Located on the south coast of the Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo seduces travellers with its rich history, picture-postcard landscapes and delicious cuisine. Its blend of tradition and modernity makes it a complete and irresistible destination. Here are our recommendations for the 5 things not to miss when you visit!
Visit the colonial district
As the first permanent European settlement, the city boasts architectural gems that have been classified as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. The historic quarter is the heart of the capital, the ideal place to explore if you only have a few hours to spare. Our favourites include :
- La Catedral Primada de América: Appearing even on Dominican 50 peso notes, this church shines not only for its characteristic colour, but also for the fact that it is the oldest on the continent. It is an impressive example of Gothic and Renaissance architecture.
- El Alcázar de Colón: The first viceregal palace in the New World, this monument was once the residence of Christopher Columbus’s son, Diego. Today, it is a museum housing a vast collection of European art, as well as numerous historical objects including tapestries, armour and personal items belonging to the Columbus family.
- La Calle del Conde: A pedestrian area, ideal for strolling around and enjoying street musicians, artists, craft shops and restaurants, where you can enjoy a Dominican coffee or sample typical dishes accompanied by Mamajuana, the country’s indigenous liqueur.
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Discover the different shades of blue in Los Tres Ojos National Park
The park can be reached by yola (traditional sea craft) or by car. It is a natural wonder, famous for its caves and underground lagoons. The place owes its name – meaning: The Three Eyes – to the crystal-clear waters of the caves, which from a distance resemble shining, sparkling eyes.
You can also breathe fresh, tranquil air thanks to the vegetation that surrounds the park and the rich biodiversity that inhabits it, with species such as fish, turtles, bats and birds. Let yourself be enveloped by the mystical and exotic atmosphere that has been the setting for documentaries and films such as Tarzan and Jurassic Park III.
Highlighting Latin culture in the Columbus lighthouse
Close to Los Tres Ojos National Park is the Columbus lighthouse. Inaugurated on 6 October 1992 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the discovery of the Americas by Europeans, this structure is shaped like a cross, in reference to the one that sailors carried on their ships during Christopher Columbus’s voyage. A fascinating place to discover the history and culture of the region, this monument houses a museum with a variety of exhibitions focusing on the different countries of Latin America.
A walk along the Malecón
On this iconic coastal promenade, which spans almost half the city, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea, whether during the day or in the evening as the sun sets spectacularly. The Malecón is also a great place to sample typical dishes such as sancocho, a stew made from seven different types of meat, tubers and vegetables; mofongo, made from fried green plantains mashed with garlic and pork cracklings; and mangú, a dish of mashed green plantains usually served with sautéed red onions and accompanied by fried cheese, salami and eggs. This combination is known as ‘Los tres golpes’ (the three blows).
Learn and dance at Bar y Museo del Ron
In the daylight, this place teaches travellers, through tastings and interactive presentations, all about the rum-making process, its history and its cultural value in the Caribbean. At night, the museum transforms into a nightclub where you can learn to dance to the rhythms of bachata, merengue and salsa, some of the Dominican Republic’s most emblematic genres.
Santo Domingo, apart from being a stopover for travellers heading for other destinations such as Punta Cana, is a city blessed by the sea breeze where you can find the first Spanish vestiges on the American continent, while experiencing the country’s festive culture and natural heritage.
Photos: Go Dominican Republic | Vitinni Diario | Adobe Stock | D.R.
