This Historical Dominican Republic City Is Trending With Travelers This Winter

Last Updated 4 weeks ago

Winter has long been a favorite season for travelers, particularly for Americans seeking an escape from the chilly weather back home.

And as this year’s winter is right around the corner, the popular vacation rental company Airbnb has unveiled the trendiest winter travel destinations worldwide.

The recent report, based on travel trends throughout 2023, has revealed that Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic’s capital city, is among the most sought-after destinations globally this winter.

Despite ongoing negotiations with local authorities and the public and private sectors, Airbnb is still going strong in the Dominican Republic.

In fact, the Ministry of Tourism reports that nearly 60% of the nation’s accommodation options are on vacation rental platforms like Airbnb.

Given the dozens of popular winter destinations both internationally and locally, what sets Santo Domingo apart as a top choice for travelers?

Well, Airbnb’s report provides the answer.

@bonvoyagejackie The Dominican Republic is a great destination for solo travelers! I spent my first week of my solo trip in the capital, Santo Domingo. La Choza Guesthouse was a great place to meet other travelers (I also met up with some people I connected with from some online solo travel groups as well) Overall, I felt very safe walking around the Zona Colonial section of the city during the day and evening as well. #solotraveler #solotravel #solotravelwoman #solofemaletravel #dominicanrepublic #santodomingo #dominicanrepublictravel #visitdominicamrepublic #solotraveltips ♬ Astro Beat – Staysee

Among Aibrnb’s most sought-after categories for winter travel are “beach,” “tropical,” “national parks,” and “iconic cities.”

So, let’s discover how Santo Domingo excels in each of these categories and why this fascinating colonial city is perfect for your next winter getaway.

Wonderful Caribbean Beaches

The Dominican Republic has long been praised for its stunning coastlines – yet most of the time, the sunny Punta Cana is the one to steal the spotlight in this regard.

However, Santo Domingo doesn’t lag behind in the beach department.

Beaches such as Playa Punta Torrecillas and Playa Hemingway boast the Caribbean’s signature white sands and turquoise waters.

You can also enjoy a leisurely stroll along the city’s promenade, el Malecón, while soaking in the stunning ocean vistas.

But Santo Domingo’s go-to beach is undoubtedly the iconic Playa Boca Chica. Since it’s located about 30 km from the city, you might have to take a short drive to get there.

However, the trip is well worth it, as this beach offers crystal-clear waters and gentle waves, making it one of the Dominican Republic’s top swimming beaches.

What’s more, the Dominican Republic enjoys favorable weather throughout the year, and even during the winter months, you can be sure that these stunning beaches are at their absolute best.

Breathtaking Tropical Landscapes

If you’re a nature enthusiast, much like the countless travelers exploring the Santo Domingo province, the 3 Eyes National Park is an absolute must-visit.

Just under a 20-minute drive from Santo Domingo’s Colonial Zone, this national park is known for its three lagoons and interconnected caves with impressive rock formations.

@aurorawanderlust Los Tres Ojos Monumento Natural, also known as "The Three Eyes," is a beautiful natural park located in Santo Domingo, the capital city of the Dominican Republic. Perfect for a day trip from Punta Cana. #thingstodoinpuntacana #thingstodoinsantodomingo #visitdominicamrepublic ♬ Caramel Latte – Prod. By Rose

The park’s lush natural scenery has made it a sought-after location for numerous Hollywood productions, featuring in films like Jurassic Park, Rambo, and Anaconda.

While it’s not necessary to have a guide to explore the 3 Eyes National Park, ecotours provide a convenient way to experience it and learn about its fascinating history.

These tours often include a visit to the city’s botanical garden, famous for its Japanese gardens and ample collection of local flowers and plants.

Rich Historical & Cultural Attractions

We’ve seen how Santo Domingo’s natural wonders and amazing Caribbean beaches – added to its enviable weather, of course – greatly contribute to its popularity among travelers this winter.

However, there’s no doubt that Santo Domingo’s standout features are its colorful colonial architecture and rich historical legacy.

Old Town Santo Domingo with famous statue

In fact, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and also holds the proud title of being the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the Americas.

Exploring the city’s numerous landmarks, such as the iconic Columbus Park or the Alcázar de Colón museum, truly transports you to a bygone era.

As you wander through the picturesque cobblestone streets of the Colonial Zone, you’ll be fascinated by the amalgamation of diverse cultures, which include European, African, and Caribbean influences.

This unique cultural blend permeates the Colonial Zone’s restaurants, cafes, and antique shops, infusing them with a distinctive charm not often found in other Caribbean cities.

Santo Domingo's bustling old town with restaurants

As the sun sets, the area’s vibrant nightlife scene awakens, with venues such as Merengue Club and Mamma Mia offering a night of fun, dance, and infectious Latin grooves.

With all of these unique and diverse offerings, it’s no wonder so many Airbnb users have chosen Santo Domingo as their winter getaway destination this year.