Puerto Vallarta 3 Day Itinerary

Puerto Vallarta 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Downtown & Beach Activities

Morning:

  • Arrive at Lic. Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR)
  • Check-in at a centrally located hotel, such as Hotel Merced or Grand Miramar Puerto Vallarta
  • Breakfast at local café like La Poza Verde or Cafe des Artistes

Afternoon:

  • Visit the iconic Los Arcos Amphitheater and Playa Los Muertos for a stroll and beach time
  • Explore the downtown area, visit the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe and Plaza principal
  • Lunch at Ocean Grill by Sheraton or Seafront Palace Restaurant for fresh seafood

Evening:

  • Take a sunset cruise or join a sailing tour to see Banderas Bay from a different perspective
  • Dinner at Mango’s Sunset Grill or Le Kliff, offering stunning ocean views and delicious cuisine

Day 2: Adventure & Nature

Morning:

  • Breakfast at the hotel or grab a coffee from Espresso Milano before heading out
  • Take a guided canopy tour in the Sierra Madre jungle for zip-lining and wildlife viewing
  • Stop by the Botanical Garden of Vallarta for a peaceful walk and learning about local flora and fauna

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at El Tule Restaurante or La Leche, famous for its quesadillas and fresh ceviche
  • Relax on Playa Conchas Chinas, a picturesque beach with calm waters
  • Visit the Puerto Vallarta Cultural Institute (Instituto Cultural de Puerto Vallarta) to learn about local art and history

Evening:

  • Dinner at Casa Magdalena or The Fish House, both offering a unique and intimate dining experience
  • Attend a Mariachi show at Las Corridas or Los Manos Muertas for an authentic Mexican music performance

Day 3: Relaxation & Departure

Morning:

  • Breakfast at the hotel or a leisurely brunch at Tuna Blanca or The River Cafe
  • Spend some time relaxing on Playa Los Muertos or enjoy a spa treatment at one of the local spas
  • Check out any souvenir shops, such as Arte y Hueso or El Merkado, for unique gifts and keepsakes

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at the hotel or grab a quick bite before heading to the airport
  • Depart from Lic. Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) with unforgettable memories of Puerto Vallarta

Transportation:

  • Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber are widely available, but consider renting a car for more flexibility
  • Public buses (camioneta) offer an authentic local experience, but may not be as convenient or comfortable for tourists

Tips & Things to Know:

  • Puerto Vallarta is generally safe for travelers, but exercise caution in less touristy areas and at night
  • Mexican pesos are the official currency, but many businesses also accept US dollars
  • Tipping is customary in Puerto Vallarta, with a standard of 10-15% at restaurants and for services
  • Enjoy the local cuisine, such as tacos al pastor, chiles en nogada, and cocteles de camarones
  • Embrace the vibrant culture, friendly locals, and beautiful landscapes of Puerto Vallarta!