This beneficial information takes a better have a look at the place to remain in Puerto Vallarta. When you’re dreaming of enjoyable 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.
Greatest Areas to Keep in Puerto Vallarta
Let’s get all the way down to enterprise and work out the place to remain in Puerto Vallarta. Right here’s a fast have a look at the most effective areas in PV for a number of completely different classes:
Are you searching for a secluded all-inclusive resort with a non-public seaside? Would you favor to be within the middle of the bustling nightlife? Or perhaps you’d wish to expertise a extra native aspect of PV? These are necessary issues to think about when searching for locations to remain in Puerto Vallarta.
The town extends from the airport south by means of El Centro and Previous City/Romantic Zone all the way 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.
Despite the fact that it’s not a really massive metropolis, you’ll need to think about the most effective 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 town. That is one among my favourite locations to go to in Mexico, so I’m excited to share some suggestions with you and assist you plan the proper 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 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 town. To start with, it’s the central a part of city (therefore the identify). That is the place you’ll discover the Cathedral of our Woman of Guadalupe, which is the image of Puerto Vallarta.
This neighborhood can also be the place many of the well-known Malecon is positioned. As the middle of city, it is a busy business space as properly with loads of choices for procuring 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 take in native tradition
- Shut proximity to among the main sights
- A number 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
- Could be noisy relying on the placement
- May need to stand 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 may be very a lot an area ‘hood, so it’s not stuffed with accommodations and all-inclusive resorts. That being mentioned, there are many nice locations to put your head right here.
1. Lodge Porto Allegro: This central lodge gives 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 dwelling of a few film stars? That’s what you’ll get at this well-known PV lodge which additionally has the most effective eating places within the metropolis. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Blaze Lodge & Suites: The situation of this lodge is difficult 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.
Prime Issues To Do in El Centro
There’s loads to do in El Centro inside strolling distance of your lodging. Many 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 checklist, and for good purpose. It’s stuffed with beautiful sculptures and the people-watching is at all times 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 guide.
2. Hike to the Cross: For the most effective 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 nevertheless it’s price it for the view!
3. See the Cathedral and Most important Sq.: The crown jewel of PV is no doubt the Cathedral of Our Woman of Guadalupe. It’s a shocking church with an intricate cupola. One nice technique 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 among the best possible eating places within the metropolis. Listed below are three that you simply’ll positively need to add to your checklist:
1. La Cappella: Whereas I totally advocate for consuming all the native meals (together with avenue tacos), this Italian restaurant is among 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 identify. When you fancy a sundown dinner right here, you’d higher guide 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 referred to as Casa Kimberly, which is dwelling to this unbelievable restaurant.
My spouse and I’ve been to loads of good eating places in PV and this one is definitely within the prime three. The menu adjustments with the seasons and it’s at all times a positive 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. Your entire 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 prematurely to keep away from disappointment. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Previous City: Greatest Space in Puerto Vallarta for Nightlife
When you’ve come to PV to get together (as many do), you’ll need to keep within the space often 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 need to loosen up on la playa. You’ll be in simply the fitting 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, outlets, 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 positively the most effective 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 seek out this neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta on the map.
Execs of Staying in Previous City
- Easy accessibility to Los Muertos Seashore
- Nice culinary scene, from avenue meals to high-end eating places
- Epic nightlife
- Middle of the LGBTQ scene, AKA the “Gayborhood”
- Handy transportation choices
- Brief journey to seashores south of PV
Cons of Staying in Previous City
- Could be loud… like, actually, actually loud
- Very crowded throughout excessive season, weekends, and holidays
- Extra security issues 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 price range and elegance. Listed below are a number of of the most effective decisions:
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 a giant plus. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Joint Boutique Lodge: This can be a nice lodge selection 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 scorching tub or guide a therapeutic massage. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Casa Nicole: Visitors rave concerning the glorious breakfast spot at this lodge. Additionally they have a health club so you may 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 the most effective 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 nice old style solar lounger & umbrella combo, which normally results in fish tacos and margaritas in my expertise.
2. Get together it Up: As I discussed, Previous City is the place to be in case you’re seeking to partake within the nightlife. You will discover 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: When you’re staying proper by the pier, you would possibly as properly 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 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 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 among the greatest eating places on the town. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Tuna Azul: When 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 one among my favourite bars on the planet. When you’re not into taking pictures pool downstairs, go to the terrace the place the get together’s raging most nights. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Versalles: Coolest Place to Keep in Puerto Vallarta
That is positively the most effective neighborhoods in Puerto Vallarta. It’s develop into considerably of a foodie haven lately.
Each time I’m going again to Puerto Vallarta, I do know there will likely 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 scorching hen.
Staying in Versalles, you’ll seemingly meet a number of digital nomads in addition to full-time residents. It’s an incredible 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 seek out Versalles on the map.
Execs of Staying in Versalles
- Wonderful culinary scene
- Extra native than touristy
- Easy accessibility to downtown and the airport
- Seashore inside strolling distance
Cons of Staying in Versalles
- Plenty of building within the space
- Not many accommodations to select from
- Nightlife choices are restricted
- Could be an costly/lengthy cab experience 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 are 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 case you’re searching for a soothing seaside trip, look no additional. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Zenharmony Suites: When you’re searching for a bit extra space than a lodge room and need to really feel what it’s wish to dwell in PV, this is a wonderful selection. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Lodge Suites Mar Elena: This lodge on the beachside of the freeway has some stable evaluations. They’ve numerous choices together with one-bedroom flats and affordable charges. Click on right here for particulars.
Prime Issues To Do in Versalles
This is among the greatest areas to remain in Puerto Vallarta to only take it simple, get pleasure from some good meals, and loosen up on the seaside.
1. Take a Meals Tour: When on this foodie neighborhood, you’ll need to strive as many locations as attainable. That’s why it’s price 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 place to carry an OXXO picnic and some drinks. Click on right here for instructions.
3. See Stay 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 below are only a few of my faves:
1. El Puerco de Oro: These pork stomach tacos are life-changing. That’s all you’ll want to know! Click on right here for instructions.
2. LAMARA: A number of the greatest ceviche and aguachile in PV is on the menu right here. Order a number of completely different plates and go household fashion for certain. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Mykonos: When you want a break from Mexican meals, this Greek restaurant actually hits the spot. Click on right here for instructions.
4. Lodge Zone: Greatest for Households
For these touring with youngsters, the Lodge Zone is an effective selection. Of all of the Puerto Vallarta neighborhoods, that is the most effective wager for households.
Because the identify suggests, this space is filled with accommodations. Most of them have facilities like swimming pools and playgrounds, and a few even have daycare choices.
Many of those accommodations 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 Lodge Zone
- Plenty of lodging decisions
- Child-friendly and adults-only choices
- Easy accessibility to the airport
- A protracted stretch of seaside
Cons of Staying within the Lodge Zone
- Not many eating places or bars exterior of the resorts
- Overpriced touristy outlets
- Not a lot of an area expertise
- Could be costly
Greatest Locations to Keep within the Lodge Zone
You received’t be stunned to seek out out that there are many accommodations on this secure neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta. Listed below are a number of of the most effective choices:
1. Lodge Mio: This adults-only lodge has an incredible 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: 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 Lodge Zone
For a lot of guests to the Lodge Zone, a trip right here is all about some good old style R&R. It’s a kind 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 Evening: This is among the top-rated excursions in PV and for good purpose. 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: When you’re staying within the Lodge 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 far 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 Lodge 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 price 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 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 1000’s upon 1000’s of holiday makers to PV annually. The town is engaged on an enormous new cruise terminal referred to as Puerto Mágico (Magic Port) that may embody a tequila museum and an aquarium.
When 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 dwelling to a world-class golf course and loads of upscale outlets 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 procuring choices
- Near the airport
Cons of Staying in Marina Vallarta
- Costlier than different areas of Puerto Vallarta
- Not as conventional or genuine
- Not the most effective 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 principally a giant backyard. Right here you may sit back in a hammock, take a dip within the out of doors 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 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 middle, 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 aspect, however they’ve acquired stellar evaluations and are adults-only. In the case of Puerto Vallarta accommodations, 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 scorching!)
- 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, a lot of that are worldwide delicacies.
1. Casa Ritual for Sushi: in case you like sushi, you received’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 price 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 have to admit I’m a fan of the neighborhood often known as 5D because it’s the place I’ve spent essentially the most time in PV. This native ‘hood is in between the Lodge 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 seaside that’s at all times stuffed with the sounds of wandering mariachi bands.
It’s the most effective 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. Chances are you’ll 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 seaside
- 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 may 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 accommodations in 5D, however there are some stable decisions close to the seaside. Listed below 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 seaside with ocean views from many rooms. Some associates stayed there not too long ago and actually loved the rooftop pool. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Buenaventura Grand Lodge: When 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.
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 means of city and as much as the mountains on an ATV is a enjoyable technique 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 purpose that 5D is among the greatest locations to remain in Puerto Vallarta is all of the superior avenue meals. When you’re not comfy 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 proper 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 method round 5 de Diciembre is a significant spotlight of selecting this as your private home base. These are only a few of the most effective locations within the space:
1. El Barracuda: This beachfront restaurant is at all times a go-to of mine when associates come to go to. The seafood is superb right here and there’s an incredible bar subsequent door referred to as El Photo voltaic which you can order drinks from. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Pepe’s Tacos: For tacos al pastor, this is among the greatest locations on the town. They’ve loads of different decisions as properly. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Gusto Lounge: This could be the one dive bar on the planet the place you will get a lobster dinner. Sergio and Naomi are good associates of ours and among 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 the most effective locations to remain in Puerto Vallarta middle.
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 town for comfort’s sake.
PV is usually a really secure place to journey. The Lodge 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 widespread bar and membership areas. Learn extra about security in PV right here.
When 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 a fan of the 5 de Diciembre and El Centro neighborhoods as they’ve hills that offer you superb views of the palm timber 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, nonetheless, there are many cobblestone streets right here and a few neighborhoods are fairly hilly. When you have mobility points, you’ll need to you should definitely guide a spot that will likely 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 you’ll want to go. Most rides solely value 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 may have a number of choices. It’s not a giant 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 simple sufficient to get between them and to go on day journeys. You’ll even have nice decisions 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 dwelling for a number of years.
