Welcome to Puerto Vallarta
Everything you need to know from the moment you land to your first amazing day in paradise.
15 min
Airport to Hotel Zone
24/7
Tourist Assistance
Safe
Tourist-Friendly City
Your First Hours in Paradise
Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival in Puerto Vallarta
Arrival at Airport
Land at Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR). Follow signs to immigration and baggage claim.
Pro Tips:
✓ Have your passport and tourist card ready
✓ Fill out customs declaration form on the plane
✓ Immigration usually takes 15-30 minutes
Get Mexican Pesos
Exchange currency at the airport or withdraw from ATMs. Most places accept cards, but cash is useful for tips and small vendors.
Pro Tips:
✓ Airport ATMs offer competitive rates
✓ Avoid currency exchange booths (high fees)
✓ Notify your bank before traveling
Transportation to Hotel
Choose from taxis, private transfers, or ride-sharing apps. Pre-booked transfers are recommended for first-time visitors.
Pro Tips:
✓ Official airport taxis have fixed rates
✓ Uber and Didi are available and cheaper
✓ Hotel shuttles often included in booking
Check-in & Settle
Arrive at your hotel, complete check-in, and take time to explore the property and understand the amenities.
Pro Tips:
✓ Ask about hotel facilities and services
✓ Get recommendations from concierge
✓ Check pool and restaurant hours
Get Your Bearings
Take a walk around your hotel area, locate nearby restaurants, shops, and the beach. Download offline maps.
Pro Tips:
✓ Download Google Maps offline
✓ Note nearest pharmacy and convenience store
✓ Identify safe walking routes
First Meal & Relax
Enjoy your first authentic Mexican meal. Try local specialties and fresh seafood. Then relax and adjust to the timezone.
Pro Tips:
✓ Try fish tacos or ceviche
✓ Ask locals for restaurant recommendations
✓ Stay hydrated with bottled water
Essential Information
Quick facts every visitor should know
Weather & Climate
Puerto Vallarta is warm year-round (75-90°F). Pack light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat.
Time Zone
Central Standard Time (CST), UTC-6. No daylight saving time observed.
Language
Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Currency
Mexican Peso (MXN). USD accepted in many places but you’ll get better rates with pesos.
Electricity
127V, 60Hz. Type A & B plugs (same as USA/Canada). Bring adapters if needed.
Internet & SIM
Free WiFi in most hotels and restaurants. Buy local SIM cards at airport or OXXO stores.
Water Safety
Drink bottled water only. Most hotels provide complimentary water. Ice in restaurants is safe.
Tipping Culture
10-15% in restaurants, 20-50 pesos for hotel staff, 10% for taxi drivers.
Perfect First Day Itinerary
Make the most of your first 24 hours in Puerto Vallarta
Breakfast at Your Hotel
Start your day with a hearty breakfast. Try chilaquiles, huevos rancheros, or fresh tropical fruits.
Explore the Malecón
Walk along the iconic oceanfront boardwalk. Enjoy street performers, sculptures, and stunning bay views.
Lunch in Old Town
Head to the Romantic Zone for authentic street tacos or a beachfront restaurant.
Beach Time
Relax at Playa Los Muertos or your hotel beach. Swim, sunbathe, or try water activities.
Sunset Viewing
Find a rooftop bar or beachfront spot to watch the spectacular Pacific sunset.
Dinner & Nightlife
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, then explore the vibrant nightlife scene.
Getting Around Puerto Vallarta
Choose the best transportation option for your needs
From Airport to Hotel
Official Airport Taxis
$25-40 USD PROS:- Fixed rates
- Safe and reliable
- Available 24/7
- More expensive
- Cash only sometimes
Uber & Didi
$10-20 USD PROS:- Cheaper rates
- Cashless payment
- Track your ride
- May have airport restrictions
- Surge pricing
Hotel Shuttle
Often Free PROS:- Included in booking
- Direct to hotel
- No hassle
- Must book in advance
- Fixed schedule
Rental Car
$30-60/day PROS:- Freedom to explore
- Visit remote areas
- Flexible schedule
- Parking fees
- Traffic in town
- Insurance required
Getting Around the City
Local Buses
Cheap and frequent. Routes cover entire city. Pay in pesos (around 10-12 MXN).
City Taxis
White taxis with rates by zone. Always agree on price before starting.
Walking
Many areas are walkable. Malecón, Old Town, and Romantic Zone are pedestrian-friendly.
Water Taxis
Boats to southern beaches like Yelapa, Las Animas, and Quimixto.
Stay Safe & Healthy
Important safety tips for a worry-free vacation
General Safety
- Puerto Vallarta is generally safe for tourists
- Stay in well-lit, populated areas at night
- Keep valuables in hotel safe
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps
Beach & Water Safety
- Swim only in designated areas with lifeguards
- Watch for warning flags (red = dangerous)
- Apply sunscreen every 2 hours (SPF 50+)
- Stay hydrated – drink plenty of water
- Avoid swimming alone or after drinking
Health Precautions
- Drink only bottled or purified water
- Use insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites
- Bring basic medications from home
- Travel insurance is highly recommended
- Know location of nearest hospital/clinic
Scam Prevention
- Avoid timeshare presentations (aggressive sales)
- Agree on taxi fares before getting in
- Count your change carefully
- Be cautious of overly friendly strangers
- Don’t accept drinks from strangers
In Case of Emergency
Dial 911 for police, ambulance, or fire department. English-speaking operators are available.
Important Contact Numbers
Save these numbers in your phone before you arrive
Emergency Services
- Emergency (Police, Fire) 911
- Tourist Police 078
- Red Cross Ambulance 065
- Fire Department 068
Medical Services
- Hospital CMQ +52 322 223 1919
- Hospital San Javier Marina +52 322 226 1010
- Hospital Medasist +52 322 223 0444
- 24hr Pharmacy +52 322 222 0660
Tourist Assistance
- Tourist Assistance Hotline 01-800-903-9200
- Tourism Office +52 322 223 2500
- Airport Information +52 322 221 1298
- US Consulate (GDL) +52 33 3268 2100
Transportation
- Airport Taxi Service +52 322 221 1234
- Radio Taxi PV +52 322 222 0716
- Uber Support In-app support
- Bus Terminal +52 322 290 1009
Download Our Emergency Guide
Get a printable PDF with all emergency contacts, hospital locations, and essential phrases in Spanish.
Ready to Explore?
Continue planning your perfect Puerto Vallarta vacation