Things to Do at Alcázar de Colón

Complete Guide to Alcázar de Colón in Santodomingo

About Alcázar de Colón

The Alcázar de Colón stands as one of the most significant colonial monuments in the Americas, serving as the former residence of Diego Columbus, son of Christopher Columbus, and his wife María de Toledo. Built between 1510 and 1514, this magnificent coral stone palace represents the first fortified European residence in the New World and showcases exceptional Gothic and Renaissance architectural elements that have been meticulously preserved over five centuries. Today, the Alcázar de Colón functions as a museum displaying an extraordinary collection of period furniture, tapestries, and decorative arts from the 15th and 16th centuries. The palace's 22 rooms offer visitors an intimate glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of Spanish colonial nobility, while its strategic location overlooking the Ozama River provides stunning views of Santo Domingo's historic waterfront and the Caribbean Sea.

What to See & Do

Columbus Family Portraits Gallery

View original paintings and portraits of the Columbus family members, including rare depictions of Diego Columbus and María de Toledo in their ceremonial attire

Renaissance Furniture Collection

Admire authentic 16th-century Spanish and Flemish furniture pieces, including ornate wooden chests, carved chairs, and elaborate dining sets used by the Columbus family

Tapestry Hall

Marvel at the collection of medieval European tapestries depicting hunting scenes, religious themes, and noble court life that once adorned the palace walls

River Terrace and Gardens

Explore the reconstructed colonial gardens and stone terraces that offer panoramic views of the Ozama River and Santo Domingo's colonial architecture

Archaeological Exhibition

Discover pre-Columbian Taíno artifacts and colonial-era archaeological findings uncovered during the palace's restoration process

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Tuesday through Sunday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed on Mondays and major holidays

Tickets & Pricing

Adults 100 Dominican pesos, students and seniors 50 pesos, children under 12 free, guided tours available for additional 200 pesos

Best Time to Visit

Early morning between 9:00-10:30 AM or late afternoon after 3:30 PM to avoid crowds and harsh midday sun

Suggested Duration

Allow 90 minutes to 2 hours for a complete visit including all rooms and outdoor areas

Getting There

The Alcázar de Colón is located in the heart of Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone at Plaza de Armas, easily accessible on foot from most downtown hotels. Take the Metro to Catedral station and walk 5 minutes east toward the Ozama River. From Las Américas International Airport, taxi rides take 45-60 minutes depending on traffic, while public buses (Voladoras) run regularly from the airport to Parque Independencia, requiring a short 10-minute walk to reach the Alcázar de Colón.

Things to Do Nearby

Catedral Primada de América
The first cathedral built in the New World, located just 200 meters west of the Alcázar, featuring stunning Gothic architecture and Columbus's supposed tomb
Fortaleza Ozama
A 16th-century fortress and UNESCO World Heritage site situated 150 meters south, offering commanding views of the Caribbean Sea and colonial fortifications
Calle Las Damas
The oldest paved street in the Americas, running directly past the Alcázar, lined with colonial mansions, boutiques, and traditional Dominican restaurants
Museo de las Casas Reales
Former Spanish colonial government palace located 300 meters northwest, displaying extensive collections of colonial weapons, maps, and administrative artifacts
Plaza de Armas
The historic central square directly in front of the Alcázar de Colón, featuring colonial architecture, street performers, and traditional craft vendors

Tips & Advice

Visit the Alcázar de Colón's upper floors first as they contain the most significant historical artifacts and offer the best river views before crowds arrive
Bring a camera with good low-light capabilities since photography is permitted throughout the Alcázar de Colón but interior lighting is deliberately kept dim to preserve artifacts
Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip as the Alcázar de Colón features original coral stone floors that can be slippery, especially on the outdoor terraces
Purchase the combined ticket at the entrance that includes access to both the Alcázar de Colón and nearby Fortaleza Ozama for significant savings over individual admissions

Tours & Activities at Alcázar de Colón