Santo Domingo City Tour – Full-Day from Puerto Plata
Step into history on this full-day guided tour from Puerto Plata to Santo Domingo, the first city of the New World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a private guide and transportation, you’ll enjoy a cultural journey that blends ancient monuments, fascinating museums, and hidden natural wonders.
Your day begins with a drive south through the Dominican countryside before reaching the capital. Start at Los Tres Ojos National Park, a magical system of underground caves with crystal-clear lagoons surrounded by lush greenery. Continue to the impressive Columbus Lighthouse, a mausoleum built in honor of Christopher Columbus.
The tour also includes photo stops at the National Palace and a visit to Independence Park, home to the Altar de la Patria. From there, stroll along Calle El Conde, Santo Domingo’s historic pedestrian street.
In the Colonial Zone, explore treasures like the First Cathedral of the Americas, the Alcázar de Colón, and the National Pantheon. You’ll also visit the Colonial Gate 4D Cinema for an immersive short film about Dominican history, and the Museum of Rum and Sugarcane, which reveals the island’s rum-making heritage.
Along the way, stop for an authentic Dominican lunch before continuing the exploration of this vibrant historic quarter.
👉 Book your Santo Domingo City Tour from Puerto Plata today and experience the oldest European city in the Americas through its history, culture, and unforgettable landmarks.
Tour Highlights
- Full-day tour from Puerto Plata to Santo Domingo with private guide & transportation.
- Discover Los Tres Ojos caves and Columbus Lighthouse.
- Explore Colonial Zone (UNESCO): Cathedral, Alcázar de Colón, Calle Las Damas.
- Visit museums like the Colonial Gate 4D Cinema and Museum of Rum and Sugarcane.
- Lunch included at a local restaurant.
- Perfect for history, culture, and photography lovers.
Itinerary Overview
- 5:30–6:00 AM: Hotel pickup in Puerto Plata area.
- 10:00 AM: Arrival in Santo Domingo – visit Los Tres Ojos.
- 10:30 AM: Columbus Lighthouse (Faro a Colón).
- 11:00 AM: Photo stop at National Palace.
- 11:30 AM: Visit Independence Park and Altar de la Patria.
- 12:00 PM: Walk along Calle El Conde.
- 12:30 PM: Visit the First Cathedral of the Americas.
- 1:00 PM: Lunch at a local restaurant.
- 2:00 PM: Colonial Gate 4D Cinema.
- 2:30 PM: Museum of Rum and Sugarcane.
- 3:00 PM: Colonial Zone walking tour (Calle Las Damas, Ruins of San Francisco, Hospital San Nicolás).
- 4:30 PM: Departure from Santo Domingo.
- 8:30–9:00 PM: Return to Puerto Plata hotels.
⚠️ Disclaimer: The itinerary and times are approximate and provided for orientation purposes only. Actual schedules may change due to weather, traffic, or operational conditions. Adjustments may be necessary to ensure the best and safest experience.
What's included
- Admission to museums and points of interest
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (Puerto Plata area)
- Professional private guide (English/Spanish)
- Air-conditioned transportation
- Dominican lunch
What’s Not Included
- Drinks, tips, personal expenses
- Souvenirs or optional activities
Know Before You Go
- Footwear: Comfortable closed-toe shoes for cobblestone streets.
- Dress code: Shoulders/knees covered to enter the First Cathedral; bring a light layer for strong A/C in museums.
- Sun & heat: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, reusable water bottle.
- Walking-ready: Small daypack; consider a compact umbrella or light rain jacket (tropical showers).
- Money: Cash and card for souvenirs/drinks; ID or passport for site security checks.
- Long transfer: Snacks, travel pillow, and phone charger/power bank.
- Accessibility: Some areas have steps/uneven surfaces.
- Timing note: Popular sites can be busy; follow guide instructions to keep the schedule.
