How to Get to Puerto Plata: Airport, Bus and Taxi Options

By the Puerto Plata City Guide Editorial Team · Published from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Quick answerMost visitors fly into Gregorio Luperón International Airport (POP), about 18 km east of the city center, a 25 minute taxi ride. From Santo Domingo the Caribe Tours bus runs the route in about 4 hours. Cruise passengers dock at Amber Cove or Taino Bay, both around 15 minutes from the Victorian center.

By air: Gregorio Luperón Airport (POP)

Gregorio Luperón International Airport (code POP) sits about 18 km east of Puerto Plata, between the city and Sosua. It receives direct flights from North America and Europe, mostly seasonal. A taxi from the airport to the Victorian center takes 25 to 30 minutes. Most hotels and tour operators offer prearranged transfers, which is the easiest option after a long flight.

By bus from Santo Domingo

Caribe Tours and Metro Tours run comfortable air-conditioned coaches between Santo Domingo and Puerto Plata several times a day. The trip takes about 4 hours along Autopista Duarte and the northern corridor. Buses arrive at the terminal near the city entrance, from where a short taxi ride reaches the colonial center and the Malecon.

By cruise: Amber Cove and Taino Bay

Two cruise terminals serve the area. Amber Cove, west of the city, is the larger Carnival port. Taino Bay sits closer to the colonial center. Both are about 15 minutes from the Victorian streets, the Amber Museum and the Mount Isabel cable car, which makes a half-day city tour easy to fit into a port call.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which airport do I use for Puerto Plata?

Gregorio Luperón International Airport (POP), about 18 km east of the city. A taxi to the Victorian center takes 25 to 30 minutes. It is the closest international gateway to Puerto Plata, Sosua and Cabarete.

How long is the bus from Santo Domingo to Puerto Plata?

About 4 hours with Caribe Tours or Metro Tours on air-conditioned coaches that run several times a day along the Autopista Duarte and the northern corridor.