Mexico
Jalisco
Puerto Vallarta
Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta
Zona Romántica
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Zona Romántica

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Zona Romántica
4.5
About
Despite its name, Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone isn't just for couples. This vibrant area is lined with cool shops, street vendors, art galleries, restaurants, and queer-friendly bars, making it a popular spot for families, LGBTQIA+ travelers, and everyone in between. Stroll along the district’s cobblestone streets, shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs, or sit at an outdoor restaurant for drinks and to people-watch. Uncover all the best food stops in the Romantic Zone on a food tour of Puerto Vallarta. Los Muertos Beach is also a great stop, especially at sunset. You can also visit Cuale Island in the middle of the Romantic Zone, where you’ll find a flea market and a cultural center. – Tripadvisor
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The area
Best nearby
Restaurants
882 within 3 miles
Tuna Azul
1,303
475 ft$$ - $$$ • Mexican • Latin • Seafood
Casa Nicole Restaurante
374
0.1 mi$$ - $$$ • Mexican • Vegetarian Friendly • Vegan Options
The Blue Shrimp Puerto Vallarta
4,587
215 ft$$ - $$$ • Mexican • Bar • Seafood
Residences Sky Bar
305
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Fusion
De Cantaro - Parrilla & Bar
618
499 ft$$ - $$$ • Mexican • Brew Pub • Bar
iK Mixology Bar & Cuisine
367
371 ft$$ - $$$ • Bar • Seafood • International
Si Señor Beach
1,698
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Mexican • Bar • Seafood
Noroc
551
237 ft$$$$ • Mexican • Peruvian • Seafood
Maria Baja
537
0.3 mi$ • Mexican • Latin • Seafood
Cafe San Angel
943
482 ft$$ - $$$ • Mexican • American • Cafe
See all
Attractions
153 within 6 miles
Playa de los Muertos
1,205
78 ftBeaches
Ambos Galeria de Arte y Artefactos
3
79 ftArt Galleries
Tilt Pv A Tracy Lee Stum Museum
56
412 ftSpeciality Museums
Olas Altas
531
269 ftNeighborhoods
Olas Altas Farmers Market
132
303 ftFarmers Markets
The Palm Cabaret and Bar
630
0.1 miCabarets
Galleria Dante
368
0.2 miArt Galleries
Muelle de Playa Los Muertos
1,730
0.1 miPiers & Boardwalks
Galeria Demetro
8
380 ftArt Galleries
Bust Of Luis Reyes Brambila
2
277 ftMonuments & Statues
See all
See what travelers are saying
  • BackpackerNoMore62
    Seattle, Washington2,503 contributions
    Has changed for the worse
    We have visited PV for several years, and over that time the Zona Romantic has evolved to become more and more crowded, noisy, and consequently unpleasant. On the plus side it still has excellent galleries, restaurants and shops all within a relatively small area. But the congestion has us looking to other areas to visit.
    Visited January 2023
    Written February 3, 2023
  • michael g
    Powell River, Canada111 contributions
    Excellent place. Excellent winter weather. Must see
    The area is old town with many new hotels and abnbs. The malecon runs along the beach and seawall. This is the most popular part of Puerto Vallarta to visit. Many restaraunts and bars to chose from. It is a must see. There are some things you need to know. The area is expensive. The streets are cobblestone and you must watch your step everywhere. The hotels extend up the hills and can be a hard climb if you are heavy or have bad knees or feet. We stayed up the hill in a fourth floor apartment without an elevator. Take this into consideration. Many people winter here and there are few available rooms at lower prices . Staying in another area and taking a bus or taxi is a good idea. Book your rooms early . Enjoy!
    Visited January 2023
    Traveled as a couple
    Written February 5, 2023
  • Garey57
    Lisle, Illinois50 contributions
    Fun place
    It is a fun place to wander around with lots of shops and restaurants and bars to visit. Best of all is the wide clean beach and the Malecon board walk. Great places to wander and people watch and soak up the sun. As a person who wanders around a lot, it was also important to me to feel safe, which I did. I'll go back.
    Visited January 2023
    Written February 9, 2023
  • Larryandtoniya
    Lake Oswego, Oregon154 contributions
    Sun’s good… crowds, not so much
    The sun was a welcomed change from dreary & cold however the noise, crowds & being surrounded by Americans & Canadians was not for me. It truly does depend what you’re wanting from a holiday. I found zona romantica to be expensive ( compared to other Mexican cities), overcrowded & not worth the trouble. The best part for me was the live Act2 drag queen shows- I loved the live cabaret show performance of Hedda Lettuce. And of course the warm nature of the Mexicans. The airport was a nightmare!
    Visited March 2023
    Traveled with friends
    Written March 5, 2023
  • J_Ctravel22
    Canton, Texas194 contributions
    Trip to the city
    What a beautiful walk along the ocean with lots of shopping opportunities and beautiful statues along the walk. Don’t forget to try a homemade churros. We took the city bus from Barcelo Puerta Vallarta for 20 pesos and enjoyed the local experience.
    Visited July 2023
    Traveled as a couple
    Written July 9, 2023
  • Kimberly H
    Colorado315 contributions
    Great Energy, Lots to Explore
    We had a great time staying in the Romantic Zone and exploring the neighborhood. There are many wonderful restaurants and shops you will find off the cobbled streets. At night there is a fun vibe and the streets are lit up and festive.
    Visited July 2023
    Traveled with family
    Written July 10, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
3,970 reviews
Excellent
2,810
Very good
948
Average
165
Poor
26
Terrible
21
Rosheen O
9 contributions
Reached a tipping point for us
Feb 2020 • Couples
We stayed in the Romantica Zone 3 years ago for the first time & it was a great trip. Unfortunately this trip Feb 2020 to the Romantica zone found it too busy, too dirty , too noisy and expensive. Just felt like a typical tourist targeted to make a buck off. People were friendly but it just wasn't enough. Our small boutique hotel is a quirky one but the oddities wore thin after a few days. Walking on cobblestones & narrow, lopsided sidewalks lost its charm for us. We actually gave up the last night & moved to a nice, clean, bright Holiday Inn Express. Even with the airport very close to the Holiday Inn Express we didn't here a thing. As in it is quieter than the Romantica Zone ! I would imagine there may be quieter spots within the Romantica zone but you still have to leave your hotel or condo for meals or to walk amongst the masses. Won't be going back. Not sure what the answer is as 'All Inclusives' are a bit generic. Perhaps we'll try a smaller town in Mexico if we come again.
Written February 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JBG1
Leicester, UK757 contributions
Delightful area to walk with numerous sights to experience
Feb 2020 • Couples
This area if Puerto Vallarta is an area which must be visited if you are staying in the vicinity. Obviously the experience changes between day and night but nevertheless is worth absorbing if in Puerto Vallarta itself. Bronze artwork cafes and bars plus street entertainers make it all tick All you need to do is walk it and absorb the local DNA It's infectious.
Written February 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JandLcanada
London, Canada58 contributions
Wonderful walking area
Feb 2020
Puerto Vallarta is a very safe area . We have been walking from the Sheraton to the Old Town twice a day about 16 k total taking get in all the wonderful atmosphere of restaurants ,cafes and entertainment venues ,and art shops .We found a great coffee shop on the corner of Olas Atlas called Cafe del Mar great coffee and service from Juan Carlos ,and Marc sit and watch all the interesting sights go by. Love the Old Town
Written March 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
David D
Devon, UK20,397 contributions
Friendly, colourful, vibrant, a delight to visit
Feb 2022 • Couples
Thursday 3rd February and we had spent some time exploring and sightseeing in El Centro while walking along The Malecón enjoying the sights and attractions.

It was time to move on and we crossed over the Puente Rio Cuale and the next part of our adventure began in Zona Romántica. North of the Bridge, which was the original Malecon, however it now includes the entire strip, both sides, including Paseo Díaz Ordaz.

Once over the Bridge The Malecón continues and runs along Playa Olas Atlas, walking along here we ended up at Playa de los Muertos and it's Pier. We were able to walk along the small pier and around the impressive Sail, an integral part ot the Pier.

This is a trendy area, with a Bohemian feel to the area. It may not have the initial visual impact, like it's neighbour, El Centro, however it does have its own unique charm and appeal. The cobbled streets are lined with cafes, bars, shops and restaurants, some with quaint verandas, and others with seating on the street. Ideal place to stop for some cold refreshments, a snack or a meal and just enjoy the ambience and also people watch.

A number of statues and sculptures are dotted around the streets.

There are a large number of LGBT Bars, a very welcoming place, numerous drags show are advertised around the area.

One of the features of the Zone is the colourful Parque Lazaro Cardenas, with statues,  colourful mosaic benches and walls.
Written March 17, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael B
Bellflower, CA25,097 contributions
From Gringo gulch, to countless Bars and gay beach’s a terrific place.
Apr 2021
Zona Romántica is a trendy neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta, popular with Canadian ex-pats and the LGBT community, with lots of bars, restaurants, cafes, and art galleries scattered around its cobblestone streets.
Popular events and sights are the Olas Alta’s Farmers Market in Lázaro Cárdenas Park, and the Playa Los Muertos pier built-in 2013, with its large sail that changes colour at night.
Elizabeth Taylor's old home in Gringo Gulch, Casa Kimberly is a very good place to enjoy romantic evenings, or if you are more adventurous check out the drag shows at the Palm Cabaret and bar.
The ever-popular Los Muertos Beach (Beach of the Dead) attracts locals and visitors alike to its golden sand and sparkling ocean water. A brisk walk along the waterfront will take you past dozens of unusual and beautiful bronze sculptures

TIP: Take a boat trip from the end of the pier for a fishing trip or to visit the more secluded beaches!
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Written September 1, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Larryandtoniya
Lake Oswego, OR154 contributions
Sun’s good… crowds, not so much
Mar 2023 • Friends
The sun was a welcomed change from dreary & cold however the noise, crowds & being surrounded by Americans & Canadians was not for me.
It truly does depend what you’re wanting from a holiday.
I found zona romantica to be expensive ( compared to other Mexican cities), overcrowded & not worth the trouble.
The best part for me was the live Act2 drag queen shows- I loved the live cabaret show performance of Hedda Lettuce. And of course the warm nature of the Mexicans.

The airport was a nightmare!
Written March 5, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Charmain
United States59 contributions
Beautiful, but BUSY!
Dec 2020 • Couples
I enjoyed the hustle of Zona Romantically, as well as the authentic sights and sounds. Lots of great restaurants and places to shop. The local community is extremely friendly and many speak English fluently. Great place to stay, dine and take in all of the sights and sounds. All of the beaches are well-maintained and offer chair service. The public restrooms are clean and well-maintained. Definitely will be back.
Written December 25, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Marilyn S
San Jose del Cabo, Mexico76 contributions
Safest tourist site in MX!
Feb 2020 • Friends
This was the first time I’ve stayed in Puerto Vallarta, although we’ve been traveling in Mexico for lots of years due to wonderful weather. I probably prefer the size and food choices in Cabo, but, I believe PV is the safest feeling city we have visited. Do not hesitate to enjoy it. The people ate wonderful.
Written February 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chicagonative_7
Chicago1,055 contributions
Wonderful place to walk.....
Jan 2020 • Couples
Walking through the area you’ll find new things on every block.... some of PV’s best restaurants and bars are here along with more art galleries and finer shops. The oceanfront walk is a different experience at different times of day. I’ve never felt unsafe in any area here and most folks are very friendly. Lately we’ve rented condos in ZR and love being in the middle of it all!
Written January 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
J_Ctravel22
Canton, TX194 contributions
Trip to the city
Jul 2023 • Couples
What a beautiful walk along the ocean with lots of shopping opportunities and beautiful statues along the walk. Don’t forget to try a homemade churros. We took the city bus from Barcelo Puerta Vallarta for 20 pesos and enjoyed the local experience.
Written July 9, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Zona Romántica - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

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