Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) is located approximately 25 km east of the Zona Colonial in Santo Domingo, the historic heart of the Dominican Republic's capital. The journey takes 30-45 minutes by taxi or private transfer via the Las Américas highway.

About Zona Colonial

The Zona Colonial (Colonial Zone) of Santo Domingo is the oldest permanent European settlement in the Americas, founded by Bartholomew Columbus in 1498 and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The neighborhood's cobblestoned streets and pastel-colored colonial buildings preserve over 500 years of history, centered around the Catedral Primada de América — the first cathedral built in the New World.

The Alcázar de Colón (Columbus Alcazar), a coral limestone palace built by Diego Columbus (Christopher's son) in 1510, overlooks the Plaza España and the Ozama River. The Fortaleza Ozama, the oldest European military fortification in the Americas, offers panoramic views from its tower. The Calle de las Damas (Street of the Ladies), the first paved street in the New World, is lined with colonial mansions now housing museums and cultural centers.

Modern Zona Colonial has reinvented itself as Santo Domingo's trendiest neighborhood, with a vibrant nightlife scene along Calle Hostos and Calle Isabel la Católica. Rooftop bars, art galleries, live merengue and bachata music, and restaurants serving elevated Dominican cuisine give the area an energy that blends historical gravitas with Caribbean joie de vivre. The Malecón waterfront promenade, extending west from the Zona Colonial, is a favorite sunset walk.

Nearby Landmarks

Catedral Primada Alcázar de Colón Fortaleza Ozama Calle de las Damas Plaza España

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost $30-40 USD
Time 25-35 min

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Exit SDQ arrivals and proceed to the taxi area outside the terminal
2. Negotiate a fare to Zona Colonial ($30-40 USD) or book via Uber ($20-30)
3. The drive follows the Las Américas highway west into the city (30-45 min)
4. You will be dropped at the edge of the Zona Colonial (limited vehicle access inside)
5. There are no public buses from SDQ to the Zona Colonial — taxi/Uber is the only practical option

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi $30-40 USD 25-35 min Convenience, groups, heavy luggage

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Taxis are available at SDQ 24 hours. The fare to Zona Colonial is approximately $30-40 USD (fixed rate — negotiate before boarding). Uber operates in Santo Domingo and is typically cheaper ($20-30). The Zona Colonial has vibrant nightlife Thursday through Saturday, with taxis and rideshare readily available in the area.

Luggage Tips

Taxis and Uber handle luggage for this route. The Zona Colonial streets are cobblestoned and uneven — wheeled luggage is challenging on the last stretch to your hotel. Many colonial hotels are in restored buildings with stairs and no elevators. Confirm your hotel's accessibility before booking.

Accessibility

SDQ airport has wheelchair assistance. The Zona Colonial is challenging for wheelchair users due to cobblestones, high curbs, narrow sidewalks, and historic buildings without elevators. Some newer hotels have made accessibility improvements. The Malecón waterfront has a paved, relatively accessible path.