Dominican Republic 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Santo Domingo

  • Morning: Start your day with breakfast at a local café. Visit the Zona Colonial, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to beautiful colonial buildings and the oldest cathedral in the Americas. Don’t miss the Alcazar de San Lorenzo, the first permanent European building on the island.
  • Afternoon: Head to the Museo del Hombre Dominicano (Museum of the Dominican Man) to learn about the country’s history and culture. In the afternoon, relax at the nearby Parque Mirador del Sur, offering a panoramic view of Santo Domingo.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Dominican dinner at a local restaurant. Try dishes like Sancocho (stew) or Mofongo (mashed plantains). After dinner, explore the lively bars and nightlife in the Naco area.

Things to Know:

  • Santo Domingo’s currency is the Dominican Peso (DOP), although US Dollars are widely accepted.
  • Spanish is the official language, but many people speak English, especially in tourist areas.
  • Tap water is not safe to drink, so stick to bottled water.

Day 2: Punta Cana

  • Transportation: Fly or drive to Punta Cana (about an hour by air or 3 hours by car).
  • Morning: Spend the morning at Bávaro Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Relax on the white sand or try your hand at snorkeling or diving.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Manati Park, a wildlife reserve where you can swim with dolphins, sea lions, and flamingos. Alternatively, explore the Hoyo Azul (Blue Hole), a natural pool filled with crystal-clear water.
  • Evening: Enjoy a romantic dinner at a beachfront restaurant. Don’t miss the Dominican rum punch!

Day 3: Samaná

  • Transportation: Drive or take a tour to Samaná (about 4 hours by car).
  • Morning: Take a boat tour to see the famous Los Haitises National Park, home to mangrove forests, caves, and wildlife like monkeys and iguanas. Keep an eye out for the endemic Samaná parrot.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Calaetas Beach or Bahía de las Águilas, two of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Enjoy the pristine white sand and crystal-clear water.
  • Evening: Return to Santo Domingo for your flight home. If time allows, stop by a local market to pick up souvenirs like larimar jewelry or amber trinkets.

Visa Requirements: Citizens of many countries do not need a visa for stays under 30 days. However, it’s always best to check the latest requirements with your local embassy or consulate before travel.

Transportation: Taxis and rental cars are widely available in the Dominican Republic. Be sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey in a taxi. Driving can be challenging due to road conditions, so consider hiring a driver for longer journeys. Enjoy your trip!