Considered to be the most modern metropolis in the Caribbean, Santo Domingo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The first European settlement of the Americas, the city is the capital of Dominican Republic. Colonial buildings line the streets of the city, many of which have been turned into museums, hotels and restaurants. You can take a guided tour of the Colonial City neighbourhood and walk through the leafy pedestrian friendly avenues and relish the local cuisine. While you are here, do visit - the National Botanical garden, the largest of its kind in the Caribbean, for a picnic. Also check out - Alcazar De Colon, Boca Chica, and Chapel of Our Lady of Remedies.

Things to do in Santo Domingo

Alcazar De Colon

The 16^th century palace was once the home of Christopher Columbus’s son - Diego Columbus and his wife Maria, niece of Spain’s King Ferdinand. The famous museum is housed in an elegant Gothic and Renaissance style building which overlooks the Ozama River and Plaza de Espana. The museum has on display - 16^th century art, furniture, weapons and musical instruments. It is extremely well preserved considering it is the first vice-regal residence in whole of Americas. Highlights include the main bedrooms belonging to the couple and the chandelier lit main hall.

Boca Chica

A 40-minute drive from the city of Santo Domingo is the quaint beach town of Boca Chica. Endless white sandy beaches and a very Dominican vibe is what visitors will find here. Gastronomy in Boca Chica will not disappoint you. Gorge on fresh seafood and indulge in local delicacies like tostones, red snapper and yaniqueques. A string of eateries can be found on the beach itself where you can also enjoy a beer or two. The eastern edge of Boca Chica has plenty of beach clubs and restaurants offering seafront views and an upscale ambience.

Chapel of Our Lady of Remedies

Nestled in a corner on Calle Las Damas, the Chapel of Our Lady of Remedies is locally known as Capilla Nuestra Señora De Los Remedios. The 16 ^th century Gothic church was built by the Davila family and intended as a private religious shrine meant for Spanish families to meet up for prayers. Restored in 1884, you may take a tour and view its period art, interior arches and the Virgen de los Remedios at the altar.

Best Time to visit Santo Domingo

The best time to book Santo Domingo flights is from November to March when the weather is good for a visit to the beach. Avoid booking San Juan to Santo Domingo flights from August to October, as it is a hurricane season.