Puerto Vallarta 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Traveling in Puerto Vallarta

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

• Morning: Arrive at Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) and take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel.
• Afternoon: Check-in to your hotel, such as the luxurious Hotel Mousai or the budget-friendly Hostal La Casa de los Abuelos.
• Evening: Head to the Malecón, a seaside promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. Enjoy dinner at La Leche, known for its creative Mexican cuisine.

Day 2: Beaches and Water Activities

• Morning: Visit Playa Olas Altas, a popular beach with calm waters perfect for swimming.
• Afternoon: Take a snorkeling or scuba diving tour to explore the underwater world of Banderas Bay. Companies like Vallarta Adventures offer guided tours.
• Evening: Enjoy sunset at La Palapa, a beachside restaurant with live music and delicious seafood.

Day 3: Island Hopping and Wildlife

• Morning: Take a ferry to Yelapa, a secluded island with pristine beaches and lush jungle. Hike to the waterfall or relax on the beach.
• Afternoon: Visit Aquaventuras Park, where you can swim with dolphins, interact with sea lions, and observe other marine animals.
• Evening: Dine at El Arrayán, serving traditional Mexican cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Day 4: Outdoor Adventures

• Morning: Go horseback riding or hiking in the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains with companies like Rancho El Charro.
• Afternoon: Take a zip-line tour with Puerto Vallarta Zip Line for breathtaking views of the jungle and coastline.
• Evening: Enjoy cocktails at The Rooftop Bar at Casa Velas, offering stunning sunset views.

Day 5: Cultural Experiences

• Morning: Visit the iconic Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a historic landmark in Puerto Vallarta.
• Afternoon: Explore the Museo del Cuale, showcasing the region’s history and art.
• Evening: Attend a performance at the Teatro Vallarta, featuring music, dance, or theater.

Day 6: Relaxation and Wellness

• Morning: Treat yourself to a spa day at The Spa at Garza Blanca, offering massages, facials, and more.
• Afternoon: Take a yoga class or meditation session at Bikram Yoga Puerto Vallarta.
• Evening: Savor dinner at Gordo’s, serving gourmet burgers and craft beers.

Day 7: Departure

• Morning: Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market.
• Afternoon: Depart for the airport and head back home.

Things to Know

• Puerto Vallarta is generally safe, but take usual precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
• The local currency is the Mexican peso, although USD are widely accepted.
• Be prepared for tropical weather with sunscreen, hats, and light clothing.
• Learn some basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience.

Transportation

• Taxis: readily available at the airport and around town.
• Buses: an affordable way to get around, with routes covering most areas.
• Walking: Puerto Vallarta is a walkable city, making it easy to explore on foot.
• Rental Cars: available for those who prefer to drive.

Tips

• Haggling is expected at local markets, so be prepared to negotiate prices.
• Try some of the local cuisine, such as tacos al pastor or ceviche.
• Be respectful of the environment and wildlife, as Puerto Vallarta is a popular eco-tourism destination.
• Learn about the city’s history and culture to appreciate its rich heritage.

Other Things of Interest

• Take a cooking class to learn about traditional Mexican cuisine.
• Go on a birdwatching tour to spot some of the region’s unique species.
• Explore the vibrant nightlife, with bars and clubs along the Malecón.
• Visit the nearby town of San Sebastián del Oeste for a glimpse into rural Mexican life.

This itinerary provides a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences, but feel free to customize it based on your preferences and interests. ¡Disfruta tu viaje a Puerto Vallarta!