The place to Keep in Puerto Vallarta: Greatest Areas and Locations

This beneficial information takes a more in-depth have a look at the place to remain in Puerto Vallarta. In case you’re dreaming of enjoyable 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 the entire 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 very best areas in PV for a number of totally different classes:

Are you in search of a secluded all-inclusive resort with a non-public seashore? Would you like to be within the heart of the bustling nightlife? Or possibly you’d wish to expertise a extra native aspect of PV? These are vital issues to think about when in search of locations to remain in Puerto Vallarta.

Town extends from the airport south via El Centro and Outdated City/Romantic Zone all the way down to Conchas Chinas.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 large metropolis, you’ll wish to think about the very 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 considered one of my favourite locations to go to in Mexico, so I’m excited to share some suggestions with you and enable 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 begin with, it’s the central a part of city (therefore the title). That is the place you’ll discover the Cathedral of our Girl 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 business space as nicely with loads of choices for buying 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 take in native tradition
• Shut proximity to a few of the main sights
• Among 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
• Might 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 could be very a lot a neighborhood ‘hood, so it’s not stuffed with resorts and all-inclusive resorts. That being stated, there are many nice locations to put your head right here.

1. Resort Porto Allegro: This central lodge provides 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 house of a few film stars? That’s what you’ll get at this well-known PV lodge which additionally has among the best eating places within the metropolis. Click on right here for particulars.

3. Blaze Resort & Suites: The placement of this lodge is difficult to beat. You’re simply two blocks from the Malecon however distant sufficient to not hear the noise from the nightclubs. Click on right here for particulars.

High Issues To Do in El Centro

There’s 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 checklist, and for good motive. 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 study 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 may get a bit sweaty however it’s price it for the view!

3. See the Cathedral and Principal Sq.: The crown jewel of PV is unquestionably the Cathedral of Our Girl 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 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 house to a few of the very best eating places within the metropolis. Listed below are three that you just’ll positively wish to add to your checklist:

1. La Cappella: Whereas I totally advocate for consuming the entire 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 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 lodge referred to as Casa Kimberly, which is house to this unimaginable restaurant.

My spouse and I’ve been to loads of good eating places in PV and this one is well within the high three. The menu modifications with the seasons and it’s at all times a advantageous 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 totally 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. Outdated City: Greatest Space in Puerto Vallarta for Nightlife

In case you’ve come to PV to social gathering (as many do), you’ll wish to keep within the space referred to as Outdated 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 wish to calm down on la playa. You’ll be in simply the suitable 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, calm down, or drink within the Romantic Zone. That is positively the very best space to remain in Puerto Vallarta for these trying 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 Outdated City

• Easy accessibility to Los Muertos Seaside
• Nice culinary scene, from avenue 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 Outdated City

• Could 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”

Greatest Locations to Keep in Outdated City (Zona Romantica)

There’s no scarcity of lodging choices in Outdated City and there’s one thing for each price range and magnificence. Listed below are just a few of the very best 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 a giant plus. Click on right here for particulars.

2. Joint Boutique Resort: It is a nice lodge selection for digital nomads because it’s house to one of many greatest coworking areas in PV. Once you’re able to calm down, you’ll be able to soak within the sizzling tub or guide a therapeutic massage. Click on right here for particulars.

3. Casa Nicole: Friends rave in regards to the wonderful breakfast spot at this lodge. Additionally they have a fitness center so you’ll be able to work it off later within the day! Click on right here for particulars.

High Issues To Do in Outdated City (Zona Romantica)

Whereas Outdated City is the very best place to remain in Puerto Vallarta for nightlife, there’s extra to this neighborhood than simply partying.

1. Los Muertos Seaside: Days in Outdated 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 nice old style solar lounger & umbrella combo, which often results in fish tacos and margaritas in my expertise.

2. Celebration it Up: As I discussed, Outdated City is the place to be should you’re trying 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: In case you’re staying proper by the pier, you may 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 Outdated City (Zona Romantica)

Outdated City has a whole bunch of bars, eating places, and golf equipment. You possibly can keep right here for a number of weeks and take a look at one thing new for each meal and each Blissful 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 among the greatest eating places on the town. Click on right here for instructions.

2. Tuna Azul: In case you’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 considered one of my favourite bars on the earth. In case you’re not into taking pictures pool downstairs, go to the terrace the place the social gathering’s raging most nights. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Versalles: Coolest Place to Keep in Puerto Vallarta 

That is positively among the 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 shall 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 a terrific spot to be if you wish to expertise extra of a neighborhood vibe than you’ll discover in Outdated City. Click on right here to search out Versalles on the map.

Professionals of Staying in Versalles

• Superb culinary scene
• Extra native than touristy
• Easy accessibility to downtown and the airport
• Seaside inside strolling distance

Cons of Staying in Versalles

• Plenty of development within the space
• Not many resorts 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 residences which might be 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 should you’re in search of a soothing seashore trip, look no additional. Click on right here for particulars.

2. Zenharmony Suites: In case you’re in search of a bit extra space than a lodge room and wish to really feel what it’s wish to stay in PV, this is a superb selection. Click on right here for particulars.

3. Resort Suites Mar Elena: This lodge on the beachside of the freeway has some stable evaluations. They’ve plenty of choices together with one-bedroom residences and cheap charges. Click on right here for particulars.

High 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 calm down on the seashore.

1. Take a Meals Tour: When on this foodie neighborhood, you’ll wish 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 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 place to carry an OXXO picnic and some drinks. Click on right here for instructions.

3. See Reside Music: There are just a few 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 below are just some of my faves:

1. El Puerco de Oro: These pork stomach tacos are life-changing. That’s all you must know! Click on right here for instructions.

2. LAMARA: Among the greatest ceviche and aguachile in PV is on the menu right here. Order just a few totally different plates and go household fashion for certain. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Mykonos: In case you want a break from Mexican meals, this Greek restaurant actually hits the spot. Click on right here for instructions.

4. Resort Zone: Greatest for Households 

For these touring with youngsters, the Resort Zone is an effective selection. Of all of the Puerto Vallarta neighborhoods, that is the very best wager for households.

Because the title suggests, this space is stuffed with resorts. Most of them have facilities like swimming pools and playgrounds, and a few even have daycare choices.

Many of those resorts 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 search out it on the map.

Professionals of Staying within the Resort Zone

• Plenty of lodging decisions
• Child-friendly and adults-only choices
• Easy accessibility 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 a neighborhood expertise
• Could be costly

Greatest Locations to Keep within the Resort Zone

You received’t be shocked to search out out that there are many resorts on this secure neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta. Listed below are just a few of the very best choices:

1. Resort Mio: This adults-only lodge has a terrific rooftop pool with ocean views. It’s additionally conveniently situated 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 called the Hacienda at Hilton, this all-inclusive resort is true on the seashore. Click on right here for particulars.

High Issues To Do within the Resort Zone

For a lot of guests to the Resort Zone, a trip right here is all about some good old style R&R. It’s a type of posh areas of Puerto Vallarta the place you simply wish to sip a margarita on the seashore. There are nonetheless some adventures available, although.

1. Rhythms of the Night time: This is among the top-rated excursions in PV and for good motive. It’s a brilliant 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 a tendency to stay to their resort. There are nonetheless just a few nice eating places price testing, 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 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 seashore is a superb place for some recent seafood, chilly beers, and sundown views. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Cerveceria Chapultepec: A preferred chain from Guadalajara, this spot churns out small plates and drinks for round 20 pesos ($1 USD) every. It’s a enjoyable place to hang around with locals and pre-game earlier than going out in town. Click on right here for instructions.

5. Marina Vallarta: Luxurious Space to Keep in Puerto Vallarta

Marina Vallarta is certainly the flamboyant a part of town. That is the place the enormous cruise ships dock, welcoming 1000’s upon 1000’s of tourists to PV annually. Town is engaged on a large new cruise terminal referred to as Puerto Mágico (Magic Port) that may embrace 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 be house to a world-class golf course and loads of upscale outlets and lodging.

It’s a extremely popular 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 buying choices
• Near the airport

Cons of Staying in Marina Vallarta

• Costlier than different areas of Puerto Vallarta
• Not as conventional or genuine
• Not the very best seashores
• Longer journey to get into the middle if you wish to exit for the evening

Greatest Locations to Keep within the Marina Vallarta

1. San Tropico: This boutique lodge is extremely rated because of its stunning, peaceable grounds. There are colourful murals all around the property, which is mainly a giant backyard. Right here you’ll be able to sit back 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 just a few totally 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 acquired stellar evaluations and are adults-only. On the subject of Puerto Vallarta resorts, this one is price 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, lots of that are worldwide delicacies.

1. Casa Ritual for Sushi: should you like sushi, you received’t wish 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 good. 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 referred to as 5D because it’s the place I’ve spent essentially the most time in PV. This native ‘hood is in between the Resort Zone and El Centro, with hilly streets that jut as much as the mountains. It’s house 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 a neighborhood 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 avenue meals
• Cheaper than different areas

Cons of Staying in 5 de Diciembre

• Could be very noisy
• Cobblestone streets and hills will be robust to navigate
• Not many lodge decisions
• Only some bars to select from

Greatest Locations to Keep in 5 de Diciembre

There aren’t a ton of resorts in 5D, however there are some stable decisions close to the seashore. 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: It is a new lodge proper on the seashore with ocean views from many rooms. Some pals stayed there not too long ago and actually loved the rooftop pool. Click on right here for particulars.

3. Buenaventura Grand Resort: In case you’re trying to do the all-inclusive factor on this space, then the Buenaventura is your greatest wager. Click on right here for particulars.

High Issues To Do in 5 de Diciembre

With the ocean to the entrance and mountains to the again, there are many alternatives for adventures when staying in 5D.

1. Horseback Using with ATV and Zipline: Cruising 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 experience 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 avenue meals. In case you’re not comfy simply selecting your individual taco stalls, soar on a tour with a neighborhood information.

3. Tacos & Tequila: These are just a few of my favourite issues and that is the proper nieghborhood to take pleasure 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 means round 5 de Diciembre is a significant spotlight of selecting this as your house base. These are just some of the very best locations within the space:

1. El Barracuda: This beachfront restaurant is at all times a go-to of mine when pals come to go to. The seafood is superb right here and there’s a terrific bar subsequent door referred to as El Photo voltaic that you would be able to order drinks from. Click on right here for instructions.

2. Pepe’s Tacos: For tacos al pastor, this is among 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 the earth the place you may get a lobster dinner. Sergio and Naomi are good pals of ours and a few of the greatest bar house owners you’ll ever meet. Click on right here for instructions.

Greatest Areas to Keep in Puerto Vallarta: FAQs

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 house for just a few years.

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