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Planning a short getaway to Puerto Vallarta? You’re in for a treat!
This vibrant coastal city on Mexico’s Pacific coast blends golden beaches, lush jungle scenery, and a colorful old town full of charm. But with so much to see and do, it can feel overwhelming trying to fit everything into just a few days. That’s where we come in!
We’ve visited Puerto Vallarta more times than we can count and designed this 3-day itinerary to help you take the guesswork out of planning. You’ll discover the highlights of downtown, experience the city’s incredible food scene, and have time for a little adventure beyond the city limits—all while leaving space to simply soak up the sunshine.
Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this zipline adventure. We soared over jungle canyons, spotted toucans, and even raced side-by-side on the final cables before cooling off in the river!
Check out the 3,300+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Itinerary Overview
Puerto Vallarta is a city made for exploring, from strolling the seaside Malecón to wandering shaded plazas and the colorful streets of the Romantic Zone. The best part is how walkable many neighborhoods are—you can easily cover a lot on foot while soaking up the atmosphere. And when you want to go further, Ubers are affordable and reliable, making it simple to jump between Old Town, Centro, and the marina without needing a car.
Our three-day plan gives you a real taste of Puerto Vallarta without feeling rushed. You’ll enjoy guided experiences mixed with downtime, whether that’s lounging on the beach, cooling off at your hotel pool, or savoring fresh seafood by the water.
Day 1: Stroll through Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone and Centro before diving into the city’s flavors on a guided food and mixology tour in the afternoon.
Day 2: Soar through the treetops on a zipline and adventure tour, then cap off the day with the spectacular Rhythms of the Night dinner and show.
Day 3: Choose between a full-day escape to Yelapa Waterfall and Majahuitas Beach or a Marietas Islands snorkeling cruise, then end with a sunset walk along the Malecón and dinner by the ocean.
Day 1
Breakfast – Coco’s Kitchen
Start your first morning in Puerto Vallarta with a relaxed breakfast at Coco’s Kitchen, a beloved spot in the Romantic Zone that opens daily at 8 am. The leafy, open-air patio sets the tone for an easygoing start, with dappled sunlight filtering through the trees and the soft hum of conversation from fellow travelers and locals.
The menu is packed with tempting options, from fluffy pancakes and rich chilaquiles to their signature eggs Benedict, each made with fresh, local ingredients. Pair your meal with a strong cup of coffee or a refreshing juice, and take your time enjoying the friendly service and relaxed atmosphere before heading out to explore the neighborhood’s colorful streets.
Morning/Afternoon – Explore PV’s Zona Romantica and Centro
Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone is the city’s most walkable and charming neighborhood, with colorful streets, inviting plazas, and plenty of shops and cafés to explore. Just to the north, Centro is connected via the scenic Malecón, making it easy to enjoy both areas in a single morning.
With your afternoon tour meeting back in the Romantic Zone at 3 pm, you’ll have several hours to explore at your own pace. Here are some highlights worth checking out:
- The Malecón – This seaside promenade stretches for about a kilometer (12 blocks) and is lined with restaurants, shops, art galleries, and sculptures. Whether you start in Centro or Zona Romantica, the ocean views make it a pleasure to stroll.
- Playa Los Muertos – One of the city’s most famous beaches, known for its lively atmosphere and the striking Los Muertos Pier. It’s a great spot to dip your toes in the sand or people-watch with a drink in hand.
- Stop for a pick-me-up at Café de Olla – Take a break for a traditional café de olla, a rich Mexican coffee brewed with cinnamon and piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar). Perfect for recharging mid-walk.
- Lázaro Cárdenas Park (Tile Park) – Lázaro Cárdenas Park is a small park transformed into an outdoor art space, where every bench, column, and planter is covered in colorful mosaic tiles.
- Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe – This iconic church in Centro is a symbol of Puerto Vallarta, with its crown-topped tower and beautiful interior. Step inside for a quiet moment away from the busy streets.
- Hike to Mirador El Cerro de la Cruz – For sweeping views over the city and the bay, take this short but steep 15-minute hike to the lookout platform, a great way to see Puerto Vallarta’s natural beauty.
Late afternoon – Experience the culinary scene on a food and mixology tour
After a leisurely morning exploring the Romantic Zone and Centro, we headed back to the Romantic Zone by 3 pm to meet our guide for this food and mixology tour.
This four-hour walking tour quickly became one of our favorite ways to experience Puerto Vallarta’s food scene, blending the city’s vibrant street eats with Mexico’s deep-rooted traditions.
Over six tasting stops, we sampled everything from perfectly crisp fish tacos to stuffed chile tacos, finishing with sweet local desserts, all paired with six different drinks showcasing Puerto Vallarta’s best.
Some of our highlights included sipping a pineapple specialty at Joe Jack’s Fish Shack, learning to shake our own mixers at Zapata Antojería y Bar, and trying one of the best jalapeño drinks we’ve ever had at Bar La Playa. Between each stop, our guide shared the history and culture behind the dishes and drinks, adding so much depth to the experience.
It’s easy to see why this tour has so many glowing five-star reviews! By the time the tour wrapped up at 7 pm, we were full, happy, and a little more drink-savvy—also perfectly placed to catch a stunning Puerto Vallarta sunset!
Taste the best of Puerto Vallarta—book this food tour here!
Evening – Catch sunset at Los Muertos Beach
Since the food and mixology tour wraps up in the Romantic Zone around 7 pm, we took the short walk down to Los Muertos Beach to watch the sunset. If the timing and season line up, the sky here turns incredible shades of pink and gold, with the Los Muertos Pier lighting up as the daylight fades.
We found a spot in the sand to simply relax and take it all in, letting the sound of the waves round off the day. There are also plenty of beach bars along the shore if you feel like ending the evening with a drink, but honestly, we were so content (and full!) after the tour that a quiet moment on the beach was the perfect end to the day.
Related Read: Planning more beach time? Check out my 5-day Dominican Republic itinerary here for more sun-soaked adventures in the Caribbean.
Day 2
Morning – Zipline and adventure tour
We kicked off the day with a rush of adrenaline on this Original Canopy Tour, Puerto Vallarta’s very first zipline circuit and still one of its best!
With multiple pick-up points around the city, we booked the 8:30 am start time (note: the tour doesn’t run on Sundays), which meant we were zipping through the jungle by mid-morning and back in Puerto Vallarta by around 1:30 pm, leaving the rest of the afternoon free to relax before the evening’s activities.
After a scenic ride into the lush rainforest along the Los Horcones River, our guides fitted us with gear and gave a quick safety briefing before leading us to the first platform. From there, it was adrenaline all the way, with 19 ziplines covering more than 2 miles (3.2 km), some suspended 328 feet (100 meters) above the ground and stretching up to 1,450 feet (442 meters) long.
We soared over the river, zipped between jungle-clad hillsides, and even raced each other on the final twin cables, which dump you off right at a riverside bar!
But the fun didn’t end there! We sampled locally made tequila (included in the tour) and, for those who wanted, indulged in an ice-cold mango drink before cooling off with a swim in the river’s natural pools.
Kayaks and water slides added to the adventure, and we wrapped up with a wander through the on-site wildlife area to see squirrel monkeys, toucans, and iguanas. It’s a morning that packs in plenty of thrills, stunning scenery, and a taste of local flavor, all with enough time to enjoy a slow-paced afternoon back in town.
Check out over 3,300 5-star reviews and book this popular tour here!
Afternoon – Relax or beach time
After returning to Puerto Vallarta at around 1:30 pm from the canopy tour, we slowed the pace for the afternoon. With our evening activity meeting at 5 pm, we had just over 3 hours to recharge.
This is a great time to lounge by your hotel pool, enjoy a light lunch at a nearby café, or wander down to Playa Los Muertos for a couple of hours of sun and sand. If you’d rather stay shaded, the Romantic Zone’s boutique shops and market stalls are perfect for picking up souvenirs or local art before heading back to get ready for the evening.
Evening – See the Rhythms of the Night show
After a relaxing afternoon, we headed just outside of Centro for the 5 pm check-in for this Rhythms of the Night show, one of Puerto Vallarta’s most unforgettable evening experiences!
The night began with a one-hour sunset cruise across the Bay of Banderas on a spacious catamaran. We sipped drinks from the open bar, watched the sky turn brilliant shades of pink and orange, and even spotted dolphins playing in the waves. During whale season, you might be lucky enough to see humpbacks on the journey!
Arriving at Las Caletas, a private beach lit only by torches and candles, felt like stepping into another world. We were guided to the open-air amphitheater for the show, created by a co-founder of Cirque du Soleil. It blended acrobatics, music, and dance with Mexican legends and folklore, a performance so mesmerizing that we barely realized an hour had flown by.
After the curtain call, we made our way to one of the beachfront restaurants for a romantic, candlelit buffet dinner. The food was excellent, with plenty of fresh seafood, grilled meats, and vegetarian options, and the service was just as impressive.
With the waves lapping at the shore and a gentle breeze in the air, it was the perfect way to end the evening before the return cruise. We arrived back at the port around 10 pm, tired but so happy. This is a must-book experience in Puerto Vallarta, and clearly we aren’t the only ones who think so—read over a THOUSAND five-star reviews here. Just keep in mind it’s not available on Sundays, so swap your days around if you need to, so you don’t miss out!
Reserve this dinner show here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Day 3
For your final day in Puerto Vallarta, why not make it unforgettable with a boat trip along this gorgeous stretch of coastline? Two of our favorite options are the Yelapa Waterfall and Majahuitas Beach adventure and the Marietas Islands snorkeling cruise, and you really can’t go wrong with either—it often just comes down to which tour is running on the dates of your trip.
Yelapa is a picture-perfect fishing village where jungle trails lead to a hidden waterfall, while Majahuitas offers the kind of secluded, golden-sand beach you’ll be dreaming about long after you’re home. If you’re more excited by colorful fish, coral reefs, and dramatic rock formations, the Marietas Islands are a snorkeler’s paradise.
Whichever you choose, you’ll get a mix of beautiful scenery, time on the water, and plenty of sunshine to wrap up your trip in style.
Full Day Option 1: Yelapa Waterfall & Majahuitas Beach
We love this tour for its mix of adventure and pure relaxation. Departing Puerto Vallarta at 8 am, this Yelapa and Majahuitas day tour takes you on a scenic cruise across Banderas Bay to two of the region’s most beautiful and less-visited spots.
Yelapa is a charming fishing village where locals still get around on donkeys and ATVs. From here, it’s an easy jungle walk to the Cola de Caballo waterfall, perfect for a refreshing dip before heading back to the beach.
In the afternoon, the boat continues to Majahuitas, a secluded golden-sand cove that feels completely off the grid. The water here is crystal clear, making it fantastic for snorkeling with the provided gear. You can also kayak, swim, or just relax on the beach with a drink from the open bar. A light buffet lunch is served onboard, and the friendly crew keeps the energy up with music and fun along the way.
With its mix of coastal scenery, jungle trails, marine life, and downtime on a private beach, this trip feels like a mini-vacation within your vacation. Just keep in mind that tour dates vary, so be sure to check the schedule here before you go. We were back in Puerto Vallarta by around 3 pm, with plenty of time to freshen up before the evening.
Book this popular tour here and explore this beautiful stretch of Mexico!
Full Day Option 2: Marietas Islands & Majahuitas Beach
If you love the idea of combining wildlife, snorkeling, and postcard-perfect beaches, this Marietas Islands Cavern swim and snorkel cruise is a dream day trip worth working into your trip. It departs Puerto Vallarta at 7 am and returns around 2 pm, giving you a full morning and early afternoon of exploring.
The journey out is scenic in itself, with views across Banderas Bay before arriving at the uninhabited Marietas Islands, a protected area famous for its dramatic archways, hidden coves, and white-sand beaches.
We spent the morning snorkeling in clear water teeming with tropical fish, with the chance to spot sea turtles, manta rays, and even dolphins. Between December and March, there’s also a good chance of seeing humpback whales. Kayaks and paddleboards are available for exploring the coastline, and the open bar keeps things festive once you’re done in the water. A picnic lunch and snacks are served on board to keep you fueled for the day.
The trip also includes a stop at Majahuitas Beach, a tranquil cove that’s ideal for swimming, relaxing on the sand, or just soaking in the peaceful surroundings. With its mix of marine life, water activities, and pristine beaches, this tour really delivers a well-rounded experience of Puerto Vallarta’s natural beauty.
Just remember that dates vary, so check the schedule ahead of time here to lock it in. We returned to port by about 2 pm, feeling like we’d seen a whole new side of the region.
Reserve your spot on this Marietas Islands & Majahuitas Beach tour here!
Sunset/evening – Walk the Malecón
We couldn’t think of a better way to spend our last evening in Puerto Vallarta than with a leisurely stroll along the Malecón. This lively seaside promenade comes alive as the sun starts to dip, with street performers, live music, and the salty breeze from Banderas Bay.
We love to wander past colorful sculptures, browse the small artisan stalls, and pause often to take in the golden-hour light reflecting on the water. If you’re thirsty, there are plenty of cafés and bars where you can stop for a drink while watching the world go by. It’s a simple but memorable way to soak in the city’s energy one last time before dinner.
Dinner – La Palapa Restaurant
We ended our Puerto Vallarta trip with dinner at La Palapa, a beachfront favorite that combines fresh, flavorful food with unbeatable views. Located right on Playa Los Muertos, the open-air tables let you dine with your toes almost in the sand while the sound of the waves rolls in.
The menu features a mix of Mexican and international dishes, with plenty of fresh seafood—we loved the coconut shrimp and the grilled catch of the day. As night falls, the glow from the pier and the twinkling lights along the shoreline make it feel extra special. It’s a relaxed yet elegant way to wrap up your time in Puerto Vallarta. This restaurant is really popular, so make sure to make a reservation here ahead of time!
Related Read: Looking for even more ideas? Check out our guide to 10 fun and exciting things to do in Puerto Vallarta here for even more awesome activities to mix into your trip.
Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta
Since you’ll need a comfortable place to rest between adventures, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite hotels in Puerto Vallarta. From boutique stays to luxury resorts, there’s something for every budget—but these places often sell out fast, so we recommend reserving your spot as early as possible.
Hilton Vallarta Riviera – $$$
The Hilton Vallarta Riviera is one of the best resorts in town – it’s all-inclusive, so you’re free to have plenty of peaceful downtime. They also have 7 restaurants, a private beach, a pool, a spa, and a gym. Rooms have super comfy beds and can include a terrace, balcony, and a private jetted tub overlooking the ocean! There’s evening entertainment and a kids’ club to keep the little ones happy
Rooms here at the Hilton Vallarta Riviera average around $350-$650 USD per night, but you can often get a good deal (on the lower end of that range) if you book in advance.
Amapas Apartments Puerto Vallarta – $$
The Amapas Apartments in Puerto Vallarta are a series of adult-only, self-contained apartments, located in my favorite area of town – the Romantic Zone. It’s really close to the beach, and restaurants, as well as tons of shopping and nightlife options. They even have a pool, with all rooms being air-conditioned too!
With one and two-bedroom apartments available, a stay here typically starts around $96 USD per night, which I think is a great deal considering the size of the apartment and its location! This is another really popular spot, though, so don’t forget to book your stay online in advance.
Posada de Roger – $
Another superb budget choice is the Hotel Posada de Roger, which is right in the heart of the Romantic Zone. All rooms here have AC, and they even have an outdoor pool that gets tons of sun. If you fancy making up some packed lunches, they also have a shared kitchen which is free for guests to use. No wonder it’s our go-to place to stay in Puerto Vallarta!
A one-night stay here at Posada de Roger starts at $64 USD per night, but it is pretty popular, so I’d recommend making your reservation in advance on Booking.com.
For even more options, check out all of Puerto Vallarta’s hotels listed here!
Renting a Car in Mexico
Undoubtedly, one of the best ways to get around Mexico is in a rental car.
I struggled to get around by bus and taxi for the longest time. But after renting a car in Cancun in 2023, I never looked back. It allowed me to explore the country without worrying about tours or taxis. It was why I fell in love with Mexico and eventually decided to live here periodically.
I refuse to use local services whenever I rent a car in Mexico. The truth is they sometimes can’t be trusted or come with hidden fees (or costly insurance that doesn’t make sense.) There are even rental car scams! So instead, I use Discover Cars, the company most experienced travelers or ex-pats in Mexico recommend. Read my honest review of Discover Cars here for more details!
The rates on Discover Cars are cheap, too, with the average rental costing around $25 USD per day. Full coverage insurance can be added for an extra $10 USD a day too.
Driving in Mexico also only requires a driver’s license using the Roman alphabet. If yours uses another like Japan and China, you simply need an international driving permit.
Insurance is required, but if you book with Discover Cars and get the full coverage, that’s all you need! Oh, and being over 18 is required, and if you’re over 25, your rental will be much cheaper!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
We hope this 3-day Puerto Vallarta itinerary helps you plan an amazing getaway! From wandering the colorful streets of the Romantic Zone to ziplining through the jungle, watching unforgettable shows, and sailing to hidden beaches, we loved every moment of our time here. Whether you’re visiting for food, culture, beaches, or adventure, Puerto Vallarta really has it all!
If you’re planning more travels in the area, don’t miss all our other Mexico blogs here—we’ve explored the country from top to bottom and shared our favorite spots to help make your trip planning easier. And if you’re still looking for ideas, check out some of our favorite guides below for even more travel inspiration.
10 Best Things to do in Mexico City, Mexico
10 FUN & EXCITING Things to do in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Where to Stay in Tulum, Mexico: 7 Best Areas & Hotels
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Playa del Carmen, Mexico: 3-Day Itinerary