Puerto Vallarta is a Mexican town by the sea, full of colour and tradition, with cobbled streets and stunning sunsets that will amaze you!
General info to start your trip
PV Touristic Areas
From south to north:
Conchas Chinas
Southernmost area of PV, holding mainly a residential neighborhood beside the sea with clear turquoise waters and rocky tide pools.
Zona Romántica
Most touristic zone in PV, full of stores, cafés, restaurants, bars and clubs. It’s nightlife scene is the best for partying in town
Centro
PV’s historic charming heart, with amazing art galleries, restaurants and interesting sites like the Faro, Guadalupe Church and Malecón
5 de Diciembre
Traditional and authentic mexican neighborhood beside Playa Camarones, where you’ll find a wide variety of cafés, stores and restaurants
Lázaro Cárdenas
Quiet neighborhood beside the Estadio, offering a local experience with small business, restaurants and coffee stores to enjoy authentic pv lifestyle
Las Glorias
Beachfront zone with a mix of hotels and all-inclusive resorts, restaurants, bars, and cafes
Versalles
Vibrant and centric neighborhood well known for the vast offer of gastronomic options to enjoy: upscale restaurants, hidden cafes and trendy bars
Fluvial
Modern and peaceful district surrounded by stores, restaurants and renown business!
Zona Hotelera
Lively buzz area with high-rise hotels and beachfront resorts offering a wide selection of bars, restaurants and shopping stores!
Puerto Mágico
Cruisers terminal surrounding area, full of restaurants and shopping centres at a walking distance from the ship port.
Palmar de Aramara
Growing residential neighborhood, perfect to relax with the coffee shops and little restaurants! Can’t miss their market, fully stocked with fresh products!
Marina Vallarta
Luxurious district located up north, beside the airport, famous for the marina and its pedestrian boardwalk and high up scale restaurants and shops!
Transportation
You’ve just arrived and you are wondering how to move through the town. It’s easy: there are different options depending your style and budget.
Apps
Download Uber, Didi or InDriver and get a ride paying in cash or by credit card! So simple!
Bus
Move easily from the airport up to Zona Romántica in two main routes: tunnel and centro
Taxi
Bright yellow units with fares based on zones. Agree the price before getting in!
Panga
Small boats from PV Pier to beaches and towns heading to the south of the bay
Rentals
Lease a car is the best way to discover comfortably nearby beaches and spots
Transportation service
Cars, vans, pangas or even yachts, it’s up to you how to move all along the bay!
Banks & Tips
Peso is main and common currency in town. However, many places accept dollars. Visa, Mastercard and American Express credit or debit cards are less commonly accepted. Shouldn’t be charged, but small business add a fee for using cards.
Need more money?
At the airport, shopping centers, supermarkets and some touristic areas such as the main square you will find ATMs. In addition, you can find banks along the main avenue.
Where can I exchange money?
You can exchange money at banks and exchange houses. Rumor has it ATM are your best option after decline suggested exchange rate.
How much should I tip? To whom?
Commonly, tipping starts around 10%. If you’re service has been great, 15% may be a fair amount. Exceptional services are usually rewarded with a tip of 20%.
In hotels, room services, bell boys, food and drink services are tipped. At restaurants, tips are added to the full service. At bars and nightclubs, bartenders, waiters and entertainment performers receive tips. Other services like packaging at supermarkets or people opening doors are commonly tip with coins or low banknotes.