The oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the Americas, the fascinating city of Santo Domingo features many of the Dominican Republic's most beautiful colonial buildings, yet it also has a lively modern-day buzz. Less touristy than certain other stretches of the coast, the island’s capital offers everything from intimate heritage properties to swish design hotels, fit for a range of tastes and budgets. The best places to stay in Santo Domingo are clustered within the Colonial Zone, perfect for on-foot explorations.
Set near the mouth of the Rio Ozama and close to the city’s port, the Colonial Zone brims with 15th and 16th-century buildings, including the Ozama Fort, the Alcazar de Colón Museum, and the imposing Cathedral Primada de América. The Museum of Royal Houses, the Museo Memorial de la Resistencia, and the Amber World Museum, dedicated to the island’s unique stones, are also highlights. Sunset drinks at one of the bars or eateries of Plaza España make for marvellous people-watching!
Head to the National Botanic Gardens for a leafy wander and check out the bars, casinos and palm-lined boulevards of the seaside Malecón district. Spend your afternoons and evenings at the vibrant bar-lined squares of the city, where you’ll find laid-back live music, vendors haggling over larimar and amber, and endless games of dominos being played. Then retreat to one of the best places to stay in Santo Domingo to prepare for another day of adventure!
No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.
Santo Domingo
Quaint boutique hotel set within a historic colonial villa in central Santo Domingo. The atmospheric inner courtyard boasts a swimming pool, while a rooftop offers a hot tub with a view. Decor ranges from vintage charm to contemporary across well-appointed rooms & public areas. Unbeatable value.
Santo Domingo
Incredibly charming boutique hotel located within a converted colonial building. Enjoy views out over the city from the roof terrace or tuck into a hearty breakfast in the quiet inner courtyard. Cosy rooms perfectly combine historic charm & contemporary chic. Unbeatable value, close to everything.
Dominican Republic
A stunning Five Star hotel on Las Damas, the First Cobbled Street of the New World. Boutique chic in every way with romantic bedrooms, a Spanish-style courtyard with balustrades, and an excellent French restaurant. Swimming pool, spa, and massages to top it all off.
Dominican Republic
A luxury Five Star hotel with contemporary chic interiors and a spectacular roof terrace. Rooms, family suites, and suites decked out in creams and light wooden furniture, some with private balconies and hot tubs. Two excellent restaurants, two bars, and a pool on the roof top with stunning views.
Santo Domingo (Ciudad Colonial)
Laid back Caribbean hospitality in an elegant old colonial home. Contemporary bedrooms and a number of relaxation areas with gorgeous Dominican artifacts and beautiful carved wooden furniture. Enjoy the tropical garden and courtyard, among sprawling ferns and palm trees. Great restaurants nearby.
