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Puerto Vallarta Historic Center (Centro Histórico)
Historic District

Puerto Vallarta Historic Center (Centro Histórico)

Mexico
4.7
(5,000 reviews)
2
Tours Available
$0 (free to explore the district)
Adult Entry
3-4 hours
Recommended Duration
November-May
Best Time

Overview

Puerto Vallarta Historic Center is a charming and vibrant area filled with colonial architecture, colorful buildings, and cobblestone streets. It's a hub of cultural and historical significance, offering a glimpse into the city's rich past.

The Historic Center is the heart of Puerto Vallarta, showcasing its colonial heritage and traditional Mexican culture. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its well-preserved architecture and cultural importance.

Cultural Historical Shopping Dining

Location

Address

Zona Centro, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico

Neighborhood: Centro Histórico

Coordinates

20.620700, -105.230700

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday All day
tuesday All day
wednesday All day
thursday All day
friday All day
saturday All day
sunday All day

Admission

Adults
$0 (free to explore the district)
Children
$0 (free to explore the district)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

November-May

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum
1 hour
Recommended
3-4 hours
Full Experience
full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Warm and pleasant

  • • Colorful flowers
  • • Outdoor cafes

summer

Hot and humid

  • • Extended daylight hours

autumn

Warm to cool

  • • Rainy season begins
  • • Cooler temperatures

winter

Cool and pleasant

  • • Holiday decorations
  • • Cool and dry

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

  • Wear comfortable shoes
  • Carry cash for small vendors
  • Respect local customs

What to Bring

essential

Comfortable shoes Sunscreen Water bottle

recommended

Camera Hat Sunglasses

seasonal

Light jacket (winter) Umbrella (rainy season)

not allowed

No restrictions on what to bring

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Low to moderate

  • • Stay hydrated
  • • Sun protection

Medical facilities: Nearby hospitals and clinics

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit cards

Currency

Mexican Pesos (MXN)

Typical Costs

dining $10-$50
shopping $5-$100
tours $20-$100
entrances $0-$20

Dress Code

Casual and comfortable, Light clothing, comfortable shoes, Walking shoes, Inappropriate or revealing clothing in churches

Booking Tips

  • • Not required, but recommended for popular restaurants and tours
  • • Official tourism websites or local travel agencies
  • • Varies by service provider
  • • Available for some attractions

Amenities

Restrooms
Gift shop
Atm
Wifi
Lockers
Wheelchair rental
Stroller rental
On site restaurant
Cafe
Picnic areas
Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Puerto Vallarta Tourist App

Size: 100 MB

Features: Map, Event calendar, Restaurant guides, Tourist information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Cafes, Public squares

Charging Stations: Cafes and some shops

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR)

Distance: 8 km

Travel Time: 20 minutes

taxi
$20-$30 20 min
bus
$2 30 min

From City Center

Distance: Various, within walking distance for most attractions

walking
10-30 min
taxi
$5-$10 5-10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Rich history, vibrant culture, and great food

Historical Significance: The heart of Puerto Vallarta, showcasing its colonial past and cultural heritage

Insider Tips

  • Best tacos at a local street stand
  • Hidden courtyard cafes for a quiet break
  • Early morning for the best photos without crowds

Local Recommendations

  • • Try local street food
  • • Visit local markets for souvenirs
  • • Explore side streets for hidden gems

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hola
thank_you Gracias
where_is ¿Dónde está?
how_much ¿Cuánto cuesta?
beautiful Hermoso
ticket Boletos

Guide Languages: Spanish, English, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Parque Lazaro Cardenas

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide angle for the square and surrounding buildings

Result: Beautiful architectural shots with greenery

#PuertoVallarta #HistoricCenter #MexicanArchitecture

Cobblestone streets of Centro

Best Time: Early morning

Tips: Low angle for the colorful buildings

Result: Charming and vibrant street photos

#ColorfulStreets #PuertoVallartaLife #HistoricCharm

Photography Rules

allowed areas All outdoor areas and streets
prohibited areas Inside churches during services
flash photography Allowed in outdoor areas
commercial photography Permit may be needed for commercial use
drone policy Check local regulations, generally restricted in urban areas
tripod policy Allowed in public spaces, restricted in some attractions
selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Malecón

Distance: 500m

Walking: 10 min

Type: Scenic Boardwalk

Basilica de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe

Distance: 300m

Walking: 5 min

Type: Religious Site

Isla Río Cuale

Distance: 1km

Walking: 15 min

Type: Scenic Island

Callejon de los Golpes

Distance: 200m

Walking: 3 min

Type: Historic Alley

Reviews

4.7

Based on 5,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

  • "Explore side streets"
  • "Try local street food"
  • "Visit in the morning for fewer crowds"

Contact Information

Related Tours & Activities (10)

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Quick Info

Available Tours

2

Rating

4.7 / 5.0

Reviews

5,000

Adult Entry

$0 (free to explore the district)

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