5 day itinerary for Santo Domingo

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration

• Start your day by exploring the historic Zona Colonial, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the cobblestone streets and admire the beautiful colonial architecture.
• Visit the Alcázar de Colón, the former residence of Christopher Columbus' son. Explore the museum inside and learn about the history of the island.
• Take a stroll along El Malecón, the waterfront promenade, and enjoy the stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
• For lunch, try some local street food like empanadas or mofongo from one of the food stalls in the area.
• In the afternoon, visit the National Pantheon, a mausoleum that houses the remains of the country's most important figures.
• End your day by experiencing the vibrant nightlife of Santo Domingo. Head to the Zona Colonial or the Gazcue neighborhood, where you can find bars and clubs with live music and dancing.

Day 2: Beach Day at Boca Chica

• Take a day trip to Boca Chica, a popular beach destination located just a short drive from Santo Domingo.
• Spend the day relaxing on the white sandy beach, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and soaking up the sun.
• Enjoy some delicious seafood at one of the beachfront restaurants. Don't miss trying the local specialty, fried fish with tostones (fried plantains).
• If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try some water sports like snorkeling or jet skiing.
• In the evening, head back to Santo Domingo and explore the local markets like Mercado Modelo, where you can find souvenirs and traditional crafts at affordable prices.

Day 3: Cultural Immersion

• Start your day by visiting the Museo de las Casas Reales, a museum that showcases the history and culture of the Dominican Republic.
• Take a guided tour of the Museo del Hombre Dominicano, which focuses on the indigenous heritage of the island.
• For lunch, try some authentic Dominican cuisine at a local restaurant. Don't miss trying the national dish, sancocho (a hearty stew).
• In the afternoon, visit the Botanical Garden of Santo Domingo, a peaceful oasis with a wide variety of tropical plants and flowers.
• End your day by attending a live performance of traditional Dominican music and dance at one of the local cultural centers.

Day 4: Adventure in the Countryside

• Take a day trip to the nearby countryside and explore the natural beauty of the Dominican Republic.
• Visit Los Tres Ojos, a series of limestone caves with crystal-clear underground lakes. Take a boat ride and marvel at the stunning rock formations.
• Go hiking in the Parque Nacional Los Haitises, a protected area known for its mangroves, caves, and diverse wildlife.
• Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, or try some local delicacies at a nearby village.
• In the afternoon, visit the Catedral Primada de América, the oldest cathedral in the Americas, located in the Zona Colonial.
• End your day by enjoying a sunset cruise along the coast of Santo Domingo, where you can relax and take in the breathtaking views.

Day 5: Farewell and Shopping

• Start your day by exploring the Mercado Modelo, a bustling market where you can find everything from local crafts to fresh produce.
• Bargain with the vendors and pick up some souvenirs to take back home.
• Visit the Centro Cultural de España, a cultural center that hosts art exhibitions, film screenings, and live performances.
• Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, trying some more Dominican specialties.
• Spend your afternoon exploring the modern part of Santo Domingo, with its shopping malls and boutiques. Check out the Blue Mall or Agora Mall for some retail therapy.
• End your trip with a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city while savoring delicious Dominican cuisine.

Remember to budget wisely and look for affordable accommodation and transportation options to make the most of your $20 per day budget. Enjoy your time in Santo Domingo!