To Do
Plaza de España
This plaza is a charming hub of history and culture. Surrounded by historical landmarks, it’s the perfect spot to grab a drink, savor a meal, and soak in the lively atmosphere, day or night!
Parque Colón
Take a break in this picturesque park. It’s a hub of activity with street musicians, artists, and a lot of friendly pigeons.
Calle El Conde
This lively pedestrian street is lined with colorful buildings, shops, and cafes in the heart of the Zona Colonial. Stroll through the street, grab some helado (ice cream), and pick up unique souvenirs from local artisans.
Catedral Primada de América
Visit the Catedral Primada de América, the first cathedral of the Americas and New World.
Centro Cultural Taino
Visit the Taíno Cultural Center to explore a pre-Hispanic archaeological collection and learn more about the indigenous inhabitants of the Dominican Republic.
Alcázar de Colón
This building used to be the old residence of the Columbus family. The preserved palace offers a glimpse into Santo Domingo’s past. The views from Plaza de España outside are just as striking, especially at sunset.
Zona Bici Bike Rental
Biking around the Zona Colonial is a great way to explore the town. Zona Bici offers both guided bike tours and free-riding bike rentals.
Casa Barista & Co.
Casa Barista is a haven for coffee lovers tucked away in a cozy, stylish space. This café not only serves expertly crafted brews, but also delicious brunch, lunch, and dinner!
Pat'e Palo European Brasserie
Known as the first tavern of the New World, this place has delicious food and drinks with a beautiful view of the Plaza de España.
El Buho Eatery
This cute local restaurant has a wide range of food options from breakfast to pasta, tapas, or Dominican food. Highly recommend for any meal of the day!
Le Petit Cyrano
This open-air pizzeria is a cute spot for a relaxed bite with mediterranean style pizza.
Buche Perico
A favorite restaurant in town, Buche Perico serves Dominican cuisine with a creative twist. Its lush, plant-filled interior adds to the charm, making it a great spot for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Jalao
Jalao is a lively restaurant offering traditional Dominican dishes. They often have live music performances you don't want to miss. With colorful decor and a lively atmosphere, it’s a great place to experience the island’s vibrant culture.
Maraca
Maraca is a vibrant restaurant featuring Caribbean fusion flavors. The stunning decor and indoor and outdoor seating make this restaurant a hot spot for all. We advise you make a reservation in advance given its popularity.
Museo del Ron y la Caña
Museum by day and bar by night, this is one of Koltyn and Denisse's favorite spots in town. During the day, this charming museum showcases the history and craftsmanship behind Dominican rum-making, and of course you can’t forget the rum tasting. At night, the museum turns into a lively bar. Be ready to dance your heart away to some bachata and merengue and don't be surprised if you're handed an instrument or two.
Onno's Zona Colonial Bar & Restaurant
Known for its lively atmosphere and eclectic menu, this bar and restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors with live music or DJs playing. Whether you’re enjoying dinner, sipping on a mojito, or dancing under the stars, Onno’s guarantees a fun and unforgettable night out in the heart of the Zona Colonial.
Mosquito Social Club
The Mosquito Social Club is a must-visit for a fun and memorable night out. With DJs frequenting at night, this vibrant oasis has a mix of a laid-back atmosphere & upbeat dancing. Come here to soak up some good vibes, cocktails, and yummy bites.
Microteatro Santo Domingo
This unique theater is a cultural gem offering short, eclectic, and intimate theater performances in tiny spaces. If you're feeling adventurous and open to seeing a play in Spanish, this would create a memorable evening of art.
Bocana Beach & Club
If you want to spend time by the beach, this beachfront club has you covered with drinks, food, and a lively yet relaxing atmosphere! It is ~40min drive from the Zona Colonial, so definitely book round-trip transportation ahead of time because Ubers will not drive this far. We recommend using “WelcomePickups” or Sheila Tours (see our Travel tab).
Boca Marina
Boca Marina is an enchanting restaurant located on a deck on top of the water. They even have a special area where customers can go in the crystal blue water. We recommend you book ahead of time because they often have events. It’s a ~40min drive, so pre-book transportation to get there and back because Ubers don’t go out this far.