the Zona ColonialConsistently the top recommendation for visitors, and worth allowing a half day rather than squeezing it between other stops.
Local culture beyond the checklistLos Tres Ojos and Boca Chica beach are where Santo Domingo feels least like a tourist itinerary and most like the actual city.
A well-known second stop: the Catedral Primada de AméricaRounds out a first visit nicely alongside the bigger-name sights.
Easy onward travelSanto Domingo's transport connections make it simple to extend the trip into the rest of the Dominican Republic if you have the time.