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  • Writer's pictureCindy Van Dyck

This is where you need to stay when visiting Zona Colonial in Santo Domingo

Updated: May 28, 2023


Calle Isabel La Católica, a colorful street in the Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo
Photo Credits: Cindy Van Dyck

The Dominican Republic has countless beautiful places to relax or to visit as a tourist. But there is nothing like spending a few days exploring the capital, especially Zona Colonial, the old historic center where you can visit numerous museums and bars, and soak up culture! But where to stay? Cindy lists for you her top 3 hotels.


Hospitality is making sure that your guests feel at home.

And that quote perfectly describes the experience and perception you will be privileged to discover during your stay at the following three hotels. Each of them has its strengths, charms and reasons to stay over again. And I will continue to visit them as well! So who knows, maybe we will meet soon.


#1 Hodelpa Nicolas de Ovando

You've probably seen the name of this hotel come up many times. Whether on Instagram or on Keloke itself, Hodelpa Nicolas de Ovando is no longer unknown to many of our followers and readers. Better yet, this is my most favorite hotspot in Santo Domingo. Whether I go with friends and family for a relaxing day (you can get a day pass!), with cocktails in hand and a tapas plate by the pool, or a short stay; in their colonial setting we always feel at home.


I always choose a Colonial Room, a room completely among the old walls of the building and in the middle of the oasis of the small gardens with beautiful fountains. And next to that we have to admit that their breakfast is one of the bests in the Colonial City as well. So you have good food, a stay in a unique setting, and last but not least: it's located next to Plaza de España. Which means that every night you can walk towards there, enjoy cocktails and dance to some Bachata music all night long!


PS: We have mentioned Hodelpa Nicolas de Ovando before for the best photography spots in Santo Domingo and it even received a dedicated article on Keloke.be with the whole history of the hotel. So be sure to read these articles too!


*Click here for the direct reservation link on Booking.com*


Breakfast and Swimming Pool at Hodelpa Nicolas de Ovando in Santo Domingo
Photo Credits: Cindy Van Dyck

#2 Mosquito Colonial

I discovered this small but cozy boutique hotel in the heart of the colonial city on my first trip back in May 2021. Before the departure to Samana, I was looking for a short stay right in the center. And that is how I discovered Mosquito Zona Colonial*.


This boutique hotel is part of the "Mosquito" hospitality chain. Also at Playa Bonita in Las Terrenas (Samana) they have a beautiful location where you can even go surfing, which is also one of Keloke's hotspots!


The rooms are more minimalistic but were built between the old walls of the original building. So you are also in the middle of the colonial atmosphere here. Perfect when you're staying in Santo Domingo for a few days. And my favorite part of the hotel? Their amazing breakfast and indoor patio! You feel like you're relaxing in someone's garden, with a glass of wine in the evening, after a day of walking around the city. Delightful!


*Click here for the direct reservation link on Booking.com*

Outside patio and Breakfast at Mosquito Boutique Hotel in Santo Domingo, Zona Colonial
Photo Credits: Cindy Van Dyck

#3 Hotel Billini

This hotel has a "wow factor" once you go to the rooftop and discover the rooms. Because at first glance, it looks like a nice casual, yet modern hotel when you step into the reception area. But once you check-in and start exploring, an oasis of peace and luxury opens up.


The rooms are spacious, luxurious and are all situated around a beautiful inner patio where you can have breakfast in the morning. It reminds you of a romantic setting in Verona! The only person missing is Romeo....


As a guest of the hotel, you can of course enjoy the rooftop, with pool and restaurant, without limitations. These both have a beautiful view of the dome of the Regina Angelorum church. But you can also dine as a guest at sunset or enjoy a glass of wine on the rooftop. Hotel Billini* is highly recommended if you are staying in La Zona Colonial!


*Click here for the direct reservation link on Booking.com*

Rooftop swim pool and inside the Hotel Billini, Zona Colonial
Photo Credits: Cindy Van Dyck

 

Did you have a great experience in one of these hotels, or do you have any unique addresses that we should definitely discover? Let us know in the comments. And who knows, your favorite places might soon appear on Keloke.be too!


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