Santo Domingo is the vibrant capital of the Dominican Republic , and the city I called home for two years. I couldn’t help but fall in love with its rich blend of history, culture, and modern attractions.

I can assure you that there’s something for every traveler. From exploring the cobbled streets of the Zona Colonial to enjoying lively local markets in Barrio Chino.

This list of exciting things to do in Santo Domingo features historic landmarks, lively nightlife, and hidden gems. Keep scrolling to discover them all!

And don’t forget to bookmark my guide to where to stay in Santo Domingo to help you plan your visit.

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43 Best Things to Do in Santo Domingo

La Zona Colonial

Santo Domingo’s historic center is a popular destination. There is so much to do and see all within walking distance.

La Zona Colonial is the historic center of Santo Domingo and my absolute favorite hangout spot. This high tourist zone is perfect for first-time visitors and history lovers.

This area dates back to the 1500s and is the oldest city in the Americas. La Zona Colonial is covered in cobblestone streets and centuries-old buildings. Everything is within walking distance, including cafes, bars, restaurants, shops, museums, and more attractions.

La Zona Colonial is a great place to stay in Santo Domingo. It offers a sweet escape from the busyness of the capital. Consider booking a comprehensive walking tour like this one to appreciate the history of La Zona Colonial as well as Santo Domingo. It has rave reviews!

🛎️ Need a Hotel? The Billini Hotel is centrally located in La Zona Colonial. It offers guests a lovely blend of history and luxury.

Parque Mirador Sur

This central park in Santo Domingo runs parallel to the coastline. It offers plenty of green space with ocean views.

Parque Mirador Sur is considered the “Central Park” of Santo Domingo. This popular park runs parallel to the coastline, stretching 5 miles long. It is a runner’s paradise with views of the Caribbean sea.

The park is full of locals on the weekends. It’s also closed off to traffic, making it safe to walk, run, cycle, or rollerblade. There are lots of activities and attractions for all ages at Parque Mirador Sur. This urban park is ideal for families, fitness enthusiasts and pets.

There’s lush green space, scenic trails that overlook the ocean, playgrounds for kids, outdoor gym equipment, and a dog park! I love to sip on fresh coconut water from the vendor while people watching from the artificial lake.

El Malecon

This seafront boulevard becomes lively in the evenings. Enjoy leisure walks at sunset, nightlife, and ocean views.

El Malecon is a seafront boulevard in Santo Domingo. Hotels, restaurants, and casinos line one side of the boulevard. The Caribbean sea sits on the other side.

The long boulevard runs along the coastline and is dotted with swings, seating, fast food vendors, and areas for kids to play. There’s a smooth path for walking, jogging, and rollerblading.

El Malecon is perfect for leisure walks at sunset with ocean views. There are many benches to sit underneath palm trees where you can listen to the crashing waves.

It becomes very lively in the evenings. Locals gather at El Malecon after the work day for some exercise or to gather with loved ones.

Teatro Nacional Eduardo Brito

This historical theater is a national treasure. It hosts many cultural events and theatrical plays .

Teatro Nacional Eduardo Brito is an architectural masterpiece in Santo Domingo. This historical theater has been operating since 1973. It hosts many cultural events and plays.

The elegant venue is picturesque inside and out. The halls are full of traditional red velvet seats. You can enjoy plays, ballets, concerts, orchestra, and other musical performances. I had the pleasure of seeing Charytin, the Dominican singer, comedian, and actress here.

This prestigious venue houses three halls with great acoustics. The largest hall seats 1,600 guests. Dress your very best when you attend an event at Teatro Nacional Eduardo Brito!

Barrio Chino Food Market

Head to Barrio Chino on Sunday mornings for an eclectic street market that pulsates with culture.

Every Sunday morning, locals swarm to this lively street market in Barrio Chino. This neighborhood, located north of la Zona Colonial, is Santo Domingo’s Chinatown.

Large Chinese gates mark each end of Barrio Chino, along Avenida Duarte. Vendors set up tents, tables, and chairs on the brick lined street.

The street vendors sell a range of vegetables, fruit, and fish. However, the main draw for me was the fast food at the market. I got to sample a rich selection of Asian treats like dragon fruit smoothies, Chinese bao buns, and other snacks.

This food market buzzes with culture. It’s a beautiful representation of the Asian communities that make up this neighborhood. You can read more about my experience at Barrio Chino here.

🛎️ Need a Hotel? The Gran Hotel Europa is a 7-minute walk to Barrio Chino. It is a completely renovated hotel in the neighboring Zona Colonial.

Estadio Olimpico Felix Sanchez

This multi-purpose stadium is the place to be for all things sports and cultural happenings.

Estadio Olimpico Felix Sanchez is a multi-purpose stadium that was built in 1974. The stadium was designed for sporting events. However, it hosts concerts and other cultural happenings.

This sporting centerpiece of Santo Domingo is bustling. Sports enthusiasts gather for futbol, baseball, and other athletic events.

The field transforms into a dance floor when international and local artists perform. I felt a sense of community when I attended a concert of El Alfa, a local Dembow artist. When there are no scheduled events, opt for a guided tour of Estadio Olimpico Felix Sanchez.

Jardin Botanico Nacional

This botanical garden is the largest in all of the Caribbean. Enjoy over 400 acres of a diverse collection of plants.

The Jardin Botanico Nacional is a natural gem in the heart of Santo Domingo. The expansive garden is home to a diverse collection of tropical plants, orchids, and towering palms.

This garden is the largest botanical garden in the Caribbean and a must-visit! Escape the bustling capital and reconnect with nature.

There are over 400 acres of lush greenery at the Jardin Botanico Nacional. The thoughtful layout offers paved paths that lead to different sections of the garden. You can hop on the train or opt for peacefully walking along the pathway.

My favorite section is the Japanese Garden. You can unwind and enjoy the fresh air surrounded by zen ponds, bridges, and clean landscapes.

Zona Bici Bike Rental & Cafe

This small cafe in Santo Domingo allows you to rent bikes for an eco-tour around the Zona Colonial.

Zona Bici Bike Rental & Cafe should be one of your first stops in Santo Domingo. You can see all of the Zona Colonial with the Zona Bici team.

This must-do experience allows you to rent a bike and take a guided (or not) tour of the Zona Colonial. Explore the cobblestone streets on bike to see main sites and experience local culture.

The guides speak Spanish and English. They also give excellent recommendations on which museums and restaurants to visit during your stay. The eco-friendly tour is perfect for all ages and cyclists of all levels. You can easily cover the grounds of the Zona Colonial within 2 hours.

After your tour, come back to Zona Bici Bike Rental & Cafe for an artisan coffee or a craft beer. Try the Mochachino, it won’t disappoint.

BlueMall Santo Domingo

This upscale mall is a prestigious shopping destination with an impressive collection of luxury stores.

BlueMall Santo Domingo is an upscale mall in the heart of the capital. It’s considered to be a prestigious shopping destination in Santo Domingo with luxury stores. It’s also a perfect gathering spot for family and friends.

The impressive selection of stores include Louis Vuitton, Rolex, and the newly opened Tiffany & Co. Fashion enthusiasts will also find popular retailers like Zara.

BlueMall Santo Domingo gives major Miami vibes with other amenities on the property. One of which is the JW Marriott Hotel , and one of my top hotel recommendations in Santo Domingo . It includes a fitness center, gourmet eateries, and banks onsite.

Museo de Larimar

This free museum houses exhibits of the stone Larimar in its different stages.

Museo de Larimar is a free museum dedicated to the stone of Larimar. This stone, native to the Dominican Republic, is a beautiful shade of turquoise blue.

The informative museum is located in the Zona Colonial. It houses exhibits of larimar in its different stages. You will learn about its geological history and chemical makeup.

If you’re into geology, gemstones, and science, this museum is for you. After you explore the museum on the second floor, shop through the bottom level and purchase jewelry.

Santo Domingo Sites & Attractions

Plaza de España

This open plaza in the Zona Colonial offers a royal view of Alcazar de Colon. It is surrounded by cozy restaurants and historic buildings.

Plaza de España is a popular square in the Zona Colonial. Restaurants, shops, and historic buildings surround the square.

Families, couples, and people of all ages enjoy gathering at the open plaza. It is one of the most romantic areas in the Zona Colonial and it becomes quite lively on the weekends.

Plaza de España sits at the end of Calle las Damas with a royal view of Alcazar de Colon. With endless dining options, there are plenty of places to sit and take in the ambiance all around.

The square is warm and inviting with lots to see. You can catch a concert, festival, or cultural show at the plaza.

Calle El Conde

This iconic street in the Zona Colonial is completely pedestrian. It’s been the main commercial hub since colonial times.

Calle El Conde is an iconic and historic street in Santo Domingo. It has remained the city’s main commercial hub since colonial times.

The colorful street stretches over ten blocks and offers a mix of architectural styles. The cobblestone road is lined with souvenir shops, jewelry boutiques, and grocery stores.

This popular street in the Zona Colonial is the city’s only completely pedestrian street. It has a lively atmosphere with street performances, live music, and art.

Calle El Conde is perfect for romantic strolls in the evening. The string of twinkle lights that hang over the street cast a warm glow on the cobblestone.

Calle Las Damas

“Street of the Ladies” is a picturesque street in the Zona Colonial. It offers plenty of opportunities for history and beauty.

Calle Las Damas is a picturesque European-style street in the Zona Colonial. It was the first paved street of the Americas.

The magical street got its name from the viceroy Maria de Toledo and her lady friends. These wealthy women would often stroll down the street, pinging it “Street of the Ladies.”

This narrow road offers history and beauty. It is home to 16th-century architecture, museums, and hotels. Arrange a walking tour to learn more.

Fortaleza Ozama

This military fortress offers over 500 years of history and stunning panoramic views.

Fortaleza Ozama is a Spanish fort located on Calle de las Damas. This military fortress in the Zona Colonial was built in 1502 by the Spanish.

The major landmark offers over 500 years of history and scenic views of the Ozama river. The property is well maintained for you to walk the grounds and explore the fort.

Fortaleza Ozama once guarded the entrance to Santo Domingo. It has a tower that measures 69 feet and overlooks the port. The original cannons still face out as they were used to protect the capital from invaders.

My daughter and I enjoyed climbing up the steps to the tower for the stunning panoramic views. Watch your step! The steps are steep and a bit crumbled in some areas.

Altar de La Patria

This mausoleum represents the nation’s history towards freedom. It is where the founders of the Dominican Republic are laid to rest.

Altar de La Patria is a mausoleum where the founders of the Dominican Republic are laid to rest. This monument is peaceful, quiet, and offers much to learn about Dominican history.

Inside Independence Park, there is a white marble architectural structure of contemplation. Within the mausoleum there are three statues. They depict Juan Pablo Duarte, Francisco del Rosario Sanchez, and Ramon Matias Mella.

At their feet, a votive eternal flame burns for the patriots. This flame represents the nation’s history towards freedom and its spirit.

Alta de La Patria has guarded premises. This location is often used for civic ceremonies and patriotic celebrations.

Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación

This mini basilica is the first and oldest operating church in the Americas.

Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación is the first and oldest operating church in the Americas. The mini basilica was completed in the 1540s and was dedicated to St. Mary of Incarnation.

The church is a stunning work of art with a Gothic and Renaissance architectural style. The insides of Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación house Gothic ribbed vaults, Romanesque arches, Baroque ornamentation, and historic pieces of art.

You can take a guided tour, or a self-guided audio tour in many languages. Please dress appropriately when you visit. Cover your bare shoulders and exposed legs. They do provide clean wraps for visitors who do not meet the dress code.

Keep in mind that Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación is not open to tourists when there is mass or a wedding.

Plaza de la Bandera

This iconic landmark pays tribute to the Dominican Flag. There’s plenty to explore in the open square.

Plaza de la Bandera is a monument dedicated to the flag of the Dominican Republic. The hidden gem is surrounded by some of the most important buildings and institutes in Santo Domingo.

This historic landmark pays tribute to the most important national symbol of the Dominican Republic. The open square has a large Dominican flag under a triumphal arch. Dozens of flags run alongside the arch made of Dominican marble.

I had the opportunity to attend a peaceful protest at Plaza de la Bandera. The patriotism and pride of the country was deeply felt and moving.

This space is host to many other national events, demonstrations, and celebrations. There is plenty of open space for walking, running, or having a picnic with loved ones.

Museums & Culture

Alcazar de Colon

This historic residence was once occupied by Christopher Columbus’ son. It’s now a popular museum with over 20 rooms to explore.

Alcazar de Colon sits center stage on Plaza Espana. It is a historical residential museum and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This impressive architectural home was built in the early 1500s by Diego Columbus, son of Christopher Columbus. Diego and his wife, Maria Toledo (niece of King Ferdinand of Spain), occupied the home as a viceregal palace.

This popular museum has 22 rooms to explore. You can take a self-guided audio tour through the collection of household items. They include artworks, tapestries, musical instruments, weaponry, and more.

Wander through the reception hall and climb up the winding stairs to the couple’s bedroom. There, you can take in views of the plaza and Ozama River.

Museo Infantil Trampolin

This children’s museum in the Zona Colonial offers colorful rooms for kids to learn and explore.

Museo Infantil Trampolin is a small children’s museum in the Zona Colonial. Each exhibit has activities for kids of all ages to participate in.

My daughter and I had a guided tour and it took about an hour to get through the entire museum. We explored colorful rooms and learned about the ocean, space, animals, environment, science, and more.

Our favorite exhibit was the very last one. It displayed the rich Dominican culture and traditions. The joyful tunes of merengue played as we made our way through the entertaining and informative displays.

There are only 9 rooms of different exhibits in this small museum. There is also a beautifully kept central courtyard to enjoy after your visit. Museo Infantil Trampolin hosts monthly activities for kiddos such as cooking classes.

Museo del Mundo Ambar

This small museum has a lovely collection of amber inside a restored 17th-century building in the Zona Colonial.

Museo del Mundo Ambar is a small museum located in the Zona Colonial. Inside a restored 17th-century building, there is a lovely collection of amber.

This hidden gem (no pun intended) offers an opportunity to learn the history of how amber is extracted from the earth and made into beautiful pieces of jewelry. Begin with a short guided tour and then enjoy the pieces on your own, at your own pace.

There are informative cards around the museum with interesting facts about the story, history, and mining process of the stone. The museum is located on the second floor, and a beautiful jewelry shop is located on the bottom floor.

Museo Nacional de Historia Natural

This institute offers an extensive collection of Dominican history, biology, and geology.

Museo Nacional de Historia Natural is a museum of Dominican history, biology, and geology. This institute is a great resource for all ages that is immersive and fun.

The extensive collection of natural diversity features exhibits on planet earth and minerals, plus terrestrial and aquatic animals. Don’t leave without taking a picture by the large whale skeleton!

This museum is perfect for families and kids. It is located in Plaza de la Cultura and can be easily accessed from the metro station. It neighbors other museums and the Teatro Nacional.

Museo de Arte Moderno

This cultural gem showcases exhibits of Dominican modern art of the 20th century.

Museo de Arte Moderno is a cultural gem inside the Plaza de la Cultura. This museum is a portal to Dominican modern art.

This temple of Caribbean art showcases drawings, photography, paintings, and sculptures. There are four floors of cool exhibits that display traditional and contemporary art. Each visit feels like a different experience.

The outdoor spaces of Museo de Arte Moderno are just as creative as the indoor spaces. The architecture of this museum is modern in design with sleek lines and a minimal aesthetic.

Shopping

Downtown Center

This shopping center is home to the largest movie theater in the Caribbean.

Downtown Center is my favorite shopping center in the neighborhood of Bella Vista. The neighborhood mall is a great destination for young people and families.

Downtown Center brought my daughter and I all of the comforts of home, but with Dominican flair. There’s entertainment, gastronomy, shopping, and other services in one convenient location. The shopping center’s main draw is the Caribbean Cinemas movie theater. It is the largest theater in the Caribbean with 16 cinemas!

There is also a Carrefour grocery store, a Smart Fit Gym, banks, and great dining options. Choose from Applebee’s, P.F. Chang’s, Starbucks, or the local’s favorite… SBG Kitchen.

Agora Mall

This busy mall is a great shopping destination with five levels of shops and dining.

Agora Mall is one of the busiest malls in Santo Domingo. There are five levels of shopping options. They include heavy hitters like Zara, H&M, Adidas, and more.

Agora Mall is home to Jumbo Supermarket, a seven-screen cinema, clothing stores, coffee shops, restaurants, and more.

This trendy mall is large, beautiful, modern, and centrally located. It’s a great shopping destination for families and friends. Although, the weekends can feel very overwhelming with large crowds.

Novo Centro

This shopping destination is located at the bottom of a business center. There are shops, restaurants, and more.

Novo Centro is located in the neighborhood of Ensanche Naco. It is mainly a business center and less of a shopping destination.

However, Novo Centro functions as a mall with some shops and restaurants at the bottom of Torre Novo Centro. The tower is a business center for some of the biggest companies in the Dominican Republic.

There are shops, restaurants, a cinema, a gym, and a rooftop lounge inside. All of the people who work in the tower have all they need on the ground floor.

Outdoor Attractions

Parque Iberoamérica

This central park offers a green oasis in the middle of the bustling capital. Enjoy a coffee and book while you’re there!

Parque Iberoamérica is another central park in the capital. This green oasis is a favorite among locals to gather after work or on weekends. The hidden gem is a great escape from the hustle of the city and provides an even blend of activity and relaxation.

There are plenty of paved paths to walk, jog, rollerblade, and bike. There are playgrounds for the kiddos and an outdoor gym for fitness enthusiasts.

The best part of this neighborhood park is its coffee shop, El Cafecito del Parque (pictured above). The cafe has a stunning backdrop and views of the cityscape. Grab a community book to read while you’re there!

There is a large sense of community in this park. It is surrounded by the National Music Conservatory. Many events and classes are hosted here, such as live concerts and performances.

Parque Colon

This iconic landmark is a popular park for locals and tourists to gather and is surrounded by history, eateries, and lush greenery.

El Parque Colón is located at the end of Calle el Conde, right behind Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación. This park is great for history enthusiasts to take in the centuries-old architecture.

This lively park is a popular place to visit for locals and tourists in the Zona Colonial. The iconic landmark is surrounded by historic buildings, eateries, and large shady trees to sit under.

El Parque Colón is one of the most visited parks in the Dominican Republic and gets crowded on the weekends. There is usually live music, street performances, and artists painting al fresco around the statue of Chistopher Columbus.

Things to Do With Kids

Parque Zoologico Nacional

This zoo is just outside of the city center. It’s great for children of all ages to learn about animals.

Parque Zoologico Nacional is located in the neighborhood of Arroyo Hondo. It’s just outside of the center of the city. It’s a great place to spend the day for animal lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Families and children of all ages have the option to walk the park, or take the train. The train ride feels more like a safari, as you can enjoy the tour and learn about the animals.

Wear comfortable sneakers. The train leaves you in the middle of the park so that you can walk the second half of the zoo.

Parque Zoologico Nacional is home to lions, cheetahs, parrots, turtles, ostrich, and flamingos. There is a section with petting zoo animals for toddlers to enjoy. Meanwhile, the bigger kids can hop on a quick zipline adventure with some park views.

Olympic Park

This park has retro-style mechanical attractions for the whole family to enjoy.

Olympic Park is located in Plaza Juan Baron, right off of El Malecon. It is a small amusement park that children and adults can enjoy.

This place is very budget friendly with retro-style mechanical attractions and ocean views. It offers a fun atmosphere for families and date nights during the weekend.

Know that it does get very busy on the weekends and there’s a heavy security presence. I suggest you go in the early afternoon before sunset to avoid crowds.

Sebelen Entertainment Center

This spot is great for families, friends, and couples. There’s bowling, an arcade, and an indoor race track.

Sebelen Entertainment Center is a place of fun no matter your age. There’s bowling, arcade games, and an indoor kart track. The center provides a relaxed atmosphere for families, friends, and couples. It’s easy to have fun here with the good music, food, and drinks.

AquaMundo Sambil Mall

This small aquarium is a great destination for families. It’s a complete underwater experience with cool aquatic creatures.

AquaMundo is a small aquarium located inside Sambil Shopping Mall. This underwater experience is on the lowest level of the mall.

This place is so much fun for kids and adults, whether before or after shopping. There is so much to see and do.

AquaMundo is home to cool creatures such as sharks, star fish, eels, and even land animals! There’s also a play area for kids to explore. This destination is small in size, but very educational with a great ambiance.

Le Parc | Play & Chill

This indoor playground is a great destination for families to escape the heat in the city.

Le Parc | Play & Chill is an indoor playground for kids. Locals of Ensanche Naco hide from the heat and spend their afternoons here.

This spacious destination is great for kiddos. It provides a friendly family atmosphere and children love the bright and colorful decor. Plus, there’s a big slide that leads to the ball pit.

Parents enjoy it here too! There is pleasant music, an excellent food menu, and a full bar.

Hidden Gems

Museo Bellapart

This private art collection is located inside a Honda dealership! Check out this quirky location and explore over 2,000 works of art.

Museo Bellapart is located inside a Honda building in the heart of Ensanche Naco. Take the elevator to the fifth floor of the quirky location. You will discover a collection of over 2,000 works of art.

This is the first private museum of the Dominican Republic. It houses the private collection of the Bellapart family. Explore paintings, sculptures, and plastic art of Dominican artists.

Museo Bellapart displays interesting works of art, both traditional and contemporary. You can see the most complete collection of Jaime Coslon. He was an internationally recognized Dominican modern painter.

Note that a guided tour must be reserved in advance for groups over four people. Give them a call to reserve!

Grupo Bonye

Dance the night away surrounded by ruins at this weekly open air concert in the Zona Colonial.

Experience the true flavors of the Dominican Republic with a free performance by Grupo Bonye. Every Sunday, in the Zona Colonial, you can enjoy an open air concert that begins around 5 pm.

Head to the Ruinas de San Francisco early if you’d like to snag a seat. The seats, tables, walls, and green space on the hill all fill up quickly.

I arrived late one Sunday night and could not find space. It didn’t matter in the end. I joined everyone who was dancing to salsa, merengue, and bachata surrounded by the ruins.

Food & Drink

Maraca

This restaurant is a must-visit in Santo Domingo. The speakeasy experience reveals flavorful dishes behind a big pink door.

This speakeasy restaurant is a must-visit in the Zona Colonial. Look for the big pink door to experience flavorful dishes that celebrate Caribbean culture.

Reservations are required in advance, as this chic restaurant stays busy. It’s known for its dreamy decor, incredible service, fine dining, and hand-crafted cocktails.

Maraca offers a vibrant ambiance with plenty of dinner options to choose from. They include poultry, seafood, steaks, and even vegetarian food. In my experience, the crispy eggplant was mouthwatering!

The entire restaurant oozes with luxury. Behind its door you are greeted by a beautiful mosaic portrait of a Caribbean woman. Take all of your selfies before you leave!

Sugar Cane, La Casa del Ron

This cocktail bar is dedicated to the rum culture of the Dominican Republic and serves drinks, tapas, and rooftop views.

Sugar Cane, La Casa del Ron is a cute cocktail bar serving drinks, tapas, and rooftop views in the Zona Colonial. This bar is dedicated to the centuries-old culture of rum in the Dominican Republic.

The tapas and drinks are infused with Dominican flavors, heritage, and hospitality. Choose from a range of cocktail options, with or without rum.

Sugar Cane, La Casa del Ron has a picturesque setting overlooking the cathedral in the Zona Colonial. It gets very busy, so be sure to arrive after they open to snag the best table with the best views.

Helado Dude

This is not your typical ice cream shop. This spot offers gourmet flavors and vegan options.

Helado Dude is not your traditional ice cream shop. This ice cream spot offers a variety of gourmet flavors and vegan options. The delicious ice cream is stored in steel barrels that spin.

Some of their unique flavors include white chocolate, mango sorbet, and the innovative cocoash. Their waffle cones are made fresh. I suggest trying the red velvet waffle cones.

Helado Dude is an excellent place to go for the whole family. It’s tastefully decorated with a great music selection and fun ambiance.

Flor de Cafe

This cafe offers a unique blend of cozy coffee shop meets flower boutique. Enjoy your favorite drink surrounded by plants.

Flor de Cafe is my favorite brunch spot in the Bella Vista neighborhood. It’s best described as a flower boutique meets cozy cafe.

The beautiful venue has plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Tables and chairs are surrounded by lots of plants and greenery. Flor de Cafe offers a picturesque yet casual atmosphere to enjoy a meal with your family and friends.

Their diverse menu has a variety of smoothies, fresh juices, salads, brunch plates, coffee drinks, and more. I always start with a smoothie, before indulging in waffles, and top it off with a cortado.

The cafe also sells household knick knacks. Think throw cushions, card games, and placemats.

Restaurante Malecon 7

This Mediterranean restaurant offers stunning views of the sea and Italian infused dishes.

Restaurante Malecon 7 sits at the very corner of where the Zona Colonial meets the end of El Malecon. This Mediterranean restaurant offers dishes infused with Italian flavors and ocean front dining.

The stunning views of the sea and relaxing ambiance made my dining experiences here so memorable. I indulged in pastas, pizzas, white wine, and Presidente (the country’s national beer).

Restaurante Malecon 7 is situated right over the water with multiple levels of outdoor seating. You are guaranteed a view of the water no matter where you sit. This way, you can listen to the sounds of the waves while you eat.

SBG Kitchen

This vibrant restaurant is a popular place for dinner and drinks with friends on the weekend.

SBG Kitchen is a beautiful restaurant located inside Downtown Center. It’s known for being a vibrant spot to meet with friends for dinner and drinks.

The restaurant has a cool and fresh ambiance. It is decorated with art, glass, and exposed wood. The Asian-fusion menu is made of high-quality foods with fresh ingredients.

SBG Kitchen is very busy on the evenings and weekends. I suggest you make a reservation in advance.

La Dolcerie

This elegant restaurant is popular among locals. Their covered patio offers a great ambiance to enjoy delicious foods.

La Dolcerie is a beautiful, stylish restaurant in the neighborhood of Piantini. It’s very popular among locals to gather for great food and ambiance.

The restaurant is elegant in design and beautifully decorated in a boho-chic aesthetic with indoor and outdoor seating. I recommend you sit on their covered patio for a memorable dining experience.

La Dolcerie is a top brunch spot for morning birds looking for breakfast. Their coffee menu is great with a variety to choose from. They include cappuccino and cortados.

It is also a great hangout for night owls looking for wonderful cocktails. It transforms into a romantic spot with live music.

Adrian Tropical

This restaurant is known for its Dominican comfort food and famous for its Mofongo dishes.

Adrian Tropical is famous in Santo Domingo for their Mofongo dishes. This cute and cozy restaurant is open late and offers Dominican comfort food on the menu. There are a few locations to dine around the capital.

Adrian Tropical has a spectacular ambiance with a koi fish pond inside. Once you are seated at your table, you are served a mini bowl of sancocho (a traditional Dominican stew).

The flavorful dishes are prepared with fresh ingredients. I suggest you try the Camarofongo.

Vita Place

This cute smoothie bar is the first of its kind in the Dominican Republic. Enjoy smoothies, pressed juices, and other nutritious foods.

Vita Place is a fun smoothie and juice bar in Santo Domingo. It was the first juice bar in the country with two locations. One in Piantini, and the other in Ensanche Naco.

Vita Place offers a pleasant and casual atmosphere where you can enjoy organic and healthy foods. Their menu consists of pressed juices, smoothies, overnight oats, hummus, carrot cake, vegan banana bread, and more.

This is my go to place for a smoothie. Their Mojito Vita Smoothie is the best one on their menu! However, I would not recommend it for a sit down breakfast or lunch. Enjoy!

Whether you’re exploring historic sites, indulging in local cuisine, or enjoying the lively atmosphere, Santo Domingo promises an unforgettable trip for all types of travelers.

Keep planning your visit with my guide to the best places to stay in the Dominican Republic ! I share my favorite areas and a handful of local tips.

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