Are you looking for the perfect destination for your next vacation? Look no further than the Dominican Republic! This Caribbean paradise has so much to offer, from stunning white sand beaches to vibrant culture and history. To make sure you don’t miss out on any of the Dominican Republic’s amazing attractions, we’ve put together an incredible 10-day itinerary that will let you experience the best of this beautiful country. In this post, we’ll show you our top recommendations for places to visit, things to do, and more during your time in the Dominican Republic.
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Day 1: Arrival in Santo Domingo (Things to do in the Dominican Republic)
The Dominican Republic’s capital and largest city, Santo Domingo, is a great place to begin your journey through the island. Here you can find all the historical sites, modern amenities, and transportation you need to explore this beautiful country.
When you arrive in Santo Domingo, be sure to check out the Colonial Zone which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area of the city is full of amazing architecture from the 16th century, including the first cathedral built in the Americas, Columbus Lighthouse, and several other well-preserved monuments.
For a taste of local culture, head to Calle Las Damas, which is the oldest street in America. Here you can find restaurants serving traditional Dominican dishes, small souvenir shops, and street performers playing music and dancing. Take a stroll around here and you will certainly get a sense of the vibrant culture.
If you’re looking for some fun nightlife and entertainment, head to Plaza de la Cultura. Here you can find plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues, as well as galleries and museums showcasing the history and art of the Dominican Republic.
No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to have a wonderful time in Santo Domingo!
Day 2 – Touring the Colonial City (Things to do in the Dominican Republic)
Start your Dominican Republic vacation off with a bang by exploring the old-world charm of the capital city, Santo Domingo. As the oldest continuously inhabited European city in the Americas, there’s no shortage of historical sites to explore. Take a stroll through the cobblestone streets and admire the architecture of buildings like the Alcázar de Colón, the first palace built in the New World. Visit the first cathedral in the Americas, Catedral de Santa María la Menor, and take time to marvel at its intricate Baroque-style design. Don’t miss the chance to visit one of the country’s most iconic monuments, Faro a Colón, built in honor of Christopher Columbus and home to an impressive interactive museum. After an afternoon of sightseeing, make sure to cap off your day with some classic Dominican cuisine – you won’t be disappointed!
Day 3 – Island Hopping (Things to do in the Dominican Republic)
Start your morning with a boat trip to Isla Saona, the most beautiful of the Dominican Republic’s offshore islands. Spend the day soaking up the sun and exploring the stunning white sand beaches and coral reefs. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a boat tour to explore more of the islands nearby such as Catalina or Maria Trinidad. Alternatively, take a day trip to Isla Cabritos National Park, a protected wildlife sanctuary. The park has some of the best snorkeling in the area and is home to many species of birds and other wildlife. Enjoy the beauty and peace of this paradise before heading back to your hotel for dinner and rest.
Day 4 – Relaxing in Punta Cana (Things to do in the Dominican Republic)
After two full days of sightseeing, it’s time to unwind and relax. Punta Cana is the perfect destination for a day of leisure and fun in the sun. Start your morning off with a cup of fresh Dominican coffee, followed by a morning stroll along Bavaro Beach. This gorgeous beach has some of the clearest turquoise waters in the Caribbean and plenty of spots for sunbathing.
In the afternoon, you can take a boat tour to Catalina Island. Along the way, you’ll get to see incredible views of the coastline, as well as dolphins and other marine life. On the island, you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and just lounging around on the white-sand beaches.
Once back on shore, head to one of Punta Cana’s many resorts to indulge in some pampering. From luxury spa treatments to swimming pools with ocean views, there’s something for everyone here. Cap off your night with a delicious dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area.
Whether you want to spend your day being active or simply relaxing, Punta Cana is the perfect place for it. From breathtaking beaches to luxurious resorts, this destination has everything you need for an unforgettable experience.
Day 5 – Exploring Los Haitises National Park (Things to do in the Dominican Republic)
Start your day early by setting off to explore Los Haitises National Park, located on the Samana Peninsula. This is one of the most beautiful and untouched areas in the Dominican Republic and a great place to go for some outdoor adventure. The park is comprised of mangroves, rivers, and coastal lagoons, making it an ideal spot for exploring the local wildlife. You can take a boat ride up the Manzana River to explore the mangrove swamps or take a hike through the jungle to spot the many species of birds and animals that call this place home. For a truly unique experience, make sure you take a guided kayaking trip around the scenic islands and cays of the park. It’s an unforgettable experience!
Day 6 – Hiking through El Choco National Park (Things to do in the Dominican Republic)
Get ready for an incredible day exploring the unique wildlife of El Choco National Park. Here, you will find a diverse range of plants and animals, many of which are endemic to the area. After a restful night’s sleep in Punta Cana, you will begin your journey with a drive east along the scenic Caribbean coast.
When you arrive at El Choco National Park, you will be greeted by a lush tropical rainforest full of color and life. Start your hike by exploring the park’s trails, which wind through some of the most stunning and biodiverse landscapes in the Dominican Republic. During your trek, look out for rare species such as the Hispaniolan solenodon, as well as colorful birds and butterflies.
The trails are suitable for all levels of hikers, from beginner to expert, so don’t worry if you’re not an experienced hiker. Take your time to soak up the beauty of this natural paradise and make sure to take plenty of photos! Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks to keep you energized during your hike.
As you wind down your hike in the evening, take a dip in one of the many freshwater creeks located within the park. Enjoy the serenity of nature and marvel at how diverse and unique El Choco is. Once you’ve finished exploring, make your way back to your hotel in Punta Cana for a well-deserved rest.
Day 7 – Ziplining and Cave Tubing (Things to do in the Dominican Republic)
Today is the perfect day for an exciting adventure! After breakfast, you’ll be heading to Boca del Yuma where you can enjoy a full-day tour of ziplining and cave tubing. Your guides will provide all necessary equipment and safety instructions before you set off to explore the area.
Once you reach the course, you will be flying through the air with beautiful views of the landscape below. You’ll be able to see for miles in every direction as you zip through the sky, taking in the sights. After an exhilarating ride, you’ll be ready for some underground exploration.
Cave tubing is a unique experience that allows you to float down the river inside a limestone cave. You will be provided with a tube and a headlamp so you can admire the beauty of the cave and look out for wildlife that may be hiding in its depths. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture photos of your incredible journey!
After a day filled with excitement and adventure, you’ll have time to relax and enjoy dinner before heading back to your accommodation for the evening.
Day 8 – Beach Day in Puerto Plata (Things to do in the Dominican Republic)
Start your day off with a visit to the beautiful Playa Dorada, a golden-sand beach located just outside of Puerto Plata. Spend some time relaxing in the sun, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and exploring the surrounding area. If you’re looking for a bit more adventure, take a boat tour around the bay and observe the incredible rock formations that can be seen from the shore.
In the afternoon, make your way to the city center and visit the local markets. Here, you’ll find an array of Dominican specialties such as coffee, cigars, and locally crafted jewelry. Afterward, visit Fort San Felipe, a 17th-century military structure that served as a key defense point during colonial times. From here, you’ll have a beautiful view of the city and coastline.
As the sun begins to set, take a stroll along Malecon. This boardwalk is one of Puerto Plata’s most popular attractions and offers great views of the ocean as well as various shops and restaurants. To end your day, stop by one of the nearby bars or cafes and enjoy a refreshing drink while watching the sunset over the ocean.
Day 9 – Samana Peninsula Excursion (Things to do in the Dominican Republic)
Start your day with a sunrise boat tour around the Samana Peninsula, taking in the amazing scenery of this beautiful tropical paradise. Enjoy the fresh ocean breeze and observe the local wildlife as you explore the coastline. After the boat tour, visit Cayo Levantado, a secluded island just off the coast of the peninsula. Here, you can relax on the beach and enjoy some of the best snorkeling in the Dominican Republic.
In the afternoon, take an exhilarating horseback ride through the mountains. Experience the beauty of the local landscape and get an up-close view of some of the area’s wildlife. After your ride, spend some time at Playa Bonita, one of the most stunning beaches in the region. Stroll along the shore and marvel at the breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.
End your day with a tour of Las Galeras, a traditional fishing village situated on the northern tip of the peninsula. Explore the streets and discover its many cultural attractions, such as a 17th-century Spanish fort and various art galleries. Be sure to sample some of the local cuisines before heading back to your accommodation for the night.
Day 10 – Departure (Things to do in the Dominican Republic)
Today is your last day in the Dominican Republic! Make sure to get an early start, as you’ll want to make it to the airport with plenty of time before your flight.
If you haven’t already, it’s time to book a ride to the airport, so you don’t have to worry about transportation on your way out. Fortunately, many airports throughout the country offer public transportation options for getting to and from the airport.
Once you’re at the airport, you’ll need to check in and go through security, followed by customs and immigration if you’re traveling internationally. If you’re flying domestically, you can usually bypass the customs line and head straight to your gate.
Once you’ve made it through security and all other checkpoints, it’s time to board your flight home. Make sure to get some last-minute souvenirs or grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants near your gate.
Finally, take a few moments to take in the views one last time before boarding your plane, as this will be your last chance to enjoy the beauty of the Dominican Republic. After that, sit back, relax, and enjoy your flight home.
Are you ready to add beautiful moments to the album of your life?
So there you have it: Top 20 Attractions and Things to Do in the Dominican Republic!
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