How to get to Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a picturesque resort city on the Pacific coast of Mexico, known for its golden beaches, cosy colonial architecture, and lively atmosphere. If you are planning to travel to Puerto Vallarta, a developed transport network is at your service: it is easy to get here by direct flight, as well as by bus or car from neighbouring regions. A journey to this sunny destination will give you unforgettable impressions from the combination of the ocean breeze and the authentic Mexican atmosphere.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the resort is by air. The city is served by Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR), which receives many international and domestic flights and is located very close to the tourist zones. Thanks to this, the journey from the terminal to the hotel will take minimum time.

If tickets for direct flights are unavailable, you can consider flying to neighbouring cities with a subsequent transfer. The nearest airports are located in the city of Tepic (about 99 km) and in the major metropolis of Guadalajara (194 km), from where it is easy to reach the coast by ground transport.

Currently, there is no direct railway connection to the city of Puerto Vallarta, as there is no active passenger station in the resort itself. Railways in this region of Mexico are used primarily for cargo transport or tourist excursion routes that do not connect the city with main lines.

For tourists who prefer ground transport, it is recommended to travel to major transport hubs, such as Guadalajara or Tepic, and transfer there to comfortable intercity buses. This is the most reliable way to continue the journey to the coast.

Bus travel is a popular and accessible option for trips around the country. From the city of Tepic, the journey to the resort will take about 4.3 hours, covering a distance of 176 km. A very popular route is from the cultural capital of the region, the city of Guadalajara: comfortable buses cover the distance of about 303 km in an average of 4.7 hours.

For travellers coming from the southern coast, for example from the city of Manzanillo, the trip will be longer — about 12.6 hours. Mexican intercity buses often offer a high level of service, including air conditioning and comfortable seats, which makes even a long journey pleasant.

A trip by car will allow you to enjoy picturesque views of the Sierra Madre mountains and the Pacific coast. The route from the city of Tepic is one of the shortest: the distance of 162 km can be covered in approximately 2.4 hours. The road from the major centre of Guadalajara will take about 3.9 hours (296 km) and passes along modern highways.

If you are driving from Manzanillo, expect to spend about 5 hours behind the wheel, driving a distance of 290 km. When planning a trip by taxi or rented car, take into account the presence of toll road sections (cuotas), which are usually in better condition and allow you to arrive faster.

To ensure your holiday in Puerto Vallarta is as comfortable and safe as possible, we have prepared several important recommendations.

1. Clothing and belongings. The climate here is tropical and humid. Bring light clothing made of natural fabrics (cotton, linen), comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestones, and definitely a head covering and high SPF sunscreen.
2. Transport. It is convenient to move around the city on local buses (they are very cheap) or taxis (Uber works excellently and is often cheaper than regular taxis). To explore the surroundings, you can rent a car.
3. Finance. The official currency is the Mexican Peso. Although US dollars are accepted in many tourist places, the exchange rate may be unfavourable. It is better to carry pesos for payments in small cafes and shops. Cards are accepted in most hotels and supermarkets.
4. Health and Safety. Drink only bottled water; tap water is not suitable for drinking. Use repellents, especially in the evening, to protect against mosquitoes. Tourist zones are well-guarded and safe for families.
5. Communication. The main language is Spanish. In the tourism sector, staff speak English well, but knowledge of basic phrases in Spanish (greetings, gratitude) always attracts the sympathy of locals.
6. Local Etiquette. Mexicans are very polite and friendly. It is customary to greet people when entering a shop or lift. Tips (propina) amount to 10–15% of the bill in restaurants and are welcomed by service staff.
7. What to avoid. Do not buy excursions from dubious street touts — it is better to contact official agencies or the concierge at your hotel. Avoid deserted areas at night.
8. Additional tip. Be sure to take a walk along the Malecon boardwalk at sunset — this is the city's calling card, where you can see sculptures, street artists, and a stunning view of the ocean.

Following these simple rules will help you enjoy the hospitality of Mexico without unnecessary worries.