This beneficial information takes a more in-depth take 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 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 work out 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 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 possibly you’d prefer to expertise a extra native facet of PV? These are vital issues to contemplate when on the lookout for locations to remain in Puerto Vallarta.
Town extends from the airport south by way of 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, lots of the greatest neighborhoods in Puerto Vallarta are on the hillside.
Although it’s not a really huge metropolis, you’ll need to contemplate one of the best Puerto Vallarta neighborhoods for you. I’ve spent a number of years dwelling in Puerto Vallarta as a digital nomad and have stayed in many various components of the 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 assist you 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 counsel 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 right place to base your self for a primary go to to the town. To begin with, it’s the central a part of city (therefore the identify). That is the place you’ll discover the Cathedral of our Girl of Guadalupe, which is the image of Puerto Vallarta.
This neighborhood can also be the place many of the well-known Malecon is situated. As the middle of city, it is a busy industrial space as nicely with loads of choices for procuring 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 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
- Will be noisy relying on the situation
- May need to rise up and down a steep hill
- Tight dwelling 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 stuffed with lodges and all-inclusive resorts. That being stated, there are many nice locations to put your head right here.
1. Resort Porto Allegro: This central resort affords nice bang on 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 resort 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 resort is difficult 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.
High Issues To Do in El Centro
There’s a lot to do in El Centro inside strolling distance of your lodging. Many of the high issues to do within the metropolis are situated 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 record, and for good motive. It’s stuffed with gorgeous sculptures and the people-watching is at all times 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 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 would possibly get a bit sweaty however it’s value it for the view!
3. See the Cathedral and Predominant Sq.: The crown jewel of PV is unquestionably the Cathedral of Our Girl 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 principle 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 few of the best possible eating places within the metropolis. Listed here are three that you just’ll positively need to add to your record:
1. La Cappella: Whereas I absolutely advocate for consuming the entire native meals (together with avenue tacos), this Italian restaurant is likely 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 identify. 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 resort referred to 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 high three. The menu modifications with the seasons and it’s at all times a effective 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. All the 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 at all times altering. That is one other place you’ll need to reserve upfront to keep away from disappointment. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Previous City: Greatest Space in Puerto Vallarta for Nightlife
In case you’ve come to PV to social gathering (as many do), you’ll need to keep within the space referred to as Previous City or the Romantic Zone (Zona Romantica in Spanish). That is the place to be after the solar goes down.
After an enormous evening out in town, you’ll need to calm down on la playa. You’ll be in simply the proper 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, calm down, or drink within the Romantic Zone. That is positively one of the best space to remain in Puerto Vallarta for these seeking to have a very good 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 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
- Brief journey to seashores south of PV
Cons of Staying in Previous City
- Will be loud… like, actually, actually loud
- Very crowded throughout excessive season, weekends, and holidays
- Extra security considerations than in different areas
- Would possibly really feel like a “strolling ATM”
Greatest 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 finances and magnificence. Listed here are a couple of of one of the best selections:
1. Tropicana: If you wish to be proper on Los Muertos Seashore, that is the place for you. Additionally they have an enormous pool overlooking the seaside in order that’s an enormous plus. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Joint Boutique Resort: This can be a nice resort selection for digital nomads because it’s residence to one of many greatest coworking areas in PV. Whenever 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: Friends rave in regards to the wonderful breakfast spot at this resort. Additionally they have a fitness center so you’ll be able to work it off later within the day! Click on right here for particulars.
High 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 Seashore: Days in Previous City are greatest spent on the seaside. The way you select to spend it’s as much as you… There’s at all times the great old style solar lounger & umbrella combo, which normally results in fish tacos and margaritas in my expertise.
2. Occasion it Up: As I discussed, Previous City is the place to be for those who’re seeking to partake within the nightlife. Yow will discover it right here whether or not you’re on the lookout for an aesthetic 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 would possibly as nicely add a ship journey to your PV itinerary. There are a number of choices for excursions at sea resembling 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 lot of bars, eating places, and golf equipment. You’ll be able to keep right here for a number of weeks and check out one thing new for each meal and each Comfortable 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 likely 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 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 planet. In case you’re not into capturing pool downstairs, go to the terrace the place the social gathering’s raging most nights. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Versalles: Coolest Place to Keep in Puerto Vallarta
That is positively among the finest neighborhoods in Puerto Vallarta. It’s turn out to be considerably of a foodie haven lately.
Each time I am going again to Puerto Vallarta, I do know there might 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 probably meet a number of digital nomads in addition to full-time residents. It’s an ideal 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
- Superb culinary scene
- Extra native than touristy
- Quick access to downtown and the airport
- Seashore inside strolling distance
Cons of Staying in Versalles
- A number of building within the space
- Not many lodges to select from
- Nightlife choices are restricted
- Will be an costly/lengthy cab journey 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 flats which might be rented out short-term, however listed here are some good selections:
1. Secrets and techniques Vallarta: This all-inclusive resort is for adults solely. So for those who’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 resort room and need to really feel what it’s prefer to dwell in PV, this is a wonderful selection. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Resort Suites Mar Elena: This resort on the beachside of the freeway has some strong evaluations. They’ve numerous choices together with one-bedroom flats and affordable charges. Click on right here for particulars.
High Issues To Do in Versalles
This is likely one of the greatest areas to remain in Puerto Vallarta to simply take it straightforward, get pleasure from some good meals, and calm down on the seaside.
1. Take a Meals Tour: When on this foodie neighborhood, you’ll need to strive as many locations as potential. 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 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 spot to carry 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 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 it’s essential 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 model 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: Greatest for Households
For these touring with youngsters, the Resort Zone is an effective selection. Of all of the Puerto Vallarta neighborhoods, that is one of the best wager for households.
Because the identify suggests, this space is stuffed 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 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 number of lodging selections
- Child-friendly and adults-only choices
- Quick access to the airport
- An extended stretch of seaside
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
- Will be costly
Greatest Locations to Keep within the Resort Zone
You gained’t be shocked to search out out that there are many lodges on this protected neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta. Listed here are a couple of of one of the best choices:
1. Resort Mio: This adults-only resort has an ideal rooftop pool with ocean views. It’s additionally conveniently situated proper on the principle highway. 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: Also called the Hacienda at Hilton, this all-inclusive resort is correct on the seaside. 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 style R&R. It’s a type of posh areas of Puerto Vallarta the place you simply need to sip a margarita on the seaside. There are nonetheless some adventures available, although.
1. Rhythms of the Night time: This is likely 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 a tremendous 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 way 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 a tendency to stay to their resort. There are nonetheless a couple of nice eating places value testing, although.
1. La Leche: Sure, the identify 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 at all times 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 recent 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 flowery a part of the town. That is the place the large cruise ships dock, welcoming hundreds upon hundreds of holiday makers to PV annually. Town is engaged on a large new cruise terminal referred to as Puerto Mágico (Magic Port) that may embody a tequila museum and an aquarium.
In case 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 also be residence to a world-class golf course and loads of upscale retailers and lodging.
It’s a very fashionable 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 procuring 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 evening
Greatest Locations to Keep within the Marina Vallarta
1. San Tropico: This boutique resort is extremely rated due to its lovely, peaceable grounds. There are colourful murals all around the property, which is mainly an enormous backyard. Right here you’ll be able to 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 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 situated 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 unquestionably on the pricier facet, however they’ve obtained 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 newest 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 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: for those who like sushi, you gained’t need to miss the genuine sushi at this attractive boutique resort. The small restaurant serves up incredible nigiri and completely offered plates. It’s costly however value it.
2. Mr. Cream Pancakes and Waffles: this enjoyable restaurant does breakfast excellent. Come right here for pancakes and waffles because the identify suggests, or go for one thing extra native just like the chilaquiles.
6. 5 de Diciembre
I need to admit I’m keen on the neighborhood referred to 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 at all times stuffed 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 evening.
That being stated, that is very a lot an area Mexican neighborhood. Chances are you’ll hear canines, 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 avenue meals
- Cheaper than different areas
Cons of Staying in 5 de Diciembre
- Will be very noisy
- Cobblestone streets and hills might be powerful to navigate
- Not many resort selections
- Only some 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 selections close to the seaside. Listed here are a few of my faves:
1. Villa Premiere: This beachfront resort 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 resort proper on the seaside with ocean views from many rooms. Some mates stayed there just lately and actually loved the rooftop pool. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Buenaventura Grand Resort: In case you’re seeking to do the all-inclusive factor on this space, then the Buenaventura is your greatest wager. 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 way of 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 journey and a zipline course.
2. Night Taco Journey: A serious motive that 5D is likely one of the greatest locations to remain in Puerto Vallarta is all of the superior avenue 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 right nieghborhood to bask 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 ingesting your means round 5 de Diciembre is a significant spotlight of selecting this as your private home base. These are just some of one of the best locations within the space:
1. El Barracuda: This beachfront restaurant is at all times a go-to of mine when mates come to go to. The seafood is wonderful right here and there’s an ideal bar subsequent door referred to as El Photo voltaic that you would be able to order drinks from. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Pepe’s Tacos: For tacos al pastor, this is likely one of the greatest locations on the town. They’ve loads of different selections as nicely. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Gusto Lounge: This may be the one dive bar on the planet the place you may get a lobster dinner. Sergio and Naomi are good mates of ours and a few of the greatest bar homeowners 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 linked 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 seaside and the central a part of the town for comfort’s sake.
PV is mostly 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 case you don’t thoughts spending a while & cash getting round city, it doesn’t actually matter. PV isn’t that huge and there are a lot 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 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 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 seaside. You’ll even have tons of choices for procuring, eating, and nightlife.
For essentially the most half, sure, nevertheless, there are many cobblestone streets right here and a few neighborhoods are fairly hilly. If in case you have mobility points, you’ll need to remember to e-book a spot that might be handy.
To be near all of the motion, you’ll need to keep in El Centro or the Romantic Zone.
PV has an intensive bus system that may get you anyplace it’s essential 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 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 selections for meals irrespective 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 residence for a couple of years.