Features & amenities
Restaurants
Bars
Beaches
Art Galleries
Sculptures
Performances
Churches
Shopping
Quick Facts
- Downtown is filled with Colonial-era buildings and red-tiled roofs.
- It’s the true old part of town, featuring churches, the malecon, stores, and the main plaza.
- The malecon is a beach boardwalk that offers stunning views and a lively atmosphere.
More…
- It is known for its statues, art installations, and breathtaking sunsets.
- Downtown provides easy access to the beach for a relaxing afternoon.
- It is also home to many colorful shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants.
- Downtown is perfect for photo walks, offering a plethora of photographic opportunities.
Introduction
In downtown PV, overhead wires are now underground, though the mess was at a time considered a “traditional” part of the old town, photographers and tourists now enjoy a much better and unobstructed view of the town, sights, architecture and the various attractions.
Now the white walls are interrupted only by flowerpots bursting with colorful bougainvillea, geranium, hibiscus, copa de oro and splendid ferns.
The city streets have always been cobblestone, but now, these rounded river rocks are set in concrete, creating a much smoother and more durable surface, while still maintaining part of the original city charm and the temperature regulating properties of cobblestone streets.
The downtown area is the oldest part of town and, not surprisingly includes many of the main points of interest for tourists visiting the city. The rest of the article mentions the main ones and you can read a growing list of places to visit & see in town too.
Downtown Puerto Vallarta Streets
July 21st, 2018, downtown Puerto Vallarta has been declared Cultural Heritage of the State of Jalisco, a protected area, with rights and privileges that protect it in state and federal laws.
Downtown Puerto Vallarta (Google Earth)
The Malecon (Seaside Promenade)
Nighttime Puerto Vallarta Malecon
Since the last century (the 1930s), the Malecon has been one of the city’s main and most enjoyable attractions.
First of all, it’s free, secondly, it has been completely remodeled and offers a wide, beautiful promenade between the sea and the stores and restaurants. Cars, taxis and other vehicles no longer go through the area, so it’s safe, clean and fun. There’s even a bicycle lane that’s used not only by bikes but by skaters and even Segways.
Views of the Puerto Vallarta Malecon
Get a glimpse of what living in Vallarta really is like on any afternoon, just stroll down the Malecon. Families with their kids come for a walk, an ice cream and a bit of entertainment, street artists abound, either at the amphitheater or elsewhere along the seaside walkway.
You’ll also enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, the beautiful view of the bay, the warm and impressive sunsets, the sculptures and the Papantla birdmen that hold regular shows, sometimes a few times a day during high season, the list of things to enjoy goes on and on.
Puerto Vallarta Malecon Map
Visit and buy at many of the stores, have a drink at a bar or enjoy a delicious meal at many of the top restaurants that line the boardwalk. At night things really take off, for those that enjoy bar hopping or nightclubs this is the obvious starting point.
Puerto Vallarta Malecon bars
The Malecon extends for about a mile, from Hotel Rosita on the north side, all the way to the Cuale River and the Romantic Zone on the south end.
The Seahorse Statue and other Malecon Statues
Seahorse Statue Puerto Vallarta (The Boy on the Seahorse) Rafael Zamarripa
The Seahorse Statue is one of the city’s symbols, a bronze boy with a Mexican sombrero riding on a Seahorse. Don’t forget to take your picture with this beautiful sculpture. It’s a classic photo op.
Since the 1980’s the Malecon has evolved into a long promenade with sculptures on almost every block. You’ll find soft welcoming ones, strange surreal examples too, walk up to them, touch them, sit on some of them, climb upon them, many have actually been designed for that.
The Malecon Arches by Aquiles Serdan amphitheater and the Naval Museum
The list is long, it includes the Millennia Statue, Origin and Destination, Nature as Mother, Nostalgia, The Subtle Rock Eater, The Good Fortune Unicorn, In Search of Reason, and many more.
Read about them in Statues of the Malecon
A map with their location and photos
Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish
Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe, downtown Puerto Vallarta
The Church, called, Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, on Calle Hidalgo, one block from the Zócalo (main square).
A beautiful church that, more than any building in town, symbolizes Puerto Vallarta. A beautiful crown tops the tower since 1965.
The Main Square (El Zócalo)
Relax and eat an ice-cream on the main plaza in Pto. Vallarta, watch people stroll by on the malecón or feed the pigeons that live, as, in any city, in large amounts around the square.
Rest on the benches or take your photo with the green “Kiosko” in the middle of the square, which is normally used for Sunday music.
Main square, Puerto Vallarta Municipal Band and “danzón”
On Thursdays and Sundays from 6 PM on the Municipal Band plays songs from near and far at the Kiosk, and locals and visitors dance “danzón”, enjoying the music and the relaxed and happy atmosphere. The band is shown in the picture above.
The main square is right in the middle of town as is customary in all of America. The town hall is to one side, the Parish on the other, half a block away, the Malecon, the amphitheater and arches on the seaside.
Puerto Vallarta Main Square (Plaza de Armas, Zocalo)
As always in Mexican towns, the plaza is the heart of it all.
Gringo Gulch
Taylor-Burton Bridge, Zaragoza Street, Gringo Gulch, Downtown Puerto Vallarta
Calle Zaragoza 445, Puerto Vallarta. Casa Kimberley is famous because it was bought by Richard Burton for Elizabeth Taylor on her 32nd birthday. Richard Burton lived across the street and they built a bridge so they could visit each other without crossing the street below.
Many expatriates from the United States and elsewhere settled here in the area during the 1950s and ’60s, and the name ‘Gringo Gulch‘ soon took hold.
Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor
Casa Kimberley was a bed and breakfast for some time and now it’s been completely remodeled into a luxurious boutique hotel.
It all started with John Huston and “The Night of the Iguana“, read a bit more on Huston and Las Caletas, it is very interesting.
Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor
Viva Tequila
Viva Tequila is an original and unique place in Puerto Vallarta and perhaps in all of Mexico. It is located in a Puerto Vallarta cinema’s previous building, which was renovated and equipped with theater equipment and a stage too.
That’s why it is one of, if not, the best theaters in the city of PV, which allows the operation of the Viva Tequila concept with shows and original productions that are well worth the ticket price.
The entertainment offered is both for tourists who arrive on the cruise ships and those who stay in town a bit longer. It is also enjoyed by the local citizens of Vallarta with local and national productions at regular prices.
You can also discover the legends, history, and the production process of one of the oldest traditions in Mexico: Tequila. You’ll learn to recognize the different categories of this liquor, enjoy its unique aroma and learn fascinating facts. When you have become a true expert, reward yourself with a Tequila tasting guided by a tequila master.
Art Galleries
Art galleries show all kinds of Mexican and international art. From avant-garde to indigenous art to fine pottery, each gallery specializes in a different genre. If you happen to visit during the art season, from November to April, you’ll even be able to attend cocktail parties at the galleries to meet the artists (read more in Vallarta Artwalk). Vallarta’s art community has existed for more than 60 years.
Cuale River Municipal Market (Mercado Municipal)
Puerto Vallarta Mercado Municipal Isla Cuale (Flea Market)
Comprising a complete city block along the north side of the banks of the Cuale River is the Mercado Municipal Río Cuale (Cuale River Flea Market), also known as the Mercado de Artesanias. It’s an indoor market with 2 stories of vendors, suppliers, and everything from pottery to jewelry, embroidered clothing, and souvenirs.
If you like to bargain, this is a good place to do it, especially if you’re looking for crafts at affordable prices. On the second floor, you’ll find the food stands.
Cuale River Island
A cool stroll along the river walkway under the bridges that separate the downtown area from the Romantic Zone south of the Cuale River.
Isla del Río Cuale is a natural island on the Cuale River. The island has some restaurants, a museum, an art gallery, a statue of John Huston, and a beautiful fountain… but most people know it for its shops and stands.
Cuale Museum/Museo del Cuale (Isla del Río Cuale)
The Cuale River Island was also famous for its cat population. The island itself was a lower-class development until the residents were forced to move during a hurricane in 1971. After that, the island was used for restaurants, shops, and a cultural center.
There’s a great bridge that runs from the island up to Gringo Gulch, there are also three hanging bridges that are always fun to cross, when you do, you’ll understand.
More on the Cuale River Island
Camarones Beach (Playa Camarones)
Camarones Beach (Shrimp Beach), Downtown Puerto Vallarta
Playa Camarones is a wide beach that starts by Villa Premiere and ends just north of Hotel Rosita and the Malecon, it’s the most popular beach in the downtown area.
The northern part is quite active, with lots of restaurants and activities. You can arrive at the beach on any side street, the further south you go it gets smaller and rockier. The southernmost part is mostly recommended for those that enjoy fishing.
It happens to also be one of the cleanest beaches in the bay. Sand covering varies with the seasons, but is normally not very rocky, if at all.
More on Camarones Beach (video, photos, maps and more)
FAQ
- What is the safest part of Puerto Vallarta to stay in?
The Marina and the Romantic Zone are considered some of the safest areas to stay in Puerto Vallarta. Both areas are popular among tourists and offer a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and attractions. The Marina is known for its upscale atmosphere, luxury resorts, and high-end shops and restaurants. It has a very secure, controlled environment with 24/7 security personnel. The Romantic Zone offers a more authentic Mexican experience with cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and a vibrant mix of galleries, cafes, and bars. As a central tourist area, it also has a strong police presence and is considered very safe.
- Where do locals go in Puerto Vallarta?
Locals in Puerto Vallarta enjoy spending time at the city’s beautiful beaches, scenic parks, and lively local markets. Popular beach spots include Playa de Oro, Playa Las Animas, and Playa Camarones for their soft sand and calm waters. Many locals visit the Vallarta Botanical Gardens to enjoy the lush vegetation and hiking trails. They also frequent authentic local food venues like Birrieria las 3 Regiones taco stand, cafes like Cafecito Vallarta, and neighborhood bars like La Cerveceria Union. The downtown Lazaro Cardenas market is a favorite for produce, spices, crafts.
- Is Downtown Puerto Vallarta nice?
Yes, downtown Puerto Vallarta is an exceptionally nice and popular area, celebrated for its vibrant mix of historic Mexican charm and a lively beach town atmosphere. It features a picturesque historic center with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and the iconic Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe church. The downtown seamlessly blends into the scenic Malecón, a beautiful oceanfront boardwalk lined with fascinating sculptures, shops, and restaurants, making it perfect for strolling and enjoying the stunning ocean views.
The area offers an excellent variety of dining, from upscale restaurants to authentic street food, along with fantastic shopping in boutiques and art galleries. Adjacent to the main center is the popular Zona Romántica (Romantic Zone), known for its trendy vibe and energetic nightlife. The entire downtown is considered safe and is very walkable, allowing visitors to easily explore its captivating blend of culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty on foot.
Tip: For an unforgettable experience, head down to the Malecón or any beachfront spot about 30 minutes before the scheduled sundown to watch the spectacular sunset over the bay.
- What is considered old town in Puerto Vallarta?
Old Town, also known as the Romantic Zone or Zona Romántica, is considered the historic heart of Puerto Vallarta. It is characterized by its picturesque cobblestone streets, classic whitewashed buildings, red-tiled roofs, and a lively mix of shops, galleries, restaurants and bars. Nestled between the Sierra Madre mountains and Banderas Bay, Old Town has a traditional Mexican village charm with its colonial architecture and slower pace compared to the rest of Puerto Vallarta. Its romantic ambience comes from the area’s natural beauty, outdoor cafes, and charming boutique hotels. Old Town offers visitors a taste of an authentic Mexican neighborhood.
Book tours & support us
- Best prices
- 100% Local Support
- 2 decades+ of experience in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta news, tips & content
- New info every two weeks
- Free content, news, videos
- Unsubscribe at any time
Contact us via WhatsApp
- Talk with our reservations expert
- Real local and human support
- Book tours, hotels, transfers, and more.
Last updated on:
Share this article, choose your favorite option!
