Your Next Trip TRAVEL GUIDE
Puerto Vallarta
Experience a culinary adventure in Puerto Vallarta, a picturesque resort town on Mexico’s Pacific coast. Explore the cobblestone streets and Spanish-style architecture of the historic city center, and discover the vibrant local markets with a chef from the Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa. Savor the flavors of a three-course lunch prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Dive into the rich traditions of Puerto Vallarta’s taco scene with a guided food tour, tasting iconic birria tacos, crispy tacos dorados, and mouth-watering seafood tacos.
Finally, experience an upscale sensory dining experience paired with a tequila tasting, capturing the essence of Puerto Vallarta’s culinary delights.
Now, check out our recommendations featured in this episode and more!
What to do
Local Market Tour with Marriott Chef
Experience Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant local market with a chef from the Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa. Discover fresh ingredients and local flavors as the chef selects items for a cooking experience.
- Address: Local Market, Puerto Vallarta
- Hours: Morning tours
- Cost: Included with the Marriott’s cooking experience package
- Website: Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa
Taco Food Tour
Dive into the rich traditions of Puerto Vallarta’s taco scene with Vallarta Eats. Taste iconic birria tacos, crispy tacos dorados, and more.
- Address: Various locations in Centro Puerto Vallarta
- Hours: Daily tours available
- Cost: $55 per person
- Website: Vallarta Eats
Sensory Dining Experience
Indulge in an upscale tapas-style meal at the Marriott, designed to engage all your senses, paired with a tequila tasting.
- Address: Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa, Paseo La Marina Norte 435, Marina Vallarta, 48354 Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico
- Hours: Evening experiences
- Cost: Prices vary
- Website: Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa
Where to stay
Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa
Stay at the luxurious Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa, offering stunning views, comfortable rooms, and top-notch amenities.
- Address: Paseo La Marina Norte 435, Marina Vallarta, 48354 Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico
- Cost: Starting at $150 per night
- Website: Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa
Casa Velas
An exclusive adults-only boutique hotel offering a serene and luxurious experience with tropical gardens, a private beach, and gourmet dining.
- Address: Pelícanos 311, Marina Vallarta, 48354 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico
- Cost: Starting at $300 per night
- Website: Casa Velas
Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa
A luxury resort nestled between the Sierra Madre Mountains and Banderas Bay, featuring spacious suites, gourmet dining, and a world-class spa.
- Address: Carretera a Barra de Navidad Km. 7.5, Zona Hotelera Sur, 48390 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico
- Cost: Starting at $250 per night
- Website: Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa
And there’s tons of other fabulous places to stay during your trip.
Check out the best accommodation deals below.
What to eat
Look for these street taco stands as they local legends in the area.
Birria Ricky
Taste the traditional birria tacos, a local favorite with a rich, flavorful stew.
- Address: Centro, Puerto Vallarta
- Hours: Morning to early afternoon
- Cost: $2 per taco
Marisma’s Fish Tacos
Enjoy fresh fish tacos at Marisma’s, known for their secret family recipes.
- Address: Francisco I. Madero 271, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico
- Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM
- Cost: $3 per taco
El Moreno Tacos
Indulge in tacos dorados, a crispy and delicious variation of birria tacos.
- Address: Venustiano Carranza 501, Zona Romántica, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico
- Hours: 11 AM – 10 PM
- Cost: $2.50 per taco
La Michoacana
Taste this refreshing and authentic Mexican ice cream at La Michoacana.
- Address: Lázaro Cárdenas 260, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico
- Hours: 9 AM – 10 PM
- Cost: $1.50 per scoop
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is from April to June when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are thinner. This period offers sunny days perfect for beach activities and exploring the city.
Another good time is during the winter months, from December to March, ideal for those seeking to escape colder climates.Getting Around
Puerto Vallarta offers various transportation options:
Public Transit: Buses are an affordable way to get around the city.
Car Rentals: Available at the airport and in the city for those who prefer to explore at their own pace.
Ride-Sharing Services: Uber and local taxis are readily available and convenient.
Safety Tips
Stay in well-lit and populated areas, especially at night.
Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid displaying valuables.
Use reputable transportation services and avoid unlicensed taxis.
Drink bottled or purified water to avoid potential stomach issues.Helpful Notes
Currency: The official currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases and tips.
Language: Spanish is the official language. While many people in tourist areas speak English, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can be helpful.
Emergency Number: Dial 911 for any emergency services.
Time Zone: Puerto Vallarta is in the Central Time Zone (CT).
Plug Type: Type A and B
Voltage: 127V
Frequency: 60Hz
Packing list
Here’s our suggested items to pack for this destination. Please always consider the weather and activities you will be doing.
Clothing
- Lightweight, breathable clothing (t-shirts, shorts, sundresses)
- Swimsuits and cover-ups
- Comfortable walking shoes and sandals
- Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
- Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
Essentials
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle
- Beach bag and towel
- Personal hygiene items
- Travel documents (passport, ID, travel insurance)
Electronics
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Chargers and power banks
- Plug adapter (Type A and B)
Activities
- Water shoes for beach and water activities
- Snorkeling gear (optional)
- Backpack for day trips
Miscellaneous
- Spanish phrasebook or translation app
- Cash in local currency (Mexican Pesos)
- Medications and a basic first-aid kit
Get a full packing list and free downloadable template at Pack Better.
Ultimate Packing List Library
Find the perfect customizable packing list for all of your travel situations on our sister website Pack Better.
This episode of "Your Next Trip" explored the ancestral lands of
We extend our respect and gratitude to the Indigenous communities who have been the stewards of these lands for generations. Research for this acknowledgment was made possible using the NativeLand.ca.
Learn more about responsible travel practices in the TWD Responsible Travel Guide.
Visit the guideTrip provided by: Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa
Editor: Ashhad Zubair
Special Thanks: Vallarta Eats, Diamond PR
