Historical Santo Domingo Day Trip from Punta Cana
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Historical Santo Domingo Day Trip from Punta Cana

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(176 reviews)
11h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Visit the oldest city of the Americas! Come and join us to experience walking through Santo Domingo, where history started in the Americas. Visit the first cathedral of the new world, Diego Columbus Alcazar, the famous Las Damas street, and some other 5th century colonial monuments. You’ll also have panoramic views of the downtown, residential areas, and the National Presidential Palace. Your best shopping option will be at the colorful market. Lunch is included at a typical Dominican restaurant.

Available options

Historical Santo Domingo Day Trip from Punta Cana

Pickup included

What's included

Headsets in some of the monuments with language selection
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Buffet lunch at Atarazana Restaurat, typical dominican food, vegetarian option available
Professional art historian guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
Enter to the monuments all inclusive, audio guide

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1 Pass by

Calle Las Damas/ Street of the Ladies is the oldest street in the Americas. It is a beautiful street lined with historical buildings from the original settlement of Santo Domingo.was originally named Calle de la Fortaleza/ The street of Strength or Fortress when it was created in 1502 during the reign of Nicolás de Ovando. The street has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2
Stop 2 Pass by

The Columbus Lighthouse is a cross-shaped monument made of reinforced concrete. Its dimensions are 680 feet (210 m) by 195 feet (59 m). There are 157 beams of light that emanate towards the sky from the structure and a rotating beam, which can be seen from space.

3
Stop 3

In this place, you will see most of the spanish culture utensils. enter this Alcazar and travel to the 15th century and colony age.

4
Stop 4 Pass by

The National Palace (Spanish: Palacio Nacional) is a building in Santo Domingo, that houses the offices of the Executive Branch (Presidency and Vice Presidency) of the Dominican Republic.Designed in a restrained neoclassical style by Italian architect Guido D'Alessandro at the behest of Rafael Trujillo, construction started on February 27, 1944 —The centenary of Dominican independence —and was inaugurated on August 16, 1947. Occupying an area of 18,000 square metres and luxuriously appointed throughout, the National Palace is considered one of the most beautiful buildings built in the Dominican Republic.
The building stands on the grounds of the former Presidential Mansion (Mansión Presidencial), built during the United States military occupation of 1916-1924.

5
Stop 5

The Dominican Republic’s Three Eyes National Park is a nature reserve and open-air limestone cave system with a series of crystal clear lakes known as the “eyes.” Located in the capital, Santo Domingo, just ten minutes by car from the popular Colonial Zone, the park provides a sweet respite from the hustle and bustle of the busy city. Along with a guided tour, these caves also offer deeper insights into the pre-colonial and ancestral origins of the Dominican Republic.

6
Stop 6

The Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, is recognised as the Americas’ oldest Cathedral dating back to 1512. As the first Cathedral in the new world it holds much significance, remaining one of the Dominican Republic’s most visited attractions and held in high regard throughout the Caribbean.

7
Stop 7

Ciudad Colonial (Spanish for "Colonial City") is the historic central neighborhood of Santo Domingo and the oldest permanent European settlement of the Americas. It has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It is also known as Zona Colonial (Colonial Zone). The Ciudad Colonial is located on the west bank of the Ozama River, which bisects the city. It covers 1.06 km2 (0.41 sq mi) bounded by a walled perimeter.

8

Our tour guide will accompany you all day during this excursion. your tour bus or van has AC.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide
DE PT EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.9
76 reviews
5★
30
4★
23
3★
12
2★
5
1★
6
Tripadvisor 3.7
100 reviews
5★
28
4★
32
3★
25
2★
13
1★
2

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
To enter the Cathedral, women and men must be covered to the elbows and knees
It is recommended that you wear comfortable walking shoes
It is recommended that you bring cash, a camera, sunscreen, and a hat

Important notes

• The duration of driving is approximately 3 Hours (the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions but normally 2 hours and 30 minutes.
• Dress code is smart casual
• To enter the cathedral women and men must be covered to the elbows and knees.
• It is recommended that you wear comfortable walking shoes
• It is recommended that you bring cash, a camera, sunscreen, and a hat

About Punta Cana

Punta Cana is a stunning beach destination in the Dominican Republic, known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and luxurious resorts. It offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences, making it a top choice for travelers seeking both tranquility and excitement.

Top Attractions

Bávaro Beach

One of the most famous beaches in Punta Cana, known for its white sand, clear waters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Beach Half day to full day Free (some activities have fees)

Scape Park at Cap Cana

An eco-adventure park offering a variety of activities such as zip-lining, cave exploration, and cultural experiences.

Adventure Half day to full day Moderate to Expensive

Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park

A nature reserve featuring 12 freshwater lagoons, lush vegetation, and a variety of wildlife.

Nature Half day Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

La Bandera

A traditional Dominican meal consisting of rice, stewed meat (usually chicken or beef), and beans.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat

Mangú

A mashed plantain dish often served with eggs, cheese, and fried meat.

Breakfast Vegetarian (without meat)

Pescado con Coco

Fish cooked in a creamy coconut sauce, a popular coastal dish.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish

Popular Activities

Zip-lining ATV tours Cave exploration Beach lounging Spa treatments Yoga Visiting museums Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season with sunny weather, low humidity, and minimal rain, making it ideal for beach activities and outdoor adventures.

24-30°C 75-86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Spanish
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Dominican Peso (DOP)

Time Zone

UTC-4 (Atlantic Standard Time)

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe for tourists, but exercise caution in less touristy areas.

Punta Cana is a popular tourist destination with a relatively low crime rate. However, petty theft and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:
  • • Avoid walking alone at night, especially on beaches and in isolated areas.
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
  • • Use reputable tour operators and transportation services.

Getting there

By air
  • Punta Cana International Airport • 5 km from city center
By bus

Terminal de Caribe Tours

Getting around

Public transport

Public buses are available but not extensive. They are a budget-friendly option for traveling between major areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDriver, Uber (limited availability)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Bávaro Cap Cana Uvero Alto

Day trips

Santo Domingo
200 km (124 miles) • Full day

The capital city of the Dominican Republic, offering a mix of colonial history, vibrant culture, and modern attractions.

Saona Island
60 km (37 miles) off the coast • Full day

A picturesque island known for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and natural beauty.

Hoyo Azul
20 km (12 miles) from Punta Cana • Half day

A stunning natural sinkhole with crystal-clear blue waters, surrounded by lush vegetation.

Festivals

Punta Cana Jazz Festival • Early November (annual) Punta Cana International Film Festival • Mid-November (annual) Carnaval de La Vega • February (annual)

Pro tips

  • Visit the beach early in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds.
  • Book tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Try local seafood and tropical fruits for an authentic culinary experience.
  • Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interaction with locals.
  • Use sunscreen and stay hydrated, especially during the hot and humid months.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 13-85
1
Childs
Age 3-12
0
Infants
Age 0-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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