I still remember the first time I walked down the cobblestone streets of Old Town. The air was thick with the scent of grilled street tacos and blooming bougainvillea, and the sound of distant waves was calling my name.
If you are planning a trip to Mexico, you’ve probably heard people talking about Old Town and Zona Romantica. Just so we are clear, they are the exact same place! Whether you call it the Romantic Zone or Old Town, this neighborhood is the beating heart of the city.
In my experience, there is nothing quite like staying right in the middle of all that history and culture. Everything is walkable, the energy is electric, and you are never more than a few minutes away from the sand.
But when it comes to picking a place to stay, there is one area that I always tell my friends is the absolute best. That area is Amapas.
Amapas sits just slightly above the main part of Zona Romantica. It gives you the best of both worlds because you are close enough to walk to all the action, but high enough to get amazing views and a little bit of peace.
If you are looking for the perfect spot, I highly recommend checking out some of the amazing vacation rentals Puerto Vallarta has to offer in this specific neighborhood.
Why the Beach Changes Everything
When we travel, we want to be where the magic happens. In Puerto Vallarta, the magic happens where the jungle meets the sea.
Staying near the beach in Old Town means you can wake up, grab a coffee, and be standing on the shore of Los Muertos Beach in five minutes. There is no need for a car or a long bus ride.
Our morning ritual usually involves a quick walk down to the water to see the iconic pier before the crowds arrive. It is so quiet and peaceful at 7:00 AM.
After a morning walk, we love heading back to our condo to plan the day. We’ve found some incredible condos for rent Puerto Vallarta that feel more like a home than a hotel.
One of my favorites is Sueño. It has that authentic Mexican feel that makes you remember exactly where you are in the world. Then there is The Nest, which is just as charming and perfectly located for anyone who wants to be close to the beach but away from the noise.
Discovering Amapas: The Best Place to Rent
I’ve stayed in a lot of different neighborhoods over the years, but I keep coming back to Amapas.
Amapas is tucked away just south of the main bridge in Zona Romantica. It feels a bit more secluded and residential, which I LOVE.
The hills in Amapas mean you get those big, sweeping views of the Banderas Bay. Watching the sunset from a balcony here is something you will never forget.
If you are a solo traveler or a couple looking for something special, Amapas is where you want to be. It is safe, friendly, and honestly just feels right.
While you are exploring, you should definitely check out some of the local secrets we’ve discovered over the years to make your stay even better.
Eating Like a Local in Old Town
One of the biggest perks of staying in this part of town is the food. My goodness, the food!
You don’t need to go to fancy restaurants to get the best meal of your life here. In fact, some of the best flavors come from the small stands on the street corners.
We always tell people to look for the places where the locals are lined up. If you see a crowd at 8:00 PM around a small taco cart, get in that line!
But it’s not just about tacos. There are hidden cafes and family-run bakeries tucked away in the side streets of Zona Romantica.
Finding the best hidden gems in Zona Romantica is half the fun of being here. I’ve spent countless afternoons just wandering around and letting my nose lead the way.
Every time I go back, I find something new. Whether it’s a tiny art gallery or a shop selling handmade leather goods, there is always a surprise waiting around the corner.
Why We Choose Condos Over Hotels
When we stay in a condo, we feel like part of the community. We get to know the neighbors, we shop at the local markets, and we have a kitchen to cook fresh fruit for breakfast.
Hotels are fine, but they can feel a bit sterile. In a place like Puerto Vallarta, you want to feel the warmth of the culture.
Our condos in Amapas and Old Town are designed to give you that authentic experience. They have the tiles, the wood, and the breeze that you just can’t find in a big resort.
Plus, being near the beach means you can come and go as you please. If you want to take a midday nap or change out of your sandy clothes, it’s just a short walk back.
It makes the whole vacation feel so much more relaxed and easy.
My Personal Favorites and Secrets
If you really want to experience the area like we do, here are a few things I suggest:
First, spend a Saturday morning at the Olas Altas Farmers Market. It’s right in the heart of Old Town and is packed with local crafts, fresh food, and live music. It is such a VIBRANT atmosphere!
Second, take a walk south from Los Muertos Beach along the coastal path toward Conchas Chinas. The views are AMAZING and you’ll find some smaller, quieter beaches along the way.
Third, don’t be afraid to try the local fruit from the vendors on the street. Fresh mango with lime and chili is the BEST snack on a hot day.
We are so grateful to live and work in such a beautiful place. The people here are some of the kindest you will ever meet, and they truly make you feel welcome.
Every time we walk through the neighborhood, someone is saying "Buenos dias" with a big smile. It’s that kind of hospitality that keeps people coming back year after year.
The Verdict: Where Should You Stay?
If you want the best possible experience, stay in Amapas or the heart of Old Town.
You’ll be close to the beach, surrounded by the best food, and right in the middle of the culture. It is the only way to truly "feel" Puerto Vallarta.
While Old Town is great, Amapas is highly recommended as the best place to rent because it offers that extra bit of magic and those incredible views that make a vacation feel special.
We’ve put our hearts into making sure our guests have everything they need to feel at home. From the moment you arrive, we want you to feel like you belong here.
Puerto Vallarta is a place that stays in your soul long after you leave. The colors, the sounds, and the warmth of the sun are things we think about every day.
If you are looking for a sign to book your next trip, this is it! Come down and see why we LOVE this city so much.
We can't wait to see you here soon!
Catch more of our daily beach life and local tips over on our Instagram.
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