurants while enjoying the calm waters perfect for family swimming.
This waterfront promenade offers spectacular Caribbean Sea views and serves as Santo Domingo's vibrant social hub. Visit at sunset to watch the Malecón transform with lively music, local cuisine, and evening lights.
Stroll along the New World's first commercial street, where cobblestone paths meet colonial architecture. Browse local art, sip coffee at cafés, or watch street performers amid Santo Domingo's historic Colonial Zone.
The Dominican Republic's largest stadium hosts thrilling sporting events and concerts for up to 50,000 spectators. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Centro Olímpico Juan Pablo Duarte, especially during evening events.
Experience Dominican baseball passion at Estadio Quisqueya, home to two storied teams amid rhythmic merengue and local cuisine. Visit during the Winter League (October-January) for the most electric atmosphere.
BlueMall Santo Domingo offers a sophisticated haven of luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Cartier. Explore its elegant boutiques and gourmet dining options during weekday mornings for a more relaxed experience.
Sambil Santo Domingo combines premium shopping with vibrant entertainment under one modern roof. Browse international retailers, dine at the diverse food court, or treat the family to the indoor aquarium and cinema.
Santo Domingo's premier shopping destination offers 180 international and local brands in an eco-friendly space. Explore upscale boutiques, dine at diverse restaurants, or catch a film at the seven-screen cinema.
"Unfortunately, my client had a very bad experienced at this hotel, after staying their in the past, this time there was an electricity outage at the hotel at check out date. There was no one at the desk to attend my clients checkout. He had to drag 4 luggages all by himself down the stairs from 7 high. I finally made contact with the hotel on his behalf as he booked through me all he got was an apology, no compendation nothing although the staff informed expedia they offered a compendation but...
"Dos semanas atrás me hospedé y tuve algunas dificultades, soy cliente habitual del hotel y me decepcioné un poco en esa última visita, pero debo decir que en esta ocasión fue perfecto. Seguirá siendo mi lugar favorito cuando visite la ciudad de. Santo Domingo."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Santo Domingo offers a vibrant shopping experience. Visit Megacentro Mall for a mix of entertainment and family-friendly options, or explore Cuadra San Isidro Shopping Center for a local city vibe. For unique souvenirs, head to Mercado Modelo, a bustling market filled with local goods.
Recreation
Experience the serene atmosphere at Centro Olimpico, where you can unwind amidst lush greenery. Engage in vibrant sports activities at Quisqueya Stadium, embracing the local sports culture. For a touch of luxury, visit the Nautical Club of Santo Domingo, offering exclusive amenities and breathtaking views.
Adventure
Agua Splash Caribe Aquatic Park offers thrilling water slides and wave pools, making it perfect for families seeking adventure and entertainment. For more excitement, head to Los Delfines Water Park, located 40.2km away, where you can enjoy diverse water attractions and create lasting memories with loved ones.
Nightlife
Santo Domingo's nightlife is vibrant and lively, offering everything from chic rooftop bars to energetic dance clubs. Enjoy a cocktail at the upscale Lounge 360 or immerse yourself in local rhythms at Casa de Teatro, where live music and performances create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Find the best attractions in Santo Domingo
Santo Domingo offers a delightful mix of beach, family, and business-themed vacations, with a rich array of points of interest including churches, streets, and historic houses. This vibrant city provides a cultural experience perfect for travellers seeking family-oriented activities and urban exploration. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the local history and charm while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of the Dominican Republic.
Assembly Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses: This serene temple in Santo Domingo offers a unique cultural experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beliefs and practices of Jehovah's Witnesses. The architecture and tranquil atmosphere provide a peaceful setting for reflection and community.
Palacio de los Deportes Virgilio Travieso Soto: A vibrant arena that serves as a hub of entertainment, this facility hosts various sports events and concerts. It’s perfect for families looking to enjoy a fun-filled day, with lively atmospheres and diverse activities.
La Matica Island: This stunning island offers breathtaking beaches and outdoor adventures. A true paradise for nature lovers, visitors can unwind on soft sands, explore lush greenery, and partake in water sports amidst picturesque surroundings.
Best time to go to Santo Domingo
The best time to visit Santo Domingo can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Santo Domingo falls in August and September. September has average visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather. The coolest average temperature in Santo Domingo falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Santo Domingo
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Santo Domingo.
Consider traveling to Santo Domingo during the low season (May and September to October) for more affordable options.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Santo Domingo vacation package cost?
You'll find cheap prices on Expedia for your Santo Domingo getaway. However, a range of factors like the length of stay, hotel choice and season will determine how much your vacation to Santo Domingo costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Santo Domingo?
If you're hoping to score a cheap Santo Domingo vacation package, consider traveling in January, September and October. You'll usually find better prices on hotels and airfares during these quieter months — ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
How many days is enough for Santo Domingo?
To get the most out of your Santo Domingo vacation, we suggest booking for 3 days. Divide your time between visiting National Aquarium, Los Tres Ojos and other must-see attractions, as well as exploring neighborhoods like Zona Colonial and Ciudad Colonial. If you've got some time to spare, include a day trip or tour in your Santo Domingo vacation itinerary.
Is it worth booking a vacation package to Santo Domingo?
Whether you're planning to discover attractions such as Blue Mall and Agora Mall, or want to experience its top-notch history and culture, a Santo Domingo vacation will leave you with lasting memories. Book your getaway with Expedia and discover why Santo Domingo is such a good vacation destination.
How to find the best Santo Domingo package deals?
Start your search for a Santo Domingo package deal by entering your destination and travel dates under our "Packages" tab. Then select some filters, like "Property type" and "Guest rating," to tailor the results to your exact style. You can also sort by "Package discount" and discover offers that come with big savings. If you don't find the ideal Santo Domingo package deal straight away, just play around with your dates and search again. Remember that deals are only available for a limited time, so book early and get your Santo Domingo getaway off to a flying start.
Is it cheaper to book a Santo Domingo vacation as a package?
Expedia vacation packages are designed to help you keep more cash in your pocket. Bundle your flight, hotel and car rental into one great-value price and you could save hundreds of dollars. You'll generally snag a better deal than booking each component individually. And you'll still have the freedom to create a tailored Santo Domingo vacation by choosing your preferred airline, accommodation type and car class.
When to book a vacation package to Santo Domingo?
If you've got your Santo Domingo vacation dates confirmed, book as soon as you can to score some outstanding deals. With Expedia, you can often reserve some flights up to a year in advance. Prefer spur-of-the-moment getaways? Our last-minute deals are great for setting off on a whim.
How to plan a trip to Santo Domingo?
Choose when to go: Check your diary and get packing. Your favorite time of year and the available activities will also help you decide when to vacation in Santo Domingo.
Set a budget: Consider costs such as food, flights and transportation when calculating how much to save for your trip to Santo Domingo. Then, pick a property that suits your budget, whether that's a wallet-friendly stay or a more luxurious getaway.
Decide how long to go for: Now that you're more familiar with Santo Domingo, you can work out the perfect length of your vacation. Put together a draft plan and allocate enough time for all the things you want to do.
Bundle your bookings: With your travel dates in order, you can combine your car rental, flights, hotels and more into a tailored Santo Domingo vacation package.