This beneficial 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 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 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 perfect 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 seashore? Would you like to be within the middle of the bustling nightlife? Or possibly you’d prefer to expertise a extra native facet of PV? These are necessary issues to think about when on the lookout for locations to remain in Puerto Vallarta.
Town extends from the airport south via 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, most of the greatest neighborhoods in Puerto Vallarta are on the hillside.
Although it’s not a really massive metropolis, you’ll wish to contemplate the perfect 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 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 aid 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 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 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 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 also be the place a lot of the well-known Malecon is situated. As the middle of city, it is a busy business space as nicely with loads of choices for purchasing and eating. Click on right here to seek out El Centro on the map.
Professionals of Staying in El Centro
- Most central location in PV
- Good spot to take in 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
- Could be noisy relying on the situation
- May need to stand 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 accommodations 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 gives 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 resort which additionally has among the best eating places within the metropolis. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Blaze Resort & Suites: The situation of this resort 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. Many of the prime issues to do within the metropolis are situated 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 purpose. It’s stuffed with beautiful sculptures and the people-watching is at all times nice. For a extra adventurous expertise, you’ll be able to 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 among the best 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 Primary 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 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 be taught extra.
The place to Eat and Drink in El Centro
El Centro is dwelling to a number of the best possible 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 likely 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 guide 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 town whereas on set in Puerto Vallarta. Their former house is now a resort known as Casa Kimberly, which is dwelling to this unbelievable restaurant.
My spouse and I’ve been to quite a lot of good eating places in PV and this one is well within the prime three. The menu adjustments with the seasons and it’s at all times 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 whole 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 wish 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 get together (as many do), you’ll wish 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 an enormous evening out in town, you’ll wish to loosen up 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, loosen up, or drink within the Romantic Zone. That is positively the perfect space to remain in Puerto Vallarta for these seeking to have 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.
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
- 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 funds and elegance. Listed here are a number of of the perfect decisions:
1. Tropicana: If you wish to be proper on Los Muertos Seaside, that is the place for you. Additionally 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: It is a nice resort alternative for digital nomads because it’s dwelling to among the best coworking areas in PV. If you’re able to loosen up, you’ll be able to soak within the sizzling tub or guide a therapeutic massage. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Casa Nicole: Visitors rave concerning the glorious 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.
Prime Issues To Do in Previous City (Zona Romantica)
Whereas Previous City is the perfect 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 seashore. 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 often results in fish tacos and margaritas in my expertise.
2. Celebration it Up: As I discussed, Previous City is the place to be for those who’re seeking to partake within the nightlife. You 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 similar 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 may 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 seashore 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 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 this planet. In case you’re not into capturing 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 among the best neighborhoods in Puerto Vallarta. It’s grow to be considerably of a foodie haven in recent times.
Each time I am going again to Puerto Vallarta, I do know there will likely be a number of new eating places to attempt in Versalles. Along with loads of native fare, there’s additionally Greek, Japanese, and even Nashville sizzling rooster.
Staying in Versalles, you’ll probably 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.
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 number of building within the space
- Not many accommodations to select from
- Nightlife choices are restricted
- Could 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 decisions:
1. Secrets and techniques Vallarta: This all-inclusive resort is for adults solely. So for those who’re on the lookout for a soothing seashore trip, look no additional. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Zenharmony Suites: In case you’re on the lookout for a bit more room than a resort room and wish to really feel what it’s prefer to reside in PV, this is a superb alternative. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Resort Suites Mar Elena: This resort on the beachside of the freeway has some stable opinions. They’ve a number of choices together with one-bedroom flats and affordable charges. Click on right here for particulars.
Prime Issues To Do in Versalles
This is likely one of the greatest areas to remain in Puerto Vallarta to only take it simple, take pleasure in some good meals, and loosen up on the seashore.
1. Take a Meals Tour: When on this foodie neighborhood, you’ll wish to attempt as many locations as attainable. 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 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 spot to deliver 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 reside 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 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 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 alternative. Of all of the Puerto Vallarta neighborhoods, that is the perfect wager for households.
Because the title 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 traditional Mexican foods and drinks choices. Click on right here to seek out it on the map.
Professionals of Staying within the Resort Zone
- A number of lodging decisions
- Child-friendly and adults-only choices
- Quick access to the airport
- An extended stretch of seashore
Cons of Staying within the Resort Zone
- Not many eating places or bars outdoors of the resorts
- Overpriced touristy outlets
- Not a lot of an area expertise
- Could be costly
Greatest Locations to Keep within the Resort Zone
You received’t be shocked to seek out out that there are many accommodations on this protected neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta. Listed here are a number of of the perfect choices:
1. Resort Mio: This adults-only resort has an incredible rooftop pool with ocean views. It’s additionally conveniently situated proper on the principle 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 seashore. 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 kind of posh areas of Puerto Vallarta the place you simply wish to sip a margarita on the seashore. There are nonetheless some adventures available, although.
1. Rhythms of the Evening: This is likely one of 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 seashore.
2. Hop On Hop Off Metropolis Bus: In case 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 rather more to discover in Banderas Bay. The cities of Sayulita and San Pancho to the north are nicely 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 number of nice eating places price trying out, 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 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 seashore is a good place for some recent 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 town. That is the place the enormous cruise ships dock, welcoming 1000’s upon 1000’s of holiday makers to PV annually. Town is engaged on a large 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 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 fashionable 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.
Professionals 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
- Dearer than different areas of Puerto Vallarta
- Not as conventional or genuine
- Not the perfect 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 very rated due to its stunning, peaceable grounds. There are colourful murals everywhere in the property, which is principally an enormous backyard. Right here you’ll be able to relax 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 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 situated 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 certainly on the pricier facet, however they’ve received stellar opinions and are adults-only. In terms of Puerto Vallarta accommodations, this one is price 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, a lot of that are worldwide delicacies.
1. Casa Ritual for Sushi: for those who like sushi, you received’t wish to miss the genuine sushi at this beautiful boutique resort. The small restaurant serves up improbable nigiri and completely introduced 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 have to admit I’m a fan of the neighborhood often known 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 at all times stuffed with the sounds of wandering mariachi bands.
It’s among the best 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 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 seashore
- Superior eating places and road 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 resort 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 seashore. 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: It is a new resort proper on the seashore with ocean views from many rooms. Some associates stayed there 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.
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 Driving with ATV and Zipline: Cruising via 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 significant purpose that 5D is likely one of the greatest locations to remain in Puerto Vallarta is all of the superior road meals. In case you’re not comfy simply selecting your personal 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 a good way to kick off an evening in PV.
The place to Eat and Drink in 5 de Diciembre
Consuming and consuming your approach round 5 de Diciembre is a serious spotlight of selecting this as your property base. These are just some of the perfect 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 wonderful right here and there’s an incredible bar subsequent door known as El Photo voltaic that you may 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 decisions as nicely. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Gusto Lounge: This is perhaps the one dive bar on this planet the place you will get a lobster dinner. Sergio and Naomi are good associates of ours and a number 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 linked by the bridge over the river and collectively they make for the perfect locations to remain in Puerto Vallarta middle.
There aren’t actually any “no go” areas in PV, however for vacationers, you’ll wish to stick nearer to the seashore and the central a part of 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 widespread 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 timber 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 seashore. You’ll even have tons of choices for purchasing, eating, and nightlife.
For probably the most half, sure, nevertheless, there are many cobblestone streets right here and a few neighborhoods are fairly hilly. When you’ve got mobility points, you’ll wish to you’ll want to guide a spot that will likely 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 it’s essential 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 might have a number of choices. It’s not an enormous 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 decisions 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 dwelling for a number of years.
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