Dominican Republic

Travel Guide
Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park showing a lake or waterhole
Historic military forts, a capital city with superb coastal views and picturesque palm-shaded sands make this island country a prime beach-break destination.

Explore the tropical towns of the Dominican Republic, a Caribbean country on the island of Hispaniola that enjoys sunny weather and diverse landscapes. Sail the blue seas off the coast of the island, hike through mountainous national parks and visit fortresses from the colonial period. 

Head to the cosmopolitan capital city of Santo Domingo on the southern coast, where modern hotels and shops stand alongside historic remains from the Dominican Republic’s colonial era. Take a tour through Fortaleza Ozama, construction of which began in 1502. It was used as a military garrison and prison. Inspect the façade of the Casa de Francia, the historic residence of the famous Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés. 

Other popular tourist destinations include the resorts near the city of Puerto Plata on the north coast. Stay here to enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the island from the cable car that ventures up the nearby Mount Isabel de Torres and to bask in the sunshine on Playa Dorada, a long beach with plenty of room to spread out. The city is also home to the Spanish Fort San Felipe, where old weapons and historic military attire are now displayed. To participate in watersports, take a daytrip east to Cabarete, which is known for its superb surfing and kitesurfing conditions.

For gentle spas, luxury resorts and the ultimate rest and relaxation, take a trip to the eastern tip of Punta Cana. Practice your swing on a golf course or stroll along Cap Cana Marina for beautiful views out to the ocean.

Consider going to the Dominican Republic during hurricane season from June to November for discounted prices and fewer crowds. December to April is typically the driest and the busiest part of the year.

The Dominican Republic is easily explored by car, and its small size ensures you won’t spend too much time on the roads. To travel as the locals do, ride the guaguas these small buses are one of the most popular forms of public transportation. 

Visit the Dominican Republic and discover its bays and coves, interior mountains and bustling coastal cities.

Popular cities in Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic which includes a sunset and general coastal views
Santo Domingo
Known for Historical, Entertainment and Dancing
The Caribbean’s first city is a thriving metropolis that has colonial buildings and modern masterpieces, captivating museums and a lively boardwalk.

Reasons to visit

  • Calle El Conde
  • Boca Chica Beach
  • Cathedral Primada de America
Bayahibe Beach featuring a beach, a sunset and tropical scenes
Punta Cana
Known for Beaches, Entertainment and Relaxing
Enjoy long stretches of white-sand beaches, all-inclusive resorts and sunshine in abundance at one of the largest tourist destinations in the Caribbean region.

Reasons to visit

  • Bavaro Beach
  • Punta Cana Beach
  • Macao Beach
Fort San Felipe which includes heritage elements
Puerto Plata
Known for Beaches, Entertainment and Bars
Discover the beautiful windswept northern coast of the Dominican Republic, where fishing villages and luxury resorts coexist along interminable sandy beaches.

Reasons to visit

  • Malecón De Puerto Plata
  • Puerto Plata Cable Car
  • Fort San Felipe
Samana showing tropical scenes and a beach
Samaná
Known for Beaches, Relaxing and Whale watching
Delight in the simple charm of this port town that attracts tourists with a picturesque coastline and forests to be explored on horseback or by zip line.

Reasons to visit

  • Cayo Levantado
  • Samana Bay
  • El Limon Falls
La Romana showing a coastal town and a bay or harbor
La Romana
Known for Golf, Beaches and Entertainment
Visit this destination famous for meals of fresh seafood, large caves and access to Isla Saona.

Reasons to visit

  • Casa de Campo Marina
  • La Romana Port
  • Playa de la Isla Catalina
Santiago featuring heritage architecture
Santiago de los Caballeros
Known for Dining, Shopping and Monuments
Partake in lively festivals, view impressive monuments and witness authentic Dominican life in one of the oldest colonial cities in the New World.

Reasons to visit

  • Monument to the Heroes of the Restoration
  • Salto Baiguate Waterfall

Popular places to visit

Dominican Republic