
Altos de Chavón
A recreated 16th-century Mediterranean village perched above the Chavón River, offering stunning architecture, an amphitheater, and artisan shops.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light for photos

Altos de Chavón
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A recreated 16th-century Mediterranean village perched above the Chavón River, offering stunning architecture, an amphitheater, and artisan shops.
"A hidden Mediterranean village in the heart of the Caribbean, where time slows down and stone-paved streets tell stories."

Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cobblestone streets can be uneven. Prioritize comfort for exploring! :athletic_shoe:
Plan for Dining
Non-resort guests can't dine after 5 PM. Plan accordingly or get invited by a resort guest! :knifeforkplate:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Amphitheater
Central village
A 5,000-seat venue carved into the hillside, once graced by Frank Sinatra and Elton John.

Artisan Shops & Galleries
Cobblestone streets
Discover handcrafted treasures, from pottery to textiles, reflecting local artistry.

St. Stanislaus Church
Village center
A beautiful, small church housing a relic sent by Pope John Paul II.

Chavón River Valley Views
Village overlooks
Breathtaking panoramic vistas of the winding river and lush landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Entry Fees & Access
Best Time to Explore
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cobblestone streets can be uneven. Prioritize comfort for exploring! :athletic_shoe:
Plan for Dining
Non-resort guests can't dine after 5 PM. Plan accordingly or get invited by a resort guest! :knifeforkplate:
Arrive Early
Beat the crowds and get the best photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
Explore the Museum
Discover pre-Columbian artifacts for a dose of history. :museum:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cobblestone streets can be uneven. Prioritize comfort for exploring! :athletic_shoe:
Plan for Dining
Non-resort guests can't dine after 5 PM. Plan accordingly or get invited by a resort guest! :knifeforkplate:
Arrive Early
Beat the crowds and get the best photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
Explore the Museum
Discover pre-Columbian artifacts for a dose of history. :museum:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Altos de Chavón is widely praised as a unique and beautiful destination, often described as a 'hidden Mediterranean village' in the Caribbean. Visitors are captivated by its stunning architecture, the impressive amphitheater, and the breathtaking river valley views. While some note the entry fee and dining restrictions for non-resort guests after 5 PM, the overall experience is considered a must-visit for its charm and historical ambiance.
"This place is an oasis. If you are interested in craftsmanship, history and supporting local artisans, this is the place. We absolutely loved the church, the amphitheater, and the museum was the highlight for us. Learning about the local indigenous culture and seeing original artifacts.
If you want an experience that’s a little more special… and to find a souvenir that really means something, this is the place.
There are small boutiques, and artists studios to visit. We didn’t eat there, but there are restaurants as well."
Garret Miller
"What an amazing place! It is such a romantic and magical place! Had the opportunity to celebrate our wedding anniversary and had the most delicious dinner with an out of this world view!!"
Crismarlyn Jimenez
"This is a place you have to visit once in your lifetime. An amphitheatre that is carved in the stone, just look at the pictures and judge for yourself, also if you like golf you can enjoy the best golf course in the Caribbean and possibly all Latinoamérica in Casa De Campo as well."
Ramon Valdez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Altos de Chavón is located within the Casa de Campo resort. If you are not staying at the resort, you will need to pay an entrance fee to access the village. Taxis and private transportation are readily available to take you to the resort's entrance.
Yes, Altos de Chavón is a cultural village located within the grounds of the Casa de Campo resort, which is near La Romana in the Dominican Republic. It's a popular day trip destination from La Romana.
Yes, you can drive to Altos de Chavón. Parking is available near the entrance, particularly close to Onno's Café. The village itself is best explored on foot.
Taxis or ride-sharing services are the most convenient ways to travel between La Romana and Altos de Chavón. The journey is relatively short.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Outside visitors typically pay an entry fee ranging from $25 to $50 USD per person, which may include access to certain areas or activities. Guests staying at Casa de Campo resort have free access.
The village is generally open daily, but specific hours for shops, galleries, and the museum can vary. It's advisable to check for any event schedules, especially if you plan to dine after 5 PM.
For general entry, advance booking is usually not required, but it's always a good idea to check their official website or contact them for any special events or concerts where tickets might be necessary.
Yes, a significant restriction is that non-resort guests are generally not allowed to dine in the village after 5 PM unless invited by a resort guest. Plan your visit accordingly.
Absolutely! While it's part of the Casa de Campo resort, Altos de Chavón is open to the public with an entrance fee for non-resort guests. It's a popular destination for day-trippers.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Explore the 16th-century Mediterranean-style village, visit the amphitheater, browse artisan shops and galleries, discover the archaeological museum, and enjoy stunning views of the Chavón River valley. You might even catch a wedding or concert!
Yes, Altos de Chavón is incredibly picturesque with its stone architecture, charming streets, and river valley views. Arriving early or during sunset offers the best light and fewer crowds for stunning photos.
Designed in the late 1970s by Dominican architect José Antonio Caro and Italian designer Roberto Coppa, it's a tribute to 16th-century Mediterranean villages, built entirely by local artisans using traditional methods.
While it's more of a cultural and scenic destination, children can enjoy exploring the village, visiting the museum, and imagining life in a historic setting. The open spaces can be fun for them to wander.
You'll find a variety of artisan shops selling handcrafted goods, including pottery, textiles, jewelry, and artwork. There are also galleries showcasing local and international art.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options include Alegría for varied menus with river views, Onno's Café for cocktails and bites near the amphitheater, Chilango Taquería for tacos, La Piazzetta for Italian, and Dye Fore Bar for drinks with panoramic views.
Generally, no. Non-resort guests are typically not permitted to dine in the village after 5 PM unless they are invited by someone staying at Casa de Campo. Plan your visit for lunch or earlier in the day.
You can find a range of cuisines, including Dominican, Mediterranean, Italian, and Mexican-inspired dishes, along with casual café fare and cocktail bars.
While some restaurants offer fine dining, places like Onno's Café or Chilango Taquería can be more budget-friendly for lighter meals or snacks. Prices can be higher due to the resort location.
📸 📸 Photography
The amphitheater, the cobblestone streets lined with artisan shops, the St. Stanislaus Church, and the viewpoints overlooking the Chavón River valley are all prime photography locations.
Early morning offers fewer crowds and soft light, while sunset provides a magical golden hour glow over the landscape.
Drone usage is typically restricted within private resorts and cultural sites. It's best to check with the resort management or local authorities before attempting to fly a drone.
While dedicated photography tours might not be common, the village's photogenic nature makes it easy to capture stunning shots independently. Consider hiring a local photographer for a personalized session.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architecture and Design
The design intentionally evokes a sense of stepping back in time, offering a stark contrast to the surrounding tropical landscape. The village is perched dramatically above the Chavón River, providing spectacular panoramic views that enhance its picturesque quality. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the village also houses a prestigious design school affiliated with Parsons, making it a vibrant hub for art and creativity. This blend of historical inspiration and contemporary artistic influence makes Altos de Chavón a unique cultural destination.
The Amphitheater: A Stage for Legends
Attending a concert here is often cited as a highlight by visitors, offering a chance to experience the magic of live music in a truly unique setting. Even when no events are scheduled, the amphitheater itself is a sight to behold, showcasing the impressive stonework and the scale of the venue. Its presence solidifies Altos de Chavón's reputation not just as a beautiful village, but as a significant cultural and entertainment landmark in the Caribbean.
Art, Culture, and History
The village is also home to numerous art galleries and artisan shops, showcasing the talents of local craftspeople. You can find everything from intricate ceramics and vibrant textiles to unique jewelry and paintings. On certain weekends, artisan markets spring up, often accompanied by live music, further enhancing the lively cultural atmosphere. The presence of the design school also contributes to a dynamic artistic environment, where students' work is often on display, adding a contemporary layer to the historical ambiance.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit