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.

Coming events in Puerto Vallarta 2023

Puerto Vallarta Guadalupe Peregrinations

Here’s a list of the upcoming events in Puerto Vallarta:

Discover Puerto Vallarta’s Major Galleries in the Puerto Vallarta Annual Art Walk
- Date: October 25, 2023, to June 26, 2024
- Description: Hey PV fans, want to dive into Puerto Vallarta’s famous art scene? Then be sure to stop and take part in the Historic Center Art Walk, happening every Wednesday evening from 6 to 10 p.m., October through June. And, even better, it’s completely free! For 27 years now, the Art Walk has been the best way to explore some of Vallarta’s top galleries and get a taste of the city’s vibrant creative culture. They will feature works from both Mexican and international artists. You don’t want to miss it!
Commemorate Lost Loved Ones at the Day of the Dead Festival
- Date: November 1–2, 2023
- Description: One of the favorite celebrations in Puerto Vallarta is Día de Los Muertos, the Day of the Dead festival. It’s such a meaningful and beautiful way to remember loved ones who have passed on. The festival brings the community together with parades, music, food, and more. And you have to see the giant Calavera Catrina! and the festival’s highlight is the cemetery visits on November 2. It’s a record-breaking cultural tribute that’s really moving to enjoy. If you’re looking for a heartfelt Mexican cultural experience, be sure to join PV this year.
16th Annual Los Muertos Beach Fishing Tournament
- Date: November 3-4, 2023
- Description: Calling all fishing lovers! The big Los Muertos Beach fishing tournament is coming up on November 3rd and 4th! This annual fishing tournament attracts top anglers for a showdown. It’s your chance to show off your skills and win great prizes, all while giving back to the Puerto Vallarta non-profit’s community. With the tournament being held right on Los Muertos Beach, you really can’t beat the location and fun vibe. Let’s make this XVI annual tournament the best one yet.
Puerto Vallarta México By UTMB® 2023
- Date: November 3-5, 2023
- Description: Part of the UTMB® World Series. For the adventure seekers out there, you won’t want to miss the México By UTMB® trail running race happening in Puerto Vallarta’s gorgeous Sierra Madre Occidental mountains and jungle on November 3rd–5th. The race has options for every level, from 10K to 100K, so whether you’re a new runner or an ultramarathon pro, there’s a distance for you. Imagine hitting Puerto Vallarta’s breathtaking trails—I’m getting excited just thinking about it! It’ll be an epic test of endurance, surrounded by majestic scenery.
28th Annual Festival Gourmet International
- Date: November 9–19, 2023
- Description:
  Great news, foodies: Puerto Vallarta’s Festival Gourmet International is back for its 28th delicious year from November 9–19. This is a favorite event of the year, with incredible chefs, special dining events, wine tastings, cooking demos, and more. It’s a chance to really experience Vallarta’s vibrant culinary scene and talents. Get your tastebuds ready for mouthwatering flavors from around the world! With so many tasty choices, you’re going to have a hard time deciding where to eat first.
The first Rainbow Race in Puerto Vallarta
- Date: November 12, 2023
- Description: It’s so exciting that Puerto Vallarta is hosting its very first Rainbow Race this year on November 12th! This is such an amazing opportunity to come together as a community and celebrate diversity & inclusion. Whether you want to sprint, jog, walk, or roll, there’s a way for everyone to participate. This inaugural race welcomes participants for a 2K and 5K run, jog, or walk. And by joining the race, we’ll be supporting local LGBTQ+ organizations too. I can’t wait to see all the bright colors and joyful energy out there. Let’s make history at Vallarta’s first Rainbow Race!
Fiestas Guadalupanas of Puerto Vallarta
- Date: December 1-12, 2023
- Description: One of the most festive times of year in Puerto Vallarta is the Fiestas Guadalupanas from December 1–12. The celebrations really capture the spirit of the city, with colorful parades, traditional dance and music, fireworks, and more. It’s all in honor of the Virgin of Guadalupe and involves the whole community coming together. It’s lovely to see the streets filled with decorations and revelers. The energy is contagious! Be sure to join us this December; you’ll leave with memories to last a lifetime. ¡Viva Puerto Vallarta!

Event Name	Date	More information
Annual Art Walk	Oct 25, 2023 – Jun 26, 2024	Puerto Vallarta Art Walk
Day of the Dead Festival	Nov 1-2, 2023	Día de Muertos Festival
16th Annual Los Muertos Beach Fishing Tournament	Nov 3-4, 2023	16º Torneo de Pesca Playa Los Muertos
Puerto Vallarta México By UTMB® 2023	Nov 3-5, 2023	Puerto Vallarta by UTMB®
28th Puerto Vallarta Festival Gourmet International	Nov 9-19, 2023	Festival Gourmet Internacional
Puerto Vallarta International Half Marathon & 5K 2023	Sunday Nov 5, 2023	Medio Maratón Puerto Vallarta 2023
First Rainbow Race in Puerto Vallarta	Nov 12, 2023	1st Rainbow Race
Fiestas Guadalupanas	Dec 1-12, 2023	Fiestas Guadalupanas en Puerto Vallarta

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.