Discovering Paradise
Discovering Paradise
From international airports to local guaguas, here's everything you need to navigate the Dominican Republic like a pro.
The Dominican Republic has 8 international airports. The busiest ones for tourists are:
Punta Cana
Busiest airport — most resort tourists arrive here
Santo Domingo
Main airport for the capital city
Santiago
Serves the north-central region
Puerto Plata
Gateway to the north coast
La Romana
Close to Casa de Campo resort
Samaná
Convenient for Samaná Peninsula
Available at airports, hotels, and major tourist areas. No meters — always agree on the fare before getting in. Airport to Punta Cana resorts: ~$30–50 USD.
Uber works in Santo Domingo and Santiago. InDriver is popular nationwide. Both offer transparent pricing and are generally cheaper than taxis.
Motorcycle taxis are cheap and fast for short distances. Popular with locals but riskier for tourists. Negotiate fares beforehand.
Most resorts offer airport shuttle services (often included or ~$25–40 per person). Book in advance through your hotel.
Comfortable, air-conditioned coach buses connecting major cities. Santo Domingo to Santiago takes about 2.5 hours and costs around $7 USD. Book tickets at the station or online.
The most affordable option — minibuses that follow set routes between towns. Very cheap (RD$50–150) but can be crowded and slow. A great way to travel like a local.
The Caribbean's only metro system! Two lines covering major areas of Santo Domingo. Clean, fast, and just RD$20 per ride (~$0.35 USD). Great for avoiding traffic.
Renting a car gives you maximum freedom to explore the island at your own pace. Rates start from $25–40/day for a compact car.
The DR offers some scenic boat routes, particularly for reaching islands and coastal areas:
| Transport | Typical Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Guagua (local bus) | $0.50–$2 | Budget travelers |
| Metro (Santo Domingo) | $0.35 | City commuting |
| Caribe Tours bus | $5–$12 | City-to-city travel |
| Uber / InDriver | $3–$15 | Short-medium city trips |
| Taxi (negotiated) | $10–$50 | Airport transfers, convenience |
| Car rental | $25–$40/day | Exploring at your own pace |
Check out our local insider tips to make the most of your Dominican Republic visit.