Puerto Vallarta-5-day-itinerary
Puerto Vallarta 5-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Beach Time
- Morning: Arrive in Puerto Vallarta and check-in at your hotel or resort. We recommend:
- Hotel Mousai for a luxurious experience
- CasaMagna Marriott Resort & Spa for a more traditional resort feel
- Afternoon: Spend some time relaxing on Playa Olímpico (Olympic Beach), a beautiful and lively beach with calm waters.
- Evening: Head to the Old Town, also known as El Centro, and explore its colorful streets. Try some local cuisine at:
- La Palapa: A beachfront restaurant serving delicious seafood
- Café de Olla: A cozy café with a wide variety of Mexican dishes
Day 2: Explore the Old Town and Water Activities
- Morning: Visit the iconic Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe), a beautiful Catholic church in the heart of the city.
- Afternoon: Take a boat tour to explore the bay and its surrounding islands. You can also snorkel or swim in the crystal-clear waters.
- Baywatch Puerto Vallarta offers guided tours and water activities
- Evening: Enjoy some local street food at:
- Tacos El Güero: A popular spot for tacos and other Mexican delicacies
Day 3: Adventure Time
- Morning: Take a hike through the lush jungles of Puerto Vallarta, exploring its hidden waterfalls and scenic views.
- Hike with PV Jungle Tours: Offers guided hikes and nature tours
- Afternoon: Visit the picturesque town of Yelapa, accessible only by boat. Enjoy some beach time, shopping, or trying local cuisine at:
- Yelapa’s Restaurant: Serves fresh seafood and traditional Mexican dishes
- Evening: Head back to Puerto Vallarta and enjoy some dinner at:
- Don Pascual’s: A beachfront restaurant serving upscale Mexican cuisine
Day 4: Relaxation and Wellness
- Morning: Treat yourself to a spa day at one of the many luxurious resorts in Puerto Vallarta, such as:
- The Grand Park Royal: Offers wellness packages and treatments
- Afternoon: Spend some time relaxing on Playa Conchas Chinas, a beautiful beach with calm waters.
- Evening: Enjoy a romantic dinner at:
- La Leche: A cozy restaurant serving Mediterranean-inspired cuisine
Day 5: Last Day in Paradise
- Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions, such as the iconic Malecon.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a farewell lunch at:
- La Casona: A historic restaurant serving traditional Mexican cuisine
- Evening: Head back to your hotel for some relaxation and packing before departing.
Things to Know
- Puerto Vallarta is known for its vibrant nightlife, but be aware that the city can get lively on weekends.
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches or other cultural sites.
- Don’t forget to try some of the delicious street food and local cuisine!
- If you’re planning to visit the Old Town, be prepared for crowded streets and narrow alleys.
Transportation
- Puerto Vallarta is easily accessible by air, with a domestic airport (PVR) located just outside the city.
- You can also take a bus or taxi from nearby cities, such as Guadalajara or Mazatlán.
- Within the city, you can use taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber.
Tips
- Always haggle when shopping at local markets or with vendors.
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
- Don’t drink tap water!
- Try to learn some basic Spanish phrases to communicate with locals.
Other Interesting Facts
- Puerto Vallarta is home to a large LGBTQ+ community and is considered one of the most welcoming cities for this demographic.
- The city has a rich history and was once a major hub for pirates and smugglers!
- If you’re interested in wildlife, be sure to visit the nearby Sierra de Vallejo National Park, which is home to a variety of unique species.
I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Puerto Vallarta!