Puerto Vallarta 7 Day Itinerary
Seven-Day Itinerary for Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Day 1: Arrival & Downtown Exploration
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Accommodation: Consider staying in the heart of Puerto Vallarta at hotels like the Hotel Merced or Casa Velasco. These boutique properties offer comfortable lodging and are within walking distance to major attractions.
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Activities: Start your trip with a stroll along the Malecon, a beautiful oceanfront promenade filled with sculptures and street performers. Don’t miss the iconic Los Arcos amphitheater!
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Food & Drink: Grab lunch at a local taco stand (taquería) or visit El Solar Cocina de Autor for gourmet Mexican dishes. For dinner, head to Ocean Grill & Bar for fresh seafood with stunning views of Banderas Bay.
Day 2: Beaches & Marietas Islands
- Activities: Spend the day at Playa Los Muertos or Playa Conchas Chinas. If you’re feeling adventurous, book a boat tour to the Marietas Islands, where you can swim in hidden beaches and spot wildlife like sea turtles and blue-footed boobies!
Day 3: Old Town & Botanical Garden
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Activities: Explore Puerto Vallarta’s charming old town, filled with colorful houses, churches, and shops. Visit the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe and the Pitillal Market for local goods. In the afternoon, take a trip to the Vallarta Botanical Garden to see over 3,000 species of tropical plants.
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Food & Drink: For lunch, try Tacos Banderas in the old town. In the evening, enjoy live music at Los Muertos Brewing Company.
Day 4: Zip Lines & Canopy Tour
- Activities: Embark on a canopy tour through the jungle, featuring zip lines, hanging bridges, and rappelling adventures. Puerto Vallarta Canopy Tours offers exciting options for all ages and skill levels.
Day 5: Surfing & Sayulita
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Activities: Head to nearby Sayulita, a bohemian beach town known for its great surf breaks. Rent a board and take lessons from local instructors, or simply relax on the sandy shore.
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Food & Drink: Lunch at Don Pedro’s serves up delicious seafood and tropical drinks. For dinner, check out La Lupita Restaurant, famous for its fresh ceviches.
Day 6: Wildlife & Nature
- Activities: Visit the El Tuito Butterfly Sanctuary to witness thousands of vibrant butterflies in a magical setting. Alternatively, explore the Sierra del Vallejo Reserve on horseback or by ATV for breathtaking views and wildlife spotting.
Day 7: Relaxation & Farewell
- Activities: Spend your last day unwinding at a spa or taking it easy at your accommodation’s pool. Treat yourself to one final delicious meal at a restaurant of your choice, such as Mundo de Cafe or Le Kliff.
Transportation
Puerto Vallarta offers various transportation options:
- Walking & Biking: Many attractions are within walking distance, and bike rentals are easily available for exploring further.
- Taxis & Uber: Taxis can be found throughout the city, while Uber is also widely used.
- Buses: A relatively cheap and convenient way to travel around Puerto Vallarta, bus routes cover most major destinations.
Tips & Additional Information
- Mexican Pesos are the official currency, and credit cards are accepted in many establishments. It’s still a good idea to have some cash on hand.
- Puerto Vallarta is located in a tropical climate zone, with high temperatures year-round. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing and don’t forget your sunscreen!
- Embrace the local culture by learning a few basic Spanish phrases before your trip.
- Stay safe by being aware of your surroundings and keeping valuables secure. It is also recommended to check travel advisories prior to your visit.