About
Santo Domingo is the capital and largest city of the Dominican Republic, on the Caribbean island of Hispaniola. It is also known in full as Santo Domingo de Guzmán, and it is a city where a visit can easily fill several days.
The Zona Colonial
The heart of the city is its historic Zona Colonial, the old colonial quarter that is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its streets and buildings reflect the colonial architecture for which the city is known, and walking through them is the most rewarding way to understand Santo Domingo's past. Plan to spend time simply wandering, stopping where something catches your eye.
Culture and evenings
Beyond the old quarter, the city offers a range of cultural attractions, and it has a lively nightlife that keeps going well into the evening. Visitors who enjoy both history and music will find the contrast between the quiet colonial streets and the busier nights a good reason to stay longer.
Why visit
- Walk the UNESCO-listed Zona Colonial and its colonial architecture.
- Explore the cultural attractions across the city.
- Enjoy the nightlife once the day's sightseeing is done.
As the country's capital, Santo Domingo makes a natural starting point for exploring the wider Dominican Republic, and its historic core gives every visitor a clear reason to come.
