If there is one thing I LOVE about waking up in Puerto Vallarta, it is the smell of the air. It is a mix of salt, blooming flowers, and, if you are in the right spot, the incredible scent of fresh corn tortillas being pressed.
I have spent so many mornings wandering through the streets here, and let me tell you, if you are a solo traveler or even part of a big group, there is no better way to start your day than by hitting the local markets.
The energy is just AMAZING!! People are busy, the colors are bright, and the food? Well, the food is the best of all.
I want to share my favorite ways to spend a morning eating my way through Old Town, which some people call Zona Romantica (they are the same place, and both are wonderful!).
The Heart of the Neighborhood: Mercado Municipal Emiliano Zapata
Whenever we stay in the area, my first stop is always the Mercado Municipal Emiliano Zapata. This isn't one of those markets built just for tourists. This is where the locals actually shop.
You walk in and immediately see piles of mangoes, papayas, and dragon fruit that look like they were just picked an hour ago. I usually grab a big bag of fruit to keep in my condo for snacks later.
But the real reason I come here early? The birria.
Inside the market, there are small food stalls where you can sit on a stool and have the BEST breakfast of your life. I highly recommend ordering the birria tacos with a side of consommé.
The meat is so tender and flavorful, and when you dip the taco into that warm broth, it is pure magic. It is such a simple, honest meal, but I crave it every single time I am away from PV.
Saturday Mornings at Olas Altas Farmers Market
If you happen to be here on a Saturday during the high season, you HAVE to go to the Olas Altas Farmers Market, also known as the Tianguis Cultural. It is held in Lázaro Cárdenas Park, right in the heart of the Romantic Zone.
It is such a fun vibe. Everything sold here is made, baked, or grown within about 75 kilometers of the city. You can find everything from artisan breads and local honey to hand-poured chocolates and locally roasted coffee.
I usually start with a fresh coffee and then slowly walk through the aisles. We often find the most beautiful handmade soaps or unique pottery to take home as gifts, but honestly, I usually end up just buying more food!
The baked goods are sooooo good. If you see the stand with the fresh cinnamon rolls or the savory empanadas, do yourself a favor and get one. You won't regret it.
Coffee and Quiet Moments
Sometimes, I just want a slow morning with a good cup of coffee. Old Town is packed with small, cozy cafés where you can just sit and watch the world go by.
I love finding a spot on a side street where I can hear the birds and see the neighbors greeting each other. There is a sense of community here that is so special.
A fresh cup of locally grown beans and a piece of pan dulce (Mexican sweet bread) is my favorite way to plan out the rest of my day. If it happens to be a gray morning, you might want to check out our guide to rainy day activities while you sip your latte.
Seafood for Breakfast? Yes, Please!
One of the coolest things I discovered recently is that you don't have to wait for dinner to have amazing seafood. In fact, some of the best ceviche and aguachile is served right on the street or in small market stalls during the day.
On Tuesdays, there is even a specific seafood market called the Tianguis del Ceviche y Aguachile. It is located on Andador Francisca Rodríguez.
It is a concentrated taste of the Pacific coast. The shrimp is so fresh it practically snaps, and the lime marinade is bright and zingy. It is the perfect light brunch if the sun is already starting to get hot.
Where to Stay for the Best Access
If you want to be close to all this deliciousness, I always suggest looking for puerto vallarta rentals old town in the Old Town area. It makes such a difference when you can just walk out your front door and be at the market in five minutes.
However, if you want the absolute best experience, I think Amapas is the best place to rent. It is just a tiny bit up the hill from Old Town, so you get these incredible views and a bit of peace and quiet, but you are still just a short stroll away from the taco stands and coffee shops.
We have stayed in several places, like "The Nest" or "Sueño", and having that home base makes the whole trip feel so much more relaxing. There really is something about living like a local that you just don't get at a big hotel.
Final Thoughts
Puerto Vallarta is a place that rewards people who get out and explore. Don't be afraid to try a new taco stand or walk into a market you've never seen before. The people are so friendly and the food is always made with so much love.
If you are planning a trip soon and looking for the perfect spot, I definitely recommend checking out the rent apartments in puerto vallarta options available online. Getting a place with a kitchen is great because you can bring back all those fresh ingredients from the market and make your own tropical breakfast!
I am so grateful for every morning I get to spend in this beautiful city. It truly is my favorite place in the world.
For more photos of my morning market hauls, follow our adventures on Instagram.
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