We have lived in Puerto Vallarta for years and we absolutely LOVE this city. People always ask us where the best place to stay is for a romantic getaway. Choosing between the different areas can feel overwhelming because every corner of this town has its own personality.
We want to help you find the perfect spot for your next trip. Whether you want to be in the middle of the action or tucked away on a hillside, there is a neighborhood for you. We have spent countless days exploring these streets and we know exactly what makes each one special.
If you are looking for puerto vallarta vacation condos that offer comfort and a local feel, you need to understand the vibe of each area first. For couples and solo travelers, the neighborhood you choose will define your entire experience. Here is our personal guide to the best neighborhoods to stay in Puerto Vallarta.
Zona Romántica and Old Town
We always tell people that Zona Romántica and Old Town are really just two names for the same wonderful neighborhood. This is the heartbeat of Puerto Vallarta. It is where the cobblestone streets meet the sand and the energy never seems to stop.
For couples, this area is pure magic. You can walk everywhere. We love waking up and strolling down to a local café for a fresh juice before heading to Los Muertos Beach. The buildings here are mostly low-rise, which keeps the historic charm alive. You won't find massive skyscrapers blocking your view of the ocean here.
The dining scene in Zona Romántica is incredible. You can find everything from high-end gourmet meals to the best street tacos you’ve ever tasted. We highly recommend spending an evening just wandering the streets. You will find hidden art galleries, tiny bars with live music, and colorful murals around every corner. It is the best place to feel the true soul of the city.
5 de Diciembre
If you want a more authentic, local experience, 5 de Diciembre is the place to be. This neighborhood is just north of the downtown area. It is where the locals live, work, and eat. We find the energy here so refreshing and real.
One of our favorite things to do is visit the local markets in this area. You can find fruit vendors on the street corners selling the most AMAZING mangoes and papayas. The colors are so vibrant and the smells are incredible. It feels like the "real Mexico" that many tourists never get to see.
The hills in 5 de Diciembre are quite steep, but the reward is worth it. The views from the top are spectacular. You can see the entire bay and the red-tiled roofs of the city below. It is a bit quieter than Zona Romántica, which makes it perfect for a couple’s escape where you can relax and soak in the local culture.
Conchas Chinas
Conchas Chinas is often called the "Beverly Hills of Puerto Vallarta." It is located just south of the main town. If you are looking for luxury and a bit of seclusion, this is your spot. The neighborhood is built into the side of the Sierra Madre mountains.
We love Conchas Chinas for its privacy. The beaches here are smaller and more intimate than the main city beaches. They are surrounded by rock formations and crystal-clear water. It is very romantic and quiet. You won't hear the noise of the city, just the sound of the waves and the birds in the trees.
The homes and condo and apartment rentals puerto vallarta in this area often feature breathtaking views. Since you are up on the hill, you get a perspective of the coastline that is hard to find anywhere else. It is a bit of a hike or a quick taxi ride into town, but many couples find the peace and quiet well worth the extra few minutes of travel.
Centro (Downtown)
Centro is the historic center of Puerto Vallarta. This is where you will find the famous Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe and the Malecon boardwalk. We love the history here. The white-washed buildings with their bright bougainvillea vines are so iconic.
Staying in Centro means you are right in the middle of everything. You can walk the Malecon in the morning when the air is fresh and the sun is bright. It is a great place for people-watching and seeing the local sculptures. The side streets in Centro are filled with history and charm.
We recommend exploring the area around the Rio Cuale island. It is a lush, green escape in the middle of the city. There are small craft markets and quiet spots to sit and enjoy the nature. It provides a nice balance to the busy energy of the Malecon.
Amapas
Amapas is nestled right between Zona Romántica and Conchas Chinas. It offers the best of both worlds. You get the incredible hillside views of Conchas Chinas, but you are still within walking distance of the restaurants and beaches of Old Town.
We find Amapas to be a very popular choice for couples who want a bit of a workout with their vacation. The walk up the hills can be intense, but the apartments here are often very modern and stylish. It is a quieter neighborhood than the heart of Zona Romántica, but it still feels very connected to the local vibe.
For those who value a quiet space to work or just relax together, Amapas offers some of the best scenery in the city. You can spend your afternoon on a balcony watching the boats in the bay. It is truly peaceful. You can read more about finding Serenity for Two in our other posts.
Making Your Choice
So, which one is right for you? It really depends on what you want from your stay.
If you want to walk to dinner and the beach every day, stay in Zona Romántica. If you want to feel like a local and see the real side of the city, 5 de Diciembre is amazing. For pure romance and luxury, head to Conchas Chinas. And if you want to be close to the history and the Malecon, Centro is your best bet.
We truly believe that the best neighborhoods to stay in Puerto Vallarta are the ones that make you feel at home. Our goal is always to provide an authentic experience that supports our local community. We love sharing our insider knowledge with our guests to make sure they have the best time possible.
No matter where you choose to stay, you are going to fall in love with this city just like we did. The combination of the ocean, the mountains, and the friendly people makes it a place like no other. We are so lucky to call this home and we can't wait for you to experience it too!
If you want to see more of our local life and get more tips for your trip, check us out on Facebook. We are always posting new photos and updates about what is happening in town. We hope to see you here soon for your own Puerto Vallarta adventure!
Choosing the right neighborhood is the first step to an unforgettable trip. We highly recommend taking your time to pick the spot that fits your style. Whether it's the busy streets of Old Town or the quiet hills of Amapas, your perfect vacation is waiting for you here in PV.
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