Planning a destination wedding in Santo Domingo? If you are saying “I do” in the heart of the Caribbean‘s oldest city, you are in for a beautiful, sun-soaked celebration filled with history, culture and vibrant energy.
You want your guests to feel special and excited as you are, and that’s why we have crafted the perfect wedding weekend itinerary in the capital of the Dominican Republic.
Table of Content
- Day 1: Welcome to Santo Domingo!
- Day 2: Culture and Connection
- Day 3: Wedding Day!
- Day 4: Farewell Brunch (Optional)
Day 1: Welcome to Santo Domingo!
Guest Arrival
As your friends and family arrive in the city, make their welcome special for a destination wedding. Set them up in charming boutique hotels or classic favorites in the Colonial Zone. Leave a sweet surprise in their rooms – think welcome bags with local goodies and a handwritten note.
Toast to the Weekend
Kick things off with a rooftop cocktail hour with sunset views, tropical drinks and soft merengue in the background.
Want to take it a step further? Host a casual welcome dinner at a restaurant like Mesón de Bari, where colorful art, live music and dominican flavor come together, or Pat’e Palo European Brasserie in the famously Plaza de España, which was built in the 16th Century.
Day 2: Culture and Connection
Start the day with a guided walking tour through the Colonial Zone, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Guests will love wandering the cobblestone streets, visiting places like the first cathedral in the Americas, the Peña Defillo Museum and snapping pictures at landmarks like Alcazar de Colón and Calle Las Damas.
Refuel with lunch at Maraca, a lush garden restaurant that feels like an oasis in the middle of the city. Then, let guests roam – wether they want to grab a coffee, shop for handmade crafts, or unwind back at the hotel, give them a few hours of flexibility.
Now for something special: a rehearsal dinner in a private colonial courtyard with candlelight and local cuisine or experience the culinary culture of the caribbean at Casarré (recommended) to make the day totally unforgettable.
Day 3: Wedding Day!
Morning: Me-Time or Mini Adventures
Whether guests want to sleep in, hit the spa, or grab breakfast with friends, this part of the day should be relaxed. For the early birds, you can suggest a quick museum visit, coffee at Casa Barista & Co or immerse yourself in the transformation from cacao pods, to fine and exquisite chocolate at Kahkow Experience.
Afternoon: Time to Get Married!
Your ceremony might be in a historic church like Catedral Primada de America, Iglesia y Convento Regina Angelorum, Iglesia de las Mercedes or Convento de los Dominicos, a tropical garden, or a lush hotel like Casas del Siglo XVI and the Kimpton Las Mercedes– whatever fits your style. Be sure to offer transportation and include little touches like fans, parasols, or chilled coconuts for that tropical flair.
Evening: Let’s Celebrate
Now it’s time for the reception – dinner, dancing and joy all night long. Don’t forget to include the “hora loca” – a high energy Dominican party hour with dancers, masks and upbeat music that gets everyone on their feet. You can celebrate at one of the hotels previously mentioned or we would definitely recommend the Quinta Dominica or the Portazul venue (gallery link) .
Day 4: Farewell Brunch (Optional)
If your guests aren’t heading to the airport just yet, gather one last time for a farewell brunch. Keep it simple – mimosas, dominican coffee and lots of hugs. It’s the perfect way to wrap up a weekend of love, laughter and memories on a destination wedding.
