Take a walk on the Malecon
The Malecon is a one and a half kilometer pedestrian promenade facing the sea and the beach, between the Rosita hotel and the amphitheater near the main square.
It is lined with cafes, restaurants, shops, hotels, bars and clubs. You will come across many sculptures and works of artists, the colorful letters of Puerto Vallarta and several arts and crafts vendors.
There is also the Naval Museum which presents the history of Mexico since the time of the conquest with models, paintings, photographs, weapons, etc. (Tues-Sun 10 a.m. It’s an unmissable attraction in Puerto Vallarta , where people come for a walk, day, night, and even at sunset!
From 10 p.m., it’s the perfect place to party since there are several bars and clubs like Mandala, La Vaquita, and many others.
Discover Zona Romantica
The Zona Romantica, also called “Old Vallarta or Viejo Vallarta“, is a must in Puerto Vallarta, with many restaurants, bars, clubs, shops, cafes.
It’s also the gay district of Puerto Vallarta and a good area to stay in Puerto Vallarta if you like to party!
What to see in the Zona Romantica:
The famous Playa Los Muertos , the most famous beach in the city, with beach clubs, bars, restaurants
The wharf of Playa los Muertos which is easily recognized with its sail-shaped structure
The Olas Altas beach which is just next door, a little quieter
Mercado Olas Altas which is held on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the colorful park of Lazaro Cardenas
Take a tour of galleries and shops like the original Galleria Dante which brings together 50 national and international artists
Take a trip to Isla Cuale , on the banks of the Cuale River, which is between the Zona Romantica and the Centro
Parroquia de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe
The Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe is a must see in Puerto Vallarta because it represents the heart of the city.
It is located in downtown Puerto Vallarta , facing the Plaza de Armas , very close to the malecon. So even without wanting to, you will eventually pass!
It is a charming little church in the neoclassical and baroque style, which is easily recognized by the crown that adorns its bell tower .
If you are lucky enough to travel to Puerto Vallarta between December 1 and 12 , you absolutely must attend the festivities in honor of the Virgin of Guadalupe around the church with songs, dances,
Take the tourist bus ride
The tourist bus tour is one of the best activities to do in Puerto Vallarta because it allows you to obtain a general panorama of the city and its surroundings.
I should have done it on the first day when I arrived, but even on the 3rd day, having already seen several places of unmissable interest in Puerto Vallarta , I still found the walk very nice!
Especially since it’s much more pleasant to be on the 2nd floor in the open air, with the wind, instead of walking in the heat or taking the car.
Departing from the malecon, the bus first headed south, with a few stops between 10-15 min for those who want to get off to take pictures, make a toilet stop, etc: Playa Palmares , Los Arcos , until in Playa Mismaloya .
access to the bus all day , going up and down as many times as you want- Personally I took the trip without stopping and it lasted 3 hours
a very cold beer (with this heat, it seemed de-licious to me!) and, if you are in party mode, you are also allowed to bring your own alcohol!