The Dominican Republic, a vibrant country on the island of Hispaniola in the Caribbean region, offers a diverse palette of tourist attractions encompassing stunning natural landscapes, historic architecture, and pulsating cultural experiences. Known for its beautiful beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and golfing opportunities, this Caribbean gem has so much more to offer. Here’s your travel guide to the top 10 must-visit places in the Dominican Republic in 2020:
### 1. **Santo Domingo**
The capital city, Santo Domingo, is a rich tapestry of history and modernity. As the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the Americas and a UNESCO World Heritage site, it boasts numerous museums, historic sites like the first cathedral of America: Catedral Primada de América, and cobblestoned streets lined with fantastic eateries and shops.
### 2. **Punta Cana**
Punta Cana is synonymous with luxury vacations in the Dominican Republic. Known for its stunning beaches like Bavaro Beach and an excellent choice of all-inclusive resorts, Punta Cana is perfect for those looking to unwind by the sea or enjoy water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving.
### 3. **Puerto Plata**
This northern beauty spot offers everything from beautiful beaches to adventure sports. Take a cable car up Mount Isabel de Torres, explore historic Fortaleza San Felipe or unwind at Playa Dorada or Sosua Beach.
### 4. **Samana Bay**
Visit between January and March to witness humpback whales migrating into the warm waters of Samana Bay for breeding—this sight is genuinely mesmerizing. Samana is also home to beautiful waterfalls like El Limón and secluded beaches including Playa Rincon.
### 5. **Jarabacoa**
Known as the “City of Everlasting Spring,” Jarabacoa lies in the heart of the Dominican Alps offering cool temperatures year-round. Ideal for adventure seekers with attractions such as rafting on Rio Yaque del Norte or exploring impressive waterfalls like Salto Baiguate or Salto de Jimenoa.
### 6. **Bayahibe**
Bayahibe provides a quieter alternative than its more famous counterparts but no less beautiful with sparkling waters ideal for scuba diving due to its proximity to some magnificent national parks such as Parque Nacional del Este.
### 7. **La Romana**
Home to one of the most famous resorts in the Dominican Republic—Casa de Campo—and Altos de Chavon (a re-creation of a medieval Mediterranean village), La Romana offers luxury tourists an array of activities including golfing at internationally renowned courses.
### 8. **Las Terrenas**
Once a sleepy fishing village, Las Terrenas has become a cosmopolitan locale where European expats have opened businesses next to local staples such as beachfront seafood restaurants. Gorgeous beaches lined with tall palm trees are perfect for any beach lover.
### 9. **Constanza**
For those who love nature and seek cooler climates should head inland to Constanza; it’s located within Valle Nuevo National Park which provides opportunities for hiking through beautiful sceneries including Valle Nuevo’s “Pyramid,” an important landmark
###10 .**Santo Domingo Este (SDQ) Airport**
This international airport serves as your gateway into all these fantastic locations!
Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning after loving your last visit, these destinations highlight just how diverse and exciting traveling through this Caribbean island can be! From relaxing on white sandy beaches or embracing adventure among tropical mountainscapes—Dominican Republic awaits you with open arms and sun-filled smiles.