This beneficial information takes a more in-depth take a look at the place to remain in Puerto Vallarta. For those who’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 proper vacation spot for all the above.
Finest 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 take a look at one of the best areas in PV for a number of completely different classes:
Are you in search of a secluded all-inclusive resort with a personal seaside? Would you like to be within the heart of the bustling nightlife? Or possibly you’d prefer to expertise a extra native aspect of PV? These are vital issues to contemplate when in search of locations to remain in Puerto Vallarta.
The town extends from the airport south by 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.
Regardless that it’s not a really huge 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 assist you to plan the proper journey.
1. El Centro: Finest Place to Keep in Puerto Vallarta for Your First Time
If it’s your first time in PV, I extremely recommend skipping the all-inclusive resort and staying in El Centro. I get the attraction 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 be the place many of the well-known Malecon is situated. As the middle of city, this can be a busy industrial space as properly with loads of choices for purchasing and eating. Click on right here to search out El Centro on the map.
Professionals of Staying in El Centro
- Most central location in PV
- Great place to absorb native tradition
- Shut proximity to a number of the main sights
- A number 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
- Might be noisy relying on the placement
- Might need to rise up and down a steep hill
- Tight residing quarters
- Barely restricted choice for lodging and nightlife
Finest Locations to Keep in El Centro
El Centro could be very a lot an area ‘hood, so it’s not filled with motels and all-inclusive resorts. That being mentioned, there are many nice locations to put your head right here.
1. Lodge Porto Allegro: This central resort gives nice bang to your buck. There’s a free breakfast and a pleasant terrace with a plunge pool and views of the cathedral. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Casa Kimberly: How would you want to remain within the former residence of a few film stars? That’s what you’ll get at this well-known PV resort which additionally has probably the greatest eating places within the metropolis. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Blaze Lodge & Suites: The situation of this resort 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 lots 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 filled with beautiful 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 ebook.
2. Hike to the Cross: For probably the greatest views on the town, hike up the hill to the cross (click on right here for instructions). This isn’t a lot a “hike” as it’s a stroll up a steep sidewalk after which some stairs. I’ve made it from the Malecon to the highest in 10-12 minutes strolling at a brisk tempo. You may get a bit sweaty but it surely’s value it for the view!
3. See the Cathedral and Major Sq.: The crown jewel of PV is unquestionably the Cathedral of Our Woman of Guadalupe. It’s a surprising church with an intricate cupola. One nice option to discover all that El Centro has to supply is by taking a metropolis tour. Along with the primary sights, it additionally options espresso and tequila tastings. Click on right here to study extra.
The place to Eat and Drink in El Centro
El Centro is residence to a number of the very best eating places within the metropolis. Listed here are three that you simply’ll undoubtedly need to add to your record:
1. La Cappella: Whereas I absolutely advocate for consuming all the native meals (together with road 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. For those who fancy a sundown dinner right here, you’d higher ebook 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 resort known as Casa Kimberly, which is residence to this unimaginable restaurant.
My spouse and I’ve been to plenty of good eating places in PV and this one is definitely within the high three. The menu adjustments with the seasons and it’s at all times a fantastic 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 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 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: Finest Space in Puerto Vallarta for Nightlife
For those who’ve come to PV to social gathering (as many do), you’ll need to keep within the space often called Previous City or the Romantic Zone (Zona Romantica in Spanish). That is the place to be after the solar goes down.
After a giant evening out in town, you’ll need to chill out on la playa. You’ll be in simply the precise 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, chill out, or drink within the Romantic Zone. That is undoubtedly one of the best 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 search out this neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta on the map.
Professionals of Staying in Previous City
- Easy accessibility 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
- Quick journey to seashores south of PV
Cons of Staying in Previous City
- Might be loud… like, actually, actually loud
- Very crowded throughout excessive season, weekends, and holidays
- Extra security issues than in different areas
- May really feel like a “strolling ATM”
Finest Locations to Keep in Previous City (Zona Romantica)
There’s no scarcity of lodging choices in Previous City and there’s one thing for each price range and magnificence. Listed here are a couple of of one of the best selections:
1. Tropicana: If you wish to be proper on Los Muertos Seaside, that is the place for you. In addition they have an enormous pool overlooking the seaside in order that’s a giant plus. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Joint Boutique Lodge: It is a nice resort alternative for digital nomads because it’s residence to one of many greatest coworking areas in PV. If you’re able to chill out, you’ll be able to soak within the sizzling tub or ebook a therapeutic massage. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Casa Nicole: Company rave concerning the glorious breakfast spot at this resort. In addition 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 one of the best place to remain in Puerto Vallarta for nightlife, there’s extra to this neighborhood than simply partying.
1. Los Muertos Seaside: Days in Previous City are greatest spent on the seaside. The way you select to spend it’s as much as you… There’s at all times the nice old style solar lounger & umbrella combo, which often results in fish tacos and margaritas in my expertise.
2. Social gathering it Up: As I discussed, Previous City is the place to be when you’re seeking to partake within the nightlife. Yow will discover it right here whether or not you’re in search of an aesthetic rooftop bar or a dingy dive, a cocktail lounge or a craft brewery, a rowdy nightclub, or quiet cocktails.
3. Boat Journey: For those who’re staying proper by the pier, you may as properly add a ship journey to your PV itinerary. There are a number of choices for excursions at sea equivalent 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 tons of of bars, eating places, and golf equipment. You may keep right here for a number of weeks and take a look at one thing new for each meal and each Joyful 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: For those who’re in search of 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. For those who’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 undoubtedly probably the greatest neighborhoods in Puerto Vallarta. It’s change into considerably of a foodie haven in recent times.
Each time I am going again to Puerto Vallarta, I do know there can be a number of new eating places to strive in Versalles. Along with loads of native fare, there’s additionally Greek, Japanese, and even Nashville sizzling rooster.
Staying in Versalles, you’ll doubtless meet a number of digital nomads in addition to full-time residents. It’s an excellent spot to be if you wish to expertise extra of an area vibe than you’ll discover in Previous City. Click on right here to search out Versalles on the map.
Professionals of Staying in Versalles
- Wonderful culinary scene
- Extra native than touristy
- Easy accessibility to downtown and the airport
- Seaside inside strolling distance
Cons of Staying in Versalles
- A number of development within the space
- Not many motels to select from
- Nightlife choices are restricted
- Might be an costly/lengthy cab trip after an evening out
Finest Locations to Keep in Versalles
As I discussed, there aren’t a ton of lodging choices right here. Many locations are simply flats which can be rented out short-term, however listed below are some good selections:
1. Secrets and techniques Vallarta: This all-inclusive resort is for adults solely. So when you’re in search of a soothing seaside trip, look no additional. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Zenharmony Suites: For those who’re in search of a bit more room than a resort room and need to really feel what it’s prefer to stay in PV, this is a superb alternative. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Lodge Suites Mar Elena: This resort on the beachside of the freeway has some stable opinions. They’ve a lot of 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 simply take it straightforward, get pleasure from some good meals, and chill out 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 value it to go together with a educated native information.
2. Chill on the Seaside: Playa Las Glorias is the native seaside in Versalles. This seaside is extra laid-back than Los Muertos and there aren’t many companies right here, so it’s a great place to convey an OXXO picnic and some drinks. Click on right here for instructions.
3. See Reside Music: There are a couple of good spots to catch some stay 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 number of the greatest ceviche and aguachile in PV is on the menu right here. Order a couple of completely different plates and go household type for positive. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Mykonos: For those who want a break from Mexican meals, this Greek restaurant actually hits the spot. Click on right here for instructions.
4. Lodge Zone: Finest for Households
For these touring with youngsters, the Lodge Zone is an efficient alternative. 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 motels. Most of them have facilities like swimming pools and playgrounds, and a few even have daycare choices.
Many of those motels 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 traditional Mexican foods and drinks choices. Click on right here to search out it on the map.
Professionals of Staying within the Lodge Zone
- A number of lodging selections
- 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 outdoors of the resorts
- Overpriced touristy outlets
- Not a lot of an area expertise
- Might be costly
Finest Locations to Keep within the Lodge Zone
You gained’t be shocked to search out out that there are many motels on this protected neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta. Listed here are a couple of of one of the best choices:
1. Lodge Mio: This adults-only resort has an excellent rooftop pool with ocean views. It’s additionally conveniently situated proper on the primary 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 referred to as the Hacienda at Hilton, this all-inclusive resort is true 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 motive. It’s an excellent enjoyable night with a sundown cruise, open bar, scrumptious dinner, and an incredible present on a secluded seaside.
2. Hop On Hop Off Metropolis Bus: For those who’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 rather more to discover in Banderas Bay. The cities of Sayulita and San Pancho to the north are properly value 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 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 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 seaside 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 large cruise ships dock, welcoming 1000’s upon 1000’s of tourists to PV every year. The town is engaged on an enormous new cruise terminal known as Puerto Mágico (Magic Port) that can embrace a tequila museum and an aquarium.
For those who’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 residence 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 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 purchasing choices
- Near the airport
Cons of Staying in Marina Vallarta
- Dearer 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
Finest Locations to Keep within the Marina Vallarta
1. San Tropico: This boutique resort is extremely rated due to its stunning, peaceable grounds. There are colourful murals all around the property, which is principally a giant 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 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 certainly on the pricier aspect, however they’ve obtained stellar opinions and are adults-only. In the case of Puerto Vallarta motels, this one is value splurging on. Click on right here to see the newest 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, a lot of that are worldwide delicacies.
1. Casa Ritual for Sushi: when you 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 have to admit I’m keen on the neighborhood often called 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 residence to Playa Camarones, which is a enjoyable native seaside that’s at all times filled with the sounds of wandering mariachi bands.
It’s probably the greatest neighborhoods to remain in Puerto Vallarta because it’s nonetheless near all of the motion of El Centro and the Romantic Zone. Staying here’s a bit simpler on the pockets, although, and it’s not fairly as loud at evening.
That being mentioned, that is very a lot an area Mexican neighborhood. It’s possible you’ll hear canine, roosters, and the occasional mid-week fiesta…
Professionals of Staying in 5 de Diciembre
- Very native neighborhood
- Good views from the highest of the hill
- Has a seaside
- Superior eating places and road meals
- Cheaper than different areas
Cons of Staying in 5 de Diciembre
- Might be very noisy
- Cobblestone streets and hills could be robust to navigate
- Not many resort selections
- Only some bars to select from
Finest Locations to Keep in 5 de Diciembre
There aren’t a ton of motels in 5D, however there are some stable selections close to the seaside. Listed here are a few of my faves:
1. Villa Premiere: This beachfront 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 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: For those who’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 city and as much as the mountains on an ATV is a enjoyable option 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 serious motive that 5D is among the greatest locations to remain in Puerto Vallarta is all of the superior road meals. For those who’re not snug simply selecting your individual taco stalls, bounce on a tour with an area information.
3. Tacos & Tequila: These are a couple of of my favourite issues and that is the proper nieghborhood to 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 consuming your approach round 5 de Diciembre is a significant spotlight of selecting this as your own 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 associates come to go to. The seafood is wonderful right here and there’s an excellent 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 among the greatest locations on the town. They’ve loads of different selections as properly. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Gusto Lounge: This is perhaps the one dive bar on the earth 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.
Finest 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 town for comfort’s sake.
PV is mostly a really protected 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 common bar and membership areas. Learn extra about security in PV right here.
For those who 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 road 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 purchasing, eating, and nightlife.
For essentially the most half, sure, nevertheless, 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 ebook a spot that can 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 it’s essential 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 got 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 straightforward sufficient to get between them and to go on day journeys. You’ll even have nice selections for meals regardless of which space you select.
I hope you discovered this information useful, and most of all I hope you get pleasure from your journey to this little slice of paradise I’ve been lucky sufficient to name residence for a couple of years.
