Half Day Santo Domingo Tour: Three Eyes Park to Colon Lighthouse

Experience the essence of history with our Santo Domingo Colonial Heritage Tour—a journey through time in the first city of the Americas! What sets this tour apart is its deep dive into Santo Domingo’s unparalleled legacy, where every cobblestone and building tells a story of centuries past. Explore the heart of the city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and immerse yourself in its well-preserved colonial architecture, historic landmarks, and vibrant local culture. This isn’t just a tour; it’s a rare opportunity to walk in the footsteps of explorers, witness the birthplace of the New World, and discover hidden gems in lively markets that showcase the soul of Dominican heritage.

1. 1

   The 3 Eyes National Park

   45 min

   Our first stop will be Los Tres Ojos (Three Eyes) - a natural park with three water caves and beautiful rocks. In one of those caves, Jurassic park episodes were shot. The site is currently one of the most visited tourist attractions in the country. You will enjoy exploring the caves and, before continuing our trip, you can use bathroom facilities and a cafeteria to buy a drink.

2. 2

   Columbus Lighthouse (Faro A Colon)

   This multi-million-dollar lighthouse was built in 1992 to celebrate the 400 year anniversary of Columbus's landing in the Americas and is the site of the explorer's bones.

3. 3

   Palacio National

   The lavish building that has been the home and offices of the Dominican president since 1947.

4. 4

   Malecon

   15 min

   This popular thoroughfare is home to luxury hotels and casinos as well as historic monuments and statues.

5. 5

   Zona Colonial

   2 hours

   Walk and take pictures in the Colonial Zone, starting at the Columbus Palace. Completed in 1514, this was the home of Christopher Columbus's son, Don Diego. From the Palace, the tour will go through the historic Plaza de Espana and on to Calle Las Damas (the first paved street in the New World). Santo Domingo, the first city of the Americas. Stroll through yesterday's narrow walkways and set out to unveil the humble beginnings of the New World. Tour the oldest colonial city, erected in the 15th century.

6. 6

   Calle Las Damas

   15 min

   At the eastern end of Calle El Conde, you’ll stumble on the first paved street in the Americas: Calle Las Damas or the “street of the ladies.” Sixteenth century architecture, former colonial buildings now turned into museums, embassies, and upscale hotels flank this picturesque, narrow road. Connecting directly to the Alcazar de Colón Palace, María de Toledo and her ladies would step out of the palace and stroll up and down Calle Las Damas in the evenings. Key sites located along this historic street include Fortaleza Ozama, the first fortress in the Americas, and the National Pantheon, resting place of the Dominican Republic’s national heroes

7. 7

   Parque Colon

   10 min

   One of the liveliest parks in the DR faces the oldest cathedral in the Americas, in a verdant, shaded square surrounded with colonial, republican, and modern architecture. A magnet for Dominicans and tourists alike, at its center is a towering statue of Christopher Columbus pointing to the island when he discovered it, and Taino Indian heroine Anacaona at his feet, looking up at the explorer. Pigeons fly around this magical square, punctuated with benches, and bustling with merengue music players, sidewalk cafés, and plenty of people watching.

8. 8

   Alcazar de Colon

   15 min

   One of the most popular museums in the Colonial City is also its most impressive in architecture. Completed around 1512, this Gothic and Renaissance style palace was once the home of Diego Columbus, son of Christopher Columbus, and his wife María de Toledo, niece of King Ferdinand of Spain. With views overlooking Plaza de España on one side, and the Ozama River on the other, it is the oldest vice regal residence in the Americas, and the first fortified palace, turned into a museum showcasing 16th century furniture, art, musical instruments, and weapons. Winding staircases lead towards the couple’s well-preserved bedrooms, and to the lavish crystal chandelier-lit reception hall where events were hosted for the Spanish aristocracy.

9. 9

   National Pantheon of the Dominican Republic

   10 min

   This 18th-century Jesuit church is the resting place for many of the greatest Dominican heroes.

• Specialized infant seats are available
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• Wheelchair accessible

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.