Puerto Vallarta is a classic coastal town on Mexico’s Pacific shore. Located on the Bay of Banderas, this former fishing village offers access to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches, the Sierra Madre mountains for jungle adventures, and a lively mix of neighborhood eateries, renowned restaurants, and energetic nightlife.
The city is divided into seven zones, most lying south of the airport. Nuevo Vallarta, to the north, has grown into a popular resort area and makes a convenient base for travelers. For those who prefer a livelier urban atmosphere, Centro (downtown) and the adjacent Zona Romántica (also called Old Town) are worth exploring.
“In Search of Reason” by Sergio Bustamante © Anthony Aneese Totah Jr | Dreamstime.com
The pedestrian-only Malecón boardwalk runs for just over a mile between the ocean and El Centro’s cobblestone streets. One block off the palm-lined promenade stands Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, a familiar local landmark. Along the walk, vendors often sell tuba fresca, a refreshing coconut-sap drink sweetened with sugar and topped with walnuts and diced apples. Sea-themed sculptures line the route, and at the north end is Lázaro Cárdenas Park, transformed into a community mosaic gallery by artist Natasha Moraga. On Saturdays the park hosts the Olas Altas farmers’ market.
“La Nostalgia” by Jose Ramiz Barquet © Anthony Aneese Totah Jr | Dreamstime.com
Colorful murals and street art decorate many neighborhood walls. As you explore, you’ll also encounter numerous taco trucks—the perfect places to sample local favorites like tacos dorados, a crunchy variation on traditional birria. A guided walking tour is a great way to find the best stands and learn about local flavors.
Zona Romántica’s culinary scene goes far beyond tacos. The neighborhood offers a diverse restaurant lineup, from Tintoque, known for reimagined Mexican dishes near the river, to El Barracuda, a seafood-focused spot on Camarones Beach. For a special evening, consider dining at The Iguana in Casa Kimberly, the former residence of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. A short drive north to the residential neighborhood of Versalles reveals another emerging culinary hub worth visiting.
When the sun sets, Zona Romántica comes alive with an array of bars and nightclubs, including many gay-friendly venues. Live music and DJ sets spill from open windows and doorways, creating a festive atmosphere that often continues late into the night.