When I first started renting condos in Puerto Vallarta, I spent way too much time stressing about location.
Old Town or Amapas?
They're completely different. And picking the wrong one can mess up your whole trip.
I've stayed in both neighborhoods dozens of times. Let me break it down for you.
What Old Town Actually Feels Like
Old Town is the heart of everything.
Cobblestone streets. Colonial buildings. Street tacos on every corner.
It's loud. It's busy. And it's walking distance to EVERYTHING.
I love waking up in Old Town because I can grab breakfast at a local café within 5 minutes. No car needed.
The beach is close. Playa Los Muertos is the main one, and it's packed with people, vendors, and energy.
If you want nightlife, Old Town wins hands down. Bars, clubs, live music: it's all here. The LGBTQ scene is huge, too, especially around the Romantic Zone.
You'll hear noise at night. Sometimes until 2 or 3 AM.
That doesn't bother me anymore, but it might bother you.
Why Amapas Feels Different
Amapas is built into the hillside.
It's quieter. More private. And the views are INSANE.
When I stay in Amapas, I feel like I'm in a completely different world. Jungle vibes. Ocean views. Sunset views that make you stop and just stare.
It's more upscale. The condos here are gorgeous. High ceilings, infinity pools, modern kitchens.
But you're not walking to restaurants for tacos. You need a car or you're taking Ubers everywhere.
Amapas is split into Upper and Lower sections. Lower Amapas is closer to the beach and still walkable to some spots. Upper Amapas is way up in the hills: stunning, but remote.
If you want peace and quiet with killer views, Amapas is unbeatable.
The Beach Situation
Old Town wins for easy beach access.
Playa Los Muertos is right there. It's the most popular beach in town. Lots of people, lots of action.
In Amapas, the beach options are better if you have a car. Playa Las Amapas is calm and beautiful, but it's not right outside your door.
I prefer the beaches near Amapas because they're less crowded. But getting there takes effort.
Food and Restaurants
Old Town has more casual spots. Tacos, street food, local joints.
I eat in Old Town when I want authentic Mexican food that's cheap and delicious.
Amapas has fancier restaurants. Places like Vista Grill and Bistro Teresa serve upscale meals with sunset views.
Both neighborhoods have great food. It just depends on your vibe.
Getting Around
Old Town is walkable. That's its biggest advantage.
You can walk to the beach, shops, restaurants, and bars without breaking a sweat.
In Amapas, you need transportation. The hills are steep. Walking up and down all day gets exhausting fast.
I always rent a car when I stay in Amapas. Or I budget for Ubers.
Safety in Both Neighborhoods
Both are safe. I've never had issues in either spot.
Old Town gets crowded, so keep an eye on your stuff in busy areas. But that's standard anywhere touristy.
Amapas is quieter and more residential. It feels very secure.
If safety is a concern, read my safety tips before you arrive.
The Condo Quality
Here's where Amapas really shines.
The rental condos in puerto vallarta I find in Amapas are top-tier. Modern design. Amazing amenities. Views that blow your mind every single morning. If you want a quieter base with that same Amapas vibe, check out rental condos puerto vallarta too.
Old Town has good rentals too. But they're often smaller and older. You're paying for location, not luxury.
When I want to relax and enjoy the space I'm staying in, I always pick Amapas. The quality is just better.
Nightlife and Entertainment
If you want nightlife, Old Town is your only option.
Bars close late. Clubs stay open until dawn. There's always something happening.
Amapas shuts down early. You'll hear jungle sounds at night, not music.
I don't mind the quiet, but if you're here to party, stay in Old Town.
Who Should Pick Old Town
You should stay in Old Town if:
- You want to walk everywhere
- Nightlife matters to you
- You like being in the middle of the action
- You're on a tighter budget
- You don't mind noise
Old Town is perfect for first-timers. You'll feel the energy of Puerto Vallarta immediately.
Who Should Pick Amapas
You should stay in Amapas if:
- You want peace and quiet
- Views matter more than location
- You have a car or don't mind Ubers
- You prefer upscale accommodations
- You want to relax and unwind
Amapas is my personal favorite. The views alone make it worth it. And I LOVE staying up in the hills for the views in this area.
My Final Take
Both neighborhoods are great. You can't go wrong.
But if I had to pick one for most people, I'd say Amapas.
The condos are better. The views are unbeatable. And the peace and quiet let you actually relax on vacation.
Old Town is fun for a few nights, but Amapas is where I'd spend a week or more.
Pick based on what matters most to you. Location and action? Old Town. Views and relaxation? Amapas.
Either way, you're going to love Puerto Vallarta.
About the Author
