Free Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta
Looking to add a bit of adventure and culture to your upcoming trip without breaking the bank? Puerto Vallarta, Mexico is the perfect destination! I mostly love Puerto Vallarta because it is unlike other Mexican beach resort cities. It is more quaint and charming and the people are welcoming and friendly. Not to mention its stunning beaches and jungles filled with wildlife. Additionally, there is a vibrant nightlife, so you’ll find plenty to enjoy in this magical Mexican city. Also, did you know that there are also several free things to do in Puerto Vallarta?
In this blog post, I’ll discuss all the wonderful attractions available in Puerto Vallarta that won’t cost you a dime. Such as exploring centuries old cathedrals to shopping at open-air markets. So grab your sunscreen and let’s go!
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Puerto Vallarta Airport Money-Saving Tip
Before we dive into the free things to do in Puerto Vallarta, let’s save you a few dollars at the airport.
If you’re traveling on a budget and want to save some pesos on your Uber ride from the airport, here’s a pro tip for you. Rather than hailing a car at the terminal, take a short stroll over the pedestrian bridge (see photo above). The bridge is located outside the terminal. By simply crossing this bridge, you’ll find that the fares are significantly cheaper.
To find the bridge, exit the terminal and look for the OXXO convenience store across the small short-term parking lot. The bridge is just to the left of the OXXO. Taxis and Uber drivers wait on the other side of the bridge, ready to whisk you away to the Marina area or deeper into Puerto Vallarta.
By the way, if you’re hungry, enjoy a taco and a cool drink at Taco Marlin before you head into to town. Taco Marlin is in the top 10 of best tacos places in all of Puerto Vallarta.
Free Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta
Explore Marina Vallarta
We love the Marina location because the beaches are less crowded and there are many other resort options near by. The Marina also offers some really fantastic seafood restaurants as well. Our two favorites are El Coleguita and Victor’s. Both of these restaurants have excellent customer service, free shots of tequila and an after dinner drink included. Be sure to look for Victor because he will have a shot of tequila with you as he does every night with his customers. Also, he might even share his secret to staying sober after having so many shots of tequila. You also have easy access to many of the water tours and adventures as they leave right out of the Marina.
Stroll the Malecon Boardwalk
Now your visit to Puerto Vallarta would not be complete without a stroll along the Malecon.
Puerto Vallarta is known for its beautiful and lively city center, which is full of culture, music, and art. However, if you’re looking for a relaxing and budget-friendly activity, the Malecon Boardwalk is the perfect spot to visit.
With stunning ocean views and a gentle breeze, this boardwalk is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. This famous waterfront boulevard is located between the Hotel Zone and Old Town. It is a lively area with restaurants, galleries and lots of bars if you are looking for dancing and live entertainment. You can enjoy street performers, street food and you will find a wide assortment of souvenirs and novelties.
Capture a Photo of the Puerto Vallarta Sign
Of course having your photo taken in front of the vibrant and colorful Puerto Vallarta sign is a must! And why not? It’s completely free to do so, and if you’re reading this then you’re obviously good with free! You will find the PV sign on the Malecon with a beautiful ocean backdrop right behind it.
Explore the historic downtown area and visit the Plaza de Armas
As you continue along the Malecon you will find yourself in the historic Old Town. Since Puerto Vallarta has a rich history, one of the best free things to do in this vibrant city is to explore its historic downtown area and the Plaza de Armas. The Plaza de Armas, or main square, is where tourists and locals come to enjoy the beauty of colonial architecture, take in some of the landmarks, and experience the authentic Mexican culture.
Visit The Church of Our Lady Guadeloupe
While you’re in Old Town you should also visit The Church of Our Lady Guadeloupe. This simple, but beautiful church is a must while in Puerto Vallarta. Certainly, it’s one of the best free things to do in Puerto Vallarta. You can’t miss the Renaissance-style tower as you wander along the Malecon. The beauty of the church makes it a perfect photo opp.
Watch the Papantla Pole Flyers
Another of the fascinating and free things to do in Puerto Vallarta is to watch the Voladores de Papantla, also known as the Papantla Flyers perform. This ancient ritual, recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, is a fascinating spectacle that captures the heart of Mexico’s rich cultural heritage.
These brave flyers ascend a towering pole and launch themselves into the open air, spinning in a captivating descent bound only by a single rope. This ceremony, a blend of beauty, daring, and spiritual significance, is far more than a performance—it’s a testament to the vibrant, living history of Mexico.
While this is a completely free experience, tips are definitely welcomed. The Papantla Flyers perform on the Malecon every evening at 6 p.m.
Enjoy a Fabulous Meal right on the Beach
While you’re on the Malecon and in the Old Town area, be sure to stop for dinner. While this is not free, it’s definitely one of the best Puerto Vallarta budget friendly activities. There are quite a few inexpensive options for restaurants right on the beach. There is nothing quite like enjoying dinner with your feet in the sand as you watch the sunset, and by the way, the sunsets are magnificent. Also the seafood in these establishments is not only wonderful and fresh, but quite inexpensive. We enjoyed a wonderful meal at Los Abuelos along the Playa de los Muertos. Of course, if you prefer fancy and pricey, there are many of those too. I prefer to enjoy great seafood at a fair price and vacation more!
Take a walk on Olas Atlas Beach
Looking for a fun and free activity to do in Puerto Vallarta? Take a leisurely stroll along Olas Atlas Beach to soak in the stunning views of the bay. You can find it located in the Romantic Zone just across the bridge over the Cuale River.
One of the many free beaches in Puerto Vallarta, Olas Atlas Beach is the heart and soul of Puerto Vallarta. It is a lively area and it’s popular with both locals and tourists. Additionally you can shop for fine art, enjoy amazing tequila, and take a swim. The crystal-clear waters ebb and flow along the sandy shores, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing and fun day in the sun.
Get Lost in the Romantic Zone
If you want to completely immerse yourself in the local culture of Puerto Vallarta then you much visit the Romantic Zone. The Romantic Zone can be found in the downtown area of Puerto Vallarta and is bordered by the Rio Cuale on the north, Santa Barbara Street on the south, Insurgentes Street on the east, and Playa de Los Muertos on the west.
This popular neighborhood is unlike the Hotel Zone, in that it is home to cute and colorful buildings, cobblestone roads and vibrant street art. You will also find a variety of enticing and inviting restaurants to enjoy as well. If you happen to be in the Romantic Zone near sunset, then head over to the Los Muertos Pier, which I talk more about below.
Take a Free Walking Tour
Immersing yourself in the heartbeat of a city doesn’t have to come with a price tag in Puerto Vallarta. Take advantage of the city’s Free Walking Tour, which takes you on a fun stroll of the streets in the historic downtown. On this tour, you will learn about the city’s architecture, culture, history, famous people, and more!
The tour is approximately 2 hours and is led by a certified guide. The tours are held Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 9 a.m. and noon, and also on Saturdays at 9 a.m. The meeting point is located in Downtown (Centro) at the Municipal Tourism Office in the Old City Hall building. No reservations are required, so bring your camera, some comfortable shoes, and a water bottle.
Enjoy a Free Art Sculpture Tour
If you’re visiting Puerto Vallarta from mid-November through mid-April, you have an opportunity to take a free Art Sculpture Tour. On Tuesday mornings at 9:30, the owner of the Pacifico Art Gallery sponsors a free walking tour of the public art sculptures found along the Malecon. The meeting point can be found at the Millenium sculpture at the far end of the Malecon near the Rosita Hotel.
Marvel at the Sunset from the Los Muertos Pier
The Los Muertos Pier is an excellent location for taking in glorious sunsets with vacationers as well as the locals. As you continue your stroll along Playa de los Muertos you will find people gathering at the pier which is whimsically illuminated every evening. Something about this just makes the whole evening in Puerto Vallarta more magical. This is one of my favorite fun activities in Puerto Vallarta and it’s free. Even better!
Watch Free Fireworks
Do you like fireworks? Well, most nights you can watch free fireworks from the Malecon. The Puerto Vallarta Marigalante Pirate Ship, which offers a dinner cruise and show, shoots off fireworks around 8:30 p.m. So if you’re in the area, it is a fun thing to do.
Non-Touristy Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta
Shop at the Olas Atlas Farmer’s Market
For those seeking non-touristy things to do in Puerto Vallarta, shopping at a local markets should definitely be on your list. One of the best ones is Olas Atlas Farmer’s Market. Why is it the best you ask? Because you can purchase and sample only locally produced items. Yes, it is a producer-only market and that means all vendors must make, bake or grow the items they sell to you! So not only can you find locally made items, but the fresh fruit, vegetables and baked goods are local too! What a wonderful way to support the Puerto Vallarta community.
Take a Free Art Walk
For those art lovers out there what’s better than a free Art Walk tour? Every year Puerto Vallarta has established itself as wonderful place for creators to be inspired and share their work. Each year in the Centro Historico district numerous galleries participate in the free ArtWalk. You can enjoy exhibits from not only local artists, but international artists as well. ArtWalk is currently held each year between October and June and you can find the specific dates on the ArtWalk website.
More Things to Know About Puerto Vallarta
Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta
When it comes to accommodations in Puerto Vallarta, there’s something to suit every traveler’s taste and budget. For those seeking luxury and comfort, the Zona Romantica is a prime choice. This district is known for its boutique accommodation options, charming cobblestone streets, and close proximity to the beach.
If you prefer more local experiences, consider staying in El Centro where you’ll be immersed in the bustling local markets and vibrant nightlife.
For the budget-conscious traveler, the Hotel Zone offers a range of affordable accommodations, while still providing easy access to the city’s main attractions. Regardless of where you choose to stay, rest assured that Puerto Vallarta’s renowned hospitality will make you feel right at home.
How to Get Around Puerto Vallarta
Regardless of where you decide to stay in Puerto Vallarta, getting around is relatively inexpensive and easy. There is a never-ending amount of taxis and Uber is here. The least expensive option is the bus which allows access to most of Puerto Vallarta and the price is right for about 10 pesos per person. This is the main transportation for locals and they have recently upgraded to newer buses and they are air-conditioned and clean. Personally, I think half the fun is touring around town on the bus just to see what you see. It’s hard to get lost because most of the buses loop around, so worse case scenario just keep riding and you’ll end up back at the place you got on.
Is Puerto Vallarta Safe?
Another reason I enjoy Puerto Vallarta is because I always feel safe visiting. When it comes to safety, Puerto Vallarta is known as one of the safest tourist destinations in Mexico, and is highly regarded on the international scale as well.
The city has earned this reputation through its dedicated security efforts and a local community that warmly welcomes tourists. The local police and tourism department work diligently to ensure the safety of visitors, and there are visible security measures in place throughout the city.
As always, it’s wise for travelers to exercise common sense precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and safeguarding personal possessions. But overall, you can feel confident exploring the vibrant streets, stunning beaches, and charming markets of Puerto Vallarta.
Wrap Up and Final Thoughts
To sum it all up, Puerto Vallarta is an amazing place for a vacation. From the stunning views on the Malecon boardwalk to the beautiful beaches, it’s a great mix of adventure and relaxation. The Plaza de Armas provides historical charm to the city, while Olas Atlas Beach gives us a glimpse into breathtaking beauty. Shopping in some of the local markets is an excellent way to find some unique items and explore further what Puerto Vallarta has to offer.
Plus, with plenty of art galleries and museums, you’re sure to leave feeling inspired as you’ve learned about the culture and history here. You’ll definitely want to give yourself enough time as one visit to Puerto Vallarta is not enough! So what are you waiting for? Are you ready to visit Puerto Vallarta for an unforgettable experience?
With so many things to see and do in Puerto Vallarta it’s hard to get bored. No matter what you decide to do in Puerto Vallarta, embrace and have fun. Take lots of pictures and let me know what you think. I can’t do it all and I would love to hear about your adventures as well.
For more ideas for Mexico vacations check out my articles Cabo San Lucas on a Budget with all the Fun and Sun, or Merida’s Best Photo Spots.
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