If you’re looking to plan a weekend in Puerto Vallarta, look no further. A couple of years ago I booked a weekend trip to Mexico on a spontaneous whim. How did I choose where to go for a weekend trip away? Easy – I followed the deal. I found super affordable flights to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico with Flair Airlines through the Google Flights Explore feature. (If you haven’t used it before, your life is about to change for the better!)
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Where to Start? How to Plan a Weekend in Puerto Vallarta
I had never been to Mexico before, so I wanted to pack as much as possible into 2 and a half days. I also knew I’d have to leave some “must tries” for the next trip. Additionally, travelling with point and miles, being self-employed, and not having dependents gives me a lot of flexibility and the opportunity to travel for lower costs. A weekend away was going to be perfect.
Here are a few tips to help you plan a weekend in Puerto Vallarta.
Accommodation
Despite being known as a resort area I’d highly suggest looking into local accommodation options. I stayed in an Airbnb on my trip which I loved because it felt like the OG days – hospitable, homey, and authentic. Other options to consider would be VRBO, Trusted Housesitters, or a homestay. Puerto Vallarta also has awesome looking hostels. By staying in a local’s home or at locally-owned accommodation, you contribute to the local economy and support sustainable travel. Win win!
Transportation
To really feel like a local, hop on public transportation in Puerto Vallarta. It’s a super affordable option, at around 10 pesos ($0.80 CAD) per ride. Buses run frequently, including from right outside the airport. I took a bus from the airport into town and loved the open-air experience, listening to Spanish, and being a fly on the wall in a new place. Taking the bus from PV’s airport into town was the easiest airport to city transfer I’ve ever made. Keep in mind that if you have a lot of luggage, other transportation options may be better.
Another aspect I loved about Puerto Vallarta was that I could walk mot places I wanted to explore. It’s an excellent way to see the town, although it would be tricky for someone with low mobility thanks to steep hills and uneven terrain.
If you’re hopping from neighbourhood to neighbourhood and want a bit more comfort (re: AC) than the buses provide, Uber and Taxis are also available. Always ask for the cost of the fare before your ride. Tipping is not required in local yellow PV City taxis.
Food
The food in Mexico is so freaking good!!! My tastebuds were in heaven in Puerto Vallarta. One night I ate 3 dinners because I couldn’t resist trying more new dishes! Street food is a must in PV. The price is fantastic, the vendors are friendly (it helps if you speak Spanish), and the food is flavourful. Coffee and people watching enthusiasts alike will love the variety of cafes. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining. Wherever you eat here, your tastebuds are going to be jumping for joy.
Read this post for the 10 foods you must try in Mexico.
Activities
PV is packed with indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy. The Malecón boardwalk is the perfect place to stretch your legs after your flight or each morning after you wake up. Shoppers will have plenty of choices before resting their legs and wallet in the various cafes and restaurants along the sea. Speaking of, head to the beach for a swim or snorkel, parasailing or surfing, or rent jet skis. If you time your trip well, you can even hop on a whale watching tour.
Art is everywhere in Puerto Vallarta. From beautiful murals, to galleries, colonial architecture, and statues, there’s beauty all around. Adrenaline junkies can have their fill, wth zip lining, ATV, horse, and bike treks, skydiving, and rappelling. The list is endless for how to experience this Pacific Coast town.
Let’s not forget the nightlife scene. If you like to dance with the sea breeze cooling you down, PV is the place to be.
For Even More Tips on Puerto Vallarta
Read my blog on how to spend the perfect weekend in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for a super detailed look into everything you’ll need to plan your trip. I dive into the different neighbourhoods, accommodation options, different tours, and more. Check out the reel below for a little sneak peek too!
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Helpful Tips for Booking Your Trips
Flights
If you want affordable flights, you must get into the points and miles game. Check out my Travel Coaching services to help Canadians fly for less than a tank of gas!
Accommodation
There are so many options for affordable, comfortable, and unique accommodation. Some of my favourite accommodation options are housesitting and hostels. I’ve been using Trusted Housesitters and Hostelworld for years. If you prefer hotels, then check out Booking.com.
Activities
Get Your Guide is a fantastic resource for different activities to try when travelling. They have everything from walking tours, food tours, tickets to attractions, and multi-day trips, and more. Check out this super cool view I had of Tallinn when I was in Estonia for the Christmas markets, all because of a Get Your Guide experience. My favourite tour so far that I’ve been on with Get Your Guide is a fantastic walking food tour I did in Dublin. That experience had a wild twist, but you’ll have to read this blog post to find out why!
