Dominican Republic is a country rich with a rich history, culture, kind locals, and delicious food.
The first time I visited the Dominican Republic was in college, and I stayed only in Punta Cana. This time around, I was invited on a press trip by the country’s tourism board!
We spent seven days traveling from Puerto Plata on the north coast to the capital Santo Domingo, and there was never a dull moment between exploring forts and swimming in the beautiful blue Caribbean!
I was able to see so much more of the country than I had on my previous visit as a college student.
I’m so excited to be sharing the perfect one week in Dominican Republic itinerary with all of you!
Dominican Republic Fun Facts
- Currency: The official currency of the Dominican Republic is the Dominican Peso (DOP)
- Capital: The capital city of the Dominican Republic is Santo Domingo
- Population: As of 2021, the population of the Dominican Republic is approximately 10.8 million people
- Language: The official language of the Dominican Republic is Spanish, but many people also speak Haitian Creole. English is also spoken by some people, especially in tourist areas.
- Geography: The Dominican Republic is located on the island of Hispaniola in the Caribbean Sea. It shares the island with Haiti. The country has a diverse geography, with mountains, valleys, forests, and beaches.
- Religion: The majority of the population of the Dominican Republic is Roman Catholic, but there are also significant numbers of Protestant and other Christian denominations.
- Climate: The Dominican Republic has a tropical climate with an average temperature of around 25°C (77°F).
- Economy: The economy of the Dominican Republic is primarily based on tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing. The country is known for its production of tobacco, sugar, and coffee, as well as textiles, clothing, and other goods.
When To Visit Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic experiences two seasons: the dry season (December to April) and the rainy season (May to November).
The best time to visit is typically from December to April, during the dry season when the weather is pleasant and sunny. This period also coincides with peak tourist season, so popular areas can be busier and prices may be higher.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option with fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons, either late April to June or September to November.
Just be aware that the latter period can coincide with hurricane season, so keep an eye on weather forecasts if you choose to travel then!
Weather In The Dominican Republic In December
December is the perfect month to visit and that’s when I chose to go! The weather is dry, pleasant, and sunny, with usually no rain whatsoever.
The average daily temperature in the Dominican Republic ranges from around 24 to 29 degrees Celsius (75 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit).
Start In Puerto Plata
Puerto Plata city located on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. You will be blown away by the beauty of this city, with its miles of beautiful beaches, colorful streets, and many activities to enjoy!
Fortaleza San Felipe
One of the must-see attractions in Puerto Plata is Fortaleza San Felipe, a 16th-century Spanish fortress used to defend the north coast of the country.
The fort is a fascinating piece of history and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding area. I highly recommend taking a tour to learn more about the fort’s history and get a sense of what life was like during the time it was in use.
Ride The Teleferico (Puerto Plata Cable Car)
Another unique experience in Puerto Plata is the teleferico, the only cable car in the Caribbean.
The cable car ride takes you high above the city, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and the surrounding mountains. It’s a great way to get a bird’s-eye view of Puerto Plata and see the city in a whole new way.
Electric Bike Excursion
One of my favorite activities during my visit to Puerto Plata was joining Outback Adventures on an electric bike excursion.
We stopped to drink coconuts and go swimming in hidden lakes, and it was an unforgettable experience.
The electric bikes made it easy to explore the countryside and take in the beautiful scenery!
Where To Stay: Casa Colonial Beach & Spa
For a truly unique stay, check out Casa Colonial Beach & Spa, a 5-star boutique resort located on the north coast of the Dominican Republic.
The resort is situated right on the beach, and the views are absolutely stunning.
Every morning, the sun rose just in front of the property, and I loved starting my day with a cup of coffee and a view of the ocean.
The rooms at Casa Colonial Beach & Spa are spacious and beautifully decorated, with all the amenities you would expect from a 5-star resort.
The on-site restaurant serves traditional Dominican breakfast, and the food was delicious. I also loved the spa, which offers a range of treatments and services to help you relax and rejuvenate.
One of the things that sets Casa Colonial Beach & Spa apart is the attention to detail and the personalized service. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed and taken care of.
The staff was always happy to help with any requests or questions I had, and they went above and beyond to ensure that I had a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Sea Horse Ranch & The Beach Club
Next, check out Sea Horse Ranch & The Beach Club.
One of the most beautiful sunsets I’ve ever seen was at Sea Horse Ranch, a luxury beachfront villa complex with the Beach Club Restaurant located on the north coast of the Dominican Republic.
The complex is situated near the city of Puerto Plata and offers breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.
One of the highlights of my stay at Sea Horse Ranch was dining at the Beach Club Restaurant. The restaurant serves delicious food with a focus on seafood and local ingredients, and the ambiance is unbeatable with stunning views of the sea.
I highly recommend trying the goat stew with gnocchi – it was one of the best meals I had during my trip to the Dominican Republic.
In addition to the villas and restaurant, Sea Horse Ranch also offers a range of amenities and activities for guests to enjoy.
During my stay, I had the opportunity to relax by the swimming pool and play a few rounds of tennis on the courts. I also took a horseback riding excursion through the beautiful countryside, which was a truly unforgettable experience.
Santo Domingo
Santo Domingo is the capital city of the Dominican Republic, with rich history and culture.
One of the things that makes Santo Domingo so special is its status as the city of firsts. It was the first capital city of the Americas, and it houses the first hospital, cathedral, and university in the New World.
The Colonial Zone, or Zona Colonial, is a must-see with its cobblestone streets and buildings dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries.
I highly recommend taking a tour of the Zona Colonial to learn more about the city’s history and see some of the most important landmarks.
Piña Coladas at Boca Chica
Less than an hour away from Santo Domingo is Boca Chica, a beautiful Caribbean beach that is popular with local families on the weekends.
The crystal clear blue water is breathtaking, and you can find vendors along the beach selling coconuts, pina coladas, and fried foods. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of the Caribbean.
Visit The Carnival Museum
I also highly recommend visiting the Carnival Museum, which showcases elaborate carnival costumes that are made by hand and take up to a year to complete.
It’s a fascinating look at the traditions and culture of the Dominican Republic, and I was amazed by the level of detail and craftsmanship that goes into these costumes.
Where To Stay: Hodelpa Nicolas de Ovando
In Santo Domingo, stay at Hodelpa Nicolas de Ovando, a hotel that dates back to the 16th century and is located in the heart of the Zona Colonial.
The hotel is surrounded by beautiful streets, restaurants, bars, and historical sites, and everything is within walking distance.
It’s the perfect location to explore the city and immerse yourself in the culture of Santo Domingo.
Buche Perico
One of my favorite restaurants in Santo Domingo was Buche Perico, located in the heart of the Zona Colonial.
The ambiance at Buche Perico is absolutely magical, with plants covering the walls and fairy lights dotting the ceiling. The menu is very extensive, with a range of dishes to choose from.
One of the highlights of my meal at Buche Perico was the lobster, which was cooked to perfection and served with a delicious sauce.
The other dishes I tried were equally delicious, and I was impressed by the level of attention to detail and the high-quality ingredients used in the cooking.
In addition to the delicious food, I also appreciated the friendly and welcoming atmosphere at Buche Perico.
The staff was attentive and happy to help with any requests or questions I had, and they made sure that my dining experience was enjoyable from start to finish.
Bajo Cero
To end the trip on a sweet note we headed for Bajo Cero, the most famous ice cream shop in the city. Located in the heart of Santo Domingo, Bajo Cero is known for its endless flavors of popsicles and other frozen treats.
As soon as I walked through the door, I was overwhelmed by the delicious smells and the wide range of flavors on offer.
From classic flavors like chocolate and vanilla to more exotic options like mango and passionfruit, there was something for everyone to enjoy. I ended up trying three different flavors, and I have to say that they were all delicious.
Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing popsicle or a creamy scoop of ice cream, this is the place to go. The flavors are endless and the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming – what more could you ask for in an ice cream shop?
Conclusion
I was blown away by the beauty and culture of this tropical paradise. From the stunning beaches and crystal clear water of the Caribbean Sea to the rich history and vibrant culture of the cities, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the Dominican Republic.
One of the things that makes the Dominican Republic such a great place to visit is the friendly and welcoming nature of the locals. Everywhere I went, I was greeted with smiles and a warm welcome.
The country is also known for its delicious food, with a range of local specialties and international cuisine to choose from.
In terms of activities and attractions, the Dominican Republic has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring the history and culture of the cities, relaxing on the beautiful beaches, or participating in outdoor adventures and sports, there is something for you to enjoy.
The country has a diverse geography, with mountains, valleys, forests, and beaches, so there is always something new to discover.
Overall, I would highly recommend visiting the Dominican Republic. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or a mix of both, the Dominican Republic has something for you!
Disclaimer: This post was written in collaboration with Go Dominican Republic. As always, all opinions, words, and thoughts are my own.
What To Do Next
- Buy travel medical insurance so you are fully covered in case anything goes wrong. Read SafetyWing review.
- Buy an eSIM card so you are immediately connected as soon as you land! Read Holafly eSIM review.
- Book flights!
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