We have been spending so much time in Puerto Vallarta lately, and honestly, we never want to leave. There is just something about the energy here that gets under your skin in the best way possible. If you are looking for the heart and soul of the city, you have to stay in Old Town.
Most people call it Zona Romantica, and we use those names interchangeably because they really are the same place. It is the area where the cobblestone streets meet the ocean, and every corner has a story to tell.
Finding the right spot for your stay can be a bit overwhelming because there are so many options. But after living and breathing these streets, we have some very strong opinions on where you should drop your bags.
Whether you are here for a quick weekend or a month-long escape, choosing the right neighborhood makes all the difference. We want to help you find that perfect home base so you can focus on the tacos and the sunsets.
The Magic of Zona Romantica (Old Town)
Staying in Old Town is like stepping into a dream. We LOVE the vibe here! It is vibrant, colorful, and always full of life. You have the famous Los Muertos beach right there, and the streets are lined with the best cafes and galleries.
Everything is walkable. We rarely ever need a car when we stay in this part of town. You can walk to the market in the morning for fresh fruit and then head to the beach for a swim.
The architecture is a mix of old-school Mexican charm and brand-new builds. You will see red-tiled roofs right next to sleek glass balconies. It is this contrast that makes it so special.
If you are looking for puerto vallarta old town condo rentals, this is the place to be. You are right in the middle of the action. You can hear the music from the nearby bars and smell the grilled octopus from the street stalls.
Why We Always Recommend Amapas
If you ask us for our absolute favorite spot, we will tell you Amapas every single time. It is technically the southern part of Old Town, but it feels like its own little paradise.
Amapas is tucked away on a slight hillside. This means you get the most AMAZING views of Banderas Bay without having to travel far from the city center. It is just a short, beautiful walk down to the pier.
We think Amapas is the best place to rent because it offers a bit of peace and quiet while still being steps away from the party. You get the best of both worlds. You can have a quiet morning coffee on your balcony and then be at a beach club in five minutes.
The condos here are stunning. We have stayed in places like Sueño and Hummingbird in this area, and the experience is always top-notch. There is something about being slightly elevated that makes the sunset look even better.
If you are a solo traveler's day seeker, Amapas is perfect. It feels safe, friendly, and very welcoming. You see the same faces every day, and it quickly starts to feel like home.
Living Like a Local in the Flatlands
If you prefer to stay on the flat streets closer to the river, the lower part of Old Town is GREAT. This is where you find the traditional markets and the local hidden gems.
We love waking up early and walking over to the Cuale River Island. It is cool and shaded, and it feels like a secret jungle right in the middle of the city. There are artisans selling jewelry and clothes, and it is a great place to find unique gifts.
Staying in the heart of the flatlands means you are never more than a block or two from a taco stand. And let’s be real, that is the main reason we all come to PV, right?
The condo rentals here are usually very modern inside but keep that classic look on the outside. We’ve spent time in The Nest, and it is such a cool spot. It is tucked away on a side street so you get that local feel without the heavy foot traffic of the main beach road.
For those looking for condo rentals puerto vallarta mexico, staying in the lower parts of Old Town is incredibly convenient. You are close to the bus lines if you want to explore further south to Mismaloya or Boca de Tomatlan.
Wellness and Staying Active
One thing we really appreciate about Old Town is how easy it is to stay active. We aren't just talking about the steep hills in Amapas!
There are so many great yoga studios and crossfit gyms scattered throughout the neighborhood. We actually put together a wellness and yoga guide that highlights some of our favorite spots to find balance.
Whether you want a high-energy workout or a quiet place to meditate, you can find it here. Most of the condos we recommend have plenty of space for you to lay out a yoga mat on the balcony.
Waking up with the sun and doing a few stretches while looking at the ocean is the absolute BEST way to start the day. It sets the tone for everything else.
The Food Scene in Old Town
We could talk about the food in Old Town for hours. It is seriously SOOO good. From the high-end restaurants on Basilio Badillo to the tiny hole-in-the-wall spots, you can’t go wrong.
Our favorite thing to do is a DIY taco crawl. Start at one end of Lázaro Cárdenas and work your way across. Each stand has its own specialty. Some do Al Pastor, some do Cabeza, and others have the best shrimp tacos you have ever tasted.
If you are staying in a condo, you also have the option to cook. We love visiting the local fish market and bringing back some fresh catch to grill. Having a full kitchen is a total game changer.
Practical Tips for Your Stay
When you are looking for condo rentals, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, walkability is key. Make sure your rental is within easy walking distance of the things you want to do. If you choose Amapas, keep in mind there might be a few stairs or a slight incline, but the view is worth every step!
Second, check for air conditioning. Even if you love the ocean breeze, having AC for those humid afternoons is a lifesaver. Most modern condos will have this standard, but it is always good to double-check.
Third, think about noise. Old Town is a living, breathing city. If you want total silence, Amapas is your best bet. If you want to be in the middle of the music and the action, stay closer to Olas Altas.
We always recommend checking out the reviews from other guests. People are usually very honest about things like water pressure and bed comfort.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay
Puerto Vallarta is a place that stays in your heart long after you leave. Choosing to stay in Old Town is the best decision you can make for your vacation.
Whether you choose the heights of Amapas for those killer views or the heart of the Zona Romantica for the ultimate convenience, you are going to have an AMAZING time.
We have stayed in so many places, and we keep coming back to these neighborhoods because they feel authentic. You aren't just a tourist here; you are part of the community, even if it is just for a week.
If you are planning your next trip, we highly recommend looking into Amapas first. It is our top pick for a reason. The peace, the views, and the proximity to the pier make it unbeatable.
Enjoy the sun, eat all the tacos, and take a moment to just breathe in that salty ocean air. There is nothing like it.
Check us out on Facebook to see more photos of our favorite spots!
| Link Type | Keyword / Phrase | Destination URL |
|---|---|---|
| Money Link | puerto vallarta old town condo rentals | https://thepvgirl.com/thenest/ |
| Money Link | condo rentals puerto vallarta mexico | https://thepvgirl.com/hummingbird/ |
| Internal Blog Link | solo traveler's day | https://thepvgirl.com/blog/2026/02/22/the-ultimate-solo-travelers-day-in-puerto-vallarta-sunsets-street-tacos-and-soul/ |
| Internal Blog Link | wellness and yoga guide | https://thepvgirl.com/blog/2026/02/08/finding-balance-a-solo-travelers-guide-to-wellness-and-yoga-in-puerto-vallarta/ |
| Social Link | https://www.facebook.com/thepvgirl/ |
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