Best Boutique Hotels in Santo Domingo

Those looking to embrace Santo Domingo's historical charm should consider bedding down at the Billini Hotel. This boutique property (which sits within the city's UNESCO World Heritage-listed Zona Colonial) showcases elements of the region's past, such as brick archways and old exposed walls in some of the guest rooms. But don't let its old-world setting fool you. The Billini Hotel has plenty of modern amenities, too. To start, all 24 suites include perks like flat-screen smart TVs, coffee makers and complimentary wireless internet access. Recent travelers especially appreciated the hotel's old-meets-new vibe and its attentive staff, though some felt the complimentary daily breakfast lacked options. Outside of your cozy digs, you'll find features like a spa, three restaurants, a cafe, a wine cellar, a business center and an outdoor pool. Past guests raved about the rooftop pool's vistas, which include a superb view of La Regina Angelorum, one of the first churches established in the New World.

The spirit of Santo Domingo permeates Casas del XVI, a remarkable hotel comprising restored buildings in the city's Zona Colonial. The property sprawls across six house settings, which all aim to combine distinct cultural influences with modern luxury. One house setting sports colonial maps and handcrafted art, another boasts brick floors and white walls accented by bright colors, and an additional house features wood, old plasters and preserved antiques. Just because Casas del XVI shows a reverence for the past doesn't mean that its guests are forced to forgo modern comforts. Amenities befit the property's high price and include iPhones and iPads on loan, flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi access, Antica Farmacista toiletries and even butler service, which impressed past travelers. What's more, Casas del XVI's Connoisseurs Program takes care of any excursions during a stay and includes offerings like clay classes, cigar workshops, art tours, cooking shows and more. Also, keep in mind that this hotel is a part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, which means that members of the INVITED rewards program can redeem reward nights here.

Standing over the cobblestone streets of Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial, this historic hotel occupies the former home of Santo Domingo's founder, Governor Nicolás de Ovando. The building features historical decor like stucco walls and wrought-iron accents. Rooms are spacious with high ceilings, satellite TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi access and minibars. When you're not snoozing or out exploring the city, recent guests recommend seeking respite from the heat by the outdoor pool or enjoy a glass of wine on the lobby bar's Spanish-style patio. The bar also serves lighter fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. For more upscale meals, dine at Restaurante 1502. Overall, past travelers enjoyed their stays here. However, some were less than impressed with the hotel's service, saying that they expected more hospitable staff, especially given the property's pricey room rates.