This title was given to towns that exemplify historic, authentic Mexico, and they can be found all over the country. The Pier is one of the most important attractions in this part of the city, from which you can grab a water taxi to many of the surrounding areas, or hire a boat tour to take you around the bay for an incredible view of the city from the water.Ī few years ago, Mexico's Secretary of Tourism started bestowing the designation 'Magic Town' to several towns in Mexico that had held on to their cultural heritage and charm. It is also where the largest concentration of expats live, so you'll find it's very tourist-friendly. Here, you will find the Old Farmers Market and some of the city's more popular beaches, restaurants, art galleries, and boutique hotels. The Zona Romantica begins at the bridge over the Rio Cuale. Zona Romantica | Photo Copyright: Meagan Drillinger

Purple bougainvillea blossoms arch over side streets, creating brilliant pops of color. The Zona Romantica is the city's historic district, and is one of the most visually pleasing parts of the city.Ĭobblestone streets and alleys are flanked with historic buildings, each capped with the trademark red-tile roofs. Take a step back in time and experience the very heart and soul of the original Puerto Vallarta. Zona Romantica Colorful buildings in the Zona Romantica It ends at one of Puerto Vallarta's most famous beaches and the iconic sail-shaped pier.Īt any time of day there is something happening along the Malecon, and it's the premiere spot where locals, tourists, and expats come together.Īddress: Paseo Díaz Ordaz S/N, Centro, 48300 Puerto Vallarta, Jal.Ģ. It's also a perfect place to visit for a morning run. The Malecon is also closed to vehicle traffic, which means you can take your time as you stroll. This mile-long walkway that hugs the coast takes visitors on a journey from Centro down to the Zona Romantica, or the historic district.Īlong the way, travelers can take in the stunning views of the Bay of Banderas and jungle-covered mountains see the beautiful red-tiled roofs of downtown stroll past many of the hottest restaurants and view the city's sculptures, beaches, and live street performances. If Puerto Vallarta could be boiled down to one snapshot, it would be its iconic Malecon.

The Malecon Puerto Vallarta's Malecon | Photo Copyright: Meagan Drillinger It's a rare example of a city where locals jive with tourists and expats, creating a unique medley of international flair.Īre you ready to discover all that this city on the Bay of Banderas has to offer? Learn more about the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Puerto Vallarta.ġ. It's also got soul, with plenty of things to see and do at any time of day. Brilliant purple blossoms hang low over crisscrossing avenues, which add bursts of color to the whitewashed buildings that are capped with iconic terra-cotta roofs. Its historic downtown, the Zona Romantica, is veined with cobblestone streets. Puerto Vallarta is one of the only places in Mexico where mountains meet jungles meet sea. Much of the city's beauty has been restored and preserved, even as new hotels and resorts spring up year after year. It's one of Mexico's most popular vacation resort towns. Of course, this isn't to say that there aren't things to do for tourists in the city. Puerto Vallarta | Photo Copyright: Meagan Drillinger Unlike other beach destinations in the country that were built for tourism, Puerto Vallarta retains its roots as an authentic port town, packed with history, culture, and the heart of real Mexico. Puerto Vallarta is one of those places that will stick with you forever.

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