Puerto Vallarta is among the prime holiday destinations in the world. Puerto Vallarta is a paradise that offers numerous beauty to its visitors. It is a famous resort city in Banderas Bay on the Pacific coast in Mexico’s Jalisco State. Puerto Vallarta’s contrasting terrain makes for a paradise defined by crystal-clear bays and lush jungle-covered mountains. Puerto Vallarta consists of diverse neighborhoods that offer everything a visitor needs. There are many options for public transportation in PV available, from convenience to leisure. Some of the transportation choices in Puerto Vallarta include taxis, renting a car, hiking on foot, or the traditional bus system. Some of the many ways to get around at a low rate are with typically good, safe service. Puerto Vallarta transportation has an excellent public system, covering the whole city and beyond. Getting around Puerto Vallarta is relatively easy. There are different modes of transportation in the area. With its notably walkable downtown, suitable ride-hailing service, and efficient bus network, strolling around the ever-growing Pacific coast resort town of Puerto Vallarta. Even when exploring on day trips to secluded jungle-backed beaches, travelers have no issues finding boats to sail them across Banderas Bay. The ideal way to get around Puerto Vallarta is by bus. A bus ride is the cheapest option and most preferred by locals. Riding a bus is recommended to experience the authentic Mexican vibe. Puerto Vallarta’s bus system is reliable, so people are not hassled when taking one. 

Puerto Vallarta is a very walkable destination. Roaming around Puerto Vallarta on foot is the cheapest and most personalized tour anyone must try. The Malecon and many of the city’s winding old backstreets and picturesque plazas are inaccessible to vehicle traffic, making them perfect for exploring on foot. There are even several walking tours being offered in the area. Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant Malecon has been the town’s spirit since its foundation. The iconic Malecon is peppered with sculptures by renowned artists, art and crafts galleries, shops, and restaurants, and it is considered the meeting point par excellence. Many tourists frequent it every year, and its crime rate is relatively low. Puerto Vallarta’s crime rate index has remained around 30% to 35% in the past few years, based on the crowdsourced database Numbeo. In addition, there are no COVID-19 travel restrictions for visiting Puerto Vallarta. The city of Puerto Vallarta observes hygiene and sanitation standards. Puerto Vallarta received the Safe Travels Stamp issued by the World Travel and Tourism Council. The city is well-connected with public buses, and travels between Puerto Vallarta’s districts.     

Listed below are the Transportations to Roam Around Puerto Vallarta.

1. Bus: The bus is the most preferred transportation for many locals in Puerto Vallarta. Bus fare is cheap in Puerto Vallarta. A one-way fare typically starts at around 50 cents.
2. Taxi: Taxis in Puerto Vallarta are not metered. Fare charges are by zone, not meter. The minimum taxi fare usually is around $2.10 to $3.70 around town. 
3. Motorcycle: A motorcycle rental in Puerto Vallarta provides ultimate flexibility. One gets priority parking wherever one goes. Finding a parking place is stressful, especially in the downtown area with a car. 
4. Private Car: Private cars offer the ultimate convenience when traveling to Puerto Vallarta. However, private rental cars in PV are a bit pricey.
5. Shuttle: Shuttles are usually available at the airport in Puerto Vallarta. Most shuttle services in Puerto Vallarta offer one-way or roundtrip transfers for individuals or groups. Shuttles mainly specialize in providing services to all hotels, villas, condos, restaurants, golf courses, and activities around Puerto Vallarta.

Cruise Ships: Many cruise lines make Puerto Vallarta a “Port O’ Call,” docking at its Maritime Terminal, which is able to accommodate more than one cruise ship at a time.  Puerto Vallarta is a well-known cruise port frequented by several major cruise lines.

Puerto Vallarta is a small and quaint beach town, so walking to just about anywhere a person needs is effortless. However, people who are looking for all the transportation options to get around town are able to choose from the many options to choose from in Puerto Vallarta. Check out other areas of Puerto using all the best ways to get around town, including Puerto Vallarta taxis, ride-sharing apps, city buses, motorcycles, or bicycle rentals. Puerto Vallarta’s taxis are not usually metered. A person typically pays by zones. Most trips are quite reasonable as long as one negotiates a better price with the driver before hopping in. One has multiple options whether they are looking for a short-term or long-term car rental in Puerto Vallarta. However, they are more likely to be expensive in Puerto Vallarta. Another great option is to rent a motorcycle or scooter to drive around town. Bike rentals are a fun mode of transportation and a form of exercise. Riding a bicycle is perfect for exploring Puerto Vallarta’s cobblestone street or cruising through the palm-lined bike pathway of the Malecon boardwalk. Motorcycle renting provides much better value than renting a private car or using ride-sharing like Uber and Easy Ride. Lyft is not yet available in Puerto Vallarta and the rest of Mexico, although they have already established their office in the area. Ride-sharing companies like Uber entered the transportation scene of Puerto Vallarta in 2017. However, Uber is not prominent in the airport in Puerto Vallarta. Uber is convenient, but surge pricing makes it much more expensive than taxis, so it’s good to know the zone rates before confirming the ride. Uber is ideal when there are no available taxis or buses in town, and one is in a rush to go somewhere. They are able to easily book a ride simply by using the mobile app.

Driving around Puerto Vallarta Insurance is mandatory for all car rentals in Mexico, and includes Puerto Vallarta. Most car rental companies in Puerto Vallarta don’t permit renting a car without insurance. Full insurance coverage protects the passenger in the event of a totaled, damaged, or stolen car. Some US travel credit cards offer rental car insurance. However, only a few car rental companies in Puerto Vallarta accept it. Getting Mexican car insurance from a car rental company is still the best. Tourists who want to rent a car in Puerto Vallarta must identify some requirements. Renting a vehicle in Puerto Vallarta is simple but requires some knowledge. One must present some requirements, which include a passport, a driver’s license, a credit, or debit card, and Mexican car insurance to rent a car in Puerto Vallarta. To be able to drive a car in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, a person needs to have a valid driver’s license from their home country. However, if the driver’s license is not Spanish, one needs an International Driving Permit (IDP). Obtaining an IDP before a trip is recommended, as obtaining an IDP once in Mexico is quite challenging. A person must be at least 18 years old to legally drive in Puerto Vallarta. It is a good idea to have all the necessary documents at hand when driving in Puerto Vallarta, including a driver’s license, IDP, and car insurance documents. It is ideal for carrying a map of the area, as well as a cell phone in case one needs to make a call for help. Most importantly, be aware of the local traffic laws and regulations in Puerto Vallarta. It is essential to obey all traffic signs and signals and to drive defensively to avoid accidents. Always be aware of the local speed limits and be prepared to encounter pedestrians and animals on the road.

What are the Puerto Vallarta travel restrictions?

Citizens of the United States need a passport to visit Puerto Vallarta and the rest of Mexico. Travelers must carry a Mexican Tourist Permit, which is typically issued free of charge upon arrival.Any added fees for the tourist permit usually are absorbed in the plane ticket cost. The advice from the U.S. Department of State states that there are no travel restrictions in Puerto Vallarta 2022. However, just like anywhere in the world, crime happens at any time. Even though there are no Puerto Vallarta travel warnings, anyone must use common sense when traveling since it is a foreign country. Some of the smartest ways to be always safe are to leave valuables in the resort safe, take official taxis and Ubers at night, and keep personal phones away when strolling the cobblestone streets. One must carry their own hand sanitizer and face mask, and use the Safe Travels Stamp to help find locations that are prioritizing health and safety. Anyone who follows these precautions immediately sees for themselves how safe Puerto Vallarta is and the city is known for its hospitality.

Commuting vehicles in Puerto Vallarta is better than renting. Puerto Vallarta’s public bus system is efficient and affordable. A one-way fare starts at just about 50 cents. Renting a car is unnecessary in Puerto Vallarta, thanks to Mexico’s comprehensive bus system. There are many bus stops so commuting won’t be a problem. One of the most local & authentic experiences one must have in Puerto Vallarta is the privilege of taking a ride on the public bus. They are privately owned, noisy, bumpy, and too hot, but they are worth it. Aside from costing only pennies to ride, the opportunity to travel local style provides one the pleasure of enjoying the sights, sounds, and smells of public transportation in Puerto Vallarta. People traveling to a different country are more excited to try a particular place’s culture and way of life. Commuting is simply one experience to do that. One can share a ride with the locals and traditionally explore the city. The purpose of traveling is to experience different cultures and learn new things.  

The best mode of transportation for visiting popular landmarks in Puerto Vallarta is by foot. Some famous Puerto Vallarta landmarks are short distances from one another. People are able to reach them simply by walking. However, it still depends on what area a person is staying during their stay in Puerto Vallarta. Walking is a great way to explore the city and get some health benefits while doing it. Others have tried riding public buses while visiting some famous Puerto Vallarta landmarks. However, some buses have limited routes. Riding a taxi is another popular choice when planning to go sightseeing in the city. However, a taxi ride is expensive compared to public buses and ride-sharing. There are motorcycle and scooter rentals in Puerto Vallarta.  Aside from flexibility, motorcycle rentals in Puerto Vallarta are very much accessible and easy to park. One doesn’t have to worry about parking space when visiting the best landmarks in Puerto Vallarta. Motorcycles are easily maneuvered during traffic. Riding a motorcycle makes traveling easy and fast. Renting a motorcycle is less expensive compared to renting a private car. However, it provides limited capacity.

A private car is the most ideal mode of transportation for exploring Puerto Vallarta’s neighborhoods. However, there are several options for exploring Puerto Vallarta’s beautiful neighborhoods. The choice depends on a person’s preferences and needs. Renting a private car is highly convenient for families when exploring different Puerto Vallarta neighborhoods. Traveling in groups requires a mode of transportation that accommodates every need. Traveling via a rented vehicle provides the freedom to explore the best Puerto Vallarta neighborhoods on their own schedule. Travelers get to choose when to travel because they do not follow a certain itinerary. Traveling, especially with kids, is quite demanding, and safety must always be a priority. Renting a car does not only provide some privacy but even comfort because most rented cars have air conditioning systems. Travelers do not have to endure heat, smoke, dust, and some other pollutants while traveling. Couples have the option to try a motorcycle rental for faster traveling. A motorcycle is able to accommodate two passengers, and a couple is a perfect fit. Another option is riding a taxi cab. People who are not that good with navigation and location must use a taxi.

Taxi drivers are well familiar with their routes and Puerto Vallarta’s neighborhoods. They know better which route to take, and they are not likely to get lost. Adventure seekers must try exploring Puerto Vallarta neighborhoods via bus. Puerto Vallarta’s bus system is widely used in Puerto Vallarta, especially for locals. Puerto Vallarta has a reliable bus system that is run by the city’s transportation department. The buses operate regularly throughout the day and are a convenient and inexpensive way to get around the city. However, as with any public transportation system, there are likely occasional delays or unexpected disruptions. It is always a good idea to plan ahead and allow extra time when traveling. Furthermore, it is advisable to use caution when using the bus system, as crime is unpredictable on public transportation in any city

Buses are the most regularly used mode of transit by locals and international travelers in Puerto Vallarta. Riding a bus in Puerto Vallarta is a safe and affordable way to roam the town. A bus service comes at least every 15 minutes on any provided route in Puerto Vallarta. The city has an extensive network of bus routes that cover most areas of the city, and buses operate regularly throughout the day. Puerto Vallarta bus service is accessible to the Hotel Zone, El Malecon, Romantic Zone, and Marina Vallarta. There are several bus stops, and the fares are cheap. A one-way fare starts at about 50 cents. Pay small bills or exact changes at all times. Be sure to change for money larger than 100 Mexican pesos. Take the blue, green, or orange buses around town, and keep in mind that they’ll have their routes written on the front of the windshield in Spanish. Buses only stop if there are available passengers at bus stops or if a passenger presses a “timbre” (a small buzzer close to the back door and all over the bus). Most bus services in Puerto Vallarta operate until around 10 pm only. Passengers must rely on taxis after 10 pm.

Yes, motorcycle rental is possible in Puerto Vallarta. Renting a motorcycle is very practical as it gives flexibility. Parking is never a problem with a motorcycle, compared to a car, especially in Puerto Vallarta’s downtown area. It is a better choice than a taxi or using ride-sharing. Motorcycle rentals in Puerto Vallarta provide service to the highest standard. Usually, motorcycle rental companies in Puerto Vallarta offer unlimited mileage allowance, 1 to 2 helmets, liability insurance, a custom map, and support assistance for any emergency. The requirements for motorcycle rentals in Puerto Vallarta include a driver’s license from Mexico, the USA, or Canada, a copy of a passport, and a credit card for the security deposit. The driver must be 25 years old or older.

Yes, anyone can use their private car to roam around Puerto Vallarta. Nothing beats the freedom of exploring a beautiful place without following a particular schedule or itinerary. A person is able to go places without the need to share a ride with a stranger, a common scenario when taking public transportation. Exploring beautiful Puerto Vallarta using a private car makes traveling flexible and convenient. Travelers are able to go to hard-to-reach areas that most public transport fails to reach. However, driving around Puerto Vallarta requires some safety measures, especially in places included in some travel restrictions in Mexico. However, Puerto Vallarta is excluded from that list, and driving around the city is very safe. Mexico recognizes U.S. driver’s licenses so travelers won’t need an international driving permit. However, people planning to drive more than 300 miles into Mexico during their stay are required to get an international driving permit. Another important thing is that the driver must be of the legal age of 21 to be able to drive a car in Puerto Vallarta, and the rest of Mexico.

Yes, taking a Package Tour to explore Puerto Vallarta is better. Puerto Vallarta is a paradise that requires exploration. People who visit the area usually take a package tour to explore and experience the authentic Puerto Vallarta experience fully. The good thing about package tours is that one doesn’t have to worry about creating itineraries, simply avail of one of the numerous tours being offered. Package tours are designed to make the best of one’s stay, especially for a shorter period of time. One of the most significant advantages of package tours is the cost. Usually, the cost of all transfers, entrance fees to various accommodations, and meals are included, and the tour price is definitely set at a reasonable price. Typical tour packages often include several destinations. Chances are that going to all these places alone costs a lot more. The reason behind that is that travel agents and tourism companies have good connections with the hotels and transportation companies and they get a maximum discount for sending groups rather than individuals or single families. Safety is another top advantage of tour packages. Travel companies are experts, and know more places inside out. They choose risk-free destinations and activities and always keep in mind the age and preferences of the participants. People who join a package tour are able to relax and enjoy their travel without the fear of getting lost, entrance tickets, hotel reservations, and many other things. Package tours make vacationing hassle-free. All they have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the whole trip. Time is essential when traveling. Opting for a package tour helps save ample time, and everything is preplanned and ready to go. Nowadays, package tours are tailor-made depending on one’s preference. Some travel agencies allow travelers to create their own itineraries rather than forcing their decisions on travelers.    

No, renting a boat is inexpensive in Puerto Vallarta. A boat rental in Puerto Vallarta varies in cost depending on the type of boat, the characteristics of the boat, and additional services and equipment included in the price. There is nothing like spending a day on the water in Puerto Vallarta. It is a great way to enjoy the many attractions on the bay. Travelers are able to book a small private boat that accommodates four people for only $345 for 4 hours. A private 30’ custom boat that accommodates up to 10 people is worth $600 for a 4-hour trip. A 42’ double-decker snorkeling boat that accommodates up to 31 people costs $880 for a 4-hour trip. The yacht comes with an experienced captain and friendly crew to ensure safety and comfort. Enjoy a relaxing boat ride with a 27’ Grady White Yacht, while relaxing under the shade of the canopy cover. The yacht is equipped for up to 10 passengers and offers exclusive private fishing trips, and snorkeling at Las Animas, Yelapa, Quimixto, or Chimo. The cost of the private 27’ tour yacht is $350 for a 4-hour trip. Renting a boat in Puerto Vallarta is a great activity that anyone is able to enjoy.  

Yes, taking public transportation is safe in Puerto Vallarta. Puerto Vallarta’s public transportation is not dangerous, very accessible, and reliable. There is a misconception that traveling to Mexico is very dangerous. However, Puerto Vallarta is ultimately safe, both for tourists and locals in the majority. Puerto Vallarta is one of the safest cities in Mexico. Many tourists frequent it every year, and its crime rate is relatively low. The Puerto Vallarta crime rate index has remained around 30% to 35% in the past few years, based on the crowdsourced database Numbeo. In addition, there are no COVID-19 travel restrictions for visiting Puerto Vallarta. The city complies with hygiene and sanitation standards. Puerto Vallarta was awarded the Safe Travels Stamp issued by the World Travel and Tourism Council. The city is well-connected with public buses, and travels between Puerto Vallarta’s districts.  Puerto Vallarta offers its visitors high-security measures. There are regular, and tourist patrols present in the area. Safety and security don’t only rely on the place or the people around. Being sensible, alert, and smart helps ensure safety anywhere. Furthermore, while public transportation in Puerto Vallarta is generally safe during the daytime hours, it is always a good idea to be aware of one’s surroundings and to take common-sense precautions to protect one’s self and personal belongings. For people who travel at night, it is generally a good idea to use a ride-hailing service or a taxi rather than taking the bus or other forms of public transportation. 

Yes, Uber operates in Puerto Vallarta. Uber is a ride-hailing service that allows users to request and pay for rides through a smartphone app. The ride-share company has been operational in Puerto Vallarta since its launch in 2017. The Uber app works the same as it operates in the United States. It has become a famous mode of transportation for visitors visiting the sea coast town. However, Uber is not available at Puerto Vallarta airport. People coming from the airport have other alternatives to book an airport shuttle or a taxi beforehand. Another Uber issue in Puerto Vallarta is that Uber XL is not offered in the area. Since Uber is a mobile application, it causes some issues due to Puerto Vallarta’s mobile phone service needing to be more reliable. Although mobile phone service is accessible in Mexico, there are extensive tourist reports of the Uber app not working properly at times in Mexico. Mexico is actually the third-largest global market for Uber, after the United States and Canada. The cost of taking an Uber in Puerto Vallarta varies depending on where a person is staying and going. Prices usually increase by as much as 50% at peak hours. For instance, the cost is around 240-300 Mexican pesos from Puerto Vallarta airport to Nuevo Vallarta. From Conchas Chinas to Puerto Vallarta, it is approximately 220-300 Mexican pesos. Expect to pay around 150 Mexican pesos from the airport to Zona Romantica. The pay is between 50 and 80 Mexican pesos one day for a short travel distance within the downtown area. The app generally works out a lot cheaper than the usually licensed cabs. It is worth noting that while Uber is available in Puerto Vallarta, there are other ride-hailing services available in the city. Other popular ride-hailing services, such as Cabify and DiDi, are available in Puerto Vallarta.