Santo Domingo Tour
Duration: 12 hours
[Unavailable on December 25 and January 1]
Highlights:
Discover Santo Domingo, the First City of the Americas. Travel across its most important roads all leading towards ancient edifices and monuments of an invaluable cultural heritage in a modern-day city.
Through yesterday’s narrow lanes, we will set out to unveil the humble beginnings of the New World. Tour the oldest colonial city, erected in the fifteenth century, and scour the first colonial epoch residences.
Duration: 12 hours
[Unavailable on December 25 and January 1]
Highlights:
Discover Santo Domingo, the First City of the Americas. Travel across its most important roads all leading towards ancient edifices and monuments of an invaluable cultural heritage in a modern-day city.
Through yesterday’s narrow lanes, we will set out to unveil the humble beginnings of the New World. Tour the oldest colonial city, erected in the fifteenth century, and scour the first colonial epoch residences.
Duration: 12 hours
[Unavailable on December 25 and January 1]
Highlights:
Discover Santo Domingo, the First City of the Americas. Travel across its most important roads all leading towards ancient edifices and monuments of an invaluable cultural heritage in a modern-day city.
Through yesterday’s narrow lanes, we will set out to unveil the humble beginnings of the New World. Tour the oldest colonial city, erected in the fifteenth century, and scour the first colonial epoch residences.
Details
Embark on a transformative journey with our one-day excursion from Punta Cana to Santo Domingo, a city that beckons with the echoes of centuries past and the vibrant beat of contemporary Dominican life. This immersive experience is meticulously crafted to provide a snapshot of Santo Domingo's historical significance, cultural diversity, and pulsating energy—all within the confines of a single day.
As you depart from Punta Cana in the early morning, anticipate a day filled with awe-inspiring moments, from the cobblestone streets of Zona Colonial to the lively Malecón and beyond. Uncover the layers of history that have shaped this UNESCO World Heritage city and witness the seamless blend of colonial charm and modern vitality.
This day trip isn't just a sightseeing endeavor; it's an opportunity to connect with the heart and soul of the Dominican Republic. Engage with the warm and welcoming locals, savor the flavors of authentic Dominican cuisine, and immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and rhythms that define Santo Domingo. From historic landmarks to bustling marketplaces, our curated itinerary ensures that you capture the essence of this dynamic city in just one unforgettable day.
Pay homage to the First Cathedral of the Americas. Stroll down Las Damas Street where we see many important monuments. Pass by the Museo de la Casas Reales. A walk across the Alcázar de Colón takes you back to the era of the Spanish conquistadors. On the boardwalk of Santo Domingo, appreciate sightseeing the beauty of the Caribbean Sea and modern buildings such as the Fine Arts Palace, the National Theatre, and the Presidential Palace. Enjoy a nice lunch in a typical restaurant of the capital.
Get ready to board a comfortable air-conditioned bus at the crack of dawn. Side by side an expert tourist guide you will soon take over the Santo Domingo, First City of the Americas, learning historically-relevant facts of this modern-day metropolitan city. Real estate wrought in accents underscored by delicate French neoclassical designs. Close detail was given to its facade, bringing together stuccoed accents and decorative elements around its doors and windows.
We will have lunch at a typical restaurant reminiscent of a small farm, where your senses will drift away with the pleasant scents of cinnamon and ginger. Upon your arrival, you will be greeted to the rhythm of Merengue, in an atmosphere where flavor and camaraderie come to life. You will be treated to the traditional Dominican dish, known as “la bandera dominicana”. Take a stroll across a colonial neighborhood and examine its monuments and museums. Pay homage to the First Cathedral of the Americas, birthplace of a fervent Catholic faith. Formally known as the Catedral Metropolitana Santa María de la Encarnación.
This former hut made of royal palms nowadays takes up an entire block. Setting your sight on its interior for the first time is an authentic sensorial experience. Stroll down Las Damas Street, the oldest back street not only in the Dominican Republic, in all of the Americas. It preserves the largest amount of monuments in its surrounding areas. The Museo de la Casas Reales, formerly the Governmental Palace, has a bewitching display of colonial era artifacts. Monument of historic significance once a Jesuit church, the National Pantheon became the final resting place of many illustrious Dominicans after its restoration in 1538.
A huge copper lamp looms over its dome, emanating a perpetual flame forever keeping the memory of national heroes alive. A walk across the Alcázar de Colón enraptures visitors back to the era of the first Spanish conquistadors. The pedestrian only street known as Atarazanas was the first commercial street in the Americas. Take a walk around the outside edge of the wall on the Bateria del Almirante. The somberness of the National Palace is exemplified by its well-crafted formal equilibrium and historical commemorations. We will get off the bus for a brief moment in order to take photographs in front of the presidential palace. Arrive to the boardwalk of Santo Domingo where you will appreciate the beauty of the Caribbean Sea and some modern buildings such as the Fine Arts Palace, National Theatre, Presidential Palace, and more.
Come across this multi-million-dollar lighthouse was built in 1992 to celebrate the 400 year anniversary of Columbus’s landing in the Americas and is the site of the explorer’s bones. Come and join us as we rediscover the first city of the New World, Santo Domingo. Important: On Mondays we offer only panoramic views of the Museums and some extra free time to walk around the city colonial center.
What to Expect
Enjoy an insightful day looking into the past and the present of the capital city along engaging, knowledgeable, and friendly guides. This Santo Domingo tour is an opportunity to visit all the must-see monuments and enjoy a delicious typical Dominican lunch.
Itinerary
Monumento Natural 3 Ojos 🏞 Explore the breathtaking natural beauty of the 3 Ojos cave system, a mesmerizing network of crystal-clear underground lakes surrounded by lush vegetation.
Faro a Colón, Panoramic View 🗺 Enjoy a panoramic view of the Columbus Lighthouse, a monumental structure dedicated to Christopher Columbus, blending history and architecture.
Palacio Presidencial, Panoramic View 🏠 Capture stunning panoramic views of the Presidential Palace, a symbol of political significance in the heart of Santo Domingo.
Zona Colonial 🏛 Immerse yourself in the charm of the Colonial Zone, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its cobblestone streets and well-preserved historic architecture.
Catedral 1ª de América 🕍 Visit the First Cathedral of the Americas, a majestic symbol of colonial history and architectural grandeur.
Plaza Colón ⛲️ Relax at Plaza Colón, a historic square surrounded by colonial-era buildings, offering a tranquil escape in the midst of the city.
Calle del Conde ⚜️ Stroll down Calle del Conde, a bustling street lined with shops, cafes, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Fortaleza Ozama, Panoramic View 🏰 Admire panoramic views of the Ozama Fortress, a historic fortress that once protected the city from pirates and invaders.
Calle de las Damas 👸 Wander along Calle de las Damas, the oldest street in the Americas, with its colonial architecture and charming ambiance.
Panteón de la Patria 🛕 Pay homage to the heroes of the Dominican Republic at the Pantheon of the Fatherland, a mausoleum of national significance.
Museo Casas Reales 👑 Explore the Royal Houses Museum, offering insight into the colonial history of the Dominican Republic.
Plaza España 🇪🇸 Experience the lively atmosphere of Plaza España, a central square surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and cultural attractions.
Alcazar Diego de Colón 🤴 Step back in time at the Alcazar de Colón, the former residence of Diego Columbus, the son of Christopher Columbus.
Museo del Larimar 💍 Discover the beauty of the Larimar gemstone at the Larimar Museum, showcasing the unique blue stone found only in the Dominican Republic.
Mercado Colonial 🪙 Conclude your day with a visit to the Colonial Market, where local artisans offer a variety of crafts, souvenirs, and traditional goods.
SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE
What’s Included
Multilingual guide
Soft drinks and water
Admission fees
Buffet-style lunch
Roundtrip transportation with AC
What to Bring
Comfortable clothing
Comfortable closed shoes
Sunblock
Sunglasses
Camera
Cash for tips and souvenirs
Know Before You Go
Good physical condition recommended due to extensive walking
Not recommended for guests with back problems or walking impediments
Must sign liability waiver
Pregnant women cannot take part in this tour
People with disability and/or mobility problems cannot take part in this tour
