Guide · 13 Places

Puerto Vallarta

Mexico

Before You Go

When to Visit

November to April offers perfect weather with temperatures from 22-28°C (72-82°F), sunny skies, and minimal rain - ideal for beaches and outdoor activities. May to October is hot and humid (28-35°C) with rainy season (June-October) bringing afternoon showers. December to February is peak season with higher prices. Shoulder seasons (May, October) offer good weather with fewer crowds.

Visa

Check requirements

US, Canadian, EU, Australian, and many other nationals can enter Mexico visa-free for up to 180 days. You'll receive a FMM (tourist card) on arrival - keep it safe. Check inm.gob.mx.

Getting There

Transportation

By Air: Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) is 7km north of the city center.

By Bus: First-class buses connect Puerto Vallarta to Guadalajara (4 hours), Mexico City (10 hours), and other destinations.

By Car: Highway 200 runs along the coast connecting to other beach towns.

Language

Communication

Spanish is the official language. English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas - Puerto Vallarta has a large expat community. Service staff are generally bilingual.

Currency

Money matters

Mexican Peso (MXN). Exchange rate roughly 17-20 MXN per USD. US dollars are accepted in many tourist establishments but you'll get better rates paying in pesos. Cards accepted at hotels and restaurants, but cash is preferred at markets and local establishments. ATMs available throughout the city.

Getting Around

Local transport

Buses: Local buses (camiones) are cheap (10-12 pesos) and cover the entire city and surrounding areas including beaches.

Taxis: Abundant and metered in town, negotiate fares for longer trips.

Uber: Available and often cheaper than taxis.

Walking: The Zona Romántica (Old Town) and Malecón (boardwalk) are very walkable.

Rental Car: Useful for exploring nearby beaches and towns, but not necessary for staying in PV.

From the Airport

Arrival info

Taxi: Official airport taxis with fixed zones ($15-30 USD to most areas, 15-30 min).

Uber: Available from designated pickup area, often cheaper than taxis.

Bus: Local bus route 322 to town (10 pesos, 30-45 min) - not recommended with luggage.

Private Transfer: Pre-booked shuttles ($25-40 USD, 15-30 min).

Accommodations

Accommodations

Hotel Boutique Rivera del Rio

Intimate riverside boutique hotel in Centro. Contemporary Mexican design with rooftop terrace.

Accommodations

Casa Kimberly

Bars and Rooftops

Bars and Rooftops

Bar La Playa

Bars and Rooftops

El Colibrí Cocktail Bar

Bookstores and Libraries

Bookstores and Libraries

A Page in the Sun

Coffee and Tea

Coffee and Tea

Miscelánea Café

Coffee and Tea

The Green Place

Cultural and Artistic Venues

Cultural and Artistic Venues

Galleria Dante

Health and Wellness

Health and Wellness

Metamorfosis Day Spa

Markets and Shopping

Markets and Shopping

Olas Altas Farmers Market

Places to Work

Places to Work

Natureza Cowork

Restaurants and Food

Restaurants and Food

La Leche

Restaurants and Food

Mariscos El Coleguita