UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Book Attractions in Advance
Skip the lines at Dominican Republic's top attractions by booking tickets in advance through Tiqets. Get instant confirmation and mobile tickets for museums, castles, and experiences across Dominican Republic.
Zona Colonial, Santo Domingo
Discover the oldest city in the Americas with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and historic landmarks.
Especially vibrant during evening walks, perfect for guided tours and local rum tastings.
Cathedral Primada de América
Visit the first cathedral in the New World in Santo Domingo, featuring Gothic and Baroque elements.
A blend of religious history and architectural splendor that captivates history enthusiasts.
Alcázar de Colón
Explore the grand palace built by Columbus's son, now a museum of colonial life.
Furnishings and gardens create an immersive hub perfect for understanding early exploration.
Fortaleza Ozama
Walk through the 16th-century fortress in Santo Domingo, overlooking the Ozama River.
Combining military history with scenic views in a dynamic riverside setting.
Parque Nacional del Este
Uncover pristine ecosystems and archaeological sites on Saona Island and surrounding areas.
Less crowded, offering a peaceful alternative to urban heritage sites.
Panteón Nacional
Visit this former church turned mausoleum in Santo Domingo, honoring national heroes.
Fascinating for those interested in Dominican independence and cultural legacy.
Natural Wonders & Outdoor Adventures
Bahía de Samaná
Hike through lush rainforests and bays, ideal for adventure seekers with trails to hidden coves.
Perfect for multi-day treks with scenic viewpoints and marine life spotting.
Punta Cana Beaches
Relax on white-sand shores with turquoise waters and palm-lined promenades.
Family-friendly fun with water sports and fresh seafood in the Caribbean sun.
Pico Duarte
Explore the Caribbean's highest peak via trekking paths, attracting nature photographers.
Serene spot for camping and birdwatching with diverse mountain ecosystems.
Laguna Dudú
Wander natural sinkholes near Nagua, perfect for swimming and family outings.
This tropical oasis offers a quick nature escape with crystal-clear waters.
Río Yaque del Norte
Kayak along the river with stunning canyons and villages, ideal for water sports.
Hidden gem for scenic drives and riverside adventures.
Lake Enriquillo
Discover the largest lake in the Caribbean with flamingo habitats and unique wildlife.
Eco-tours connecting to Dominican biodiversity and desert landscapes.
Dominican Republic by Region
🌆 Santo Domingo & South
- Best For: Colonial history, urban vibes, and cultural immersion with sites like the Zona Colonial.
- Key Destinations: Santo Domingo, Boca Chica, and La Romana for historic sites and beach escapes.
- Activities: Walking tours, museum visits, merengue dancing, and dining on local mofongo.
- Best Time: Winter for mild weather (Dec-Feb) and festivals, with comfortable 25-30°C temperatures.
- Getting There: Well-connected by flights to Las Américas Airport, with private transfers available via GetTransfer.
🏙️ Punta Cana & East Coast
- Best For: Luxury resorts, pristine beaches, and all-inclusive relaxation as the Caribbean playground.
- Key Destinations: Punta Cana, Bávaro, and Saona Island for sun-soaked shores and excursions.
- Activities: Snorkeling reefs, catamaran tours, golfing, and spa days in resort settings.
- Best Time: Year-round, but dry season (Dec-Apr) for fewer rains and peak beach weather.
- Getting There: Punta Cana International Airport is the main hub - compare flights on Aviasales for best deals.
🌳 Samaná & North Coast
- Best For: Whale watching and eco-adventures, featuring dramatic cliffs and waterfalls.
- Key Destinations: Samaná, Puerto Plata, and Sosúa for nature and coastal charm.
- Activities: Hiking to El Limón, whale tours, zip-lining, and exploring amber mines.
- Best Time: Winter for humpback whales (Jan-Mar) and summer for lush greenery, 25-32°C.
- Getting There: Rent a car for flexibility in exploring remote beaches and parks.
🏔️ Interior & Mountains
- Best For: Adventure sports and cool highlands with rivers and pine forests.
- Key Destinations: Jarabacoa, Constanza, and Barahona for outdoor pursuits and valleys.
- Activities: Rafting, paragliding, coffee plantation tours, and hiking Pico Duarte.
- Best Time: Dry months (Dec-Apr) for activities, with refreshing 15-25°C in the mountains.
- Getting There: Buses from Santo Domingo or flights to Cibao Airport, with guided tours recommended.
Sample Dominican Republic Itineraries
🚀 7-Day Dominican Republic Highlights
Arrive in Santo Domingo, explore Zona Colonial, visit Alcázar de Colón for history, sample local cuisine, and stroll Malecón waterfront.
Transfer to Punta Cana for beach relaxation, snorkeling at Bávaro, and a catamaran excursion to Saona Island.
Head to Samaná for whale watching (seasonal), hiking to El Limón Waterfall, and beach time at Playa Rincón.
Final day with shopping in colonial markets, last-minute beach dips, and departure, ensuring time for rum tastings.
🏞️ 10-Day Adventure Explorer
Santo Domingo city tour covering Cathedral, Fortaleza Ozama, colonial walks, and local food markets.
Punta Cana for resort stays, water sports including kitesurfing, and eco-tours to indigenous Taino sites.
Samaná for bay explorations and Los Haitises National Park kayaking, then Puerto Plata for cable car rides.
Full outdoor pursuits with white-water rafting on Río Yaque, zip-lining, and stays in mountain lodges.
Relaxation in Boca Chica beaches with seafood dining and scenic drives before returning to Santo Domingo.
🏙️ 14-Day Complete Dominican Republic
Comprehensive exploration including museums, merengue nights, colonial architecture, and Malecón experiences.
Punta Cana for beaches and golf, Bávaro excursions, and Saona Island day trips with marine adventures.
Whale watching in Samaná, Sosúa beaches, and Puerto Plata's amber museum with mountain hikes.
Jarabacoa for rafting and paragliding, Constanza valley tours, and Pico Duarte base camp preparation.
Barahona for Lake Enriquillo visits and birdwatching, final Santo Domingo shopping before departure.
Top Activities & Experiences
Catamaran & Snorkeling Tours
Cruise to Saona Island for underwater views of coral reefs and marine life.
Available year-round with sunset options offering tropical ambiance and fresh breezes.
Whale Watching
Observe humpback whales in Samaná Bay during migration season with expert-guided boats.
Learn about marine conservation from naturalists and spot calves up close.
Merengue Dance Lessons
Learn the national dance in Santo Domingo studios with lively instructors and music.
Discover rhythms and cultural significance through hands-on workshops.
ATV & Zip-Line Adventures
Explore Jarabacoa trails on ATVs and soar over canyons with guided zip-lines.
Popular routes include river valleys and forests with safety gear provided.
Taino Cultural Tours
Discover indigenous history at sites like Cueva de las Maravillas with cave paintings.
Artifacts and stories of pre-Columbian life with knowledgeable local guides.
Water Sports & Kitesurfing
Tackle waves in Cabarete, a world-class spot for wind sports and surfing lessons.
Many schools offer beginner to advanced sessions with equipment rentals.