We have spent a lot of time wandering the cobblestone streets of Puerto Vallarta, and let me tell you, it never gets old.
Every time we visit, we find a new corner, a new taco stand, or a hidden balcony that makes us want to stay forever.
If you are planning your first trip or your tenth, finding the right place to stay is everything.
It’s the difference between waking up to the sound of ocean waves or waking up to a delivery truck beeping outside your window.
We’ve learned the hard way that not all rentals are created equal in this tropical paradise.
But don't worry, we are here to share the secrets we've picked up along the way so you can find your own slice of heaven.
The Secret of the South: Why Amapas is Our Top Pick
If you ask us where the best place to rent is, we won't hesitate for a second.
It is Amapas, hands down.
Amapas is tucked just south of the main bustle, and it feels like a completely different world even though it's just a ten-minute walk away.
Imagine being surrounded by thick, vibrant jungle greenery while still having a front-row seat to the Banderas Bay sunsets.
It is quieter than the heart of town, which we LOVE because a good night's sleep is a vacation essential.
In Amapas, you get those incredible hillside views that make you feel like you're floating over the ocean.
We often stay in condo and apartment rentals puerto vallarta like Hummingbird when we want that perfect mix of modern comfort and nature.
Hummingbird is nestled right in that sweet spot where you can hear the birds in the morning and still smell the salt from the sea.
The buildings in Amapas tend to be a bit more spread out, giving you a sense of privacy that’s hard to find closer to the center.
But keep in mind, those views come with a little bit of leg work!
Amapas is known for its hills and stairs, so if you aren’t looking for a daily glute workout, you might want to call a quick cab to get back up the hill.
But best of all, the peace and quiet you get in return is so worth it.
One Place, Two Names: Old Town and Zona Romantica
There is a lot of confusion for first-time visitors about where to stay, especially when they see different names on the map.
Let’s clear this up right now: Old Town and Zona Romantica are exactly the same place.
Whether you call it the Romantic Zone, Old Town, or even South Side, it’s all that charming area south of the Cuale River.
This is where the heart of the city beats, with all the best restaurants, galleries, and the famous Los Muertos Beach.
We spent years finding the perfect home in Old Town before we realized that moving just a few blocks can change your entire experience.
If you love being in the middle of the action, this is your spot.
You can walk out of your door and be at a world-class bistro or a humble street taco cart in seconds.
The energy here is infectious, and the architecture is so colorful it feels like a movie set.
We highly recommend spending at least one afternoon just getting lost in the side streets here.
You’ll find hidden courtyards and tiny shops that most tourists walk right past.
It’s also where you’ll find some of our favorite local market secrets for fresh fruit and handmade crafts.
How to Spot a True Hidden Gem
Finding a rental isn't just about the photos you see online.
We’ve learned to look for the details that others might miss.
First, check the noise factor.
If a rental is directly above a popular bar in the center of Zona Romantica, you’re going to be part of the party until 3 AM whether you like it or not.
That’s why we always lean toward the "fringes" of the area or the hills of Amapas.
Second, look for "direct" rentals rather than just hitting the big booking sites.
Places like Sueño are perfect examples of what we look for.
When you rent apartments in puerto vallarta like Sueño, you get a much more authentic, personal feel.
Sueño has that traditional charm that makes you feel like you actually live in Mexico, not just in a generic hotel room.
We also suggest looking for units that mention "mini-split A/C" in every room.
The humidity in PV is no joke, and having a cool bedroom to retreat to is a game changer for your comfort.
Another tip: look for older buildings that have been renovated.
These often have much larger terraces than the brand-new towers.
Having a big outdoor space to enjoy your morning coffee while looking at the bay is the ultimate "hidden gem" feature.
Living Like a Local: What to Expect
When you choose a condo rental over a hotel, you’re signing up for a more immersive experience.
We love going to the local markets to buy fresh mangoes and avocados for breakfast.
It makes the whole trip feel more like a lifestyle and less like a standard vacation.
You’ll get to know your neighbors, the local shopkeepers, and the "lavanderia" lady down the street.
The safety in these areas is also something we always mention to friends.
We feel incredibly safe walking around Amapas and Old Town, even in the evenings.
The community is tight-knit and very welcoming to visitors who respect the local vibe.
Just remember to bring comfortable walking shoes!
The cobblestones are beautiful, but they aren't very friendly to high heels or flip-flops with no grip.
We’ve seen more than one person take a tumble trying to look stylish on a steep Amapas street.
Stick to sturdy sandals and you’ll be much happier.
Our Final Word on Rentals
If you are a solo traveler or a couple looking for romance, you really can’t go wrong with these areas.
But if you want our honest, tried-and-true advice, focus your search on Amapas.
It gives you the best of everything: the views, the quiet, and the proximity to the fun.
We have stayed all over this city, and we keep coming back to the hillside for a reason.
The air is fresher, the nights are cooler, and the sunsets are just… WOW.
Whether you choose a modern spot like Hummingbird or a more traditional apartment like Sueño, you are going to have an AMAZING time.
Puerto Vallarta has a way of getting under your skin and making you never want to leave.
We are so grateful for every sunset we've watched from our balcony here, and we want that for you too.
Finding the right place is the first step to falling in LOVE with this town.
Go ahead and book that trip , you deserve it!
We highly recommend choosing an apartment or condo in Amapas for your next stay.
It is the best way to experience the magic of PV.
If you want to see more of our daily adventures and local tips, come say hi to us on X.
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