The Dominican Republic is one of the most spectacular vacation destinations in the world. Fine beaches, the Caribbean, luxury resorts and tropical gardens. Santo Domingo is the favorite location for a honeymoon, but also for families and groups of friends. However, the Dominican Republic means much more than white beaches and elegant resorts. In Santo Domingo, you can really understand the history and traditions of the Caribbean. Therefore, here are ten tourist attractions in Santo Domingo.
1. Acuario Nacional
You can see more than 3,000 Caribbean marine species. The main attraction is the glass tunnel.
2. Parque Colon
This is a meeting place in Santo Domingo. From here, many buses take tourists in various parts of the Dominican Republic. In the middle of the park, there is a statue of Christopher Columbus, around which are always present pigeons.
The location is very good for an afternoon spent with the family. During the weekend, this is where concerts are held. But the music is never without music, because when there aren’t concerts, local artists come to show their skills in dancing and music. It is a true delight to watch them and listen to them.
3. Museo del Hombre Dominicano
You can see tribal masks, objects used in rituals and many other relics, since the time when native tribes of Indians lived on the island.
4. Botanical Garden
Admire the elegant palm trees, the Japanese garden and over 300 species of orchids. The Botanical Garden receives great attention from the Dominican State, being extremely neat and having well trained people who speak English and explain everything to visitors who need to know about the plants present in the garden.
There is a tour that you can take, tour with a train that takes place inside the garden. It is none other than the Chu Chu Colonial, who walks through the colonial area of the city. The train is specifically designed for this activity.
5. Cathedral of Santo Domingo
This should not be confused with the Cathedral of Santo Domingo which is in Peru, nor with that of Spain. The cathedral we are talking about is in Santo Domingo Colon Park. This is an impressive cathedral, the oldest in the Americas. The cathedral still works, even if in some areas it would require some repairs.
The cathedral stands out with its direct carvings in stone and walls that explains the local history through paintings placed from place to place. The fact that such a cathedral was built hundreds of years ago, during the colonial period shows that it places a heavy emphasis on faith in the past.
6. Museo de Arte Moderno
Admire the paintings and sculptures of local and international artists, of course with an emphasis on artists of the Dominican Republic.
7. Museo de las Casas Reales
Armors, tapestries, maps and many other relics dating from the colonial era are hosted in this castle from the sixteenth century.
8. Boca Chica
The most popular beach in the capital is famous for its white sands, tropical forests and turquoise perfect water. But here you can also practice water sports or you can discover the local life in the area.
9. Alcázar de Colón
Dedicated to the explorers and the countries that founded the “New World”, the castle displays relics and works of art during the Spanish colonialism. This is a house built by Christopher Columbus’s son between 1510 and 1514. The building was renovated and is presently one of the oldest buildings in Santo Domingo.
What is incredible is that even the furniture is the one used in the 1500. There are a few personal items, some of which are said to have belonged even to Diego Columbus, the son of the great explorer.
The house is located near the Plaza de Espana. A street that passes this market is the Atarazanas street full of bars, restaurants, flamenco evenings and fun. Plan your trip to Alcazar de Colon in an afternoon, and then move to this street for a perfect evening.
10. Museo Bellapart
The host of the largest private collection of artwork. Here you can find the history of the island. Do not pass by this museum.
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