Puerto Vallarta , Mexico

Puerto Vallarta Highlights Private Tour

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About this experience

Discover Puerto Vallarta’s highlights in one smooth, time-efficient private tour. Begin with a hotel pickup and visit Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, the city’s iconic church surrounded by palm-lined plazas and colonial charm. Continue along the Malecón Sculpture Walk, where bronze art pieces meet the sea breeze, perfect for photos. Explore Isla Cuale & Flea Market, a peaceful island filled with artisan shops and snack spots ideal for a short browse. Finally, ascend to Mirador Cerro de la Cruz Viewpoint for sweeping panoramic views of the rooftops, ocean, and Banderas Bay. With a professional English-speaking driver and flexible pacing, this 3-hour tour captures the essence of Puerto Vallarta—history, art, and coastal beauty—all without feeling rushed.

Available options

Puerto Vallarta Highlights Private Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Fuel and Tolls

Hotel pickup and drop-off

WiFi on board

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Personal English-Speaking professional Driver

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Puerto Vallarta’s crown-topped cathedral is the city’s best-known landmark, dominating the skyline with its baroque façade and distinctive crown steeple. The lively square out front often has flower vendors, street musicians, and locals gathering, making it the perfect spot for photos that capture both architecture and atmosphere. Inside, visitors find colorful stained glass and religious artwork that offer a quick glimpse of the city’s spiritual heart.

Stretching along the waterfront, the Malecón is both a seaside promenade and an open-air art gallery. Its bronze statues, ranging from whimsical sea creatures to striking modern works, line the boardwalk against a backdrop of ocean waves and sunsets. Beyond the sculptures, the walkway bustles with street performers, cafes, and boutiques, so every pause is a chance to experience Puerto Vallarta’s energy up close. This stop is ideal for combining iconic photos with a short stroll and a taste of the local vibe.

Set between two branches of the Cuale River, this tree-shaded island feels worlds apart from the busy streets above. Handicraft stalls overflow with woven textiles, pottery, and silver jewelry, while small food stands serve quick bites to fuel your browsing. Rustic bridges connect the island to the city, and leafy paths provide a slower rhythm that invites you to linger. It’s a great place to pick up authentic souvenirs and enjoy the laid-back pace of daily life.

Mirador Cerro de la Cruz Viewpoint. Rising above Old Town, this lookout delivers one of the most dramatic panoramas in Puerto Vallarta. A short uphill approach leads to wide views of the cathedral crown, the curve of the Malecón, and the vast sweep of Banderas Bay. Whether under clear morning light or during golden sunset, it’s a breathtaking spot for wide-angle photography. The climb itself adds to the experience, giving you a sense of transition from the bustling streets below to a tranquil vantage point above the city.

What's not included

Other beverages and meals

Tips and gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For 1–3 people: A comfortable sedan will be assigned to your group.

For 4–8 people: A spacious minivan will be assigned to your group.

Important notes

Please show this to your driver.

About Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a charming coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history. Nestled between the Sierra Madre Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, it offers a unique blend of traditional Mexican charm and modern resort amenities, making it a top destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Top Attractions

Malecón

A scenic boardwalk stretching along the beach, lined with sculptures, restaurants, and bars. It's a great place for a stroll, especially at sunset.

Historical/Entertainment 1-2 hours Free

Zona Romántica

A charming neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and lively atmosphere. It's home to many bars, restaurants, and boutique shops.

Cultural/Entertainment Half day Free to explore

Playa Los Muertos

One of the most popular beaches in Puerto Vallarta, known for its beautiful sandy shore and clear waters. It's a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half day Free, with rental costs for activities

Marietas Islands

A group of small islands known for their stunning beaches, snorkeling, and the famous Hidden Beach (Playa del Amor). Access is by boat tour.

Nature/Adventure Full day Moderate to expensive

Rhythms of the Night

An evening cruise and dinner show that takes you to a secluded beach for a night of dining, dancing, and cultural performances.

Entertainment/Cultural Evening Expensive

Must-Try Local Dishes

Birria

A spicy stew made with goat or beef, slow-cooked with a blend of chili peppers and spices. Often served with tortillas for dipping.

Main Course Contains meat, can be spicy

Pescado a la Talla

Grilled fish marinated in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, and spices. A popular seafood dish in Puerto Vallarta.

Main Course Contains fish, gluten-free

Chilaquiles

A traditional breakfast dish made with fried tortilla chips simmered in salsa, topped with cheese, cream, and sometimes eggs or chicken.

Breakfast Vegetarian options available, can be spicy

Popular Activities

Surfing Ziplining Hiking Snorkeling Diving Beach lounging Spa treatments Yoga

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season with plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for beach activities and outdoor adventures. Tourist crowds are at their peak during this period.

24°C to 32°C 75°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in local areas

Currency

Mexican Peso (MXN)

Time Zone

CST (GMT-6) or CDT (GMT-5) during daylight saving time

Electricity

127VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe for tourists, exercise caution in certain areas

Puerto Vallarta is generally safe for tourists, with a strong police presence in tourist areas. However, petty crime and scams can occur, so it's important to stay vigilant and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, prefer those inside banks or shopping malls

Getting there

By air

Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport • 6 km from city center

By bus

Central Camionera de Puerto Vallarta

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and efficient, with routes connecting major attractions, beaches, and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Zona Romántica Marina Vallarta Old Vallarta

Day trips

Sayulita

40 km (25 miles) • Full day

A charming beach town known for its bohemian vibe, surfing, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a great place to escape the bustle of Puerto Vallarta and enjoy a more laid-back beach experience.

San Sebastián del Oeste

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

A historic silver mining town nestled in the mountains, offering a glimpse into Mexico's past. It's known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and beautiful natural surroundings.

Talpa de Allende

65 km (40 miles) • Full day

A small town known for its basilica, which is a major pilgrimage site for Catholics. The town offers a mix of religious and cultural experiences, as well as beautiful natural surroundings.

Festivals

Carnaval de Puerto Vallarta • February or March (dates vary) Festival Vallarta de la Cerveza • April Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) • November 1-2

Pro tips

Visit the Malecón at sunset for stunning views and live performances
Try local street food from vendors with high turnover for the freshest and safest options
Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season
Explore the local markets for unique souvenirs and support local artisans
Be cautious when using ATMs, prefer those inside banks or shopping malls