This useful information takes a better take a look at the place to remain in Puerto Vallarta. In the event you’re dreaming of stress-free on the seashore, indulging in mouth-watering delicacies, and sipping cocktails whereas watching the sundown, then possibly it’s time to plan a visit to Mexico. PV is the right vacation spot for the entire above.
Greatest Areas to Keep in Puerto Vallarta
Let’s get right down to enterprise and determine the place to remain in Puerto Vallarta. Right here’s a fast take a look at one of the best areas in PV for a number of completely different classes:
Are you searching for a secluded all-inclusive resort with a personal seashore? Would you like to be within the heart of the bustling nightlife? Or possibly you’d wish to expertise a extra native facet of PV? These are vital issues to think about when searching for locations to remain in Puerto Vallarta.
Town extends from the airport south by El Centro and Outdated City/Romantic Zone right down to Conchas Chinas.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.
Though it’s not a really massive metropolis, you’ll need to take into account 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 various elements of town. That is certainly one of my favourite locations to go to in Mexico, so I’m excited to share some suggestions with you and make it easier to plan the right journey.
1. El Centro: Greatest 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 attraction of the AI keep, however save that for a return go to. Belief me – you’ll be again…
El Centro is the right place to base your self for a primary go to to town. To begin 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 nicely with loads of choices for purchasing and eating. Click on right here to seek out El Centro on the map.
Execs of Staying in El Centro
- Most central location in PV
- Good spot to absorb native tradition
- Shut proximity to a few of the main sights
- A few of the greatest eating places on the town
- Fairly good nightlife scene
- Very straightforward to get round on foot, by bus, or taxi
Cons of Staying in El Centro
- Busy streets with fixed site visitors
- Could be noisy relying on the situation
- May need to rise up and down a steep hill
- Tight residing quarters
- Barely restricted choice for lodging and nightlife
Greatest Locations to Keep in El Centro
El Centro could be very a lot an area ‘hood, so it’s not filled with lodges 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 in 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 dwelling of a few film stars? That’s what you’ll get at this well-known PV lodge which additionally has among the finest 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 far-off sufficient to not hear the noise from the nightclubs. Click on right here for particulars.
High Issues To Do in El Centro
There’s lots to do in El Centro inside strolling distance of your lodging. Many of the high issues to do within the metropolis are positioned on this space. That’s what makes it one of many high 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 checklist, and for good motive. It’s filled with gorgeous sculptures and the people-watching is all the time nice. For a extra adventurous expertise, you may soar on an electrical bike for a tour of El Centro that additionally takes you into the mountains. Click on right here to be taught extra and e-book.
2. Hike to the Cross: For among the finest 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 value it for the view!
3. See the Cathedral and Principal Sq.: The crown jewel of PV is surely the Cathedral of Our Woman of Guadalupe. It’s a shocking church with an intricate cupola. One nice method 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 be taught extra.
The place to Eat and Drink in El Centro
El Centro is dwelling to a few of the very best eating places within the metropolis. Listed here are three that you just’ll undoubtedly need to add to your checklist:
1. La Cappella: Whereas I absolutely advocate for consuming the entire native meals (together with avenue tacos), this Italian restaurant is without doubt one of the greatest locations to eat in PV. It has a terrace with the right view of the church and its cupola, which is the place it will get its title. In the event you fancy a sundown dinner right here, you’d higher e-book prematurely. 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 town whereas on set in Puerto Vallarta. Their former house is now a lodge known as Casa Kimberly, which is dwelling to this unbelievable restaurant.
My spouse and I’ve been to a variety of good eating places in PV and this one is well within the high three. The menu modifications 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 need to reserve prematurely to keep away from disappointment. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Outdated City: Greatest Space in Puerto Vallarta for Nightlife
In the event you’ve come to PV to occasion (as many do), you’ll need to keep within the space referred to as Outdated City or the Romantic Zone (Zona Romantica in Spanish). That is the place to be after the solar goes down.
After an enormous night time out in town, you’ll need to loosen up on la playa. You’ll be in simply the best place, as this neighborhood is the house of Los Muertos Seashore – a focus for any customer to Puerto Vallarta.
As well as, there are tons of cafes, spas, eating places, retailers, bars, and nightclubs right here. You’ll by no means run out of choices for the place to buy, eat, loosen up, or drink within the Romantic Zone. That is undoubtedly one of the best space to remain in Puerto Vallarta for these trying to have a superb time. I’ve spent many an evening on this space! Click on right here to seek out this neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta on the map.
Execs of Staying in Outdated City
- Quick access to Los Muertos Seashore
- Nice culinary scene, from avenue meals to high-end eating places
- Epic nightlife
- Heart of the LGBTQ scene, AKA the “Gayborhood”
- Handy transportation choices
- Quick journey to seashores south of PV
Cons of Staying in Outdated City
- Could be loud… like, actually, actually loud
- Very crowded throughout excessive season, weekends, and holidays
- Extra security considerations than in different areas
- May really feel like a “strolling ATM”
Greatest Locations to Keep in Outdated City (Zona Romantica)
There’s no scarcity of lodging choices in Outdated City and there’s one thing for each funds and magnificence. Listed here are a number of of one of the best decisions:
1. Tropicana: If you wish to be proper on Los Muertos Seashore, that is the place for you. In addition they have an enormous pool overlooking the seashore in order that’s an enormous plus. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Joint Boutique Resort: This can be a nice lodge alternative for digital nomads because it’s dwelling to one of many greatest coworking areas in PV. If you’re able to loosen up, you may soak within the sizzling tub or e-book a therapeutic massage. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Casa Nicole: Visitors rave concerning the glorious breakfast spot at this lodge. In addition they have a fitness center so you may work it off later within the day! Click on right here for particulars.
High Issues To Do in Outdated City (Zona Romantica)
Whereas Outdated 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 Seashore: Days in Outdated City are greatest spent on the seashore. The way you select to spend it’s as much as you… There’s all the time the nice old school solar lounger & umbrella combo, which often results in fish tacos and margaritas in my expertise.
2. Celebration it Up: As I discussed, Outdated City is the place to be in the event you’re trying to partake within the nightlife. You could find it right here whether or not you’re searching 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 the event you’re staying proper by the pier, you may as nicely add a ship journey to your PV itinerary. There are a number of choices for excursions at sea comparable to this superior journey to Yelapa to hike to a waterfall together with some snorkeling in Majahuitas.
The place to Eat and Drink in Outdated City (Zona Romantica)
Outdated City has a whole lot of bars, eating places, and golf equipment. You possibly can keep right here for a number of weeks and check out one thing new for each meal and each Completely satisfied Hour.
1. La Palapa: There’s nothing like having a candle-lit dinner on the seashore 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 the event you’re searching for some tasty seafood in PV, I extremely advocate this place. The crab tacos are nice, as are the tuna sashimi tostadas. Click on right here for instructions.
3. El Soñador: That is certainly one of my favourite bars on the earth. In the event you’re not into capturing pool downstairs, go to the terrace the place the occasion’s raging most nights. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Versalles: Coolest Place to Keep in Puerto Vallarta
That is undoubtedly among the finest neighborhoods in Puerto Vallarta. It’s turn into considerably of a foodie haven lately.
Each time I am 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 hen.
Staying in Versalles, you’ll doubtless meet a number of digital nomads in addition to full-time residents. It’s an amazing spot to be if you wish to expertise extra of an area vibe than you’ll discover in Outdated City. Click on right here to seek out Versalles on the map.
Execs of Staying in Versalles
- Superb culinary scene
- Extra native than touristy
- Quick access to downtown and the airport
- Seashore inside strolling distance
Cons of Staying in Versalles
- A lot of building within the space
- Not many lodges to select from
- Nightlife choices are restricted
- Could be an costly/lengthy cab trip after an evening out
Greatest 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 decisions:
1. Secrets and techniques Vallarta: This all-inclusive resort is for adults solely. So in the event you’re searching for a soothing seashore trip, look no additional. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Zenharmony Suites: In the event you’re searching for a bit more room than a lodge room and need to really feel what it’s wish to dwell in PV, this is a wonderful alternative. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Resort Suites Mar Elena: This lodge on the beachside of the freeway has some strong evaluations. They’ve a lot of choices together with one-bedroom residences and cheap charges. Click on right here for particulars.
High Issues To Do in Versalles
This is without doubt one of the greatest areas to remain in Puerto Vallarta to simply take it straightforward, get pleasure from some good meals, and loosen up on the seashore.
1. Take a Meals Tour: When on this foodie neighborhood, you’ll need to strive as many locations as doable. That’s why it’s value it to go together with a educated native information.
2. Chill on the Seashore: Playa Las Glorias is the native seashore in Versalles. This seashore 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 number of good spots to catch some dwell tunes in Versalles, together with Whiskey Kitchen. Click 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 only a few of my faves:
1. El Puerco de Oro: These pork stomach tacos are life-changing. That’s all you should 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 number of completely different plates and go household model for positive. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Mykonos: In the event you want a break from Mexican meals, this Greek restaurant actually hits the spot. Click on right here for instructions.
4. Resort Zone: Greatest for Households
For these touring with youngsters, the Resort Zone is an effective alternative. Of all of the Puerto Vallarta neighborhoods, that is one of the best guess for households.
Because the title suggests, this space is filled with lodges. Most of them have facilities like swimming pools and playgrounds, and a few even have daycare choices.
Many of those lodges are all-inclusive and have loads of kid-friendly meals decisions 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 seek out it on the map.
Execs of Staying within the Resort Zone
- A lot of lodging decisions
- Child-friendly and adults-only choices
- Quick access to the airport
- A protracted stretch of seashore
Cons of Staying within the Resort Zone
- Not many eating places or bars outdoors of the resorts
- Overpriced touristy retailers
- Not a lot of an area expertise
- Could be costly
Greatest Locations to Keep within the Resort Zone
You gained’t be stunned to seek out out that there are many lodges on this protected neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta. Listed here are a number of of one of the best choices:
1. Resort Mio: This adults-only lodge has an amazing 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 right here for particulars.
3. Krystal Grand: Often known as the Hacienda at Hilton, this all-inclusive resort is true on the seashore. Click on right here for particulars.
High 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 school R&R. It’s a type of posh areas of Puerto Vallarta the place you simply need to sip a margarita on the seashore. There are nonetheless some adventures available, although.
1. Rhythms of the Night time: This is without doubt one of the top-rated excursions in PV and for good motive. It’s a brilliant enjoyable night with a sundown cruise, open bar, scrumptious dinner, and a tremendous present on a secluded seashore.
2. Hop On Hop Off Metropolis Bus: In the event you’re staying within the Resort Zone, a good 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 far more to discover in Banderas Bay. The cities of Sayulita and San Pancho to the north are nicely value 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 number of nice eating places value 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 stylish 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 seashore is a superb place for some contemporary seafood, chilly beers, and sundown views. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Cerveceria Chapultepec: A preferred 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 unquestionably the flamboyant a part of town. That is the place the enormous cruise ships dock, welcoming hundreds upon hundreds of tourists to PV every year. Town is engaged on an enormous new cruise terminal known as Puerto Mágico (Magic Port) that can embody a tequila museum and an aquarium.
In the event you’re studying this text, although, you’re most likely not headed to Puerto Vallarta on a cruise ship. However, this space isn’t only for cruise passengers, because the Marina can be dwelling to a world-class golf course and loads of upscale retailers and lodging.
It’s a very talked-about spot for households or for individuals who search a little bit of peace and quiet (and luxurious) on their trip. Click on right here to seek out it on the map.
Execs of Staying in Marina Vallarta
- Luxurious lodging choices
- Quieter than Centro and Romanic Zone
- Pedestrian boardwalk
- 18 gap golf course
- Nice eating
- Many purchasing 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
Greatest 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 mainly an enormous backyard. Right here you may sit back in a hammock, take a dip within the out of doors pool, and even be part of a free yoga class. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Velas Vallarta Suites: This high-end resort has a number 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 be taught extra.
3. Casa Velas: This resort is unquestionably on the pricier facet, however they’ve received stellar evaluations and are adults-only. With regards to Puerto Vallarta lodges, this one is value splurging on. Click on right here to see the most recent value 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 gorgeous 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 need to miss the genuine sushi at this attractive boutique lodge. The small restaurant serves up unbelievable nigiri and completely offered plates. It’s costly however value it.
2. Mr. Cream Pancakes and Waffles: this enjoyable restaurant does breakfast good. 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 have to admit I’m keen on the neighborhood referred to as 5D because it’s the place I’ve spent probably 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 dwelling to Playa Camarones, which is a enjoyable native seashore that’s all the time filled with the sounds of wandering mariachi bands.
It’s among the finest 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. You could hear canine, roosters, and the occasional mid-week fiesta…
Execs of Staying in 5 de Diciembre
- Very native neighborhood
- Good views from the highest of the hill
- Has a seashore
- Superior eating places and avenue meals
- Cheaper than different areas
Cons of Staying in 5 de Diciembre
- Could be very noisy
- Cobblestone streets and hills will be powerful to navigate
- Not many lodge decisions
- Just a few bars to select from
Greatest Locations to Keep in 5 de Diciembre
There aren’t a ton of lodges in 5D, however there are some strong decisions close to the seashore. 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: This can be a new lodge proper on the seashore with ocean views from many rooms. Some buddies stayed there just lately and actually loved the rooftop pool. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Buenaventura Grand Resort: In the event 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.
High 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 method to spend a day in PV. You even have the choice to tack on an ATV trip 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 avenue meals. In the event you’re not snug simply selecting your individual taco stalls, soar on a tour with an area information.
3. Tacos & Tequila: These are a number of of my favourite issues and that is the right nieghborhood to take pleasure in each. This tour is tons of enjoyable and a good way to kick off an evening in PV.
The place to Eat and Drink in 5 de Diciembre
Consuming and consuming your means round 5 de Diciembre is a serious spotlight of selecting this as your private home base. These are only a few 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 buddies come to go to. The seafood is superb right here and there’s an amazing bar subsequent door known as El Photo voltaic 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 decisions as nicely. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Gusto Lounge: This may be the one dive bar on the earth the place you will get a lobster dinner. Sergio and Naomi are good buddies of ours and a few of the greatest bar house owners you’ll ever meet. Click on right here for instructions.
Greatest 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 need to stick nearer to the seashore and the central a part of town for comfort’s sake.
PV is usually a really protected 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 fashionable bar and membership areas. Learn extra about security in PV right here.
In the event you don’t thoughts spending a while & cash getting round city, it doesn’t actually matter. PV isn’t that massive and there are lots of handy choices for transportation from the native bus to rideshare apps.
I’m keen on the 5 de Diciembre and El Centro neighborhoods as they’ve hills that provide you with superb views of the palm bushes and ocean. That is additionally the place you’ll discover the Malecon, the cathedral, and loads of avenue artwork.
I extremely advocate staying in downtown PV. This places you in a handy location whether or not you need to go on day journeys or simply chill on the seashore. You’ll even have tons of choices for purchasing, eating, and nightlife.
For probably 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 need to make sure you e-book a spot that will probably be handy.
To be near all of the motion, you’ll need to keep in El Centro or the Romantic Zone.
PV has an in depth bus system that may get you anyplace you should 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’ve a number of choices. It’s not an enormous metropolis, however every space has its personal vibe with its personal execs and cons.
No matter which of those neighborhoods you select to base your self in, it’s straightforward sufficient to get between them and to go on day journeys. You’ll even have nice decisions for meals regardless of which space you select.
I hope you discovered this information useful, and most of all I hope you get pleasure from your journey to this little slice of paradise I’ve been lucky sufficient to name dwelling for a number of years.
