Caribbean, pristine white-sand beaches, tropical nature, and cities rich in history—this is the backdrop for a journey to the Dominican Republic, forever one of the most coveted destinations for a winter getaway. And hear this… In the coming months reaching it from Italy will become even easier thanks to a significant development in flight connections.
Starting from the end of November, in fact, ITA Airways will inaugurate the new direct flight between Rome Fiumicino and Santo Domingo, creating a nonstop link perfect for those already planning a warm vacation during the European winter. One more reason to rediscover a country that isn’t made solely of resorts and postcard beaches, but also of colonial cities, natural parks, waterfalls and small paradises facing the Caribbean Sea.
The new ITA Airways flight from Rome to Santo Domingo
The big novelty of ITA Airways’ winter season 2026-2027 concerns the Dominican Republic itself. From November 30, 2026 the airline will launch the new seasonal direct link between Rome Fiumicino and Santo Domingo, ITA Airways’ first destination in Central America. ITA Airways Initially the flight will operate once a week, on Mondays, while from December 14 a second weekly frequency will be added, on Sundays, planned until the end of March 2027. The route will be operated using Airbus A330neo configured in the Business, Premium Economy and Economy cabins.
According to the timetable currently published by the airline, the Rome-Santo Domingo flight will have an estimated duration of about 11 hours and 5 minutes, while the return journey will last about 9 hours and 45 minutes. The new direct makes it particularly interesting to plan a trip to the Dominican Republic now, especially in view of winter: you will be able to reach the capital non-stop and, from there, build an itinerary that goes beyond the classic all-inclusive holidays.
What to See in the Dominican Republic
The first place to explore is Santo Domingo itself, a capital that is worth much more than a simple arrival stop. The historic heart is the Ciudad Colonial, where historic buildings, squares and testimonies of the colonial era recount a fundamental part of the island’s history. It is the most cultural side of the Dominican Republic and allows you to alternate sea time and visits from the early days of the trip.
For those dreaming of postcard Caribbean scenery, the seaside towns remain non negotiable. Punta Cana is the classic staple, with long tropical beaches and a wide array of resorts, while the area of Bayahibe and La Romana is one of the most interesting bases for excursions and days at sea. Among the area’s beloved destinations is also Saona Island, famed for its crystal-clear waters and beaches framed by tropical vegetation.
Those seeking a wilder face can head to the Samaná Peninsula, with coves, forests and landscapes that are decidedly greener. Here you’ll also find Las Terrenas, a place that blends Caribbean atmosphere, beaches and a lively tourist scene. It is worth considering also the country’s interior. Areas like Jarabacoa and Constanza reveal a Dominican Republic very different from the more classic image: mountains, trails, waterfalls and cooler temperatures transform the trip into something decidedly more varied.
