Puerto Vallarta is one of the best cities in Mexico. It is the epitome of perfection and an excellent place for digital nomads. With its low cost of living, coworking spaces, and abundance of cafes, it invites people from all over the world.
Mexico has always been famous among short-term travelers and tourists but things have changed over the recent years. The city has been gaining popularity among remote workers and turning into a digital nomad hotspot.
If this beautiful city has convinced you to pack your bags and move here then keep reading this article. Let’s discuss what it’s like to live in Puerto Vallarta and get an insight into the digital nomad lifestyle.
Where is Puerto Vallarta located?
Puerto Vallarta is a beach town located in Mexico. It lies in the state of Jalisco on the Pacific coast.
Fact: Did you know that Puerto Vallarta was named Las Peñas de Santa María de Guadalupe?
Why Choose Puerto Vallarta as a Digital Nomad? Pros and Cons
If you are unsure about making Puerto Vallarta your next digital nomad destination, take a look below. Let’s delve into this city’s pros and cons to dissect whether it’s a good fit for you. Remember that no place is perfect and there are always some flaws! However, some places are worth the leap of faith.
| Pros | Cons |
| Natural beauty | Expensive than some other Mexican cities |
| Decent WiFi | Not the safest |
| Affordable cost of living | |
| Small-town vibe | |
| Vibrant city | |
| Thriving community | |
| Rich local culture |
As you can see, living in Puerto Vallarta doesn’t have a lot of cons. While there are some concerning factors, the city itself makes up for them by providing alternatives! You’ll find your time here to be quite fulfilling overall.
How to Get to Puerto Vallarta?
Here’s how you can get to Puerto Vallarta easily.
From united states
The best way to get to Puerto Vallarta from the United States is via air travel. Cities like Miami and New York have airlines that offer direct flights to Mexico’s International Airports. Once you land, you can get to the city centre through various means of transportation.
If you want to explore other popular destinations in Mexico then you can always land in places like Cancun and drive to Puerto Vallarta from there. This might also save you some money because the tickets might be cheaper there.
If you are already in a Mexican city such as San Miguel de Allende, Merida, or Oaxaca city then you can get to Puerto Vallarta by below mentioned ways. It is suggested to consider distance and time before taking a pick.
Car drive
The smartest way would be to rent a car and drive it to Puerto Vallarta. The roads are safe and renting a car will give you some freedom as well. If you’re lucky, you won’t face any construction or traffic and get there in a decent amount of time.
Bus
While a car ride is as effective as it gets, taking a bus will be a lot cheaper. Buses run between 2 cities all over Mexico and you can seamlessly travel to Puerto Vallarta. If we take into account factors such as departures, peak hours, and road conditions, an average drive from Cancun can take 5-6 hours. Mexico is always working on infrastructure which often changes the travelling time.
Services such as the Ado bus are reliable options and you can check their route, ticket prices, and other details online.
Plane
Car and bus rides are adequate options when you are travelling to Mexico from a city such as Cancun and Tulum. However, the same can’t be said about Mexico City. Since it is far in distance, the smart choice would be to travel via plane.
Air services such as AeroMexico and Volaris offer roundtrip tickets that cost about $100 (93.46€).
Transportation and How to Get Around Puerto Vallarta?
Once you have made it to Puerto Vallarta, this is how you can get around daily.
On foot
Puerto Vallarta is a highly walkable city and facilities are located close by. You can cover small distances on foot and access amenities simply by walking.
Taxis
If you are looking for a more convenient option then consider opting for taxis. They are readily available and reliable forms of transport in this city. Not only can you hail them on streets but ride-sharing apps are also available. Reputable companies such as Uber are commonly used in Puerto Vallarta. However, beware of aggressive taxi drivers and scams!
Buses
Buses are also a reliable and affordable way of getting around the city. Bus travel is a good option because of its easy accessibility and convenience as well. The buses are well-connected, easily understandable, and interlinked.
Driving
You can also get a car rental or buy a second-hand car (if you are planning a longer stay) to get around daily. However, keep in mind that roads can get congested and traffic is hectic pretty often. This is a logical option if you’re planning on travelling between cities.
3 Best Accommodation Options in Puerto Vallarta
One of the best things about Puerto Vallarta is the variety of available accommodation options here. You can find the perfect area based on what you are looking for but here are the best options.
El Centro
Most popular for its vibrant nightlife, El Centro is the perfect area if you want to be surrounded by action and chaos. This is a great place for digital nomads who have come to Puerto Vallarta for its bustling environment and cultural diversity. This neighbourhood is known for its shopping district and entertainment, but it can be quite noisy.
Zona Romantica
Another great option is Puerto Vallarta’s old town. The ancient town is not only the historic centre but the beating heart of the city. You can immerse yourself in the people and see exactly what it’s like to live as a local. This area is rich in culture, lgbtq activities, and traditions so you’ll be sure to have a splendid time. Make sure to explore the colourful markets and buildings during your time here.
Fluvial
For those of you who are looking for an affordable option, Fluvial is the perfect place for you. Despite being budget-friendly, this area is trendy and offers a great living experience. This neighbourhood is especially famous among ex-pats and digital nomads.
Internet Connectivity in Puerto Vallarta
The good news for remote workers is that Puerto Vallarta has a pretty decent internet speed and coverage. You can work remotely and keep a healthy work-life balance, thanks to the fast and reliable internet. While it essentially depends on your location, the average speed is around 47 Mbps in the city.
You can also get a local SIM card after arriving in the city which ensures extra reliability. There are numerous providers in the city so make sure to compare data packages and plans beforehand.
Other than that, most of the co-working spaces and coffee shops offer free and fast wifi. You can expect high-speed internet while working!
E sim
If you want to avoid the hassle of a physical sim card and want consistency then consider opting for E sims. They are good alternatives to physical SIM cards and offer affordable data plans.
Holafly
| Data Package | Availability | Price |
| unlimited | 7 days | 29.00$ |
| unlimited | 15 days | 37.00$ |
| unlimited | 10 days | 51.00$ |
| unlimited | 20 days | 62.00$ |
| unlimited | 30 days | 75.00$ |
Airalo
| Data Package | Availability | Price |
| 1 GB | 7 days | 6.00$ |
| 2 GB | 15 days | 11.50$ |
| 3 GB | 30 days | 15.50$ |
| 5 GB | 30 days | 23.50$ |
| 10 GB | 30 days | 42.00$ |
4 Best Places to Work from in Puerto Vallarta
The good news for remote workers is that Puerto Vallarta has a ton of good working spaces.
Joint Coworking
Joint Coworking is a great option that offers a ton of facilities. This coworking space has everything a digital nomad can need; meeting rooms, conference rooms, printing rooms, and a great community. They offer a good working environment overall.
Vallarta Cowork
Vallarta Cowork is undoubtedly one of the best coworking spaces in the city. This place is usually crawling with digital nomads but don’t worry, there is plenty of room for everyone. There is high-speed Internet available on the premises along with numerous desks and office spaces. Their contemporary architecture also attracts remote workers.
Natureza Cowork
Natureza Cowork is also a good coworking space located in Puerto Vallarta. Their creative interior and good internet promote productivity among remote workers. It is one of the most affordable options in the city.
Cafes
If you are someone who prefers working from cafes rather than coworking spaces then Puerto Vallarta has got you covered. Thanks to the big cafe culture in the city, there are plenty of great coffee shops and cafes where remote workers can work.
Cost of Living in Puerto Vallarta
While Puerto Vallarta is not the cheapest digital nomad hotspot in Mexico, it’s less expensive than most popular destinations and major cities like New York. You can enjoy a high quality of life and access a ton of modern amenities for low costs. Here is a rough breakdown of day-to-day prices in Puerto Vallarta and the average cost of living.
| Meal | 10.00$ (9.00€) |
| Coffee | 3.50$ (3.00€) |
| Beer | 2.00$(1.80€) |
| Rent (One-bedroom apartment in the city centre) | 956$(866€) |
| Rent (One-bedroom apartment outside of the city centre) | 640$(580€) |
| Utilities | 74.00$(67.00€) |
| Internet | 30.00$(27.40€) |
As you can see, Puerto Vallarta is not all that expensive. You can live here on a tight budget and make the best out of your time. However, please note that the cost of living is defined by an individual’s spending pattern and lifestyle. If you follow a standard digital nomad lifestyle, you’ll find these estimates to be quite accurate.
Culture, Nature, and Food in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta has a vibrant culture, depicted in its food, art, and environment. Mexican culture is influenced by European colonization as well as the ancient civilizations. The people respect their history and perform several events and activities to celebrate their heritage. In addition, the local Mexicans are lively, welcoming, and joyous.
Puerto Vallarta is also abundant in natural beauty. There are several natural attractions within and near the city as well. You can visit parks, appreciate wildlife, and spend some time in the refreshing air.
When it comes to the food in Puerto Vallarta, it’s astounding, to say the least. Cafes, restaurants, and bars are located all over the city that offer delicious and amazing food. The local Mexican cuisine is flavorful and several people still follow the traditional recipes. Additionally, the street food scene is also pretty big in the city as there are vendors on every corner. The food also tends to be affordable and budget-friendly!
Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta
The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta can be determined by evaluating different factors. Note that your personal preference, availability, and budget play a huge role.
Generally speaking, Puerto Vallarta is at its best during November and January. This is the time when the weather is pleasant and rates are affordable. High season comes right across Christmas so avoid that time if you’re not a big fan of tourist crowds.
12 Best Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta offers numerous opportunities for adventure, outdoor activities, and exploration. Make sure to do these 12 things during your time here.
1. Take a city tour
Puerto Vallarta is a relatively small city but it’s filled with tourist areas and popular destinations. If you want to make the best of your trip and explore as much as possible, consider taking a city tour. Professional guides can provide essential information and interesting facts as well.
2. Walking food tour
Puerto Vallarta is known for its delicious street food, so naturally, one of the best things to do is go on a walking food tour. While the city is home to several bustling cafes, the traditional recipes and rich taste can only be experienced by the street vendors.
3. People-watch
One of the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta is people-watching. The evenings are filled with bustling crowds and a lively atmosphere. There is nothing better than walking in the city centre and people-watching along the way.
4. Visit the art galleries
Whether you are an art enthusiast or not, make sure to visit the popular art galleries in Puerto Vallarta. This city is a creative hub filled with unique talent and innovation! You can visit the art galleries to appreciate art, support artists, and see some of the best exhibitions. Here are some great options:
- Galleria Dante
- Vallarta ArtWalk
- Peyote People
- Posters International
5. Visit the museums
If you want to learn about Mexico’s rich history, make sure to visit the historical museums in the city. They are a great way to appreciate the heritage and understand the city. Some of the best options include:
- Galeria Colectika
- Casa Museo Manuel Lepe.
6. Enjoy the nightlife
Puerto Vallarta is somewhat famous for its vibrant nightlife so make sure to enjoy that during your time here! You can find amazing bars, tons of nightlife activities, and live music in this city. This city’s bustling environment and cultural diversity make nightlife so much more interesting.
7. Take a cooking class
There is no doubt that Mexican cuisine is one of the most delicious foods out there. If you happen to fall in love with local cuisine, make sure to take a cooking class and learn the traditional recipes! You can take this invaluable knowledge with you and have a taste of Mexico whenever you want, wherever you want.
8. Go shopping
your visit to Puerto Vallarta will be incomplete without a proper shopping spree. Since the city is famous for its vibrant markets, get some custom-made clothing and see what the hype is about. We guarantee you won’t be disappointed!
9. Visit the nature parks
Nature lovers should certainly explore the stunning and mesmerising nature parks in Puerto Vallarta. Some of the best options include:
- Marietas Islands (Islas Marietas)
- Banderas Bay (Bahía de Banderas)
- El Malecon
- Los Arcos National Marine Park
- Marina Vallarta
- Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe)
- Nuevo Vallarta
- Zona Romantica
10. Visit the beaches
If you want to enjoy a day in the sand and cool down, visit the famous beaches in Puerto Vallarta. There are plenty of options, and you can choose the one that suits you, location-wise. You can find everything from fresh coconuts and beers to other street food items.
- Playa de los Muertos
- Playa Las Gemelas
- Punta De Mita
- San Pancho
11. Take a day trip
Once you are done exploring Puerto Vallarta properly. Consider taking a day trip and visiting one of the nearby cities. Mexico is full of tourist attractions so it only makes sense to explore as much as you can. A bus ride can take you to San Miguel de Allende, Playa Del Carmen, Mexico City, Guanajuato, or even Puebla.
12. Hang out with fellow nomads
Mexico is a big city that is filled with digital nomads and expats. One of the best things to do is connect with them and perhaps do some fun activities together. You may meet some like-minded people at coworking spaces or cafes but Facebook groups are also good for this.
Is Puerto Vallarta safe?
Yes, Puerto Vallarta is one of the safest cities in Mexico. Since safety is one of the main concerns for every digital nomad (especially solo travellers), you’d be happy to learn that the crime rate is average in this city.
Puerto Vallarta is safe for women and solo travellers. Most areas are lit and crowded after sundown which means you are free to travel comfortably.
Criminal activities are rare but petty crimes such as scamming and pocket-picking are not unheard of. Tourist crime is even rarer but minor thefts are common in crowded places.
As a foreigner in a new country, you are recommended to stay vigilant at all times. You should try to avoid isolated and shady areas to prevent catastrophes. Other than that, make sure to report any crime or danger of crime to relevant authorities.
Visa Requirements in Puerto Vallarta
Mexico’s easy visa is something that attracts digital nomads and tourists to visit here. Most passport holders are given a visa waiver by the government in the form of a FMM card. If your country of residence qualifies for that, you can enter Mexico and live here for 6 months no questions asked. You can stay in the country, settle for a while, travel around, and see sights without any commitment or additional costs. In short, a visa waiver gives you a 180-day free pass.
Once the six months have passed, you can leave the country and come back for another six months after a while. This doesn’t always work but it’s worth a try!
Here are some basic requirements for the tourist visa:
- Bank account statements
- Valid passport
- Certificate of employment
- Proof of residence
- 1 colored passport-sized photo
- Completed application form
If you are looking for a long-term option, then consider a Mexico digital nomad visa, also known as a temporary residence visa. This is a good alternative for remote workers to stay in the country.
Conclusion
Puerto Vallarta is easily one of the best digital nomad destinations. Neither is it too crowded with tourists nor too isolated. With a rich history, beautiful culture, and colonial architecture, this place is a perfect blend of history and art. When in Mexico, be sure to visit here.
This city houses some popular destinations to keep you entertained, a low cost of living, and welcoming local people. Hence, you can live here as a digital nomad and blend with the beauty.
We hope this ultimate guide helped you understand what it’s like to live in Puerto Vallarta as a digital nomad. If you have any further queries, feel free to contact us and we’d be happy to help.
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