Dominican Republic 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Santo Domingo

Morning:

  • Arrival at Las Américas International Airport. You can take a taxi or pre-arrange for a private transfer to your hotel in Santo Domingo. (Approximate cost: $50 - $80 USD)
  • Check-in at your hotel and freshen up.
  • Visit the Zona Colonial (Colonial Zone), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which houses the oldest cathedral, streets, and buildings in the New World. (Entrance fee: $1 USD)

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at one of the local restaurants in Zona Colonial, offering authentic Dominican cuisine like Sancocho, Mofongo, or La Bandera.
  • Explore Alcazar de San Lorenzo, the first fortress built by the Europeans in the Americas, and Fortaleza Ozama, the oldest military construction in the New World. (Entrance fee: $3 USD)

Evening:

  • Dinner at ChuChuchemi or Coco Bongo Santo Domingo, a popular restaurant and nightclub that offers an exciting mix of Dominican and international cuisine along with live music and performances.

Things to Know:

  • The official language is Spanish, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • The Dominican Republic uses the Dominican Peso (DOP), although US dollars are accepted almost everywhere.
  • Tap water is not safe to drink; stick to bottled water.

Day 2: Adventure Day in Punta Cana

Morning:

  • Transfer to Las Américas International Airport for your domestic flight to Punta Cana (Flight: $70 - $150 USD, round trip).
  • Arrival at Punta Cana International Airport. Check-in at your hotel and spend the morning relaxing on Bávaro Beach or by the pool.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at your hotel or try a local beachside restaurant for fresh seafood.
  • Book an excursion to explore Saona Island or go swimming with whale sharks (seasonal, November - April) if you’re interested in marine life. Alternatively, visit the Hoyo Azul natural pool or try out zip lining at Scape Park. (Excursion fees: $60 - $120 USD per person)

Evening:

  • Enjoy a sunset catamaran cruise in Punta Cana with dinner and open bar, offering stunning views of the coastline.

Things to Know:

  • Visitors from many countries can enter the Dominican Republic without a visa for stays of up to 30 or 90 days; check your country’s specific requirements before traveling.
  • Punta Cana is served by an international airport, making it easily accessible from many destinations.
  • Tipping is customary in the Dominican Republic, with 10% being a common amount.