Photo: Nelson Pérez · CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
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Santo Domingo Colonial Zone Day Trip
A long day to the oldest European city in the Americas: the cathedral, Calle Las Damas, the Alcázar de Colón.
Santo Domingo is roughly three hours each way from Punta Cana, so this is a 10-hour day with a lot of bus. What you get is the Ciudad Colonial — UNESCO-listed streets, the first cathedral in the Americas and the Columbus family's palace — plus lunch and usually a stop at the Columbus Lighthouse or the Los Tres Ojos caves.
It is the one excursion that shows you the country rather than the coast. Skip it if long bus rides are a problem for anyone in your party.
Read more: Our Santo Domingo day-trip guide.
Pickup from your resort
| Resort | Pickup point | Typical pickup | Transfer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barceló Bávaro Palace Bavaro Beach | Palace section lobby desk | 7:15 AM | 2 hours 30 minutes |
| Excellence El Carmen Uvero Alto | Main lobby (northern resort — earliest pickups) | 6:00 AM | 1 hour 45 minutes |
| Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana Cap Cana | Adults-Only Main Lobby | 7:30 AM | 2 hours 30 minutes |
| Lopesan Costa Bávaro Central Bavaro | Main resort lobby | 7:00 AM | 2 hours 35 minutes |
| Paradisus Palma Real Central Bavaro | Main Colonial Court lobby | 7:00 AM | 2 hours 35 minutes |
| Riu República Macao Beach | Main lobby gate | 6:40 AM | 2 hours 55 minutes |
| Secrets Cap Cana Cap Cana | Main Security Gate Lobby | 7:30 AM | 2 hours 25 minutes |
Pickup times, transfer durations and starting prices are typical values compiled from operator listings at the time of writing. They change seasonally — the operator confirms the exact pickup time after booking.
Who it suits
Families
For families, the most important detail is arriving early at the pickup point, keeping children close during boarding, and confirming stroller or bag storage with the operator before departure.
Seniors & less mobile travellers
For seniors or travelers with limited mobility, the main concern is smooth pickup and enough time to board comfortably. Confirm any mobility needs before booking, especially for boat, trail, or off-road excursions.
Solo travellers
For solo travelers, pre-booked transport is useful because it avoids negotiating with beach vendors or informal taxi options. It also gives you a confirmed pickup point and a clear return plan.
Groups & bachelorette parties
For groups, booking ahead is strongly recommended because larger parties need enough seats on the same transfer and may require earlier coordination at the hotel lobby.
What's usually included
- Hotel pickup and return transfer
- Air-conditioned transportation
- Professional tour coordination
- Excursion admission or activity access where included by the operator
- Free time at the destination or activity area
- Support throughout the trip
Frequently asked questions
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes. Every operator collects from the resort lobby or security gate and brings you back afterwards. The exact pickup time is confirmed after booking.
How much does it cost?
Prices start from around US$95 per person, depending on operator, season and what is included.
How long is the transfer from my resort?
Between 1 hour 45 minutes and 2 hours 55 minutes depending on where you stay — see the table above.