Explore Puerto Vallarta
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Puerto Vallarta
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Near LandmarksHotels near Malecón BoardwalkHotels near Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de GuadalupeHotels near Zona RománticaHotels near Centro HistóricoHotels near Marina VallartaHotels near Muelle de Playa Los MuertosHotels near Playa de los MuertosHotels near Zoologico de VallartaHotels near Los Arcos de MismaloyaHotels near Superior Tours Vallarta
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Popular Hotel CategoriesPuerto Vallarta Tourism: Best of Puerto Vallarta
The party never stops at this colorful resort town
Strolling, shopping, and sipping tequila along the Malecon boardwalk of Puerto Vallarta is the best way to kick off your vacation. Then hit the cobblestone streets of Old Vallarta to browse the flea market for handicrafts. The calm, warm waters of the Bay of Banderas make for excellent diving, or you can just watch artists sculpt spectacular creations in the sand. And the cluster of fine art galleries in El Centro are perfect spots to hit on a self-guided art tour.
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Puerto Vallarta Is Known For...
Electrifying after-dark entertainment
Addictive street tacos
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Puerto Vallarta Travel Guide
Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Puerto Vallarta
Enrique A
Downtown is home to the highest concentration of restaurants of various gastronomic styles. This is your best bet to satisfy even fussy eaters.
Berenice G
The Botanical Gardens are a must-see but get their bug repellant! it's worth it.
Fernanda C
Take a bus to downtown to get acquainted with the area, and enjoy picturesque views out the window along the way.
In the words of those who've been there before ...
Abraham M
Located in a unique part of Mexico, surrounded by tropical rainforest, pine, and oak woods, and arid zones where you can find cacti ... this diversity of habitats makes Puerto Vallarta perfect for flora and fauna observation.
Computernana
Puerto Vallarta is a great down to earth vacation destination for all types of people.
Rad L
Some of the best dining options in the world are found in Puerto Vallarta! Street food or fine dining on the hillside or on the beach--you will want to go back again and again!
What is the best way to get there?
Flying:
The Licenciado Gustavo DÃaz Ordaz International Airport services the region. Hotel shuttle buses and taxis are available.
Cruise:
Puerto Vallarta is a popular destination for cruise trips. Ships dock at the Marina Vallarta Maritime Terminal and visitors can easily find cabs, tours, and shuttles to popular destinations from here.
Driving:
Those who drive to Puerto Vallarta are most likely coming from Guadalajara. The drive takes about five hours.
Do I need a visa?
If you’re visiting Mexico from overseas, check with the government’s Visa website.
When is the best time to visit?
There’s nothing quite like a warm-weather vacation in the midst of winter. That’s why it’s best to visit Puerto Vallarta from December through March as a quick escape. And, as a bonus, guests may even spot a whale or two swimming by the coast on migration. Average daily temperatures this time of year are highs around 29 C/84 F and lows around 16 C/61 F.
Bus
Buses are plentiful in Puerto Vallarta and are the recommended mode of transportation. A ride costs under $1.
Taxi and rideshare
Both taxis and ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft are readily available.
Driving
Rental cars are available in Puerto Vallarta and parking is easily accessible both in town and at hotels. Mexico recognizes U.S. driver's licenses.
On the ground
What is the timezone?
Eastern Standard Time
What are the voltage/plug types?
The standard voltage in Mexico is 127 V and the standard frequency is 60 Hz. The plug has two flat parallel pins.
What is the currency?
The Mexican peso
Are ATMs readily accessible?
Yes
Are credit cards widely accepted?
Yes
Is it easy to find a bank?
Yes
How much do I tip?
Bartender
$1 (about 24 pesos) a drink or $2 for a more labor-intensive cocktail
Restaurant
15-20%
Bellman
$1 to 3 per bag
Housekeeper
$2 (about 50 pesos)-$3 per night
Taxis/rideshare
15-20%
Shuttle driver
$1-$2 per person
Tour guide
10-20%
Are there local customs I should know?
Drinking
The minimum legal drinking age in Mexico is 18 years old.
Walking
Walk to the right of the sidewalk and step off to the side of the sidewalk if you want to stop to check your phone, look up directions, or want to take in a view.
Public transport
Allow others to disembark before boarding, don’t take up more than one seat and stand to offer seating to pregnant women or someone with a disability.
Try to speak the language
Learn a few basic phrases as a sign of respect. Locals will often switch to English for your ease and comfort but they appreciate the effort.
Frequently Asked Questions about Puerto Vallarta
- We recommend staying at one of the most popular hotels in Puerto Vallarta, which include:
- Some of the most popular restaurants in Puerto Vallarta include:
- Puerto Vallarta is known for some of its popular attractions, which include:
- We recommend checking out these popular tours when looking for something to do in Puerto Vallarta:
- ATV and RZR Jorullo Bridge Experience in Puerto Vallarta
- Marietas Islands Snorkel Tour & Hidden Beach
- Mega Yacht All-Inclusive Yelapa Waterfall & Snorkeling Adventure
- Puerto Vallarta Original Canopy Tour, Ziplining, Tequila and Speed Boat Ride
- Food and Mixology Tour: Tequila, Tacos, and Mexican Cocktails
- If you're a more budget-conscious traveler, then you may want to consider traveling to Puerto Vallarta between September and November, when hotel prices are generally the lowest. Peak hotel prices generally start between June and August.