Where to Stay

Like any major city, Santo Domingo offers visitors a wide range of lodging options. As a major tourist destination in the Caribbean, its hotel and resort industry has developed to include every level of luxury, from five-star hotels with casinos and health clubs to youth hostels for the backpacking crowd.

Colonial Zone

Those looking for a first-class accommodation in the heart of the Colonial Zone should definitely consider the Sofitel Frances Hotel, an attractive hotel with only 19 rooms, where a European atmosphere blends with the colonial allure of its 16th century building. There is a gourmet restaurant specializing in French and international gourmet cuisine on the premises. The Hispaniola Hotel and Casino, is an affordable bargain, with quality accommodations, and neighbors its sister property, the Hotel Santo Domingo, a charming colonial-style property with a pool, and a restaurant open five days a week for lunch or for receptions. More budget conscious travelers should check out Hostal Nicolás Nader, a small but charming hotel located in a restored 16th-century mansion in the oldest part of the city.

El Malecón

On the famous avenue bordering the Caribbean Sea, El Malecón, located at a walking distance from the Colonial Zone, you will find the Hotel V Centenario Intercontinental, a well-appointed five-star hotel that caters to a sophisticated crowd. Complete with gourmet restaurants, pools, casino and even a gym, the hotel offers travelers all the comforts money can buy. A little farther down the road, to the west, is the Renaissance Jaragua Hotel & Casino, which has a large spa and health club, tennis courts, a pool, a casino with nightly entertainment, as well as modern convention and meeting facilities. The hotel has five restaurants and 300 deluxe rooms and suites. The fully equipped executive floor and state-of-the-art business center make this an ideal choice for the business traveler. Nearby the Jaragua is the Melia Hotel and Casino, which is a less glitzy option, but it still features 260 rooms, a pool, tennis courts, a full gym and even a casino.

Gazcue & Naco

The district of Gazcue has a number of hotel options. The Hotel El Napolitano has 72 rooms with splendid views of the enchanting Caribbean sea. Hotel Cervantes is an affordable option with a great location, within walking distance of the historic Colonial Zone. In the highly commercial area of Naco, quality accommodations mingle with modern shopping centers. One moderately priced hotel worthy of mention in the area is the well-known Clarion Hotel. This hotel has very comfortable suites equipped with kitchenettes (with pots and pans) and cable TV. The facilities include a pool, gym, a gourmet restaurant, a coffee shop, as well as a complete shopping center sharing the same infrastructure.

Bella Vista

In the exclusive Bella Vista sector of Santo Domingo, a good array of hotels, big and small, is available. Hotel Occidental El Embajador, near the Mirador Sur Park, boasts A-class facilities including a Vegas-style casino. Not as fancy as the Embajador is the Dominican Fiesta Hotel, but still offering up quality and comfort and modern convenience.