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 jewellery 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 area 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 centres and sleek corporate towers create an impressive skyline. Affluent locals browse designer stores at Blue Mall and Acropolis Centre while business travellers 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. Travellers 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 area.
Bella Vista stands as Santo Domingo's premier upscale district, where sleek glass towers house luxury condominiums and corporate offices. Blue Mall anchors the area 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 pavements 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 area 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 Centre 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. Savour fresh seafood at beachside restaurants while enjoying the calm waters perfect for family swimming.
Photo by Ministry of Tourism of the Dominican Republic
Open Photo by Ministry of Tourism of the Dominican Republic
Malecon
8.8/10 (2,755 reviews)
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.
Centro Olimpico
8.4/10 (1,598 reviews)
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.
Blue Mall
8.8/10 (4,141 reviews)
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
8.6/10 (2,405 reviews)
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.
Assembly Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses
7.0/10 (271 reviews)
This spiritual centre hosts major conventions and gatherings for Jehovah's Witnesses in Santo Domingo Este. Visitors experience thoughtfully designed spaces with excellent acoustics during religious events.
Agora Mall
9.0/10 (2,603 reviews)
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.
Zona Franca de San Isidro Industrial Area
7.4/10 (65 reviews)
After visiting Zona Franca de San Isidro Industrial Area, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Santo Domingo Este. Wander through the beautiful beaches and seaside in this relaxing area.
What to do in Santo Domingo
Santo Domingo Full Day Tour From Punta Cana with Lunch & Cenote
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.
How much does a Santo Domingo holiday 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 holiday to Santo Domingo costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Santo Domingo?
If you're hoping to score a cheap Santo Domingo holiday package, consider travelling in January, September and October. You'll usually find better prices on hotels and airfares during these quieter months — ideal for budget-conscious travellers.
How many days is enough for Santo Domingo?
To get the most out of your Santo Domingo holiday, 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 neighbourhoods like Zona Colonial and Ciudad Colonial. If you've got some time to spare, include a day trip or tour in your Santo Domingo holiday itinerary.
Is it worth booking a holiday 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 holiday will leave you with lasting memories. Book your getaway with Expedia and discover why Santo Domingo is such a good holiday 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 holiday as a package?
Expedia holiday 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 holiday by choosing your preferred airline, accommodation type and car class.
When to book a holiday package to Santo Domingo?
If you've got your Santo Domingo holiday 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 favourite time of year and the available activities will also help you decide when to holiday 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 holiday. 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 holiday package.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.