While Puerto Vallarta is renowned for its all-inclusive beachfront resorts, the city’s downtown area offers an entirely different and culturally-rich experience for travelers. Centered around the iconic Malecón boardwalk, downtown Puerto Vallarta buzzes with lively restaurants, vibrant art galleries, historic churches and authentic Mexican charm.
Basing yourself in this walkable urban district allows you to easily explore the city’s top attractions while being surrounded by the real sights, sounds and flavors of local life. Even better, there are plenty of affordable boutique hotels and budget-friendly accommodations right in the heart of downtown.
If you want to be an urban explorer in Puerto Vallarta without breaking the bank, check out these well-reviewed and economical downtown hotels. From charming boutique properties to basic yet comfortable digs, these lodgings put you in the middle of the action at a reasonable price point.
Hotel Divers’ Clarion
This simple yet stylishly-designed hotel is just two blocks from the Malecón in the Romantic Zone neighborhood. Rooms are basic but comfortable with modern amenities like AC. What really makes this small boutique hotel shine is the unbeatable location right in the middle of the fun, lively downtown scene with bars, restaurants and the beach all within a short walk. There’s even a small rooftop pool and bar with nice views. Continental breakfast included.
Rates from $40/night
Playa Los Arcos Hotel Beach Resort & Spa
Combining affordability with beachfront access, this budget-friendly resort is a popular option for downtown Puerto Vallarta stays. While it’s a bit dated, guest rooms are spacious and well-equipped with kitchenettes. The expansive pool area is lovely and the resort’s location near the famous Los Arcos rocks is prime. Best part is being just steps from the Malecón and downtown restaurants and attractions.
Rates from $83/night
Hacienda Jalisco
A quaint bed and breakfast inn housed in a gorgeous 100-year-old building right off the Malecón. The guest rooms are full of authentic Mexican charm and open onto a beautiful tiled courtyard. While rooms are on the simple side, you can’t beat being right in the heart of downtown Puerto Vallarta surrounded by restaurants, bars and shops. Continental breakfast included.
Rates from $53/night
Hotel Eloisa
Bright, colorful and budget-friendly, Hotel Eloisa offers simple but well-appointed rooms in an unbeatable downtown location. Just two blocks from the Malecón, this affordable boutique hotel gets rave reviews for its cleanliness, comfortable beds, friendly staff and nice extras like a basic continental breakfast. There are also larger apartment-style units with kitchenettes available.
Rates from $45/night
Tropicana Hotel
While not much to look at from the outside, this long-running hotel offers extremely affordable rates in the heart of downtown just a block from the main plaza. Accommodations are older but clean with AC and mini-fridges. The rooftop pool terrace is a nice spot to relax between urban adventures. Super budget-friendly and centrally located for exploring Puerto Vallarta’s top sights and eateries.
Rates from $30/night
Hotel Rio Malecon
With bright tropical-inspired decor, this boutique-style hotel is situated directly along the famous Malecon boardwalk. While on the smaller and more basic side, guest rooms include AC, mini-fridges and even kitchenettes in some units. The rooftop pool area has gorgeous views over Puerto Vallarta. And you can’t beat being just steps from the beach with all the dining and nightlife of downtown right outside.
Rates from $65/night
Hotel Rosita
No-frills, clean and affordable — Hotel Rosita hits the mark for budget travelers who want to be in the center of Puerto Vallarta’s buzzing downtown scene. Standard rooms are basic but comfortable while suites offer kitchenettes and more space. There’s even a private rooftop pool area. Plus, the hotel is vegetarian-friendly with simple veggie snacks and beverages included.
Rates from $49/night
Of course, Puerto Vallarta also offers many all-inclusive mega-resort experiences right on the beach. However, opting for a downtown hotel puts you amidst the real sights, sounds and culture of this beloved Pacific coast destination.
Staying downtown gives you easy access to discover all the charms of Puerto Vallarta’s historic center and oceanfront Malecón. From incredible street food to vibrant art galleries and nightlife, you’ll encounter the true spirit of this city. Best of all, these affordable hotels prove you don’t need to spend a fortune to experience the heart of Puerto Vallarta.
Some Money-Saving Tips for Downtown Puerto Vallarta:
Stick to affordable street food like tacos and tortas for meals
Take advantage of free activities like strolling the Malecón, beach walks and people watching
Use public buses or walk instead of taxis to get around town
Look for happy hour deals and ladies’ night specials at bars and restaurants
Book your hotel stay during low season or shoulder season for the best rates
By staying downtown and taking advantage of low hotel rates along with Puerto Vallarta’s incredible and cheap street food, couples and solo travelers can easily experience this destination’s sights and culture without overspending. Just leave some room in your budget for a sunset cocktail and fresh seafood splurge!