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Planning a trip to the Dominican Republic? You’re in the right place!
The Dominican Republic is full of contrasts—turquoise waters and white-sand beaches meet lush jungle, hidden caves, and cities steeped in history. The challenge is fitting all of that into just one trip. But that’s where we can help!
After exploring the island from coast to coast, we’ve built an itinerary that highlights the best of it all, balancing relaxation with adventure. Over five days, you’ll wander the historic streets of Santo Domingo, snorkel colorful reefs, zipline through jungle canopies, and sail to the postcard-worthy shores of Saona Island.
Ready to plan your perfect five-day island adventure? Let’s go!
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The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this Monkeyland, zipline, and buggy adventure. We rode through mountain trails, soared above the treetops, and spent time with playful squirrel monkeys climbing onto our shoulders!
Check out the 9,600+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Itinerary Overview
This five-day adventure is based in Punta Cana, so you’ll have easy access to some of the Dominican Republic’s best excursions. Sure, plenty of people stick to the resorts, but getting out to explore is totally worth it. We’ve added restaurant recommendations around Punta Cana so you can mix things up, but don’t worry—you’ll also have plenty of great spots right near your resort.
Getting around is straightforward; Uber works well here and is usually the most affordable and convenient option. We’d suggest avoiding taxis when possible, as rates can be inconsistent. Most tours include hotel pickup and drop-off, so you can relax and enjoy each day without worrying about transportation.
Day 1: Experience Dominican culture on a morning walking tour, relax on Bavaro Beach, enjoy dinner at Jellyfish Restaurant, and spend the evening at Coco Bongo with skip-the-line tickets.
Day 2: Ease into the day at Playa Macao, have lunch at Restaurant La Uva, join an afternoon sailing and snorkeling catamaran tour, and end with dinner at Noah before optional drinks at Pal Patio Punta Cana.
Day 3: Spend the day at Monkeyland with ziplining and buggies, then unwind over dinner at Pepe’s Tavern in Punta Cana Village.
Day 4: Take a full-day trip to Santo Domingo to explore its historic charm, then enjoy a relaxed dinner at Chinois Restaurante.
Day 5: Sail to beautiful Saona Island, enjoy a laid-back late afternoon, have a final dinner at La Palapa by Eden Roc, and wrap up your trip with either a lively night out or relaxed drinks.
Day 1
Morning – Experience the traditional culture of the Dominican Republic
We love getting beyond the resort bubble when we travel, and this half-day cultural tour from Punta Cana gave us a more in-depth look into the Dominican Republic’s history, traditions, and everyday life. Running from 7 am to 12 pm, it’s the perfect mix of activity and immersion without taking up your entire day.
The morning began with a scenic ride to Higuey, a charming town where we hopped on horseback for a gentle ride through the countryside. From there, we visited the striking Basilica of Higuey and wandered through the local market, where handmade crafts and fresh produce stalls gave us a real glimpse into daily life here.
One of our favorite moments came at the Anamuya River, where we cooled off with a swim in the crystal-clear water. If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s even a 100-foot (30-meter) natural waterslide that drops you right into the river, and yes, we tried it! Other stops included a local art school, a coffee and cacao shop, and the beautiful Macao Beach, each one adding its own layer to the experience.
This tour is packed with memorable moments and is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. If you still need convincing, check out 1,700 five-star reviews here to see why this tour is ranked among the best on the island!
Check availability and book this Dominican Republic cultural tour here!
Afternoon – Bavaro Beach
After our cultural tour dropped us back at the hotel, we grabbed a light lunch and a few snacks, then made our way to Bavaro Beach for a laid-back afternoon.
This is Punta Cana’s most famous beach, and as soon as we arrived, it was easy to see why. The powdery white sand stretches for miles, the turquoise water is calm and inviting, and there’s a lively but relaxed vibe that makes it hard to leave.
You can easily rent a lounge chair from one of the nearby resorts or restaurants, or simply spread out a towel and enjoy the view. Between dips in the warm Caribbean water and people-watching along the shore, the afternoon slipped by effortlessly.
Dinner – Jellyfish Restaurant
As the sun began to set, we made our way to Jellyfish Restaurant, a stunning beachfront spot that feels equal parts elegant and laid-back. With tables right on the sand and the sound of waves in the background, it’s the kind of place that instantly puts you in vacation mode.
The menu focuses on fresh seafood and Caribbean flavors, and we loved how each dish was beautifully presented without being fussy. Pair your meal with a tropical drink and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a relaxed evening in Punta Cana. We recommend arriving here for around 6 pm, as the evening experience starts at around 8 pm.
Evening – Coco Bongo
To end our first day in Punta Cana, we swapped the beach breeze for bright lights and high-energy entertainment at Coco Bongo Show and Disco. While many people head here on their own, we loved booking this skip-the-line option. It included hotel pickup, drop-off, and skip-the-line entry, which meant we could walk straight into the action without a wait.
The show kicks off around 8 pm every night except Mondays when the club is closed, but with these tickets, you don’t have to be there right at the start; arriving later still gives you plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere. From the moment we stepped inside, we were swept into a whirlwind of music, dancing, and dazzling performances.
Over 40 talented performers took the stage throughout the night, recreating scenes from famous movies, pulling off jaw-dropping acrobatics, and keeping the crowd moving with an infectious party vibe. Between sips from the open bar and bursts of confetti, it felt like a mix of Cirque du Soleil, a concert, and Mardi Gras all rolled into one.
The energy never dipped, and every time we thought we’d seen the highlight of the night, another act blew us away. Whether you’re into live music, theatrical performances, or just dancing all night, this is an experience you won’t forget!
Book your Coco Bongo experience with skip-the-line tickets here!
Day 2
Morning – Playa Macao
After a lively night at Coco Bongo, we took the morning slow with breakfast at your resort before heading out to Playa Macao. This is another one of Punta Cana’s most famous beaches, but it has a much calmer, more laid-back vibe than Bavaro Beach. The wide stretch of golden sand and turquoise water feels a little wilder here, and it’s a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.
Playa Macao is also well-known for its surfing, so you’ll often spot surfers catching waves along the shoreline. Whether you join in or simply watch from the sand, it’s the perfect way to ease into the day and soak up the Caribbean sunshine.
Lunch – Restaurant La Uva
After a relaxing morning at Playa Macao, we wandered up from the sand to find one of the small, casual restaurants that line the beach. It’s not as built up here as Bavaro, which gives the area a more local, authentic feel. We decided on Restaurant La Uva and were glad we did. The fresh fish was cooked simply but bursting with flavor, and the ocean views made it even better.
It’s an easy spot to linger over a cold drink, but don’t forget that the afternoon tour departs from your hotel, so be sure to head back in time for your confirmed pickup.
Afternoon – Go snorkeling
After lunch, we suggest heading back to your hotel for pickup and getting ready to swap dry land for a sleek catamaran and an afternoon out on the water. From 2 pm to 5:30 pm, you’ll sail into the turquoise-blue Caribbean on this 3.5-hour catamaran and snorkeling tour, drink in hand, with stunning views in every direction.
With a maximum of just 16 guests, this cruise has a relaxed, friendly atmosphere and plenty of space to stretch out!
We loved the stop at a natural reserve where we snorkeled among hundreds of colorful tropical fish; the water was so clear that it felt like swimming in an aquarium. After snorkeling, we cruised to a shallow sandbar where the water was waist-deep and wonderfully warm.
The crew set up a floating bar, serving drinks right in the water, while some people relaxed on the powdery white sand and others hopped on stand-up paddle boards for some extra fun.
When it was time to head back, the boat came alive with music, the drinks kept flowing, and everyone was smiling. For us, it was hands-down one of the best tours in Punta Cana—it’s easy to see why it has so many five-star reviews!
Book this snorkeling cruise here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!
Dinner – Noah
After freshening up from the snorkeling trip, we headed into downtown Punta Cana for dinner at Noah. The restaurant has a warm, modern feel that strikes a nice balance between casual and upscale, making it great for both a relaxed meal and a slightly dressier night out.
The menu blends international flavors with fresh local ingredients, so you’ll find everything from beautifully plated seafood dishes to hearty pastas and tender steaks. We loved how every plate looked as good as it tasted, and the friendly service made the evening feel unrushed. It’s a lovely spot to toast another great day in the Dominican Republic!
Evening – Drinks at Pal Patio Punta Cana
If you’re not quite ready to call it a night, Pal Patio is just a 13-minute walk from Noah (or a 3-minute taxi) and makes for a fun final stop. This lively open-air bar has a casual, tropical vibe, with string lights overhead and a mix of locals and travelers enjoying the music.
It’s a great place to unwind with a creative fruit drink or a cold brew while chatting and soaking in the warm evening air. Since tomorrow’s tour starts early, you can keep it low-key or stay for a few rounds if you’re in the mood.
Related Read: If Puerto Plata is part of your Dominican Republic trip, check out our guide to the 8 best things to do in Puerto Plata here for the top beaches, cultural spots, and adventures on the island’s north coast.
Day 3
Full day – Monkeyland, ziplines, and buggy adventure
Punta Cana is known for its stunning beaches, but it’s also an adventure-lover’s paradise, with everything from mountain trails to tropical rivers and lush rainforest canopies just waiting to be explored. If you want to experience a little bit of everything the Dominican Republic has to offer in one day, adrenaline, nature, culture, and wildlife, this full-day combo tour is the way to do it!
Pick-up is between 7 and 8 am, and by the time you return around 6 pm, you’ll have ticked off three incredible activities. Just note this tour does operate on Sundays, so swap your days around if you need to, so you don’t miss out!
We started with a buggy ride through the mountains of Anamuya, bouncing along rugged trails and soaking up the scenery. Getting a little muddy was half the fun, and the stop at the Anamuya River to swim in the cool, clear water was the perfect refresher before continuing.
Next came the 12-line zipline course, the first of its kind in the Dominican Republic. Soaring above the treetops with panoramic views all around gave us an unmatched sense of freedom, and the fully certified safety setup meant we could just relax and enjoy the thrill.
The final stop at Monkeyland was one of our trip highlights, a chance to interact with curious squirrel monkeys who happily climbed onto our arms and shoulders! It was impossible not to smile, and we left with a camera roll full of adorable photos. The tour also included tastings of fresh Caribbean fruits, coconut oil, and rich cacao, which added a delicious cultural touch to the day.
Book your Monkeyland, zipline, and buggies adventure here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Dinner – Pepe’s Tavern Punta Cana
After an action-packed day, we headed to Punta Cana Village for dinner at Pepe’s Tavern. This lively spot has a warm, welcoming vibe that makes it easy to settle in and relax, whether you’re sitting inside or enjoying the fresh evening air on the terrace.
The menu covers everything from fresh seafood to perfectly grilled meats and pasta, with generous portions and bold flavors. If you’re visiting on a Thursday or Friday, you’ll also get to enjoy live music, which adds to the fun, upbeat atmosphere. It’s a great place to wind down, share stories from the day, and toast to another adventure-filled day in the Dominican Republic.
Related Read: Staying a while longer? Check out our complete guide to the 10 best things to do in the Dominican Republic here for even more ways to make the most of your trip.
Day 4
Full day – Take a day trip to Santo Domingo
If you’re looking to mix a little history and culture into your trip, this day trip to Santo Domingo is a must. Just two hours from Punta Cana, this is one of the oldest cities in the Americas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, perfect if you’re craving a change from the beach scene.
Pick-up is between 6 and 7 am, and you’ll return around 7 pm after a full day of sightseeing. Just keep in mind that this tour doesn’t run on Sundays or Mondays, so plan ahead when scheduling your trip
The day starts with a scenic drive to the Dominican Republic’s capital before setting out on a guided walking tour. We explored Calle Las Damas, the first paved street in the New World, and visited the Alcázar de Colón, once home to Christopher Columbus’s son.
Other highlights included the Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, the first cathedral in the Americas, and the beautiful Colonial Zone, where cobblestone streets and colorful buildings make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. We also stopped by the Grand National Palace, an impressive symbol of the country’s history.
A delicious Dominican lunch was included, giving us the chance to refuel before continuing our exploration. By the end of the day, we felt like we’d truly connected with the Dominican Republic’s rich heritage!
Reserve your spot on this Santo Domingo day trip here!
Dinner – Chinois Restaurante
After a long day exploring Santo Domingo, you might be tempted to keep things close to your hotel, but if you have the energy, Chinois Restaurante is worth the trip. This stylish spot offers a creative Chinese fusion menu, blending classic Asian flavors with fresh Caribbean ingredients.
We enjoyed dishes that were both beautifully presented and packed with flavor, from crispy spring rolls to perfectly seasoned stir-fries. The modern yet cozy atmosphere makes it a relaxing place to wind down, and attentive service ensures you can just sit back and enjoy the meal.
Related Read: Heading to Santo Domingo next? Discover our guide about the 8 best things to do in Santo Domingo here for an in-depth look at the capital’s history, culture, and hidden gems!
Day 5
Full day – Visit to Saona Island
Pick-up starts bright and early at 6 am for this small-group trip to one of the Dominican Republic’s most beautiful spots, Saona Island. With a maximum of just 12 travelers, the day feels personal and unhurried, giving you plenty of time to soak in the island’s laid-back charm.
Our first stop was the tiny fishing village of Mano Juan, home to a turtle conservation area run by local leader “Negro.” Over a simple breakfast, we learned about his efforts to protect endangered sea turtles before taking a short walk through the colorful, slow-paced streets of the village.
From there, we visited several of Saona’s pristine beaches, each with its own personality. Abanico Beach was all about long stretches of white sand and calm, shallow water, perfect for swimming.
At a secret beach inside Parque Nacional del Este, we had the sand almost to ourselves, a rare treat in such a popular destination. Along the way, we searched for starfish in the clear shallows, snorkeled to spot marine life, and enjoyed a hearty buffet lunch right on the beach.
By the time we returned around 3–4 pm, we felt like we’d experienced a true slice of Caribbean paradise. We couldn’t think of a better way to kick off our final day! Just be sure to check the schedule when planning your last day, since this tour doesn’t always operate on weekends.
With over 1,100 5-star reviews, secure your space on this popular tour here!
Late afternoon – Relax!
After returning from Saona Island around 3–4 pm, we kept the rest of the day open for a slower pace. This is the perfect window to pick up any last-minute souvenirs, spend a little extra time on the beach, or enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool back at your resort.
It’s also a great opportunity to simply unwind, reflect on your trip, and soak up those final hours of Dominican sunshine before your last evening in Punta Cana.
Dinner – La Palapa by Eden Roc
For our final dinner in Punta Cana, we wanted somewhere that felt truly special, and La Palapa by Eden Roc was the perfect choice. Perched right by the water, it offers stunning views that pair beautifully with its elegant, open-air setting.
The menu leans toward fresh seafood and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, all prepared with a refined touch. We lingered over every course, savoring both the flavors and the relaxed, romantic atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to toast to the memories you’ve made over the past five days.
Evening – Enjoy a night out
For your final evening in Punta Cana, you can go out with a bang or keep things low-key; the choice is yours. If you’re in the mood to dance into the early hours and it happens to be Saturday, Imagine Punta Cana is one of the most popular clubs, set in a series of atmospheric caves with a party vibe that lasts all night.
If you’d rather sip something creative in a relaxed setting, Mixology Bar Lab offers inventive drinks and a fun yet laid-back atmosphere. Or, simply find a cozy spot near your hotel and enjoy one last toast to an incredible five days in the Dominican Republic.
Related Read: For even more adventures beyond the itinerary, don’t miss our full list of the 10 best things to do in Punta Cana here to help you plan an epic trip!
Where to Stay in the Dominican Republic
Now that you have your five-day Dominican Republic itinerary sorted, you need somewhere perfect to stay! The three major cities worth visiting are Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, and Puerto Plata, so I’ll give you a quick overview of the best hotels in each city below.
Punta Cana
Luxury $$$ – The Westin Puntacana Resort
Mid-range $$ – AC Hotel by Marriott Punta Cana
Budget $ – Hostal Johnnier Macao Punta Cana
Santo Domingo
Luxury $$$ – Casas del XVI
Mid-range $$ – Gran Hotel Europa
Budget $ – Hostal 53 Boutique Santo Domingo
Puerto Plata
Luxury $$$ – The Skylight Suites Hotel
Mid-range $$ – The Gaia Residence
Budget $ – Villa Carolina Bed and Breakfast
Renting a Car in the Caribbean
Renting a car in the Caribbean gives you the freedom to explore beyond the resorts—think secluded beaches, remote viewpoints, and vibrant local towns that buses don’t reach. As long as you are prepared for the road conditions and informed about local driving rules, renting a car can be a great addition to your trip!
We always book through Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s easy to compare providers, filter for exactly what you need (like an automatic or 4×4), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want all the details, check out our full Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the Caribbean
- Know the driving side: Some Caribbean islands drive on the left, while others stick to the right. It really varies island to island, so double-check before you go—and make sure you’re comfortable driving on that side of the road, especially if it’s different from home.
- Know the local driving rules: Road laws and signage can differ between islands, so it’s worth doing a quick check before pickup. Seatbelts are usually mandatory, texting and driving is typically illegal, and honking is often just a friendly heads-up. Expect low speed limits and shared roads—think scooters, pedestrians, and even the occasional animal—so stay alert and take your time!
- Add full insurance: Roads can be unpredictable, with potholes, hills, and narrow lanes—especially outside resort areas. For that reason, we always recommend adding on full coverage insurance to your rental. Discover Cars makes this super easy (and affordable!) to add on, so you can drive with peace of mind.
- Choose the right car: For beach tracks or hilly inland roads, a compact SUV or 4×4 might be your best bet. Discover Cars makes it easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, or even luggage space to suit your needs.
- Watch for extra fees: Some rental companies charge sand cleaning fees, airport pickup surcharges, or require you to return the car spotless. It’s nothing to stress over—just check the fine print so you’re not caught off guard.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the Caribbean
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- On some islands, a temporary/visitor’s driving permit may be required. These are normally issued by the rental agency for a fee. Check with your company in advance, so you’re not surprised by extra costs at pickup!
- An IDP (International Driving Permit) may be required depending on your destination and the language of your license. Always check the country’s requirements beforehand so you’re prepared.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the Caribbean Islands on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
We hope this 5-day Dominican Republic itinerary helps you plan an unforgettable trip! From wandering through Santo Domingo’s Colonial Zone to snorkeling vibrant reefs, zipping across jungle canopies, and sailing out to dreamy Saona Island, every day brought something new and exciting. The mix of adventure, history, and relaxation made our time here so memorable—we can’t wait to return.
If you’re planning more travels around the island, don’t miss our other Dominican Republic blogs here, including personal tips and recommendations to make your travels even easier. Or check out a few of our favorites below for even more island inspiration!
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