Puerto Vallarta Historical El Centro: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Puerto Vallarta , Mexico

Puerto Vallarta Historical El Centro: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

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(3 reviews)

1h - 1h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

See Puerto Vallarta’s Old Town at your own pace with this affordable walking tour.

• Trace the city’s transition from a tropical fishing village frequented by pirates and miners in search of their fortunes, into one of today’s top tourist destinations
• Hear from producer Sandra Cesca who turned her passion for sharing Mexican culture into a profession
• Do it all in an hour or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish
• Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it
• Use the virtual tour option at home

Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code.

The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just pop in your headphones and tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.

Please note that this is a hilly walk.

Available options

Puerto Vallarta Historical El Centro: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

What's included

VoiceMap App for Android and iOS

Lifetime access to this tour in English

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Detailed itinerary

This self-guided audio tour starts on the Malecon, facing the sea and the Seahorse Sculpture. You'll hear how the tour works using the VoiceMap app and about Puerto Vallarta.

The tour passes by the Los Arcos Amphitheater. You'll hear about why it was built while you walk.

The tour passes through Plaza de Armas, where people gathered to gossip and buy goods over 100 years ago.

The tour passes by Sergio Bustamante Gallery. You'll hear about the famous sculptor while you walk.

The tour passes by Peyote People, one of the oldest Huichol shops in Vallarta. You'll hear about the shop and have an opportunity to pop inside.

The tour passes by Vallarta Chocolate and Cigar Factory. You'll hear about the store while you walk.

The tour passes by Villa Leonarda. The villa is owned by Sergio Toledano, adopted Godson of Liz Taylor and Richard Burton.

The tour passes by Casa Kimberly. You'll see the bridge that Richard Burton used to cross to get to Elizabeth Taylor’s room when she stayed at the hotel.

The tour passes by the sculpture of Augustine Flores Contreras. Education for all was championed and financially supported by Contreras until his death in 1975.

Stop 10 Pass by

The tour passes by the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, which took over 40 years to complete.

The tour passes by the Faro Del Malecon. This signal was placed here in 1930 to help ships navigate into the rocky harbor.

The tour follows a stretch of the malecon. You'll be shown some of the 30 sculptures that are placed along the malecon.

The tour passes by Sergio Bustamonte's sculpture "In Search of Reason."

The tour passes by the sculpture Rotunda del Mar by Alejandro Colunga, which was installed in 1997.

The tour passes by "Nature as Mother” a sculpture by Adrián Reynoso, which was installed in 1997.

The tour passes by the Flying Papantla sculpture. You'll hear about the Flying Papantla while you walk.

What's not included

Food/Drink

Smartphone and headphones

Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route

Transportation

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Meeting point

Before arrival, please install the VoiceMap mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart at any time and complete at your own pace. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. VoiceMap has sent you an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

1. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
2. Create an account
3. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
4. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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• You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
• This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
• When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
• Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

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