One Week in Puerto Vallarta Mexico: Easy 7 Day Itinerary

Puerto Vallarta is a stunning, tropical destination on the Pacific coast of Mexico. With sandy beaches, lush forests, and a vibrant town, one week in Puerto Vallarta is a perfect for girl’s trips, family vacations or spring break.

I have traveled to Puerto Vallarta with my family multiple times and it never disappoints. We typically split our time between the pool with a cocktail and outdoor adventures.

Additionally, we explore new restaurants each night to enjoy the local and international cuisine around town. Just writing this guide is making me want to book another trip back!

Follow this travel guide to learn how to perfectly navigate your getaway and spend one week in Puerto Vallarta.

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One Week Puerto Vallarta Itinerary

This Puerto Vallarta travel guide will go in depth into what to do, where to stay, the best restaurants, and travel tips. However, let’s start with an easy 7 day itinerary for Puerto Vallarta.

Puerto Vallarta Itinerary – Day 1: Hotel Check in and Pool Time

I’ll mention this a few times in this guide, but I truly believe you should schedule relaxation into your Puerto Vallarta vacation. With such beautiful beaches and pools, it’s ok to spend time just lounging with a cocktail.

For the first day of your Puerto Vallarta itinerary, check in to your hotel then spend the rest of the day relaxing at the beach or pool.

For dinner, venture to the marina or downtown for a good meal and some light sightseeing.

Day 2: Private Boat Tour

My favorite thing to do in Puerto Vallarta is taking a private boat tour. There are many great water activities in Puerto Vallarta and this private tour allows you to do them all in one day.

Spend your second day in Puerto Vallarta looking for marine animals such as whales and dolphins, snorkeling, and swimming in Bandera’s Bay.

Day 3: Beach Day & Night at the Malecon

As I said, be sure to spend plenty of time at the beach. Start day 3 at your resort with your toes in the sand.

In the afternoon, visit downtown Puerto Vallarta. Spend a few hours shopping at the local boutiques. Then, wander the Malecon, where you will see street performers, food vendors, and local artisans.

Day 4: Explore Puerto Vallarta’s Jungle

For the halfway point of this Puerto Vallarta itinerary, head into the jungle. A great way to get amazing views of the jungle is one a ziplining tour.

Zip through the canopy of the trees and take in the views of the lush jungle and bright blue coastline.

Day 5: Taste of Puerto vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a must-see destination for all foodies. Its unique mix of Latin American and Mexican cuisine can’t be found anywhere else. For day 5, take yourself on a DIY Puerto Vallarta food tour.

With so many incredible restaurants, it’s hard to know where to start. Here’s a four stop DIY food tour of downtown Puerto Vallarta that will make sure you get the full range of this amazing city’s flavors:

Stop 1 – Casa Nicole : For breakfast, head to Casa Nicole Ristorante and try their chilaquiles. This classic dish of fried tortillas smothered in green or red salsa is served with crema and queso fresco.

Stop 2 – La Leche: For lunch, wander over to La Leche and try their camarones al mojo de ajo. Battered shrimp are cooked in garlic butter for an indulgent yet light seafood dish.

Stop 3 – Pancho’s Tacos: For the first part of dinner, go to Pancho’s Tacos for the best tacos in the city. The al pastor is my favorite.

Stop 4 – Las Flamas: To finish off your night, get yourself an order of flautas at Las Flamas. Their signature rolled tacos are filled with savory fillings like pork, beef or vegetables and served up with guacamole and lime wedges.

Day 6: Puerto Vallarta ATV Tour

One of my favorite adventures in Puerto Vallarta is an ATV tour. For your final activity, I highly recommend this private ATV tour that visits the beach, mountain, and rivers.

The views are amazing and you’ll get a bit of an adrenaline rush.

Since this is only a half-day tour, you can use the afternoon to hit any other items on your Puerto Vallarta bucket list.

Day 7: Final Day of Relaxation

For the last day of your week in Puerto Vallarta, I recommend a final day of relaxation. There’s nothing worse than going home and needing a vacation from your vacation.

Schedule at least a half day for pool or beach time. Spend your last moment in Puerto Vallarta soaking in the sun and amazing ocean views.

If you are interested in more sightseeing, head to downtown for a walking tour. Here are some of the best places to see:

Self-Guided Downtown Puerto Vallarta Walking Tour

Stop 1: Plaza de Armas (Main Square)

• Begin your tour at Plaza de Armas, the central square of Puerto Vallarta.
• Admire the iconic Our Lady of Guadalupe Church with its crown-topped tower.

2: El Malecón (The Boardwalk)

• Stroll along El Malecón, the picturesque oceanfront boardwalk.
• Discover the vibrant art installations and sculptures that line the path.

3: Los Muertos Beach

• Walk south along the Malecón to reach Los Muertos Beach, the heart of the Romantic Zone also known as the Zona Romantica.

4: Basilio Badillo Street

• Head inland to Basilio Badillo Street, known as the “Restaurant Row” of Puerto Vallarta.
• Discover an array of charming shops, art galleries, and eateries.

5: Olas Altas Street

• Continue on Olas Altas Street, lined with historic buildings and boutiques.
• Visit the Lazaro Cardenas Park, a popular spot for cultural events and outdoor performances.

6: Molino de Agua and the Cuale River Island

• Cross the Cuale River using the pedestrian bridge.
• Visit Molino de Agua, a residential complex with beautiful gardens and water features.
• Explore Cuale River Island’s cultural center, shops, and the flea market (if open).

What to do in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta has activities for everyone. There are beautiful pools and beaches for the laid-back traveler.

Adventurous travelers can head to the jungle for adrenaline-filled activities. Foodies and culture enthusiasts can tour the streets and partake in food tours for an immersive experience.

For this guide to Puerto Vallarta, I recommend mixing a bit of relaxation with adventure to enjoy all that PV has to offer without needing a vacation from your vacation.

1. Private Snorkeling Tour in Puerto Vallarta

A staple Puerto Vallarta activity is snorkeling. South of the town are some great coral reefs and coves with plentiful fish.

I highly recommend this private boat charter, so you can tailor the trip to your own preferences. The crew will likely know of less common locations to provide a more personal experience.

This private tour typically includes sightseeing from the boat, snorkeling, and a private lunch on the beach. However, since it’s private, you can adjust the itinerary to your preferences.

Check prices and availability of this private snorkeling tour

2. Puerto vallarta ATV Tour

When people think about Puerto Vallarta, they often think of the ocean and beach. However, the jungle is equally as beautiful and fun.

A great way to explore the jungle in Puerto Vallarta is an ATV tour. This private ATV tour takes you through the mountains, rivers, and beach of Puerto Vallarta.

As you cover the diverse terrain, your private guide will teach you about the area, geology, and answer any of your questions. If you haven’t done an ATV your before, I highly encourage you to try this one!

Check prices and availability for this ATV tour in Puerto Vallarta

3. Luxury Sailing to Banderas Bay

You cannot visit this beautiful beach town with stunning views of the water without getting out on the ocean.

Situated an hour boat ride from the Marina is Banderas Bay, a secluded cove with a private restaurant. This is a fun spot to take a dip, swim to the beach or visit the exclusive restaurant.

This luxury sailing tour will take you to Banderas bay with time for swimming and snorkeling. It will also travel around to find whales, dolphins, or other wildlife sightseeing.

The tour includes lunch, snacks, and all beverages. I love how this tour includes food, sightseeing, and relaxation so your entire day is basically planned for you. Also, since it’s on a luxury sailboat, you won’t be overcrowded with other tourists.

Check the price and availability of this Puerto Vallarta sailing tour

4. Ziplining in Puerto Vallarta Jungle

Something that makes Puerto Vallarta unique to some other destinations in Mexico is the juxtaposition of the clear waters and jungle. When you fly into Puerto Vallarta, look out the window to get an idea of how lush this area really is.

A fun way to explore the Puerto Vallarta jungle is on a ziplining tour. Although ziplining may seem scary, your fears will quickly subside once you see the beautiful views from the canopy.

My boyfriend is severely afraid of flights and highly recommends ziplining!

This zipline tour takes you above the canopy of the jungle along 10 different lines. From the ziplines, you will have views of the jungle and the ocean. After the tour, relax your nerves with a complimentary tequila tasting.

Check availability of this ziplining tour

5. Walk the Malecon at Night

For a dose of culture, head downtown to the Malecon boardwalk. This stretch next to the beach is full of shops, restaurants, and fun street vendors. There are vendors offering local crafts, tasty foods, and entertainment. I recommend finding an elote vendor and trying this local street food dish.  

The street truly comes alive at night, with crowds of people and the most vendors. With this vibrancy comes a risk of crime so be sure to keep an eye on your purse and pockets.

Tip: To get a taxi to drop you off at the end of the Malecon, ask to be dropped off at McDonalds. They will know where you are talking about and this location sets you up for a perfect walk.

6. Fishing Tour

One fun water activity in Puerto Vallarta is fishing. Some fish such as tuna can easily be caught near shore and larger fish such as mahi or marlin can be pursued in the deeper waters.

There are also combo tours that include fishing with other activities such as snorkeling or swimming.

7. Pool day

As I mentioned above, be sure to include relaxation in your Puerto Vallarta itinerary so you go home rested. Some essentials to pack for a pool day are:

Sunscreen: Be sure to bring plenty of high SPF sunscreen. The sun is intense in Mexico and will burn you more than you expect.

Sun Hat: Along the same lines, the sun is strong so protect your face with a comfortable sun hat.

Water bottle: As mentioned above, be sure to drink bottled water, not tap water. I like bringing an insulated water bottle to pour the filtered water into to keep it cold all day.

Fun Poolside Cocktails for Mexico:

Since you are bringing a water bottle to stay hydrated, you deserve some fun adult drinks as well. Some of my favorites are listed below. Always ask the bartender what they recommend for some fun and different options.

Miami Vice: A layered mix of pina colada and strawberry daquiri. You can make this fruity sweet drink at home by following this recipe.

Painkiller: A Caribbean classic, this mix of rum, orange juice, pineapple juice, coconut cream and nutmeg is super refreshing. I love this recipe to make it at home.

Blended White Russian: If you choose to get started drinking early (no judgement), this frothy mix of vodka, Kahlua and heavy cream is a great way to start your day. Find an easy recipe here.

For more of the best tours in Puerto Vallarta, check out my guide to what to do in Puerto Vallarta with family.

Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta has a wide range of accommodation options from hostels to all inclusive resorts to 5 star luxury properties. My favorite area to stay in Puerto Vallarta is the marina. There are many great restaurants and things to do, and it’s a short drive to downtown.

Below are the best resorts in Marina Vallarta and the luxury area of Punta Mita.

Where to stay in Marina Vallarta

As mentioned above, the Marina Vallarta area is ideal for people seeking luxury close to downtown. Marina Vallarta is located ten minutes from the international airport and thirty minutes from the downtown area, making it a great location for your trip.

Mid-Range Hotel: Marriott

This Marriott delivers above and beyond for its price point. Located within walking distance of the Marina, the Marriot is a great option for families and couples looking for affordable luxury.

The newly renovated pool area features stunning poolside cabanas, a swim up bar, and a relaxing tropical atmosphere. The pool and beachside day beds can be rented for those seeking a special experience. Otherwise, guests can park themselves in a pool chair and soak up a day of sun and relaxation.

The property has 6 restaurants and a coffee shop offering a range of food options including seafood, Japanese, a sports bar and traditional Mexican. There is also a fitness center and spa for guests to enjoy.

Luxury Hotel: Casa Velas

Another great option for where to stay in Marina Vallarta is the all-inclusive hotel Casa Velas. This hotel delivers on its higher price point and caters to adults only. This luxury Puerto Vallarta resort has ranked in the top resorts in PV by Trip Advisor and its no question why.

Each room at this resort is a suite with an upscale approach to traditional Mexican design. Larger suites offer private plunge pools for ultimate luxury.

As an all-inclusive resort, Casa Velas includes all food, drinks, transportation and some activities in the base room cost. The dining offered is a gourmet Mexican restaurant, fun pool bar, beach club bar and in suite dining.

Luxury Resorts Near Puerto Vallarta

For ultimate luxury and name-brand properties, head out of Puerto Vallarta to the neighboring town of Punta Mita. While this Puerto Vallarta guide does not cover what to do in Punta Mita, the below resorts are too amazing to not mention.

Delta Riviera Nayarit

The Delta by Marriott is a relaxing all-inclusive resort in the fishing town of Riviera Nayarit. The resort is situated in the jungle and ahs three pools, three restaurants and a water park on property. The resort also has exclusive access to a beach club.

The Delta Riviera Nayarit is a great, affordable, all inclusive resort option if you are looking for a very relaxing vacation. I wrote all about my experience staying at the Delta if you are interested.

St Regis Punta Mita

This 22 acre beachfront property will cater to all your needs. It features a world-class spa, golf course and adventurous watersports. There are also six restaurant options and a beautiful pool area. Take advantage of the iconic St Regis butler service to relax throughout your trip.

Four Seasons Punta Mita

Four Seasons properties are world-renowned for their luxury and fine touches; this property lives up to that expectation. This picturesque property is centered around the beautiful pool area and lazy river. Escape to this resort to escape reality and focus on elevated Mexican cuisine, culture and experiences.

What to Wear in Puerto Vallarta Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is a very tropical, beachy destination. Be sure to pack plenty of swimwear so you will always have a dry suit for the pool or beach. A beach bag and sandals are also a must.

For the day time, casual sundresses or shirts and shorts are very appropriate. Be sure to pack a versatile and comfortable pair of sandals.

Finally, dinner and nightlife in Puerto Vallarta is quite casual. I enjoy dressings gup a bit with a long sundress and casual heels. However, you can get away with wearing shorts and a tee to most restaurants in downtown.

I know packing for vacation can be stressful, so I wrote an entire guide dedicated to outfit ideas for Puerto Vallarta.

Where to Eat in Puerto Vallarta

A guide to Puerto Vallarta would not be complete without mentioning where to eat in Puerto Vallarta. Specifically, where to eat in Marina Vallarta and downtown.

Where to Eat in Marina Vallarta

La Terrazza Di Roma

Wow, an Italian place in Mexico? Trust me, this place is delicious, the service is incredible and the ambiance is beautiful. This overwater restaurant features classic Italian fare with fun drink options.

I recommend ordering a bottle of wine for the table. The prices are extremely low for the quality of global wines. I also recommend ordering anything from the pasta section of the menu and have personally love the four-cheese rigatoni, arrabiata, and shrimp garlic pasta.

If you are more of a pizza person, share one of the generous portions or get your own and enjoy leftovers for breakfast.

Victors Place Café Tacuba

Victors is rated #1 on yelp for restaurants in the Marina due to the amazing service and abundant freebies. While this is a must-visit location, I do not recommend coming for the food. The food is average at best but the drinks and people are top-notch.

I recommend ordering a margarita, Miami vice or Mexican coffee if you are visiting for dessert. Each visitor will be treated to a round of mezcal shots on the house which makes this restaurant truly memorable. Another great touch is the complimentary round of White Russian cocktails after your meal. Victor’s truly has the best White Russian I have had anywhere in the world.

Las Palomas Doradas

Las Palomas Doradas is the oldest restaurant in the marina, making it a staple for all visitors. Featuring French and Mexican fusion, this restaurant is a good change of pace from the traditional food you will be enjoying.

I recommend ordering the escargot and any of the baked fish dishes. In addition to tasty food, this restaurant has a greenery canopy, bistro-style tables and a fountain centerpiece making it a great location for a romantic date night.

Where to Eat in Downtown Puerto Vallarta

Joe Jacks Fish Shack

This British-owned joint is always packed. They serve British food and great seafood. Some menu items I recommend are the fish and chips, shrimp bucket and the fruit-flavored mojitos.

The ambiance of Joe Jacks is on par with the quality of the food and drinks. The rooftop patio is covered by greenery and colorful string lights. The location of the restaurant is on a bustling street which showcases the vibrancy of the city.

Cuates y Cuetes

When visiting a tropical destination, nothing beats dining with your toes in the sand. A great place to do this is Cuates y Cuetes with tables directly on the sand. In addition to the unbeatable location, the food is delicious.

If you are a seafood person, you cannot go wrong ordering any of the shrimp dishes. The shrimp are large, juicy and perfectly cooked. If you prefer something else, the fajitas are a fun and tasty classic.

For more restaurant tips, check out my Puerto Vallarta Food Guide.

General Tips for Visiting Puerto Vallarta

Currency

The official currency of Mexico is the peso. The conversion rate is approximately 20 pesos to 1 USD. Most vendors will accept dollars as payment but will give change in pesos. Be sure to have plenty of cash on hand as many restaurants and shops will only accept cash, not debit, or credit card.

Language

The primary language of Mexico is Spanish but many people are bilingual and speak English as well. While you will be able to navigate your trip in English, the locals appreciate any attempt at speaking Spanish and are extremely helpful in teaching it.

After one week in Puerto Vallarta, you will have the basics down as long as you practice!

Some key Spanish phrases to know include:

Hello   …   Hola
Thank you   …   Gracias
Please   …   Por Favor
Taxi/ Van  …   Taxi/ Camioneta
Check  …   Cuenta
How much?   …   Cuantos?

Water Safety

You have likely heard to not drink the water in Mexico (most Puerto Vallarta travel guides bring this fact up). This is true. While locals are used to the water and tolerate it well, it can cause stomach issues for tourists. Avoid tap water, ice, and produce washed in the tap water such as lettuce.

To enjoy these items request they are made from or washed in bottled water. Bottled water will likely be available in your hotel room or for purchase at restaurants. Luckily, bottles of water are affordable at markets and stores to stock up at cheaper-than-hotel prices.

Regions of Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is broken into many regions including downtown, Marina Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta.

Downtown PV: Beachfront resorts, the famous Malecon and many restaurants and clubs. Downtown is best for those looking for nightlife such as girls trips or bachelorette parties.

Marina Vallarta: 30 minutes from downtown and centered around an upscale yachting Marina with restaurants and high-end hotels. The Marina area is best for people looking for luxury within driving distance of downtown.

Nuevo Vallarta: Separate town located 45 minutes north of downtown. It is a resort-area that is good for families and people seeking the ultimate resort experience, but willing to sacrifice some local culture.

Note: The Puerto Vallarta area falls between the Nayarit and Jalisco states of Mexico. Since they have different time zones, be mindful of timing related to flights.

Outside of Puerto Vallarta is the luxury area of Punta Mita that hosts the most expensive and exclusive properties. This guide will not cover what to do in Punta Mita but I have some accommodation suggestions below.

If you are spending more than one week in Puerto Vallarta, divide your time between multiple locations for good variety.

Getting to Puerto Vallarta

Located in the central west coast of Mexico, Puerto Vallarta is an easy trip from anywhere in North America. To get to Puerto Vallarta, book a flight into the international airport PVR.

Conveniently, there are many direct flights from US cities on airlines such as Alaska, Delta and Southwest. For reference, a direct flight from Seattle to Puerto Vallarta is only 4 hours.

Once you arrive in Puerto Vallarta, follow the ground staff directions to the immigration line. This line is long as typically winds down a hallway. Make sure you join the line at the end to avoid getting redirected after waiting some time in the wrong area. Luckily, the line moves quickly, and the immigration process is standard. Be sure to keep your immigration ticket in a safe place as you will need it to leave the country.

Once through immigration, proceed to baggage claim then join the line for customs. Again, expect a long but quick line. Answer the custom agents’ questions then click a button to be selected for a random search. “Green” means you are good to leave, “red” indicates a random x-ray screening.

To exit the airport, you will pass hundreds of locals offering taxi service, tours and other services. While they are quite persuasive, continue straight to the exit. Upon exiting, you will find a taxi queue with the official Puerto Vallarta taxis.

Transportation in Puerto Vallarta

The best option for transport from the airport is booking a private car service. This is a great option for large groups or anyone who wants a stress-free arrival in Mexico.

Getting around Puerto Vallarta is best navigated by hired taxis or rideshare services. I do not recommend renting a car for daily transport since the roads are confusing and drivers are aggressive.

The only case to rent a car is if you are planning a road trip or are staying far from the city. If you rent a car, avoid driving it in downtown.

As mentioned above, taxis are abundantly available and the easiest option for getting around Puerto Vallarta. They are also economical, costing approximately 15 USD for a large van for 30 minutes.

Before getting in the taxi or van, agree to a fair rate to avoid being up charged. If you enjoy your taxi driver, tip well and get their card for a reliable on-call driver for the duration of your trip.

Summary of this Puerto Vallarta 7 Day Itinerary

All in all, Puerto Vallarta travel is a great idea for anyone looking for a relaxing beach vacation. This guide to one week in Puerto Vallarta hopefully equips you with all the knowledge to plan and enjoy the perfect trip.

This 7 day Puerto Vallarta trip includes a balance of relaxation and adventure, for a fun and memorable vacation.

Spend your one week in Puerto Vallarta relaxing at the beach, exploring the ocean, and having memorable adventures in the jungle. Puerto Vallarta is such a diverse destination with so many fun things to do.

In addition, be sure to take advantage of all the amazing Mexican food in Puerto Vallarta. Have plenty of margaritas and tacos during your trip!

FAQ – Puerto Vallarta 1 Week Itinerary

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