Picolo recommends · Hotel in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Hodelpa Nicolas de Ovando
Stone arches, shaded courtyards and walls that have stood since the 1500s, on the oldest street in the Colonial Zone.
Step off Calle Las Damas and the noise of the city drops behind thick stone walls. The hotel stretches across several houses from the 1500s, linked by arched courtyards that keep the heat at bay.
From the pool you can see the Ozama river. Outside the door is the Colonial Zone, the old Spanish quarter, with the cathedral, the fortress and plenty of restaurants a few minutes away.
Picolo’s verdict
Why we chose Hodelpa Nicolas de Ovando
We picked it as the place to see the Dominican Republic’s history up close. Two or three nights here, before or after the beach, show you a side of the country most resort guests never see.
Santo Domingo is hot, busy and loud, and this is not a beach holiday. If you only want sun and sand, skip the city and head straight for the coast.
What you get
- Rooms in 16th-century stone houses
- Arched courtyards
- Pool overlooking the Ozama river
- Restaurants of the Colonial Zone nearby
- On Calle Las Damas
A day at Hodelpa Nicolas de Ovando
- Morning
- A walk to the cathedral before the tour groups arrive.
- Midday
- Back to the shade of the courtyard while the sun is high.
- Afternoon
- A swim with a view of the Ozama river.
- Evening
- Dinner at one of the restaurants a short walk away in the Colonial Zone.
Location
Calle Las Damas, Zona Colonial, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Open in MapsQuestions about Hodelpa Nicolas de Ovando
How old are the buildings at Hodelpa Nicolas de Ovando?
The hotel occupies several stone houses dating from the 16th century, with original arches and courtyards kept intact.
Does Hodelpa Nicolas de Ovando have a pool?
Yes. Guests swim with a view of the Ozama river, which is welcome after a hot day in the city.
How many nights should you spend at Hodelpa Nicolas de Ovando?
Two or three nights is usually enough to see the Colonial Zone, ideally combined with a beach stay elsewhere in the country.
Updated 6 Nov 2026All articles
How Picolo chooses
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