History comes alive along the atmospheric streets and squares of the Colonial Zone (Ciudad Colonial or Zona Colonial). Dating back to the early 1500s, the UNESCO-listed Colonial Zone is the first permanent Spanish-built settlement on the American continent. Walk in the footsteps of explorers and pirates, admire grandiose buildings and stroll along charming streets lined with cafés and galleries.

Gaze at a statue of Christopher Columbus and the Cathedral of Santo Domingo in Parque Colón. The cathedral is the oldest on the continent and notable for its striking limestone facade, vaulted interior and ornate chapels. Tour the Alcázar de Colón, the Gothic Mudéjar-style palace commissioned by Christopher Columbus’s son Diego when he was the 4th Governor of the Indies. Diego also lived at Fortaleza Ozama, believed to be the oldest permanent military structure in the Americas.

For an overview of events that shaped the region’s colonial history, visit the Museum of the Royal Houses. The Memorial Museum of Dominican Resistance recounts the tumultuous rule of Dominican dictator Rafael Trujillo. See exhibitions of precious stones at the Amber World Museum and minerals at the Larimar Museum. Find interactive nature and science exhibits at the Trampoline Children’s Museum.

Graceful 16th-century buildings frame Las Damas Street, the first paved street in the Americas and one once walked by noble families. Follow the street to Plaza España and people-watch from pavement cafés such as the 500-year-old Pat’e Palo. Browse street-side art vendors, peruse souvenir shops and dine at restaurants on El Conde Street.

Pass through the Puerta del Conde, a former entrance to the walled city, to reach the airy Parque Independencia. Dominating the park is the Altar de la Patria, a marble mausoleum for a group of national heroes known as La Trinitaria. Attend dance, music and theater events at the Casa de Teatro and Spanish Cultural Center.

The Colonial Zone sits on the west bank of the Ozama River. Tour the streets by foot or onboard the Chu Chu Colonial tourist train. Retreat to hotels set inside old colonial mansions after a day of sightseeing.