Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Quick Answer
Stay in Centro (Old Town) or areas slightly outside the immediate tourist core
Offers the most affordable hostel and budget hotel options, plus access to cheap local eateries and transport.
See full Puerto Vallarta neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Puerto Vallarta
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Romantic Zone (Zona Romántica)
A vibrant and historic heart of PV, buzzing with restaurants, bars, and LGBTQ+ friendly establishments.
Our top picks in Romantic Zone (Zona Romántica)
A classic PV hotel with a great pool and friendly atmosphere, just steps from the beach.
Book NowLuxurious all-inclusive option with stunning ocean views and top-tier amenities.
Book NowCharming colonial-style hotel with lush gardens and a peaceful ambiance.
Book NowCentro (Old Town)
The cultural and historical core, featuring cobblestone streets, art galleries, and the iconic Malecon boardwalk.
Our top picks in Centro (Old Town)
Well-located hotel offering good value and easy access to the Malecon and beaches.
Book NowModern hotel with rooftop pool and city views, a short walk from the main attractions.
Book NowUpscale option in the hills with panoramic views and excellent service.
Book NowMarina Vallarta
A modern, upscale enclave centered around a beautiful marina filled with yachts, upscale dining, and golf courses.
Our top picks in Marina Vallarta
Adults-only all-inclusive resort offering a luxurious and romantic getaway.
Book NowFamily-friendly resort with spacious suites, multiple pools, and a prime beachfront location.
Book NowSpacious resort with beautiful grounds, a large pool, and direct beach access.
Book NowWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Romantic Zone (Zona Romántica) | Mid-range | A vibrant and historic heart of PV, buzzing with restaurants, bars, and LGBTQ+ friendly establishments. | first-timerscouples |
Centro (Old Town) | Mid-range | The cultural and historical core, featuring cobblestone streets, art galleries, and the iconic Malecon boardwalk. | first-timersculture |
Marina Vallarta | Luxury | A modern, upscale enclave centered around a beautiful marina filled with yachts, upscale dining, and golf courses. | luxuryfamilies |
Conchas Chinas | Luxury | An exclusive residential area known for its stunning cliffside villas, secluded beaches, and upscale tranquility. | luxurycouples |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Puerto Vallarta
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Puerto Vallarta
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Puerto Vallarta. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Puerto Vallarta
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Puerto Vallarta
Romantic Zone (Zona Romántica)
Mid-rangeA vibrant and historic heart of PV, buzzing with restaurants, bars, and LGBTQ+ friendly establishments.
- +Abundant dining and nightlife options
- +Central and walkable
- +Beautiful beach access
- -Can be very crowded and noisy
- -Street parking is extremely difficult
Centro (Old Town)
Mid-rangeThe cultural and historical core, featuring cobblestone streets, art galleries, and the iconic Malecon boardwalk.
- +Rich in art, culture, and history
- +Excellent dining and shopping
- +Iconic Malecon for evening strolls
- -Can be very busy, especially at night
- -Some areas can feel tourist-saturated
Marina Vallarta
LuxuryA modern, upscale enclave centered around a beautiful marina filled with yachts, upscale dining, and golf courses.
- +Peaceful and well-maintained
- +Excellent for boaters and golfers
- +Good selection of high-end restaurants
- -Less authentic Mexican atmosphere
- -Further from the main tourist hustle and bustle
Conchas Chinas
LuxuryAn exclusive residential area known for its stunning cliffside villas, secluded beaches, and upscale tranquility.
- +Beautiful, less crowded beaches
- +Stunning ocean views
- +Quiet and luxurious atmosphere
- -Limited dining and shopping within walking distance
- -Steep terrain can be challenging for some
Daily Budget (Budget)
MXN 1200/day
Hidden Gems in Puerto Vallarta
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Cuale River Island Market
Wander through this charming island market accessible by footbridges, offering artisan crafts, souvenirs, and local art. It's a more relaxed shopping experience away from the main Malecon crowds.
Gaby's Restaurant
A beloved spot for authentic, home-style Mexican cuisine with a focus on traditional recipes. Locals rave about their mole and the cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
La Leche
Known for its modern take on Mexican cuisine and stunning all-white decor, this restaurant offers an upscale yet approachable dining experience. It's a chic spot favored by those in the know for its innovative dishes.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Puerto Vallarta
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Puerto Vallarta Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Puerto Vallarta on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Puerto Vallarta Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Puerto Vallarta with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Puerto Vallarta: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Puerto Vallarta's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Puerto Vallarta: Scenic Excursion
Escape Puerto Vallarta for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
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Puerto Vallarta Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Puerto Vallarta's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Puerto Vallarta
Backpackers in Puerto Vallarta: FAQ
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