Puerto Vallarta 5 Day Itinerary

Puerto Vallarta 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Time

  • Morning: Arrive at Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) and take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel in the Romantic Zone.
  • Afternoon: Spend some time relaxing on Playa Olas Altas, one of the most popular beaches in Puerto Vallarta. Enjoy the sun, sand, and crystal-clear waters.
  • Evening: Head to La Leche, a trendy restaurant serving contemporary Mexican cuisine. Try their signature dishes like grilled octopus or short ribs.

Where to Stay: Hotel Casa Dona Susana, a charming boutique hotel with comfortable rooms and a lovely pool area.

Tips:

  • Make sure to exchange your currency to Mexican pesos or have some cash handy for incidentals.
  • Puerto Vallarta is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventures

  • Morning: Take a guided hike in the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains with Eco Ride, offering breathtaking views of the bay. You might even spot some wildlife!
  • Afternoon: Go snorkeling or scuba diving in Banderas Bay with Vallarta Adventures to explore the underwater world.
  • Evening: Enjoy a sunset dinner at La Palapa, a beachfront restaurant serving seafood and Mexican favorites.

Things to Know:

  • Puerto Vallarta is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with many activities like horseback riding, zip-lining, and more.
  • Be mindful of your physical abilities and choose activities that suit you best.

Day 3: Cultural Experiences

  • Morning: Visit the iconic Malecón seaside promenade, lined with shops, restaurants, and street performers. Stop by the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a stunning colonial-style church.
  • Afternoon: Explore the vibrant Old Town (Centro Histórico) and its colorful buildings, galleries, and boutiques.
  • Evening: Savor contemporary Mexican cuisine at Gordo’s, known for its innovative dishes and extensive wine list.

Transportation:

  • Walking is a great way to explore Puerto Vallarta’s compact city center.
  • Taxis are readily available, but you can also use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Didi.

Day 4: Yelapa Beach Getaway

  • Morning: Take a boat tour to Yelapa Beach, a secluded paradise only accessible by sea. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the beach.
  • Afternoon: Return to Puerto Vallarta and indulge in some retail therapy at Galerías Vallarta, an upscale shopping center.
  • Evening: Dine at El Arrayán, offering traditional Mexican cuisine with a modern twist.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Visit the Puerto Vallarta Botanical Gardens, a tranquil oasis featuring tropical plants and flowers.
  • Take a day trip to San Sebastián del Oeste, a charming colonial town in the Sierra Madre mountains.

Day 5: Water Sports and Farewell

  • Morning: Go kayaking or paddleboarding in Banderas Bay with Puerto Vallarta Kayak. Spot dolphins, sea turtles, or even whales (seasonally).
  • Afternoon: Spend some time at your hotel’s pool or beach, or try your hand at water sports like jet-skiing or parasailing.
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at La Langostera, a seafood restaurant with stunning ocean views.

Tips:

  • Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Leave some space in your luggage for souvenirs and purchases made during your trip.

I hope you enjoy your time in Puerto Vallarta!