The Perfect 7-Day Puerto Vallarta Vacation Itinerary

Puerto Vallarta is a popular vacation destination for a reason – it has something for everyone! Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an action-packed adventure, Puerto Vallarta has it all.

To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve put together a 7-day Puerto Vallarta vacation itinerary that covers all the best sights, activities, and experiences the city has to offer. Trust us, this is the perfect way to spend a week in one of Mexico’s most beloved vacation spots!

Day 1: Arrive in Puerto Vallarta

So, you’ve just landed at Puerto Vallarta’s Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport and have arrived at your beautiful resort accommodations. Now what? Today is all about taking some time to get acquainted with the city, stretch your legs, and explore a bit. Here are a few suggestions for how to spend your first day in Vallarta.

Keep your first day simple and commitment-free by taking advantage of activities that aren’t time sensitive. We suggest trying some of the best seafood Puerto Vallarta has to offer at El Malecon and spending some time at El Centro. Here, you’ll find a variety of shops, a variety of street performers, and so much more.

Day 2: Relax On the Beach

After exploring the city on your first day, on day two you can take it easy and relax on one of Puerto Vallarta’s many beautiful beaches. Whether you’re looking for some peace and quiet or hoping to have an exciting adventure day, there’s a beach for every type of vacationer.

• Playa de los Muertos— The most popular beach for visitors features calm waters, bars, restaurants, and plenty of water activities to keep you busy.
• Playa Camarones— A smaller beach located between Old Town and the marina, Camarones is great for swimming and snorkeling.
• Playa Los Girasoles— This beach is less crowded and features warm water and a variety of activities from paddle boarding to beach tennis.
• Playa Mismaloya— This picturesque beach is located just south of Puerto Vallarta and is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.

Day 3: Hang Out In Old Town

On day three of your trip, get ready to explore cobblestone streets and colorful buildings that tell stories about the city’s past. You’ll have the opportunity to experience the culture, taste some amazing food, and even go shopping.

Start your day by visiting the iconic Malecon – Puerto Vallarta’s boardwalk. There, you’ll get to see some of the city’s best attractions including the iconic arches, the Man on a Bicycle statue, and the Los Arcos sculpture.

Then, take some time to explore the old city center and its vibrant street markets. Here, you can find a variety of local souvenirs, handmade jewelry, and artisanal food products.

Finally, make sure to save some time in the evening to enjoy the city’s bustling nightlife including music venues and discos.

Day 4: Explore Los Arcos National Marine Park

Los Arcos National Marine Park is a hidden gem of Puerto Vallarta. Located just a short boat ride from the city, this protected marine reserve is home to a diverse array of marine species, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and stingrays.

The park is named after the iconic rock formations that rise out of the ocean, creating a stunning backdrop for snorkeling and scuba diving. Visitors can explore the underwater caves and tunnels, or simply float above the vibrant coral reefs and watch the marine life go by. With crystal clear waters and an abundance of marine biodiversity, Los Arcos National Marine Park is a must-visit for anyone interested in experiencing the natural beauty of Puerto Vallarta.

Day 5: Visit Tequila Valley

If you’re up for a day of exploring, head out to Tequila Valley. Here, you’ll find several archaeological sites that date back hundreds of years. The most well-known is Guachimontones Ruins, which was built around 500 AD and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008.

If you want to learn more about these ruins and what they tell us about ancient Mesoamerican societies–or if you just want an excuse to drink some tequila–take a tour through one of the local distilleries!

Day 6: Take a Water Tour

Puerto Vallarta is a city surrounded by stunning waters, and there’s no better way to explore them than with a water tour. From whale watching to snorkeling to sunset cruises, there’s a tour for every interest.

One of the most popular tours is the Marietas Islands excursion, which takes visitors on a scenic boat ride to the islands’ hidden beach and offers an opportunity to snorkel and see the island’s unique geology.

Another popular option is the sunset sail, a romantic and unforgettable experience that offers stunning views of the city skyline as the sun dips below the horizon. For those interested in marine life, there are also whale-watching tours, where visitors can witness the majesty of humpback whales in their natural habitat. With so many options to choose from, a water tour is a must-do during your visit to Puerto Vallarta.

Day 7: Depart from Puerto Vallarta

While you wait for your flight, it’s another great day to explore another popular area of Puerto Vallarta, Zona Romantica. Zona Romantica is one of the most charming and vibrant neighborhoods located in the heart of the city known for its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and lively atmosphere.

Visitors to Zona Romantica will find a wide range of shops, galleries, and restaurants, serving up everything from traditional Mexican cuisine to international fare. It’s the ideal place to get one last fill of Mexico’s beloved hospitality before heading home to tell your loved ones about all of your adventures!