City in Jalisco, Mexico
Puerto Vallarta
Pacific resort city with a famous LGBTQ+ scene, a walkable Malecón and Old Town, jungle and beaches, and a large expat community. Hot and humid, with touristy hustle and summer rain.
At a glance
- Safety3/5Take real precautionsDetails
- Monthly budget$1,920–3,020Comfortable, one person · MX$35,000–55,000Details
- Value for money20/100Better value than 19% of places we coverDetails
- Best time to goNov–AprWarmest: May, 38°CDetails
- Internet118 MbpsFixed broadband, Mexico medianDetails
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledDrink bottled or purified water.Details
- LGBTQ+5/5Very welcomingDetails
- Solo travel4/5English: widely spokenDetails
- Doctor's visit$38–99Private clinic, without insuranceDetails
- Getting aroundUberWalkable centerDetails
- Cash or cardMixed: cards and cashCards in restaurants, hotels and chains; cash for buses, tacos, markets and tips.Details
Where to stay in Puerto Vallarta
Areas visitors base themselves in.
| Area | Good for |
|---|---|
| Zona Romántica (Old Town) | Walkable, gay-friendly, restaurants, beach; best for first-timers |
| Centro / Malecón | Sculptures, nightlife, cathedral, busy and touristy |
| Marina Vallarta | Upscale condos, golf, quiet and car-dependent |
| Versalles / Pitillal | Cheaper, local life, bus connections |
| Nuevo Vallarta | Resort district across the Nayarit line, near the airport |
Apps that work in Puerto Vallarta
- Maps: Google Maps
- Messaging: WhatsApp
- Google Translate: Spanish menus and conversations
- Taxis: Taxis use zone fares rather than meters; ask first. Uber pickups are fine in town but restricted at PVR.
Cash, cards and tipping
What to carry and how to pay. Money in Mexico.
- Mixed: cards and cash Cards in restaurants, hotels and chains; cash for buses, tacos, markets and tips.
- Currency: Peso (MXN). US$1 ≈ MX$18.21 on 03 Oct 2026.
- ATMs: Bank ATMs charge foreign cards roughly MXN 30–150 per withdrawal; always decline the ATM's currency conversion.
- Tipping: 10–15% at restaurants (check whether service is already added), MXN 10–20 for gas attendants and grocery baggers; app rides optional.
- Paying by phone: Apple Pay and Google Pay work at many card terminals in cities; local bank transfers need a Mexican account.
Before you go
Visa and entry
- Air arrivals get a digital FMM (QR code) at immigration; the visitor fee is already included in your airfare.
- Officers set your stay and may grant fewer than 180 days; carry a return ticket, accommodation details and proof of funds.
- Land arrivals going beyond the border zone need an FMM; the visitor fee applies for stays over seven days.
Emergency numbers
Police 911 · Ambulance 911 · Fire 911 · Tourist police 078 · All emergencies 911
Plugs
Type A, B · 127 V, 60 Hz. Do I need an adapter?
SIM and eSIM
Telcel or AT&T SIMs at airports, OXXO stores and carrier shops, about MXN 100–300 with data. Bring your passport to register the line. eSIMs work for visitors.
More places in Mexico
Going to Puerto Vallarta solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Puerto Vallarta meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
Prices are SoloSquare estimates; climate, air, safety and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.