Excursion in the Colonial City

Exploring the Colonial City of Santo Domingo is a journey through history, as this UNESCO World Heritage site is the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the Americas. Here’s a typical itinerary for an excursion in this historic area:

Typical Colonial City Excursion Itinerary

1. Hotel Pick-Up

   • Time: Morning, typically around 8:00 AM.
   • Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle from your hotel to the Colonial City.

2. Arrival and Orientation

   • Location: Central point in the Colonial Zone.
   • Briefing: Overview of the day's schedule and historical context by the guide.

3. Visit Key Landmarks

   • Catedral Primada de América: The first cathedral in the New World, built in 1514.
   • Alcázar de Colón: The former residence of Diego Columbus, son of Christopher Columbus.
   • Calle Las Damas: The oldest paved street in the Americas, lined with historic buildings.

4. Museo de las Casas Reales

   • Exhibits: Displays of colonial-era artifacts and exhibits on the Spanish colonization of the Americas.

5. Lunch Break

   • Location: A local restaurant offering Dominican cuisine.
   • Time: Approximately 1 hour to enjoy local dishes.

6. Parque Colón

   • Monument: Statue of Christopher Columbus in the center of the square.
   • Surroundings: Opportunity to relax and take photos.

7. National Pantheon

   • Significance: Burial place of important figures in Dominican history.

8. Fortaleza Ozama

   • History: Oldest fort in the Americas, offering panoramic views of the Ozama River.

9. Shopping and Leisure

   • Souvenirs: Time for shopping at local artisan markets.
   • Leisure: Free time to explore on your own.

10. Return to Hotel

    • Transport: Vehicle back to your hotel.
    • Time: Late afternoon or early evening, depending on the starting time and pace of the tour.

Practical Information

• What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, hat, camera, and water.
• Cost: Prices typically range from $50 to $100 per person, including transport, guide, and lunch.
• Duration: Approximately 6-8 hours.

Booking Options

Here are some reputable operators offering excursions to the Colonial City:

• Belike.world

These excursions typically receive positive reviews for their comprehensive coverage of historic sites and knowledgeable guides.