Exploring Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial

The Zona Colonial of Santo Domingo is a vibrant blend of historical significance and contemporary Dominican culture. Amidst the restored colonial buildings and 16th-century ruins, visitors are immersed in the city's rich past. This area, where Christopher Columbus once resided, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring museums, eateries, and hotels.

Most attractions are within walking distance in the Zona Colonial, making it a perfect spot for sightseeing and experiencing the local atmosphere. The area's narrow roads lead to parks with old stone buildings and European-style outdoor restaurants, ideal for relaxing and people-watching.

Key starting points for a tour are Parque Colón (Columbus Park) and Plaza España, where you can rent a cart to explore the city.

1. Parque Colón (Columbus Park)

Parque Colón is the bustling heart of the Zona Colonial, featuring a statue of Christopher Columbus. The square is flanked by the Catedral Primada de América and Calle El Conde, the city's main pedestrian street. The area is also home to the Chu Chu Colonial tourist trolley and is an ideal place to stay.

Location: Calle El Conde and Calle Arzobispo Meriño

2. Catedral Primada de América

This cathedral, completed in 1540, is the first in the Americas and still functions as a place of worship. Visitors can admire its original features, including the silver altar and a 1520 painting of the Virgin Mary.

Location: South side of Parque Colón on Calle Arzobispo Meriño

Excursions in Santo Domingo

3. Museo de las Casas Reales

Once the seat of Spanish authority in the New World, this museum now displays regional history and culture, including Taíno artifacts and colonial furnishings.

Location: South side of Plaza España, on Calle Las Damas

4. Panteón Nacional

Originally a church, this building now serves as a mausoleum for notable Dominicans, including the assassins of dictator Rafael Trujillo.

Location: Calle Las Damas, one block south of the Museo de las Casas Reales

5. Plaza España

Plaza España, near the Rio Ozama, is a spacious square often used for events, with restaurants offering outdoor dining and the Alcazar de Colón museum nearby.

Location: Calle La Atarazana, or the north end of Calle Las Damas

6. The Three Eyes National Park

A short drive from the Zona Colonial, this park features four serene lakes, including one accessible by boat, offering a natural escape from the city.

7. Chu Chu Colonial Sightseeing Trolley

The Chu Chu Colonial offers a 45-minute tour of the Zona Colonial's landmarks, perfect for hot days.

Location: Parque Colón

8. National Botanical Gardens

These extensive gardens showcase the Caribbean's largest collection of flora, including a Japanese Garden and over 300 orchid species.

9. National Zoological Park

A family-friendly destination with a variety of animals and a convenient train tour.

10. Monasterio de San Francisco

The ruins of this first New World monastery are a testament to the city's resilience through disasters and conflicts.

Location: Calle Hostos and Calle Juan Isidro Perez

11. ChocoMuseo Santo Domingo

A delightful museum where visitors can learn about the Dominican cacao industry and sample chocolates.

Location: Near Parque Colón on Calle Arzobispo Meriño

12. Calle El Conde

Calle El Conde is the go-to street for outdoor dining and shopping, with a European ambiance near Parque Colón.

13. Parque Independencia

This park honors Dominican Independence and houses the Altar de la Patria mausoleum.

14. Amber World Museum

An informative museum showcasing the beauty and history of Dominican amber.

Official site: https://amberworldmuseum.com/

15. Shopping

Santo Domingo offers a variety of shopping experiences, from local fashions to amber and larimar jewelry.

16. Convento de Los Dominicos

One of the oldest buildings in the Americas, this convent is a stunning example of colonial architecture.

Location: Padre Bellini and Avenue Duarte

17. Bicycle Ride or Tour through Santo Domingo

Explore the city's streets on a rented bicycle or trikke, enjoying the Zona Colonial's one-way traffic and scenic routes.

Official site: https://zonabicird.com/bicisyprecios/home/

18. Photographing the Zona Colonial

The Zona Colonial's colorful streets and historic architecture offer abundant photographic opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions about Santo Domingo

When is the best time to visit Santo Domingo?

Visit between November and March for pleasant weather with lower humidity.

What are the best day trips from Santo Domingo?

For beach lovers, a day trip to Saona Island is recommended. For more attractions, see our guide to the top attractions in the Dominican Republic.