Step back more than five centuries as you explore Santo Domingo—the first European city of the New World and a UNESCO-listed treasure trove of history, culture, and Caribbean flair.
Your day begins with a comfortable drive along the coast to the Dominican capital. Once inside the walled Colonial Zone, cobblestone streets guide you to legendary landmarks:
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Columbus Alcázar – the 16th-century palace of Diego Colón, still echoing with tales of conquistadors.
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Catedral Primada de América – the very first cathedral of the Americas, renowned for its Gothic-Renaissance façade.
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Calle Las Damas – the oldest paved street in the hemisphere, lined with museums and stone mansions.
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National Pantheon & Fortaleza Ozama – imposing monuments that guarded the city against pirates and rival empires.
Between stops, your expert guide unpacks stories of explorers, revolutionaries, and local legends that shaped both the Dominican Republic and the wider Caribbean.
Recharge with a traditional Dominican lunch—think tender “pollo guisado,” aromatic rice and beans, and sweet plantains—served in a shaded courtyard restaurant. Afterward, browse vibrant craft stalls for larimar jewelry, hand-rolled cigars, and colorful art.
Before leaving, swing by the striking Faro a Colón (Columbus Lighthouse) and the modern Malecón for ocean views and a touch of urban life.
Return to your resort just in time for sunset, enriched by centuries of history, a camera full of colonial architecture, and the unmistakable rhythm of Santo Domingo still humming in your ears.
