A beautiful boardwalk with stunning ocean views, sculptures, shops, restaurants, and nightlife.

The Malecon is a bustling oceanfront promenade that stretches along the heart of Puerto Vallarta. This vibrant boardwalk is adorned with beautiful sculptures, lively bars, and top-notch restaurants. It's a hub of cultural activity, with street performers and artisans adding to the lively atmosphere. /n The Malecon is also home to some of the city's most significant landmarks, including the iconic Seahorse statue and the Arches amphitheater. It's a wonderful place to take a leisurely stroll, enjoy the sunset, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Whether you're shopping for souvenirs, sampling local cuisine, or simply soaking up the views, the Malecon is a must-visit when in Puerto Vallarta.

A lively boardwalk with sculptures, shops, and restaurants.

A stunning church with beautiful architecture, located in the heart of the city.

The Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe is one of Puerto Vallarta's most iconic landmarks. This beautiful parish church stands out with its distinctive crown, which is said to be a replica of a crown worn by Carlota, the Empress of Mexico. /n The church's architecture is a blend of various styles, with elements of neoclassical and baroque design. Inside, you'll find a peaceful sanctuary adorned with religious art and a beautiful altar. The Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe holds a special place in the hearts of locals, and is a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture or religious history.

A beautiful parish church with a distinctive crown.

A charming neighborhood with cobblestone streets, boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries.

Zona Romantica, also known as the Romantic Zone, is a charming neighborhood in the heart of Puerto Vallarta. This area is known for its vibrant dining scene, with a wide range of restaurants serving everything from traditional Mexican cuisine to international fare. /n Zona Romantica is also a shopper's paradise, with a variety of boutique shops selling everything from handmade crafts to high-end fashion. The neighborhood's cobblestone streets and colorful buildings add to its charm, making it a delightful place to explore. Whether you're looking for a delicious meal, unique shopping, or simply a leisurely stroll, Zona Romantica is a must-visit.

A charming neighborhood known for its dining and shopping.

A beautiful garden with a variety of plants and flowers, perfect for a peaceful stroll.

The Vallarta Botanical Gardens is a lush oasis located just outside of Puerto Vallarta. This beautiful garden showcases the diverse flora of Mexico, with a wide range of plants from desert cacti to tropical orchids. /n The gardens are spread over 20 acres, with well-maintained trails that allow you to explore at your own pace. In addition to the plants, the gardens are home to a variety of wildlife, including hummingbirds and butterflies. There's also a restaurant on site, where you can enjoy a meal with stunning views of the surrounding greenery. Whether you're a nature lover or just looking for a peaceful escape, the Vallarta Botanical Gardens is a must-visit.

A lush garden showcasing Mexico's diverse flora.

A popular beach with a lively atmosphere, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

Los Muertos Beach is one of the most popular spots in Puerto Vallarta. This lively beach is the perfect place to soak up the sun, swim in the clear waters, or simply relax with a good book. /n But Los Muertos Beach is more than just a beach - it's a hub of activity, with a wide range of dining and entertainment options. You'll find everything from beachfront restaurants serving fresh seafood, to lively bars where you can enjoy a cocktail as you watch the sunset. There's also a pier, where you can catch a water taxi to other parts of the bay. Whether you're looking for relaxation or excitement, Los Muertos Beach has something for everyone.

A popular beach with dining and entertainment options.

An evening cruise on Banderas Bay offers a unique way to experience the beauty of Puerto Vallarta. Guests can enjoy a sunset dinner cruise, watch for wildlife, and take in the stunning views of the coastline and city lights.

An evening cruise on Banderas Bay is a unique way to experience Puerto Vallarta. As the sun sets, you'll set sail on a comfortable boat, taking in the stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding Sierra Madre Mountains. /n But the cruise is more than just a scenic ride - it's a full evening of entertainment. You'll enjoy a delicious meal, with options ranging from traditional Mexican cuisine to international dishes. After dinner, you can sit back and enjoy a live show, or dance the night away under the stars. Whether you're looking for a romantic evening or a fun night out with friends, an evening cruise on Banderas Bay is a must-do.

A scenic evening cruise with dining and entertainment.

Experience the vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. This charming coastal city offers a blend of traditional Mexican life and modern amenities. Explore the cobblestone streets of the old town, brimming with art galleries, local markets, and authentic cuisine. Relax on the golden beaches, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or embark on a thrilling water sports adventure. Discover the lush jungles and diverse wildlife on eco-tours or visit the iconic Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe. As the sun sets, enjoy the bustling nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and live performances. Puerto Vallarta promises a captivating and unforgettable travel experience.

Malecon

Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe

Zona Romantica

Start your day with a stroll along the famous Malecon, a mile-long boardwalk with stunning ocean views, sculptures, and local vendors. Don't forget to take pictures of the iconic 'Boy on the Seahorse' statue.

Enjoy a traditional Mexican lunch at a local restaurant. Try dishes like enchiladas, tacos, and ceviche, paired with a refreshing margarita.

Visit the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a beautiful piece of architecture and a significant religious site. Afterwards, explore the vibrant Zona Romantica neighborhood, known for its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and charming boutiques.

Dine at a beachfront restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Experience Puerto Vallarta's vibrant nightlife. Attend a traditional folkloric show or visit a local salsa club to dance the night away.

Exploring Downtown and Zona Romantica

Vallarta Botanical Gardens

Los Muertos Beach

Evening cruise on Banderas Bay

Start your second day with a visit to the Vallarta Botanical Gardens, a 64-acre tropical paradise with thousands of different plant species.

Have lunch at a local eatery in the South Shore area. Try the local specialty, grilled fish on a stick, known as 'pescado zarandeado'.

Spend the afternoon at Los Muertos Beach, the most popular beach in Puerto Vallarta. Enjoy water sports, sunbathing, or simply relax with a good book.

For dinner, try a restaurant in the Marina area. Enjoy a variety of international cuisines, from Italian to Japanese, in a sophisticated setting.

End your trip with a romantic Evening cruise on Banderas Bay, where you can enjoy live music, dancing, and stunning views of the city lights.

Discovering South Shore and Marina Vallarta

Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins first Sunday in April; ends last Sunday in October; note: mexico has four time zones

UTC-6

Taxis are a popular way to get around in Puerto Vallarta. They are plentiful and can be hailed from the street, or you can ask your hotel to call one for you. They are not metered, so it's best to agree on a price before you get in.

Buses in Puerto Vallarta are a cheap and efficient way to get around. They run frequently and cover most areas of the city. The buses are color-coded according to their route.

Ridesharing services such as Uber are available in Puerto Vallarta. This can be a convenient option as you can order a ride from your smartphone and the price is agreed upon before the ride begins.

Renting a car can give you the freedom to explore Puerto Vallarta and the surrounding areas at your own pace. Keep in mind that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak tourist season, and parking can be challenging in the city center.

Puerto Vallarta has a number of bike rental shops and the city is quite bike-friendly with several dedicated bike lanes. It's a great way to get around and see the city, especially the Malecon boardwalk area.

Many of the attractions in Puerto Vallarta are within walking distance, especially in the downtown area. Walking can be a pleasant way to explore the city, but be prepared for the heat and always carry water with you.

Ferries and water taxis can take you to some of the more remote beaches and coves around Puerto Vallarta that are not accessible by road. They leave from various points along the coast, including the main marina.

Many hotels and resorts in Puerto Vallarta offer shuttle services to and from the airport. This can be a convenient option, especially if you have a lot of luggage.

A popular dish in coastal areas of Mexico, ceviche is made from fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, and spiced with chili peppers, onions, and cilantro.

Ceviche

Fish tacos are a staple in Puerto Vallarta. They consist of grilled or fried fish, lettuce or cabbage, pico de gallo, and a sour cream or citrus/mayonnaise sauce, served on a corn or flour tortilla.

Tacos de Pescado

This is a patriotic dish that represents the Mexican flag's colors. It's made of poblano chiles filled with picadillo (a mixture usually containing shredded meat, aromatics, fruits, and spices) topped with a walnut-based cream sauce (nogada) and pomegranate seeds.

Chiles en Nogada

A traditional soup made from hominy corn, with plenty of herbs and spices, cooked for hours with pork or chicken, and garnished with shredded lettuce, chili peppers, radish, onion, lime, and oregano.

Pozole

Tequila is a regional distilled beverage and type of alcoholic drink made from the blue agave plant, primarily in the area surrounding the city of Tequila and in the Jalisco state.

Tequila

Churros are a popular sweet snack, a fried-dough pastry based snack, coated with sugar and often served with a cup of hot chocolate.

Churros

Enchiladas are corn tortillas rolled around a filling and covered with a chili pepper sauce. Fillings can include various meats, cheese, beans, potatoes, vegetables, or combinations.

Enchiladas

A traditional Mexican dip made from ripe avocados, cilantro, lime, onion, and tomatoes. It's often served with tortilla chips.

Guacamole

Tamales are made of masa (a dough made from corn) that's filled with meats, cheeses, fruits, vegetables, or chilies, wrapped in a corn husk and then steamed or boiled.

Tamales

Elote is a popular street food in Puerto Vallarta. It's a grilled corn on the cob, covered in creamy sauce, cheese, chili powder, and lime.

Elote

A Michelada is a Mexican cerveza preparada made with beer, lime juice, assorted sauces, spices, and peppers. It is served in a chilled, salt-rimmed glass.

Michelada

This dish consists of a large chili pepper stuffed with cheese or spicy meat (picadillo), battered with an egg (capeado) and fried. It is often served in a tomato sauce.

Chiles Rellenos

New Year's Day

Constitution Day

Benito Juárez's Birthday Memorial

Labor Day / May Day

Independence Day

Revolution Day Memorial

Christmas Day

General Election Day

Inauguration day

A charming fishing village known for its surfing, beautiful beaches, and vibrant arts scene.

Sayulita

A tranquil beach town with a rich cultural scene, known for its art galleries and music festivals.

San Pancho

A small beach resort town with a beautiful long sandy beach, perfect for swimming and windsurfing.

Bucerias

A luxury resort town known for its high-end hotels, golf courses, and beautiful beaches.

Punta Mita

A popular beach resort town with calm, warm waters, perfect for families.

Guayabitos

A picturesque town nestled in the mountains, known for its colonial architecture and cool climate.

Mascota

The birthplace of the famous Mexican spirit, offering distillery tours and tastings.

Mexico's second-largest city, known for its rich history, architecture, and vibrant cultural scene.

Guadalajara

Acapulco

Baja California

Cozumel

Merida

Mexico City

Oaxaca

San Miguel de Allende

Puerto Vallarta is located in the Pacific Time Zone (UTC-7).

The official language is Spanish, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

The local currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN), but US dollars are often accepted in tourist areas.

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for small vendors and tipping.

Tipping is customary in Puerto Vallarta. It's common to tip 10-15% in restaurants and a few pesos to service workers.

The climate is tropical with a wet season from June to October and a dry season from November to May.

Temperatures range from 61-90°F (16-32°C) in the dry season and 73-93°F (23-34°C) in the wet season.

Hurricane season runs from June to November, but severe storms are rare.

Tap water is not generally safe to drink. Stick to bottled water and avoid ice in drinks unless you know it's made from purified water.

Public transportation is reliable and inexpensive. Taxis are also readily available but make sure to agree on a price before getting in.

It's safe to walk around Puerto Vallarta, especially in the tourist areas, but like any city, use common sense and avoid isolated areas at night.

Local cuisine is a mix of traditional Mexican food and seafood. Try the local specialty, grilled red snapper.

There are several local markets where you can buy fresh produce, local crafts, and souvenirs.

Sunscreen is a must as the sun can be very strong, especially between 10am and 4pm.

It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses in case of illness or injury.

The voltage in Mexico is 127V with Type A and B power outlets. If your devices use a different type, you'll need a power adapter.

Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, restaurants, and many public areas.

Puerto Vallarta is LGBT-friendly with a vibrant gay scene, especially in the Romantic Zone.

It's a good idea to learn a few basic Spanish phrases, even though English is widely spoken.

Remember to respect local customs and traditions. Mexicans are generally warm and friendly, and appreciate when visitors make an effort to understand their culture.

January is a pleasant month in Puerto Vallarta, with mild temperatures and low rainfall. It's a great time to explore the city and enjoy outdoor activities.

February is a great month to visit Puerto Vallarta, with warm temperatures and clear skies. It's perfect for beach activities and water sports.

March sees a slight increase in temperature, making it a great time for swimming and sunbathing. The weather is warm and sunny, with little to no rainfall.

April is one of the hottest months in Puerto Vallarta, with high temperatures and clear skies. It's a great time to enjoy the beach and explore the city's vibrant nightlife.

May is the start of the hot season in Puerto Vallarta, with temperatures often reaching the mid-30s. It's a great time to visit if you love the heat and want to spend time on the beach.

June is the start of the rainy season in Puerto Vallarta, but don't let that deter you. The rain usually comes in short, intense bursts, leaving plenty of time for sunbathing and exploring.

July is a hot and humid month in Puerto Vallarta, with frequent rain showers. However, the rain often comes in the late afternoon or evening, leaving the daytime clear for outdoor activities.

August is similar to July, with hot, humid weather and frequent rain showers. Despite this, there's still plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures for beach activities.

September is the peak of the rainy season in Puerto Vallarta, with high humidity and frequent showers. However, there are still many sunny days, and the rain often comes in the late afternoon or evening.

October sees a decrease in rainfall and a slight drop in temperature. It's a great time to visit if you prefer milder weather and less crowded beaches.

November is a pleasant month in Puerto Vallarta, with mild temperatures and little rainfall. It's a great time to explore the city and enjoy outdoor activities.

December is a great month to visit Puerto Vallarta, with warm temperatures and clear skies. It's perfect for beach activities and water sports.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture. When planning your trip, it's important to consider the weather to ensure you make the most of your visit.

The city experiences a tropical climate, with a wet and dry season. The dry season runs from November to May, with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). This period is ideal for outdoor activities like sightseeing and beach visits, as rainfall is minimal and the weather is generally sunny.

The wet season, from June to October, sees increased rainfall, particularly in the afternoons and evenings. Temperatures during this period can reach up to 95°F (35°C), so it's essential to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. Despite the rain, mornings are often clear and sunny, making it still a good time for outdoor activities.

Regardless of when you visit, it's advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing due to the city's high humidity levels. Don't forget your swimsuit, sunblock, and a hat for sun protection. During the wet season, an umbrella or raincoat might come in handy.

Remember that weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and plan your activities accordingly. Enjoy your visit to Puerto Vallarta!

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2-Day Ultimate Travel Itinerary for Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

About Puerto Vallarta, Mexico