Puerto Vallarta-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Time

Morning

  • Arrive at Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR)
  • Take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel in the Romantic Zone (approx. 30-40 minutes, $20-$30 USD)
  • Check-in to your hotel, such as Hotel Porto Vallarta or Casa Dona Susana

Afternoon

  • Spend the day relaxing at Playa Olas Altas, a popular beach with calm waters and stunning views
  • Take a sunset stroll along the Malecón, a seaside promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and bars

Evening

  • Head to La Leche for dinner, a trendy restaurant serving contemporary Mexican cuisine
  • Explore the vibrant nightlife in the Romantic Zone, with bars like Bar La Playa and The Swedes

Tips and Insights

  • Puerto Vallarta is a popular destination for LGBTQ+ travelers, and the Romantic Zone has a high concentration of gay-friendly bars and restaurants.
  • Be sure to try some local seafood dishes, such as fish tacos or shrimp cocktail.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventures

Morning

  • Take a guided horseback ride through the Sierra Madre mountains with Rancho El Charro, offering breathtaking views of the Bay of Banderas (approx. $60-$80 USD per person)
  • Alternatively, go on a zip line tour with Vallarta Adventures, featuring 15 zip lines and stunning ocean views (approx. $90-$120 USD per person)

Afternoon

  • Visit Los Arcos National Marine Park, a protected area featuring stunning rock formations and marine life
  • Take a snorkeling or scuba diving tour to explore the underwater world of Puerto Vallarta

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at El Arrayán, serving traditional Mexican cuisine with a focus on local ingredients
  • Catch a show at The Act Nightclub, featuring live music, drag performances, and themed parties

Tips and Insights

  • Be sure to book your outdoor adventures in advance, as they may fill up quickly.
  • Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes for your outdoor excursions.

Day 3: Cultural Experiences

Morning

  • Visit The Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a historic church featuring stunning architecture and beautiful views
  • Explore the Puerto Vallarta Art Walk, a self-guided tour of local art galleries and studios (free admission)

Afternoon

  • Take a cooking class with Cooking Classes in Puerto Vallarta, learning about traditional Mexican cuisine and preparing your own dishes (approx. $60-$80 USD per person)
  • Visit Old Town Vallarta, featuring charming streets, historic buildings, and local shops

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at La Palapa, serving gourmet Mexican cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood
  • Take in the views of the Bay of Banderas at Mirador Independencia, a scenic lookout point

Tips and Insights

  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting The Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
  • Don’t miss the opportunity to try some local street food, such as tacos al pastor or elote.

Day 4: Relaxation and Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning relaxing at your hotel or exploring the nearby Cuale Cultural Center, featuring art exhibitions, workshops, and live music
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the Malecón, enjoying the ocean views and local street performers

Afternoon

  • Check-out of your hotel and head to the airport for your departure flight (approx. 30-40 minutes, $20-$30 USD)
  • Alternatively, take a day trip to Yelapa, a picturesque beach town accessible by boat (approx. $80-$120 USD per person)

Tips and Insights

  • Be sure to check with your airline for any travel restrictions or requirements before departing.
  • Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect against unexpected trip cancellations or interruptions.

Transportation

  • Taxis are widely available, but be sure to agree on the fare beforehand
  • Uber is also an option in Puerto Vallarta
  • Local buses ( Colectivos ) offer an affordable and authentic way to get around the city

Accommodation

  • Hotel Porto Vallarta: a charming boutique hotel in the Romantic Zone
  • Casa Dona Susana: a luxurious bed and breakfast with stunning ocean views
  • Airbnb options: consider staying in a local neighborhood, such as Emiliano Zapata or Romantic Zone

Things to Know

  • Puerto Vallarta is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings
  • Be prepared for occasional power outages or internet connectivity issues
  • The local currency is the Mexican Peso, although USD are widely accepted in tourist areas