Key Attractions in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

The Dominican capital unveils to its visitors an extraordinary collection of historical edifices from various eras, dreamlike beaches, and natural spaces you cannot miss. Below, we will share what to see in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, the must-see visits, and the most touristic spots of our capital.

Puerta del Conde

The colonial section of the city is an essential visit, beginning with the Puerta del Conde, the historic gateway to what was the first city colonized in the Americas. 

The Puerta del Conde is part of a military edifice dating back to the 17th century; indeed, the path to the gate is flanked by busts of Dominican national heroes.

Entry to the colonial complex is free, allowing you to explore the city’s historical origins.

Plaza de Colón

Columbus Plaza is one of the city's pivotal centers. If you wish to rest in a historical city space, Columbus Plaza is ideal. It frequently hosts spectacles, and on one side, you can visit our next monument.  

Cathedral of the Americas

The Cathedral of the Americas derives its name from being the first cathedral constructed on the American continent. Its construction began in 1512, inspired by the layout of the cathedral of Seville. In 1546, it was designated the metropolitan cathedral and primate of the Americas.

Overall, the cathedral is Gothic in style (its construction corresponds to the early years of the 16th century) with Renaissance details. Entrance is free. 

Museum of the Royal Houses

The seat of this palace was built by order of the Spanish Royal House, aiming to serve as an administrative building for the city of Santo Domingo. The style still noticeable today is a blend of Gothic and Plateresque Renaissance, the latter very common in Spain at the time.

Currently, it is open to visitors and is one of the most impressive historical structures in the city.

Monasterio de San Francisco 

The Monastery of San Francisco was demolished by the French army in the Battle of Palo Hincado, and, additionally, the hurricane San Zenón in 1930 destroyed parts of the structures that remained standing.

Today, parts of what was once an impressive monastery can still be visited; this area hosts events due to the beauty of the surroundings. 

Los Tres Ojos National Park

One of the most impressive natural landscapes in Santo Domingo is Los Tres Ojos National Park, named after its lakes.  

The lakes are shallow, with the deepest being 6 meters, yet their clear waters create an incredible landscape. The visit costs about €2, allowing you to visit one of the most beautiful natural settings in the Dominican Republic.  

Boca Chica

When reviewing what to see in Santo Domingo, we cannot overlook its beaches. Perhaps the most idyllic is Boca Chica, located east of Santo Domingo city.

This beach forms in San Andrés Bay, and it rivals the idyllic beaches of places like Punta Cana or Samaná. 

National Aquarium

The sea is a vital part of Santo Domingo’s culture; one of the capital’s spaces where we can discover the diversity of our waters is the National Aquarium. The aquarium in Santo Domingo features over 3,000 specimens from 250 different species, mostly tropical varieties native to this part of the Caribbean.

The complex consists of 90 tanks and 7 ponds, including rays, moray eels, sharks, turtles, and an array of fish. 

The Malecón

Another essential site to see in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, is The Malecón. George Washington Street traverses this area parallel to the sea, ideal for strolling, witnessing the sunrise, and enjoying some of the city's finest restaurants, located in this part of Santo Domingo. 

Beyond these locations, there are many things to see in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, including museums, restaurants, and other historical spaces.

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