Welcome to one of the most beautiful colonial styled cities in the Americas. Most of the buildings maintain their original architecture since the European colonization period. This aspect also makes it an excellent cultural destination. When it comes to the hotels available, there’s an option for everyone. The small, boutique-style hotels are perfect if you prefer a cozy, intimate ambient. There are also modern hotels located throughout the city’s downtown. And for those who enjoy ocean views, beachfront hotels are also available.
Despite being a colonial city, it’s also one of the largest and most developed cities in the country. We just love its versatility! Attraction-wise, there’s plenty you can see and enjoy in Santo Domingo, especially if you’re a museum and history enthusiast. We recommend you visit the Museum of the Dominican Man if you want to learn about Santo Domingo’s history. The National Aquarium, 3 Eyes National Parks, and the National Botanical Garden are other must-see attractions you can’t miss. Read more about these on Top Things to do in Santo Domingo.
Santo Domingo also offers beautiful golden sand beaches you can enjoy, such as the Boca Chica and Juan Dolio beaches. The best time to visit the city is between December and March. During these months you’ll encounter the best sunny weather. Please keep in mind that the Dominican Republic has one of the worst hurricane seasons, which means you shouldn’t travel between August and October.
Where to Stay in Santo Domingo
Officially named Santo Domingo de Guzmán, this is a wonderful, colonial city. Where you’ll stay depends on the type of tourism you prefer. If you want to enjoy the city’s nightlife, best restaurants, and shopping centers, Downtown Santo Domingo is the place for you. Now, if you prefer heritage tourism and love to learn about history, Colonial Zone is where you should stay. It’s the city’s most ancient district, one of the top places to visit in the Dominican Republic, and where most of the best hotels in Santo Domingo are located. In Colonial Zone, you’ll find the most popular attractions, such as the Alcázar de Colón. And if you want something in between, look for a hotel in Gazcue. There you can enjoy several museums and some of the best beachfront hotels.
Weston Suites Hotel
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The first Santo Domingo hotel on our list is Weston Suites Hotel. It features an indoor pool available all year round, so your splashy fun is guaranteed. It also has an on-site rooftop restaurant that serves continental breakfasts and international dishes for your lunch and dinner. On-site, you’ll also find modern gym equipment that overlooks the city. Have a quick workout while enjoying the view! The on-site spa offers massages, a steam room, and numerous wellness packages for you to enjoy.
Its location in the center of the city makes it one of the best hotels in Santo Domingo. Two shopping malls are less than a mile away. And if you enjoy heritage tourism, visit the Museum of the Republican Man at 1.8mi (2.9km). For those who love art, the hotel is only 1.49mi (2.4km) from the National Theatre. The hotel’s rates are average, but discounts are always available.
Antiguo Hotel Europa
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Antiguo Hotel Europa features a 19th-century inspired exterior. The rooms also have this style influence, and it extends to the balcony. At the rooftop, you’ll find the hotel’s Terraza Restaurant that serves continental breakfast and local cuisine. It also provides you with some of the best views of the city. At the on-site bar, you can enjoy the best tropical drinks and cocktails. This hotel is also an ideal place for business trips. It features several convention rooms that fit up to 30 people. Even better, banquet facilities are provided.
For your comfort, a car rental service is also available. But what makes it one of the best hotels in Santo Domingo is the nearby attractions. The famous site Alcazar de Colon and the Museo de las Casas Reales are only 0.12mi (0.2km) from the hotel. If you want to enjoy a swim, visit Punta Torrecillas Beach that’s only half a mile away. The rates are affordable, which makes the hotel an excellent choice if you’re on a budget.
W&P Santo Domingo
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Located in the neighborhood of Bella Vista, W&P Santo Domingo is a 4-star modern hotel. Its central location provides you a wide variety of nearby restaurants and shops. But the fun can start on site. The outdoor rooftop pool is equipped with controlled temperature to ensure comfort during wintertime. You can also sunbathe and relax at the lounge chairs around it. Activity-wise, the hotel offers bike and walking tours, live music performances, and classes about the local culture. At night, enjoy the happy hour deals at the hotel’s bar and nightclub.
Casa Vera, the hotel’s on-site restaurant, serves both local and international cuisine. The restaurant also offers a fabulous wine selection for you to enjoy. Gym enthusiasts love the 24-hour fitness center. And at the on-site spa, you’ll find all types of massages and beauty treatments. The rooms offer supreme comfort, and their rates are average. All of these features make it one of the best hotels in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
Novus Plaza Odelpa
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Novus Plaza Hodelpa is the perfect option if you want to stay in the city’s Zona Colonial district. Its location near most of the city’s famous attractions makes it one of the best hotels in Santo Domingo. Catedral Primada de America and Puerto Santo Domingo are less than 0.2mi (0.4km) away. Also, the historical palace Alcazar de Colon is only 0.3mi (0.5km) from the hotel. To make sure you don’t miss anything, sign up for the Colonial City Tour. It’s the perfect tour for those who love heritage tourism. You can see some of the most important colonial settlements in America.
And for those who prefer the ocean, visit Montesinos and Punta Torrecillas Beach, which you can reach within 5 minutes of the hotel. But if you just want to hang out with family and friends under the sun, there’s an on-site sun deck and terrace. For dining options, go to the on-site restaurant that serves delicious buffet meals. For your convenience, the hotel also provides a shuttle service for an extra fee. They can take you to the airport or to any attraction you want to visit. The rooms feature modern furniture and artwork, and they overlook the city. Rates are affordable, and depending on the season, you can find bedrooms for less than the regular price.
Hotel Riazor
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Hotel Riazor features a traditional design both on the inside and outside. The on-site restaurant itself makes it one of the best hotels in Santo Domingo. It features nautical decorations and hand-painted wall art that provides a cozy ambient. When it comes to food, they serve American breakfasts in the morning and international cuisine for lunch and dinner. But if you prefer eating in privacy, 24-hour room service is available. At the on-site bar, you can enjoy happy hour deals every day.
The rooms have a simple design, but they offer supreme comfort. And if you’re traveling with children, opt for the family rooms. There’s also a terrace and picnic area where you can enjoy an outdoor family gathering. Nearby, you’ll find Guibia, a beautiful golden sand beach perfect for swimming and watching the sunset. Also, Santo Domingo’s famous Malecon is only 0.18mi (0.3km) from the hotel. And at an additional charge, the hotel provides a transportation service to take you there, or anywhere else you’d like.
Hodelpa Caribe Colonial
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If you want to stay in a modern hotel, Hodelpa Caribe Colonial is the option for you. The exterior features a modern design, while the interior and rooms have an elegant, chic decoration. All of the bedrooms include a safe, minibar, and coffeemaker. However, only some of them feature a hot tub and balcony. If these are a must for you, make sure to get a room that includes them. And despite being a 4-star hotel, the rates are affordable, which makes it one of the best hotels in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
Azul Restaurant and Bar, the hotel’s on-site restaurant, offers buffet breakfast, à la carte dishes, and a wide variety of wines and cocktails. The hotel also features a sun deck and terrace, perfect for watching sunsets. If you’re an art lover, you’ll enjoy the hotel’s closeness to the Museum of Modern Art and the National Theatre. Lastly, you can also enjoy a visit to the golden sand beach Montesinos, which is less than a mile away.
Hodelpa Nicolás de Ovando
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We love Hodelpa Nicolás de Ovando for many reasons. But what caught our attention the most is the beautiful historical style that differentiates it from other hotels in the area. Besides, its on-site restaurant serves local cuisine, à la carte options, and kids’ meals. And when requested, room service is also available. The hotel offers several activities that you can enjoy on-site. Some of them are bike and walking tours, golf, and themed dinners. A gift shop is also available. Now you can conveniently browse for a lovely souvenir from the island!
You’ll also find a fitness center and a spa where you can relax after a long day. And if you want to explore the city, the hotel also offers transportation services. As expected from a 5-star hotel, rates are higher. However, all the amenities offered and its luxurious accommodation are worth it. Without a doubt, it’s one of the best hotels in Santo Domingo.
El Embajador, a Royal Hideaway Hotel
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El Embajador, a Royal Hideaway Hotel, is not only one of the best hotels in Santo Domingo, but also one of the biggest. Located near Santo Domingo’s business districts, this hotel is the perfect option for both business and pleasure trips. Its tall building provides you with some of the best views of the city and the ocean. You can hang out and relax at the sun deck, terrace, and garden. And if you enjoy swimming, an outdoor pool is available.
The on-site restaurant serves local food and offers a kids’ meal that makes it family-friendly. Kids can also enjoy the playground, while adults love the on-site casino. The rooms are some of the most luxurious. They’re soundproof and feature modern décor and furniture. For your convenience, the hotel also features a spa where you can enjoy a wide variety of spa treatments, such as massages, saunas, and body scrubs. And if you want to keep up with your workout routine while on vacation, just hit the on-site fitness center.
Barcelo Santo Domingo
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If you want to stay in a luxurious hotel located in the city’s center, Barcelo Santo Domingo is your answer. Its location offers easy access to some of the most famous attractions of Santo Domingo. The National Theatre is only 0.18mi (0.3km) away, while the Malecon is 1.3mi (2.1km) from the hotel. For those who love sports, the Félix Sánchez Olympic Stadium and Quisqueya Stadium are less than 1.2mi (2km) away. However, there are also plenty of things you can enjoy on-site too.
The hotel features an outdoor pool with mosaic lounge chairs, perfect for relaxing under the sun. Even better, a hot tub is also available. There’s also an on-site casino where you can play or enjoy the Lina Big Band live music performances. The hotel’s restaurant offers an exquisite wine selection and buffet meals. For a 5-star luxurious hotel, the rates are super affordable, and most fares include free breakfast.
Dominican Fiesta Hotel & Casino
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Dominican Fiesta Hotel & Casino is also one of the biggest hotels in Santo Domingo. It features an outdoor pool with a bar where you can enjoy a drink while relaxing in the water. On-site, you’ll find a casino, fitness center, restaurant, and spa. At the spa, you can enjoy different types of massages, get a tan at the solarium, or have a relaxing swim in the Jacuzzi. It also features several bars throughout the hotel. But what makes it one of the best hotels in Santo Domingo is its rooftop lounge where you can enjoy live jazz music every weekend.
If you don’t like casino activities, opt for some enticing sports with friends by using the hotel’s tennis court or ping-pong table. And if you’re traveling with family, a game room is available for everyone. The rooms feature an elegant design and modern furniture. Depending on the location, each has either a terrace or a balcony where you can enjoy a view of the city. The rates are average, but discounts are available during the low season.
Catalonia Santo Domingo
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If you’re looking for the best beachfront hotel, we got the perfect option for you. Located on George Washington Avenue, Catalonia Santo Domingo is the most luxurious beachfront hotel you can find. It features a tall, modern building as well as modern styled rooms. Also, the bedrooms offer views of the ocean, pool, or city, depending on their location. The hotel features an infinity pool, a sun deck, and a terrace where you can just relax. Barbecue facilities are also available if you want to have an outdoor gathering with family and friends.
On-site, you can find a restaurant, a bar with happy hour deals, a fitness center, and a spa. The hotel’s location offers easy access to some attractions, such as the Malecon, National Theatre, and the Félix Sánches Olimpic Stadium. Blue Mall, one of Santo Domingo’s most popular shopping centers, is only 2.1mi (3.3km) away. Rates are higher compared to other 5-star hotels, but the experience here is worth it. After all, it’s the best of the best hotels in Santo Domingo.
Recommended Restaurants / Bars in Santo Domingo:
- El Mesón de la Cava – Enjoy a unique experience dining inside a cave. It serves a mix of local cuisine and seafood.
- Jalao – It’s the go-to-place if you want the best local cuisine. Its bright décor provides a fun, party ambient.
- La Briciola – A colonial styled, Italian restaurant where you can dine both outdoors and indoors. Enjoy the best pizza in town!
Recommended Activities In Santo Domingo:
- Museo Memorial de la Resistencia Dominicana – Learn about the Dominican resistance against the Trujillo Regime. Both temporal and permanent exhibitions are available.
- 3 Eyes Park and Columbus Lighthouse Tour – Explore the natural caves and lakes of Santo Domingo. You can visit the Columbus Lighthouse where Christopher Columbus’ remains to rest.
- The Heritage of Sugar Cane – Visit the famous Historic Barceló Museum. You can get a glimpse of the sugar cane processing and rum production.
- National Aquarium – Get a glimpse of the Dominican Republic’s marine life. It’s one of the best aquariums in the Caribbean Region.
