This useful information takes a better have a look at the place to remain in Puerto Vallarta. In case you’re dreaming of stress-free on the seaside, indulging in mouth-watering delicacies, and sipping cocktails whereas watching the sundown, then perhaps it’s time to plan a visit to Mexico. PV is the proper vacation spot for all the above.
Finest Areas to Keep in Puerto Vallarta
Let’s get right down to enterprise and work out the place to remain in Puerto Vallarta. Right here’s a fast have a look at one of the best areas in PV for a number of completely different classes:
Are you on the lookout for a secluded all-inclusive resort with a non-public seaside? Would you favor to be within the heart of the bustling nightlife? Or perhaps you’d prefer to expertise a extra native aspect of PV? These are essential issues to think about when on the lookout for locations to remain in Puerto Vallarta.
Town extends from the airport south by El Centro and Previous City/Romantic Zone right down to Conchas Chinas. With the ocean to the entrance and the Sierra Madre mountains to the again, most of the greatest neighborhoods in Puerto Vallarta are on the hillside.
Despite the fact that it’s not a really massive metropolis, you’ll wish to contemplate one of the best Puerto Vallarta neighborhoods for you. I’ve spent a number of years residing in Puerto Vallarta as a digital nomad and have stayed in many alternative components of the town. That is considered one of my favourite locations to go to in Mexico, so I’m excited to share some suggestions with you and provide help to plan the proper journey.
1. El Centro: Finest Place to Keep in Puerto Vallarta for Your First Time
If it’s your first time in PV, I extremely recommend skipping the all-inclusive resort and staying in El Centro. I get the enchantment of the AI keep, however save that for a return go to. Belief me – you’ll be again…
El Centro is the proper place to base your self for a primary go to to the town. To start with, it’s the central a part of city (therefore the title). That is the place you’ll discover the Cathedral of our Woman of Guadalupe, which is the image of Puerto Vallarta.
This neighborhood can be the place a lot of the well-known Malecon is positioned. As the middle of city, it is a busy industrial space as properly with loads of choices for buying and eating. Click on right here to search out El Centro on the map.
Professionals of Staying in El Centro
- Most central location in PV
- Great place to absorb native tradition
- Shut proximity to a number of the main sights
- A few of the greatest eating places on the town
- Fairly good nightlife scene
- Very simple to get round on foot, by bus, or taxi
Cons of Staying in El Centro
- Busy streets with fixed visitors
- May be noisy relying on the situation
- Might need to stand up and down a steep hill
- Tight residing quarters
- Barely restricted choice for lodging and nightlife
Finest Locations to Keep in El Centro
El Centro may be very a lot an area ‘hood, so it’s not stuffed with resorts and all-inclusive resorts. That being mentioned, there are many nice locations to put your head right here.
1. Resort Porto Allegro: This central lodge affords nice bang to your buck. There’s a free breakfast and a pleasant terrace with a plunge pool and views of the cathedral. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Casa Kimberly: How would you want to remain within the former residence of a few film stars? That’s what you’ll get at this well-known PV lodge which additionally has probably the greatest eating places within the metropolis. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Blaze Resort & Suites: The situation of this lodge is tough to beat. You’re simply two blocks from the Malecon however distant sufficient to not hear the noise from the nightclubs. Click on right here for particulars.
Prime Issues To Do in El Centro
There’s lots to do in El Centro inside strolling distance of your lodging. A lot of the prime issues to do within the metropolis are positioned on this space. That’s what makes it one of many prime locations to remain in Puerto Vallarta for anybody.
1. Stroll the Malecon: Strolling alongside PV’s oceanfront promenade is excessive on each customer’s to-do listing, and for good motive. It’s stuffed with beautiful sculptures and the people-watching is all the time nice. For a extra adventurous expertise, you’ll be able to bounce on an electrical bike for a tour of El Centro that additionally takes you into the mountains. Click on right here to study extra and e book.
2. Hike to the Cross: For probably the greatest views on the town, hike up the hill to the cross (click on right here for instructions). This isn’t a lot a “hike” as it’s a stroll up a steep sidewalk after which some stairs. I’ve made it from the Malecon to the highest in 10-12 minutes strolling at a brisk tempo. You may get a bit sweaty however it’s price it for the view!
3. See the Cathedral and Important Sq.: The crown jewel of PV is definitely the Cathedral of Our Woman of Guadalupe. It’s a surprising church with an intricate cupola. One nice solution to discover all that El Centro has to supply is by taking a metropolis tour. Along with the primary sights, it additionally options espresso and tequila tastings. Click on right here to study extra.
The place to Eat and Drink in El Centro
El Centro is residence to a number of the very best eating places within the metropolis. Listed here are three that you just’ll positively wish to add to your listing:
1. La Cappella: Whereas I absolutely advocate for consuming all the native meals (together with road tacos), this Italian restaurant is without doubt one of the greatest locations to eat in PV. It has a terrace with the proper view of the church and its cupola, which is the place it will get its title. In case you fancy a sundown dinner right here, you’d higher e book upfront. Click on right here for instructions.
2. The Iguana: As soon as upon a time, film stars Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor fell in love with one another and the town whereas on set in Puerto Vallarta. Their former house is now a lodge known as Casa Kimberly, which is residence to this unbelievable restaurant.
My spouse and I’ve been to numerous good eating places in PV and this one is definitely within the prime three. The menu adjustments with the seasons and it’s all the time a high quality eating expertise. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Cafe des Artistes: Finishing the trio of El Centro eating places is that this absolute gem of a spot. The complete restaurant is a murals, from the mural that adorns the entrance to the elegant dishes that arrive at your desk.
They’ve a number of completely different areas within the restaurant and the menu is all the time altering. That is one other place you’ll wish to reserve upfront to keep away from disappointment. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Previous City: Finest Space in Puerto Vallarta for Nightlife
In case you’ve come to PV to celebration (as many do), you’ll wish to keep within the space generally known as Previous City or the Romantic Zone (Zona Romantica in Spanish). That is the place to be after the solar goes down.
After a giant night time out in town, you’ll wish to calm down on la playa. You’ll be in simply the appropriate place, as this neighborhood is the house of Los Muertos Seaside – a focus for any customer to Puerto Vallarta.
As well as, there are tons of cafes, spas, eating places, outlets, bars, and nightclubs right here. You’ll by no means run out of choices for the place to buy, eat, calm down, or drink within the Romantic Zone. That is positively one of the best space to remain in Puerto Vallarta for these trying to have time. I’ve spent many an evening on this space! Click on right here to search out this neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta on the map.
Professionals of Staying in Previous City
- Quick access to Los Muertos Seaside
- Nice culinary scene, from road meals to high-end eating places
- Epic nightlife
- Heart of the LGBTQ scene, AKA the “Gayborhood”
- Handy transportation choices
- Brief journey to seashores south of PV
Cons of Staying in Previous City
- May be loud… like, actually, actually loud
- Very crowded throughout excessive season, weekends, and holidays
- Extra security issues than in different areas
- May really feel like a “strolling ATM”
Finest Locations to Keep in Previous City (Zona Romantica)
There’s no scarcity of lodging choices in Previous City and there’s one thing for each price range and elegance. Listed here are a couple of of one of the best selections:
1. Tropicana: If you wish to be proper on Los Muertos Seaside, that is the place for you. In addition they have an enormous pool overlooking the seaside in order that’s a giant plus. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Joint Boutique Resort: It is a nice lodge alternative for digital nomads because it’s residence to probably the greatest coworking areas in PV. Once you’re able to calm down, you’ll be able to soak within the sizzling tub or e book a therapeutic massage. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Casa Nicole: Company rave concerning the glorious breakfast spot at this lodge. In addition they have a gymnasium so you’ll be able to work it off later within the day! Click on right here for particulars.
Prime Issues To Do in Previous City (Zona Romantica)
Whereas Previous City is one of the best place to remain in Puerto Vallarta for nightlife, there’s extra to this neighborhood than simply partying.
1. Los Muertos Seaside: Days in Previous City are greatest spent on the seaside. The way you select to spend it’s as much as you… There’s all the time the nice old style solar lounger & umbrella combo, which often results in fish tacos and margaritas in my expertise.
2. Social gathering it Up: As I discussed, Previous City is the place to be in the event you’re trying to partake within the nightlife. You’ll find it right here whether or not you’re on the lookout for a cultured rooftop bar or a dingy dive, a cocktail lounge or a craft brewery, a rowdy nightclub, or quiet cocktails.
3. Boat Journey: In case you’re staying proper by the pier, you may as properly add a ship journey to your PV itinerary. There are a number of choices for excursions at sea reminiscent of this superior journey to Yelapa to hike to a waterfall together with some snorkeling in Majahuitas.
The place to Eat and Drink in Previous City (Zona Romantica)
Previous City has a whole bunch of bars, eating places, and golf equipment. You’ll be able to keep right here for a number of weeks and take a look at one thing new for each meal and each Pleased Hour.
1. La Palapa: There’s nothing like having a candle-lit dinner on the seaside and that’s what you’ll get right here. This is without doubt one of the greatest eating places on the town. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Tuna Azul: In case you’re on the lookout for some tasty seafood in PV, I extremely suggest this place. The crab tacos are nice, as are the tuna sashimi tostadas. Click on right here for instructions.
3. El Soñador: That is considered one of my favourite bars on the planet. In case you’re not into taking pictures pool downstairs, go to the terrace the place the celebration’s raging most nights. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Versalles: Coolest Place to Keep in Puerto Vallarta
That is positively probably the greatest neighborhoods in Puerto Vallarta. It’s change into considerably of a foodie haven lately.
Each time I’m going again to Puerto Vallarta, I do know there will probably be a number of new eating places to strive in Versalles. Along with loads of native fare, there’s additionally Greek, Japanese, and even Nashville sizzling rooster.
Staying in Versalles, you’ll seemingly meet a number of digital nomads in addition to full-time residents. It’s an excellent spot to be if you wish to expertise extra of an area vibe than you’ll discover in Previous City. Click on right here to search out Versalles on the map.
Professionals of Staying in Versalles
- Wonderful culinary scene
- Extra native than touristy
- Quick access to downtown and the airport
- Seaside inside strolling distance
Cons of Staying in Versalles
- A lot of building within the space
- Not many resorts to select from
- Nightlife choices are restricted
- May be an costly/lengthy cab experience after an evening out
Finest Locations to Keep in Versalles
As I discussed, there aren’t a ton of lodging choices right here. Many locations are simply residences which might be rented out short-term, however listed below are some good selections:
1. Secrets and techniques Vallarta: This all-inclusive resort is for adults solely. So in the event you’re on the lookout for a soothing seaside trip, look no additional. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Zenharmony Suites: In case you’re on the lookout for a bit extra space than a lodge room and wish to really feel what it’s prefer to dwell in PV, this is a superb alternative. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Resort Suites Mar Elena: This lodge on the beachside of the freeway has some stable opinions. They’ve plenty of choices together with one-bedroom residences and cheap charges. Click on right here for particulars.
Prime Issues To Do in Versalles
This is without doubt one of the greatest areas to remain in Puerto Vallarta to only take it simple, take pleasure in some good meals, and calm down on the seaside.
1. Take a Meals Tour: When on this foodie neighborhood, you’ll wish to strive as many locations as doable. That’s why it’s price it to go along with a educated native information.
2. Chill on the Seaside: Playa Las Glorias is the native seaside in Versalles. This seaside is extra laid-back than Los Muertos and there aren’t many companies right here, so it’s a great place to convey an OXXO picnic and some drinks. Click on right here for instructions.
3. See Dwell Music: There are a couple of good spots to catch some dwell tunes in Versalles, together with Whiskey Kitchen. Click on right here for instructions.
The place to Eat and Drink in Versalles
For a small neighborhood, Versalles actually packs a punch with locations to eat and drink. Listed here are just some of my faves:
1. El Puerco de Oro: These pork stomach tacos are life-changing. That’s all you might want to know! Click on right here for instructions.
2. LAMARA: A few of the greatest ceviche and aguachile in PV is on the menu right here. Order a couple of completely different plates and go household type for certain. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Mykonos: In case you want a break from Mexican meals, this Greek restaurant actually hits the spot. Click on right here for instructions.
4. Resort Zone: Finest for Households
For these touring with youngsters, the Resort Zone is an efficient alternative. Of all of the Puerto Vallarta neighborhoods, that is one of the best guess for households.
Because the title suggests, this space is stuffed with resorts. Most of them have facilities like swimming pools and playgrounds, and a few even have daycare choices.
Many of those resorts are all-inclusive and have loads of kid-friendly meals selections on the menus together with virgin cocktails and the like. For the adults, there are many basic Mexican food and drinks choices. Click on right here to search out it on the map.
Professionals of Staying within the Resort Zone
- A lot of lodging selections
- Child-friendly and adults-only choices
- Quick access to the airport
- A protracted stretch of seaside
Cons of Staying within the Resort Zone
- Not many eating places or bars exterior of the resorts
- Overpriced touristy outlets
- Not a lot of an area expertise
- May be costly
Finest Locations to Keep within the Resort Zone
You gained’t be stunned to search out out that there are many resorts on this secure neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta. Listed here are a couple of of one of the best choices:
1. Resort Mio: This adults-only lodge has an excellent rooftop pool with ocean views. It’s additionally conveniently positioned proper on the primary street. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Fiesta Americana: This highly-rated all-inclusive resort has one thing for everybody, whether or not you’re touring with youngsters or not. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Krystal Grand: Also referred to as the Hacienda at Hilton, this all-inclusive resort is correct on the seaside. Click on right here for particulars.
Prime Issues To Do within the Resort Zone
For a lot of guests to the Resort Zone, a trip right here is all about some good old style R&R. It’s a type of posh areas of Puerto Vallarta the place you simply wish to sip a margarita on the seaside. There are nonetheless some adventures available, although.
1. Rhythms of the Evening: This is without doubt one of the top-rated excursions in PV and for good motive. It’s an excellent enjoyable night with a sundown cruise, open bar, scrumptious dinner, and an incredible present on a secluded seaside.
2. Hop On Hop Off Metropolis Bus: In case you’re staying within the Resort Zone, an effective way to spend a day is by taking this bus with an audio tour up and down the coast.
3. San Pancho and Sayulita: Whereas PV is nice, there’s rather more to discover in Banderas Bay. The cities of Sayulita and San Pancho to the north are properly price a day journey.
The place to Eat and Drink within the Resort Zone
Since many individuals select to go the AI route right here, they have an inclination to stay to their resort. There are nonetheless a couple of nice eating places price testing, although.
1. La Leche: Sure, the title of this restaurant means “the milk,” however don’t let that deter you. It’s a contemporary and classy restaurant with an ever-changing menu that’s all the time ranked among the many greatest in PV. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Oasis del Holi: This unassuming native joint on the seaside is a good place for some contemporary seafood, chilly beers, and sundown views. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Cerveceria Chapultepec: A well-liked chain from Guadalajara, this spot churns out small plates and drinks for round 20 pesos ($1 USD) every. It’s a enjoyable place to hang around with locals and pre-game earlier than going out in town. Click on right here for instructions.
5. Marina Vallarta: Luxurious Space to Keep in Puerto Vallarta
Marina Vallarta is certainly the flowery a part of the town. That is the place the enormous cruise ships dock, welcoming 1000’s upon 1000’s of tourists to PV every year. Town is engaged on an enormous new cruise terminal known as Puerto Mágico (Magic Port) that may embody a tequila museum and an aquarium.
In case you’re studying this text, although, you’re in all probability not headed to Puerto Vallarta on a cruise ship. However, this space isn’t only for cruise passengers, because the Marina can be residence to a world-class golf course and loads of upscale outlets and lodging.
It’s a extremely popular spot for households or for many who search a little bit of peace and quiet (and luxurious) on their trip. Click on right here to search out it on the map.
Professionals of Staying in Marina Vallarta
- Luxurious lodging choices
- Quieter than Centro and Romanic Zone
- Pedestrian boardwalk
- 18 gap golf course
- Nice eating
- Many buying choices
- Near the airport
Cons of Staying in Marina Vallarta
- Costlier than different areas of Puerto Vallarta
- Not as conventional or genuine
- Not one of the best seashores
- Longer journey to get into the middle if you wish to exit for the night time
Finest Locations to Keep within the Marina Vallarta
1. San Tropico: This boutique lodge is very rated due to its lovely, peaceable grounds. There are colourful murals everywhere in the property, which is principally a giant backyard. Right here you’ll be able to sit back in a hammock, take a dip within the outside pool, and even be a part of a free yoga class. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Velas Vallarta Suites: This high-end resort has a couple of completely different swimming pools (one even has a swim-up bar!) in addition to a pleasant beachfront space with solar loungers and cover tents for shade. There’s additionally a spa and a health heart, and it’s positioned proper close to the world-class Marina Vallarta Golf Membership if you wish to hit the hyperlinks. Click on right here to study extra.
3. Casa Velas: This resort is certainly on the pricier aspect, however they’ve bought stellar opinions and are adults-only. In the case of Puerto Vallarta resorts, this one is price splurging on. Click on right here to see the most recent worth from Reserving.com.
Issues To Do in Marina Vallarta
- Go {Golfing} at Marina Vallarta Golf Membership (early within the morning or late night, in any other case it’s too sizzling!)
- Go to the El Faro Lighthouse
- Stroll across the marina admiring the attractive yachts
- Go on a luxurious sundown sail that leaves from the Marina. Discover out extra right here.
The place to Eat and Drink in Marina Vallarta
There are many nice meals choices right here, lots of that are worldwide delicacies.
1. Casa Ritual for Sushi: in the event you like sushi, you gained’t wish to miss the genuine sushi at this beautiful boutique lodge. The small restaurant serves up incredible nigiri and completely offered plates. It’s costly however price it.
2. Mr. Cream Pancakes and Waffles: this enjoyable restaurant does breakfast excellent. Come right here for pancakes and waffles because the title suggests, or go for one thing extra native just like the chilaquiles.
6. 5 de Diciembre
I need to admit I’m a fan of the neighborhood generally known as 5D because it’s the place I’ve spent essentially the most time in PV. This native ‘hood is in between the Resort Zone and El Centro, with hilly streets that jut as much as the mountains. It’s residence to Playa Camarones, which is a enjoyable native seaside that’s all the time stuffed with the sounds of wandering mariachi bands.
It’s probably the greatest neighborhoods to remain in Puerto Vallarta because it’s nonetheless near all of the motion of El Centro and the Romantic Zone. Staying here’s a bit simpler on the pockets, although, and it’s not fairly as loud at night time.
That being mentioned, that is very a lot an area Mexican neighborhood. It’s possible you’ll hear canine, roosters, and the occasional mid-week fiesta…
Professionals of Staying in 5 de Diciembre
- Very native neighborhood
- Good views from the highest of the hill
- Has a seaside
- Superior eating places and road meals
- Cheaper than different areas
Cons of Staying in 5 de Diciembre
- May be very noisy
- Cobblestone streets and hills could be robust to navigate
- Not many lodge selections
- Just a few bars to select from
Finest Locations to Keep in 5 de Diciembre
There aren’t a ton of resorts in 5D, however there are some stable selections close to the seaside. Listed here are a few of my faves:
1. Villa Premiere: This beachfront lodge has a pleasant pool, a swim-up bar, a sauna, and extra. Click on right here for particulars.
2. The Paramar: It is a new lodge proper on the seaside with ocean views from many rooms. Some pals stayed there not too long ago and actually loved the rooftop pool. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Buenaventura Grand Resort: In case you’re trying to do the all-inclusive factor on this space, then the Buenaventura is your greatest guess. Click on right here for particulars.
Prime Issues To Do in 5 de Diciembre
With the ocean to the entrance and mountains to the again, there are many alternatives for adventures when staying in 5D.
1. Horseback Using with ATV and Zipline: Cruising by city and as much as the mountains on an ATV is a enjoyable solution to spend a day in PV. You even have the choice to tack on an ATV experience and a zipline course.
2. Night Taco Journey: A significant motive that 5D is without doubt one of the greatest locations to remain in Puerto Vallarta is all of the superior road meals. In case you’re not snug simply selecting your individual taco stalls, bounce on a tour with an area information.
3. Tacos & Tequila: These are a couple of of my favourite issues and that is the proper nieghborhood to take pleasure in each. This tour is tons of enjoyable and an effective way to kick off an evening in PV.
The place to Eat and Drink in 5 de Diciembre
Consuming and consuming your manner round 5 de Diciembre is a significant spotlight of selecting this as your house base. These are just some of one of the best locations within the space:
1. El Barracuda: This beachfront restaurant is all the time a go-to of mine when pals come to go to. The seafood is wonderful right here and there’s an excellent bar subsequent door known as El Photo voltaic that you could order drinks from. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Pepe’s Tacos: For tacos al pastor, this is without doubt one of the greatest locations on the town. They’ve loads of different selections as properly. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Gusto Lounge: This is likely to be the one dive bar on the planet the place you may get a lobster dinner. Sergio and Naomi are good pals of ours and a number of the greatest bar homeowners you’ll ever meet. Click on right here for instructions.
Finest Areas to Keep in Puerto Vallarta: FAQs
El Centro and the Romantic Zone are related by the bridge over the river and collectively they make for one of the best locations to remain in Puerto Vallarta heart.
There aren’t actually any “no go” areas in PV, however for vacationers, you’ll wish to stick nearer to the seaside and the central a part of the town for comfort’s sake.
PV is usually a really secure place to journey. The Resort Zone and the Versalles neighborhood are among the many most secure areas as there isn’t actually a lot nightlife. Most incidents right here happen after midnight within the common bar and membership areas. Learn extra about security in PV right here.
In case you don’t thoughts spending a while & cash getting round city, it doesn’t actually matter. PV isn’t that massive and there are a lot of handy choices for transportation from the native bus to rideshare apps.
I’m a fan of the 5 de Diciembre and El Centro neighborhoods as they’ve hills that offer you wonderful views of the palm bushes and ocean. That is additionally the place you’ll discover the Malecon, the cathedral, and loads of road artwork.
I extremely suggest staying in downtown PV. This places you in a handy location whether or not you wish to go on day journeys or simply chill on the seaside. You’ll even have tons of choices for buying, eating, and nightlife.
For essentially the most half, sure, nonetheless, there are many cobblestone streets right here and a few neighborhoods are fairly hilly. You probably have mobility points, you’ll wish to be sure you e book a spot that will probably be handy.
To be near all of the motion, you’ll wish to keep in El Centro or the Romantic Zone.
PV has an intensive bus system that may get you wherever you might want to go. Most rides solely price 10 pesos (about $0.50 USD) and solely barely extra for journeys to locations like Bucerias or Sayulita.
In Conclusion
When contemplating the place to remain in Puerto Vallarta, you have got a number of choices. It’s not a giant metropolis, however every space has its personal vibe with its personal professionals and cons.
No matter which of those neighborhoods you select to base your self in, it’s simple sufficient to get between them and to go on day journeys. You’ll even have nice selections for meals regardless of which space you select.
I hope you discovered this information useful, and most of all I hope you take pleasure in your journey to this little slice of paradise I’ve been lucky sufficient to name residence for a couple of years.
