Santo Domingo is the capital of the Dominican Republic and the oldest city the Spanish founded in the Americas that is still lived in. Its old core, the Zona Colonial, is small enough to cross on foot in about twenty minutes, and Penthouse Pallazzo sits on its southern edge, by the sea.
The old city
The Zona Colonial holds the cathedral, the Alcázar de Colón, the Fortaleza Ozama, the Calle Las Damas and the ruins of the first monasteries and hospital, all within a few blocks. The history series covers each one, and the Zona Colonial complete guide puts them in one walk.
The Malecón
The sea-front avenue runs west from the old city along the Caribbean, with a promenade, monuments and the city's beach at Playa Montesinos. See the Malecón guide.
Beyond the city
The island's beaches are a day trip or a weekend away: Boca Chica and Juan Dolio to the east, Saona Island, Altos de Chavón and La Romana, Los Haitises National Park and the Samaná Peninsula.
Planning
Read the best time to visit, getting to Santo Domingo and the three-day itinerary.
